tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78255851419423674232024-03-12T17:54:32.466-07:00GOLDEN AGE BACKPACKERS- BUDGET WORLD TRAVELPhoto by Sukie Mudharjdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-70762780135465769112014-11-21T17:59:00.002-08:002014-11-21T17:59:27.289-08:00GOLDENAGE BACKPACKERS TRAVELLING IN MEXICO<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA"><b>Golden Age Backpackers
- Traveling to Amatlan de Cañas Hot Springs</b></span></u></h3>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA"> Article
and Photos by John and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">It was a late summer morning while sitting at our
Powell Lake cabin sipping my morning coffee staring out the window watching the
rain pelting off the front deck's surface and listening to the gentle lake
waves lapping against the shoreline that my thought reflected upon our two
night March excursion to Amatlan de Cañas in Mexico. There was a bit of guilt included with my
reflections as we'd planned to document our Mexican trip as soon as we arrived
home in early April. However, it wasn't
long before we were absorbed with our spring gardening tasks, our struggling to
obtain a permit to construct a workshop in our backyard and our rushing up the
lake to energize our cabin for summer usage.
Needless to say we were busy and focussed on local activities and the
writing and sharing of our late season Mexican trip slipped in a rather rapid
manner to the "back burner"!
Our wonderful spring and summer season was upon us and either we are
getting slower at task completion or we include too many. We'd like to think it's the latter! As April and May slipped away it wasn't long
before July was in the rear view mirror and the grandkids, bless their souls,
chewed up August. September slumber was
quickly upon us and the lake boat traffic stilled to a slow ebb. Now was the final opportunity to either write
and submit this article or chuck the story idea and move on to next season's
Mexican trips. As the old cliché goes,
"Better late than never"! So
here is the reporting of our last season's travel experience completed just
before packing and departing for our home away from home- Los Ayala, Mexico!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">An early departure saw us tossing our bags into the
Xterra's rear compartment and as usual our first stop was the nearest Pemex
station to top up the gas tank. On the
road again it wasn't long before we pulled into Las Varas for our second stop
at Angelina's Restaurant, one of our favourite, to enjoy a hearty breakfast
consisting of huevos rancheros and a Mexican omelette complete with hot cups of
coffee. Finally, with both fuel tanks
topped up, the vehicles and ours, I anticipated driving directly to our final
destination- Amatlan de Cañas. But, as
we reached the outskirts of Mesillas, Doreen suggested we stop to visit our
young friends, Mario and Elizabeth at their roadside coffee shop. They're a young family we met years ago to
visit their coffee plantation and to scramble over rocks to view stone carved
cliff petroglyphs. We usually visit once
or twice a year sharing pie and coffee, and purchasing a couple of bags of
their scrumptious coffee. After a warm visit and another cup of coffee we were
back on Highway 200 heading towards Compostela.
Today the highway was not busy making the twisting turning drive to the
Compostela junction pleasant not having to deal with impatient drivers passing
blindly or being stuck behind a slow truck. (View - "Compostela - The
Forgotten City" published in Jaltemba Bay Life.com, May 14, 2014)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">At the intersection near Compostela, we drifted to the
right and took the cuota highway 68D toward Guadalajara then switched to the
libre road stopping at Ahuacatlan for lunch.
We wandered the town's picturesque plaza stretching our legs and taking pictures while checking
out the street taco stands for our lunch.
We employed one of our golden travel rules and selected the busiest
stand to enjoy chicken tacos and juice.
All the people eating there can't be wrong!</span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">After our lunch we drove through Ahuacatlan picking up
Highway 4 proceeding towards Amatlan de Cañas.
While the highway is a secondary road it was in good condition climbing
over the mountain range. Although one
must be alert watching for loose rock on the road or on-coming vehicles cutting
corner on the curvy road. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">We arrived at our destination mid-afternoon providing
for an early hotel check in, or one would think, but I'd forgotten our road
atlas and hotel information on our bungalow table in Los Ayala. At this point I wasn't a popular
individual! Thus it was with a bit of
luck that we found our hotel. Following
a one-way street in the wrong direction we passed a hotel entrance and Doreen
recalled the posted name as our destination hotel. Fortunately, this let me off the hook!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">Being mid-week and after a holiday weekend, Bungalows
Los Pavorreales ( the peacocks) was empty.
The owner, Alfonso Ron, gave us an opportunity to select the room of our
choice. We settled on a comfortable
second story room providing a splendid view of the hotel's beautifully
manicured and appointed lawn and pool area. Alfonso was extremely helpful lending us a
cooler for our food and beverages plus advising on the best local restaurant
for dining. While relaxing on the
balcony playing cards, four peacocks joined us for an extensive photo
opportunity which brought closure to our day. </span></b></div>
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We certainly did not realize that these relatively large birds could fly
as well as they demonstrated, safely soaring from our balcony to the lawn.<o:p></o:p></b><br />
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">As dusk descended we took Alfonso's advice and walked
to the nearby Toucan Restaurant. The
restaurant was a local favourite for special occasions featuring a fish and
steak menu. Since we often purchase
fresh locally caught fish on the coast, we opted for hamburgers and fries. Our meal was adequate but certainly not
inspiring. We're spoilt with our varied
excellent restaurants located in the coastal towns of La Peñita and Rincon de
Guayabitos.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">Early next morning found us in the town's plaza
desperately searching for our morning coffee! We must remember on our next trip to include a
coffee percolator to enjoy our early coffees in the comfort of our room! At busy Sandorval Restaurant we enjoyed
hueves rancheros and a Mexican omelette washed down with, you guessed it, more
hot coffee.</span></b></div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYcHsgG6vK9XF1hI45z4b8R5no2d7vFhF1udQXicRVa_ZkwaT-czySJsB5-0QOVq5WUS9a8xbsR7h0z4cR8sMIElJ-hiDSXYEZh9mdU9PzQjcIKomEWFcv_Kq1TcvHyBukcBKin7TFrN5L/s1600/P1160562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYcHsgG6vK9XF1hI45z4b8R5no2d7vFhF1udQXicRVa_ZkwaT-czySJsB5-0QOVq5WUS9a8xbsR7h0z4cR8sMIElJ-hiDSXYEZh9mdU9PzQjcIKomEWFcv_Kq1TcvHyBukcBKin7TFrN5L/s1600/P1160562.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></b></div>
<b> Next, we wandered the plaza
visiting Templo de <span class="def">Jesús</span> de Nazereno and the Templo de Roasario. We unsuccessfully searched for a museum but
were eventually led to a small room containing local photographs.<o:p></o:p></b><br />
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">Returning to our hotel we collected our swim gear and headed
for the hot pools. The drive was a short
distance to the Balnearias Aguas Termales (hot waters). We paid our 50 pesos fee and set about
soaking in a few pools and swam in the larger pool before settling on a smaller
comfortable pool with a favourable temperature.
Just like Goldilocks, "Not too hot, not too cook, just right!"<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDvV7ZZRLn4Or18xONW9eKGB4TOTXS71VVK7JiCus4w2ez5MP10yCykxJVFt8EXzfVQx_CxZ0Pb-OK-MJA9Ntw8O6xBM82-apl_E7rOixqC6xhzrUnjMCS4mzCuW9scx0M21VQjJptQ7d/s1600/P1160606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDvV7ZZRLn4Or18xONW9eKGB4TOTXS71VVK7JiCus4w2ez5MP10yCykxJVFt8EXzfVQx_CxZ0Pb-OK-MJA9Ntw8O6xBM82-apl_E7rOixqC6xhzrUnjMCS4mzCuW9scx0M21VQjJptQ7d/s1600/P1160606.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><b><span lang="EN-CA">Belnarias Agua Termales is a vast concrete structure
complete with numerous levels with many pools of varying sizes and
temperatures. There are numerous table
and bench combinations where family groups would arrive and stake out their
area unloading coolers of food and drink to spend the day soaking and
socializing. I don't think one would
desire to be there on a busy weekend with the sea of people that apparently
arrive during holiday periods. Or if you
enjoy crowds it might be a huge amount of fun interacting and observing the
Mexican families at play.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">After our soak we returned to our room and relaxed
before preparing to again dine at the Toucan Restaurant. Having had our "burger" experience
we both selected a fish dish from the menu and enjoyed our respective meals,
retiring early to our bunglow.</span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">Amatlan de Cañas surrounded by La Sierra de Pajaritos
and Sierra Madre de Sur mountain ranges, is a pleasant prosperous town depending
on agriculture and ranching plus serving the small surrounding towns. The pace appeared rather casual with local
produce being sold in the plaza from pickup truck beds, resident farmers
attending to business and others occupying the park benches. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">After a breakfast in the plaza we left Amatlan de
Cañas to return to Los Ayala, our home away from home. We retraced our path following Highway 4 back
to Ahuacatlan passing the turnoff to El Manto Water Park. Another man's dream of constructing a recreational
complex to visit and swim in one of the
many cooling pools. If you haven't
visited this amazing canyon water park, do so and it's guaranteed you'll marvel
at the amount of construction and excavating done to carve a small canyon
stream into a beautiful attraction.
(www.elmanto.com.mx) This time we
continued past the El Manto turnoff not stopping for a brief swim.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">On the way home we stopped at Santa Isabel to browse a
couple of the many roadside pottery shops.
Great place to purchase family gifts.
We were searching for the number "1" to complete our lakeshore
cabin address, but had no luck.
Surprise, surprise, not all was lost!
Doreen discovered a set of three beautifully painted butterflies. Now at our cabin these gorgeous butterflies
adorn the wall above our front door. You
can't miss them as they further enhance our cabin's Mexican theme.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">After paying the 35 pesos toll on the cuota road (toll
road) we again joined Highway 200 at the Compostela intersection. We drove directly to Las Varas which became
our lunch stop. For a change of
restaurant venue we stopped at Rosita Restaurant located beside the highway and
close to the town's northern entrance.
We enjoyed a fantastic meal consisting of carne asada with papas fritas
on the side plus a decadent dessert, helado de nuez (walnut ice-cream).<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">We arrived at our bungalow mid-afternoon to a rather
quiet courtyard as most Canadians by now had returned to Canada while the
locals were busy preparing for the upcoming Semana Santa celebration.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">We experienced a successful excursion to enjoy the
area's interior and gain a brief glimpse and flavour of the true Mexican
pulse. For us, our trips are a way to
escape the more touristy tone of the coastal towns and experience in a small
way another aspect of Mexican culture.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">In just a few short weeks we'll be returning to the
Riviera Nayarit area again to bask on the beach, renew friendships and check
out the changes. Life is good!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-CA">Author's Note: One might alter the return route driving to
Ixtlan del Rio to visit Los Toriles Archaelogical site. Visit our article in Jaltemba Bay Life.com,
"The Golden Age Backpackers - Los Toriles Archaelogical Site"
February 20, 2013. Well worth a half day
visit as the temple of Quetzalcoatl is considered top notch in architectural
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Able to purchase fresh strawberries in the plaza.</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Dinner at the Toucan Restaurant</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Backyard Mechanic</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Playing cribbage on our patio!</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Fresh meat(beef) being delivered!</b></td></tr>
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-58851365040086503162014-04-03T12:04:00.001-07:002014-04-03T12:16:38.777-07:00RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO TRAVEL - Featuring three day trips starting from Rincon de Guayabitos and Los Ayala, Mexico<u><strong>INTRODUCTION</strong></u><br />
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<strong>It's fantastic to be able to enjoy the sparkling waters and soft sands of small Mexican coastal towns for long periods of time. However, when visiting Riviera Nayarit we find time to visit the interior towns and other nearby attractions.</strong><br />
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<strong>This year's three day trips are outlined below. We hope that you're motivated to take one or more of the trips if in the area. If you do not have a vehicle, tour operators will be happy to assist or hire a taxi. Enjoy reading about our wonderful fun filled adventures.</strong><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">#1 Day Trip to El Cora Cascades<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYou8Vk-5K_vNP6n5KrhD41OcRiLwyv338f6_uony99iXhoYeXYaTsbPbDwrWUY6pEIQQrSFfbwy1mr1OHIDlfGFY1_B5CkYIz-7IAf5B2KM18I5X3-2XN8Zq5CiNhGiOr2VncEOkgKdE/s1600/P1150725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYou8Vk-5K_vNP6n5KrhD41OcRiLwyv338f6_uony99iXhoYeXYaTsbPbDwrWUY6pEIQQrSFfbwy1mr1OHIDlfGFY1_B5CkYIz-7IAf5B2KM18I5X3-2XN8Zq5CiNhGiOr2VncEOkgKdE/s1600/P1150725.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>At the base of the falls</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicf7Wxl1su13hmyitq8tizbXeNHlp5LIS27z9_pNMN1voy7Tt7oiRbFtvTcLkW5fg0UpXXUugIS0vY-Qa_y6gmS3Qs7Un9yDRS29GU-zvyEmDpcOWTFHyOF78aJfsQIM7gQB2PTWILD7gw/s1600/P1150688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicf7Wxl1su13hmyitq8tizbXeNHlp5LIS27z9_pNMN1voy7Tt7oiRbFtvTcLkW5fg0UpXXUugIS0vY-Qa_y6gmS3Qs7Un9yDRS29GU-zvyEmDpcOWTFHyOF78aJfsQIM7gQB2PTWILD7gw/s1600/P1150688.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Our first glimpse of El Cora Cascades</strong></span></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Article and photos by:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> John and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When first arriving in Riviera
Nayarit contentment is achieved by enjoying the warm sun’s rays and splashing
in the sparkling Jaltemba Bay waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
the Zac Brown Band sings “I got my toes in the water, a_ _ in the sand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a worry…life is good.” After two or three
months of sun and surf it’s time to venture further afield to investigate the
many nearby beautiful vistas and remarkable sites.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our first day trip was planned nine
months ago in June 2013 after reading Rob’s Ramblings reported in Jaltemba Bay
Life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A copy was made to become our road
map to drive north toward San Blas to discover El Cora Cascades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without fail, Rob’s explicit driving
directions successfully directed us to the dry weather road leading to the waterfalls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Fpb8TPdGZV-nCCrgYwjmKZEhOmSXZ6Mjqedje4ktUHGrmCHUHrxGRzGBImGT1ZZbKtYrQDzzbBfdvVxfxIgqRELNyJ4_UzxW9M6P0utqCkZw4_SrHnuDEtUqf7zbyHWS4IabcizZK1-t/s1600/P1150678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Fpb8TPdGZV-nCCrgYwjmKZEhOmSXZ6Mjqedje4ktUHGrmCHUHrxGRzGBImGT1ZZbKtYrQDzzbBfdvVxfxIgqRELNyJ4_UzxW9M6P0utqCkZw4_SrHnuDEtUqf7zbyHWS4IabcizZK1-t/s1600/P1150678.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Too rough to drive further but able to park off the road</strong></span></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After parking the Xterra we continued
on the eroded roadway for a short ten minute hike to the trail head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We climbed a short pathway to a rocky viewing
platform which offered us the first glimpses of El Cora Cascades with massive
water flow plunging into the large lower pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Upon descending to the pool one could hear the thunder and feel the rush
of the river flowing over the upper lip to plummet into the lower pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After our hike in the hot mid-afternoon sun a
dip into the cool waters was a welcome relief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A poolside lunch was consumed and a final cooling dip taken before our
climb to the top to return to Los Ayala.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>After the hike Doreen and Al are</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong> ready for a cool swim</strong></span></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">El Cora Cascades is a lovely spot
tucked away but near enough and worth the effort to discover and enjoy the raw
power and spectacular beauty of the cascading waters providing an impressive
sight.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Driving Directions</span></u></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Search the “Jaltemba Bay Life” archives
for “Rob’s Ramblings, Hike to El Cora Cascades, June 26, 2013” and use his
article as your map.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll add a shorter
set of directions that should take you to the falls.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Round trip from Rincon de Guayabitos
to El Cora Cascades and back is 298 km (185 miles).<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Drive north to Las Varas and take the
highway towards San Blas and after Platanitos look for a Pemex station on the
right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is located at the intersection
of Highway 76.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here turn right toward
Tepic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you reach the 37 km marker
you’ll be at the entrance to Tecuitata.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Turn right and drive 10 km to El Cora.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Continue into El Cora turning right at the Zocalo and after one block
turn left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now drive out of town passing
a graveyard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Note the newly constructed
sidewalk and the finely crushed gravel smoothing out the cobble stone road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A green sign “Cascades” points left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Continue a short distance reaching a dry
weather road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scenic road passes
numerous jack fruit orchards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Watch for
an obvious parking pull out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Park and
walk the steeper eroded roadway passing an old palapa to the trail which goes
uphill at first to a viewing spot where the corner posts of a palapa are still
standing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From here the trail consists
of numerous cement steps dropping steeply to the pool- about a 15 minute
descent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the bottom enjoy the view
and cool waters.</span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqFI2RjSs7Pk5MORUXSRzDyhi45yzfSHAU05dhiidtLSl37rTvFrmigdPtUdJCVR_NSXIBvtES1T5E7qf1AvTLSZUuMz-IMg10IY4z8upnaVmlomWnoMQp1N-cPzBY1fQ-B14DHqYEIbA/s1600/P1150793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqFI2RjSs7Pk5MORUXSRzDyhi45yzfSHAU05dhiidtLSl37rTvFrmigdPtUdJCVR_NSXIBvtES1T5E7qf1AvTLSZUuMz-IMg10IY4z8upnaVmlomWnoMQp1N-cPzBY1fQ-B14DHqYEIbA/s1600/P1150793.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Viewing area before hiking to pool</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>New sidewalk and smooth road surface, why?</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTBpymogk4fXvpIn4rYTLw6MR4jFdhnYfgizx6VnTg91lFfZrHxo2BhnU7W4Fj6z0Lzhjrzmbh04t9XMcfliNQXYNzTCImFDDI_fhdPC9ked1B5GAPpXD-1jbzC6zBORyHZNz3XxF6cuNx/s1600/P1150651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTBpymogk4fXvpIn4rYTLw6MR4jFdhnYfgizx6VnTg91lFfZrHxo2BhnU7W4Fj6z0Lzhjrzmbh04t9XMcfliNQXYNzTCImFDDI_fhdPC9ked1B5GAPpXD-1jbzC6zBORyHZNz3XxF6cuNx/s1600/P1150651.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>The "Shark" boat has been on </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong>'Playa Plantanetos for years</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>El Cora's main street</strong></span></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">#2 Compostela – The
Overlooked City<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZgLnA2wGlWlyffqbdGOH4jvErkjWm-ZAvNkKRi2bGg9ELUGxSsBdseV2q2sFSASlSk0MCRpVFD8gXg6iTrwJcuDnjZZHbeJY1vcoXnQIqZLBobdEtAkBfHVgnOBFMLMMYzU3g_62cjT4/s1600/P1160183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZgLnA2wGlWlyffqbdGOH4jvErkjWm-ZAvNkKRi2bGg9ELUGxSsBdseV2q2sFSASlSk0MCRpVFD8gXg6iTrwJcuDnjZZHbeJY1vcoXnQIqZLBobdEtAkBfHVgnOBFMLMMYzU3g_62cjT4/s1600/P1160183.JPG" height="200" width="170" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;">The majestic 16 Century Cathedral</span></strong></td></tr>
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<strong> </strong></span><strong>Article
and Photos by<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> John and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As our departure date approaches the
question presents itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where will the next day trip take us?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a thunderbolt the answer flashes from
the road atlas page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There centered in
bold print is the destination – Compostela, a colonial city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve driven past the Nayarit city on our way
to the Mexican interior, but never paused to visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus the present adventure was grasped.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Leaving Los Ayala early insured
breakfast in Las Varas enjoying “Divorced Eggs” and “French Bread” at
Angelita’s ever popular restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
mentioned in an earlier article the trip is not solely about the destination
but about the journey along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Conversations flowed uninterrupted until reaching Mesillas, stopping at
Café Nayarit for a coffee and a brief visit with friends, Elizabeth and
Mario.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the </strong><span style="font-size: small;"></span><strong></strong><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwueqC9r3obMKPVOvFXb0pa27CxOYdlhgywTnHBAqvvsuX6kFoum5R0SZHnvWfYTpbdrzcEOYw-BsaylpHO0xo5JnSCIkOOVTbSVvdNAvOyzKLxH8MV4gmhnhX14YhayGGbpKFa72bx5n3/s1600/P1150941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwueqC9r3obMKPVOvFXb0pa27CxOYdlhgywTnHBAqvvsuX6kFoum5R0SZHnvWfYTpbdrzcEOYw-BsaylpHO0xo5JnSCIkOOVTbSVvdNAvOyzKLxH8MV4gmhnhX14YhayGGbpKFa72bx5n3/s1600/P1150941.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>A visit with our two friends at Café Nayarit,Mesillas</strong></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>seasons we’ve visited
the family’s coffee plantation to film petroglyphs on a rock wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After saying our goodbyes we drove across the
highway to visit another good friend, Felipe Rodriguez, an elderly stone
carver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As always, our visit is
heartfelt and of course we purchased a small figurine while friends, Ted and
Jan, scooped up stone carvings for family gifts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Visiting Felipe’s workshop is an intrepid
stop to gain a glimpse of a Mexican culture that is seldom experienced in coastal
tourist towns.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;">Felipe a Mesillas icon</span></strong></td></tr>
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<strong> </strong></span><strong>A must stop for any adventurous
inquisitive individual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If his shop door
is open the welcome mat is out.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Continuing to follow the twisting
turning highway through the Sierra Madre Mountain range our next brief stop is
a green two-story roadside shrine where small candles were being lit by people
who probably lost loved ones or pray for safety along this stretch of
highway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reaching Compostela’s center we
locate a nearby parking spot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short
walk returns us to the historic picture perfect zócalo with the 16<sup>th</sup>
century Cathedral, complete with its loud clanging bell announcing the hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something to recall if planning to stay
overnight in a nearby hotel!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the
center the majestic bandstand holds the spotlight. In front of the Cathedral a
small fountain provides a drink for the pigeons while the flowering shrubs complete
the picturesque setting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the southern
corner of the square the compact Compostela Archeology and History Museum</strong><span style="font-size: small;"></span><strong></strong><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhEzW6hzJio32cVBogBX7Lhr6fP4HwUf7qwRy_8nO914yrAsX7OgjGapaRBm0Lbm2sdHSxbXK0fHEiHifaCFeYYVn8u5DqGilJn07CMl3vC6RBYpLeFQgN0D-oD_aTmLOmRNoJYtcue2h/s1600/IMG_5097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhEzW6hzJio32cVBogBX7Lhr6fP4HwUf7qwRy_8nO914yrAsX7OgjGapaRBm0Lbm2sdHSxbXK0fHEiHifaCFeYYVn8u5DqGilJn07CMl3vC6RBYpLeFQgN0D-oD_aTmLOmRNoJYtcue2h/s1600/IMG_5097.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>An excellent display of preclassical</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong> ceramic figures(2000BC to 200 AD)</strong></span></td></tr>
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presents inherited evidence from the region’s past. Diagonally across from the
museum is located a popular restaurant thus cementing the plaza’s tourist
importance.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most might consider the Cathedral and
its ornate interior the community’s main attraction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us the major impact was the spotless
streets, the pedestrian walkways and the helpfulness and friendliness of the
local people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One such example occurred
when after purchasing watermelons we managed to splatter one on the
sidewalk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the clean-up a plastic bag
was required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vendor didn’t have
one, but seeing our plight a merchant rushed across the street with a large
store bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Compostela turned into a
hidden gem and it’s only a brief drive from Rincón de Guayabitos.</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66wpxpRa_Cegm43yECYTgbUAUXA-6Su8-W-yUrPKqQZ29GxVQW9CzBpcPI8ACJk8qicIheQHUUlnSVFAYMJaUMkdkGDf7jnzl57VwDp7zXDSe7Un7AQZ2wpx8eBQuqeX962N4nDl89aqs/s1600/P1160174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66wpxpRa_Cegm43yECYTgbUAUXA-6Su8-W-yUrPKqQZ29GxVQW9CzBpcPI8ACJk8qicIheQHUUlnSVFAYMJaUMkdkGDf7jnzl57VwDp7zXDSe7Un7AQZ2wpx8eBQuqeX962N4nDl89aqs/s1600/P1160174.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>First things first, a chance to shop</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5kB9uDzN-rNHmiblwlYAuoT-FwAXshtjGSCV8oe6zLo2laLqrHj021fqZZLFc4MhSshOifMvlvwUcAIBqIrcXMSTU_mvIJlhMGSQtyx6dzhA6PWBDYz5UYy9sUUAFxGCz7NQzy0ZT7Gj/s1600/P1160176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5kB9uDzN-rNHmiblwlYAuoT-FwAXshtjGSCV8oe6zLo2laLqrHj021fqZZLFc4MhSshOifMvlvwUcAIBqIrcXMSTU_mvIJlhMGSQtyx6dzhA6PWBDYz5UYy9sUUAFxGCz7NQzy0ZT7Gj/s1600/P1160176.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>The intrepid tourists. </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Or so we think</strong></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From the Rincón de Guayabitos Pemex
the round trip is approximately 134 km (84 miles).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Direct driving time one way is 45 to 60
minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During holiday periods the
highway can be congested.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Drive Highway 200 towards Tepic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nearing Compostela continue towards Tepic turn
right onto Calzado Gral Flores Munoz, the first road past the Pemex station #
2380.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We never did spot the street name!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Passing a stadium you’ll come to a white
coloured roundabout, blend to the right onto Miguel Hidalgo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Follow this street directly to the
square.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Locate a parking spot nearby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Visit the square’s attractions, wander the
city’s streets, possibly shopping and maybe rent a Mexican bike rickshaw
complete with driver for an escorted city tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Enjoy your Compostela visit.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong><span style="font-size: small;"></span><strong></strong><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURUNfrBlpy78WV-wY9Xr_PTQ_gv_vOL309OhNwi7S42_FJIamJfyPGw4aULNe6JHpv9kmJpjez06uYACv_R4mVO0ww2hqx6enlhMOtIpTLeSKqDnMMIkhoI6GML_HEr6AhD6MiKHcUuIQ/s1600/P1160168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURUNfrBlpy78WV-wY9Xr_PTQ_gv_vOL309OhNwi7S42_FJIamJfyPGw4aULNe6JHpv9kmJpjez06uYACv_R4mVO0ww2hqx6enlhMOtIpTLeSKqDnMMIkhoI6GML_HEr6AhD6MiKHcUuIQ/s1600/P1160168.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Compostela's picturesque bandstand</strong></span></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">#3 El Molote Hot Springs<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Article and Photos by <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> John and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjth606mnp_govYi_ejYlBztvchPXC_OP4gQ91-Q0zVwb71MPeOXlaFJjqcMgwZe9iTwAxcqcpHEa7JiUZlUHDIpTcyveA5TX0Mgegqfpm2DZ_aEmcw-LbDxh4dW7k3H1OCzw2S97JaGoAK/s1600/P1150979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjth606mnp_govYi_ejYlBztvchPXC_OP4gQ91-Q0zVwb71MPeOXlaFJjqcMgwZe9iTwAxcqcpHEa7JiUZlUHDIpTcyveA5TX0Mgegqfpm2DZ_aEmcw-LbDxh4dW7k3H1OCzw2S97JaGoAK/s1600/P1150979.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>A relaxing pleasant afternoon soak</strong></span></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As our Mexican holiday season slowly
draws to a close the desire to be on the road again beckons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our destination was to visit the source of El
Molote hot springs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A rustic spot to
enjoy an amazing soak in a natural setting without the hustle and bustle of
commercial enterprises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hot springs
are located in a picturesque fertile valley where huge cabbages and other
garden crops flourish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On this day,
contrasting cultivation methods were at work with a team of horses pulling a
cultivator and a motorized rototiller breaking sod in the same field!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since our journey is as important as the
destination, time was taken to photograph such events along the way.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFv84gAUyjM0EKlZ_pc3GapkfaBBWRrNrEr4U0LMxFxmyfg6HVv3fkjEelar399oo4ttENJSiHRrBrUCgFZLamDjQjRCy-nQtX-ZeJckJz8BuQkzu4pseIR_LAhHB4xlJ_ZQ7Bms03sRVm/s1600/P1150965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFv84gAUyjM0EKlZ_pc3GapkfaBBWRrNrEr4U0LMxFxmyfg6HVv3fkjEelar399oo4ttENJSiHRrBrUCgFZLamDjQjRCy-nQtX-ZeJckJz8BuQkzu4pseIR_LAhHB4xlJ_ZQ7Bms03sRVm/s1600/P1150965.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Following the road through the stream</strong></span></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The narrow gravel road meanders
through the valley crisscrossing a shallow stream toward the hot springs
source.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reaching an open barren area a
slight sulfur odour and faint steam vapour floats above the boiling bubbling
hot waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The source is a somewhat
barren rocky area with the steaming water gurgling from the earth’s crust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Employing long handled barbecue tongs, eggs
were placed in the hot bubbly water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Voilá,
in fifteen to twenty minutes we had hard boiled eggs ready for the lunch
salad!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition prawns or other foods
might further enhance the cooking adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After briefly exploring the area and dipping our toes in the nearby cool
flowing stream we returned a short distance to a warm shallow pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shade trees overhang the natural tranquil
pool. The comfortable water’s temperature is an opportunity to soak away all
tensions and stress allowing them to flow downstream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do the waters contain healing powers as well?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Our tailgate lunch</strong></span></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Soon our stomach rumbles pulled us
from the warm soak to a tailgate party of two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Others enjoyed lunch immersed in the pool while some ate creek
side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the back of the Xterra and without
chairs, Doreen and I stood enjoying the scrumptious outdoor lunch and the
area’s quiet remoteness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a return to the pool for a
brief soak we packed up and bid farewell to the warm stream waters. A fantastic
day drew to a close as we departed for our bumpy return drive to the highway
and home to Los Ayala.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>A horse team pulling a tiller. A rare sighting today</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwVXV3OnUDWVnPQsMqsSup0P2kpZKln5E330e_Sfach0tyazmlJoLRHsTJ9i4XKPeIR_qQwzq3jqMw1BCDfCNfyU1ocxZsGumffwG4UV1KCqYp2Eif14bVMFEUN-P848hBVB5oZqPF3X0/s1600/P1150951.JPG" height="150" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></strong></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>19th and 20th century implements</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong> working in the same field</strong></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><strong></strong></span></span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwVXV3OnUDWVnPQsMqsSup0P2kpZKln5E330e_Sfach0tyazmlJoLRHsTJ9i4XKPeIR_qQwzq3jqMw1BCDfCNfyU1ocxZsGumffwG4UV1KCqYp2Eif14bVMFEUN-P848hBVB5oZqPF3X0/s1600/P1150951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><strong></strong></a><strong> </strong></span></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Driving Directions<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Head north on Highway 200 towards
Tepic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stopping in Las Varas at
Angelita’s Restaurant for breakfast is always enjoyable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Continue driving watching for a green road
sign listing three towns – “Molote 6, El Salitre 7, Palos Maria 10.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The distance from the turnoff to the Molote hot
springs is 8.29km. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Turn left off Highway 200 following
the gravel road to a junction. At 2.5km take the right branch which appears
less travelled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Continue bumping past
ranches and fields traversing through a wider stream bed with a low rock dam to
your right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a favourite swimming
spot for Mexican families to spend the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Continue on, passing through the small town of Molote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drive through the town and take a right turn
as you exit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An open field should be on
your left and a basketball court on the right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Soon after, when crossing a creek,
watch for a turn to the left. The turn is approximately 7.5km from the highway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Going to the right or straight ahead will
take you to Mesillas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The left turn road
is rough gravel constituting a slow drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A car with reasonable clearance should have little difficulty, although
a 4 x 4 is best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgby0I1ydR7ScjmLei3t4hh4wyyhnyMhXsHtFLw8_Mhe_G7HTUhQdTl9PNHsXZ1TndduvBilpYmV5cz05kxYQDzjQ61LTAeNW_kpZyXcv_1AS5bJJRsRhYeltXTpMf9R6PtrXziOl66_oX/s1600/P1000432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgby0I1ydR7ScjmLei3t4hh4wyyhnyMhXsHtFLw8_Mhe_G7HTUhQdTl9PNHsXZ1TndduvBilpYmV5cz05kxYQDzjQ61LTAeNW_kpZyXcv_1AS5bJJRsRhYeltXTpMf9R6PtrXziOl66_oX/s1600/P1000432.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Fun to cook food in the hot water</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5stmuQao3ORP5bi_ZKtrBkWNVXeJua9zVQ2NHRFf93OfDBqojpm2DcHySw3zQ4T_qr0Fq1_cP3L_eIz3HOdTc-bmRR8CswgJH5p9LaeFw-IU_DHhsbjBFJGRNfUD6BcDwBfsEXhcTSCs/s1600/P1150952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5stmuQao3ORP5bi_ZKtrBkWNVXeJua9zVQ2NHRFf93OfDBqojpm2DcHySw3zQ4T_qr0Fq1_cP3L_eIz3HOdTc-bmRR8CswgJH5p9LaeFw-IU_DHhsbjBFJGRNfUD6BcDwBfsEXhcTSCs/s1600/P1150952.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Huge cabbages ready for market</strong></span></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Very quickly you’ll pass cultivated fields growing huge cabbages and
other garden crops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Continue on
following the road crisscrossing the flowing stream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When traversing the stream select a rocky
route avoiding soft sandy areas. Watch for a shallow pool area on your right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later, return to this spot for your
soak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coming to a barren open area look
for the hot spring’s faint mists on the left and a stream on the right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well done, you’ve arrived!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Driving time from the highway will be 45 to
60 minutes. Use extreme caution if attempting to place food in the hot spring
waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once you explored this area return
the short distance to the warm soaking pool to enjoy a relaxing immersion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Fantastic, we made it to the source</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPRQfz7g12g0Ve60hSMq2z5seBxFZ9fbAza4Fv8kZNtGF1nlv8KuI17PadIIiGyORtMWamKcvEjUF3qCAx4s5X1-airYjf3PwHtAvVxnR6-e7qfRqNrgUCL8UHrwT8Flf-XD6J_sHTnCi/s1600/P1150993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPRQfz7g12g0Ve60hSMq2z5seBxFZ9fbAza4Fv8kZNtGF1nlv8KuI17PadIIiGyORtMWamKcvEjUF3qCAx4s5X1-airYjf3PwHtAvVxnR6-e7qfRqNrgUCL8UHrwT8Flf-XD6J_sHTnCi/s1600/P1150993.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Turn off Highway 200 at signs</strong></span></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-52647641745682831992014-02-05T16:50:00.002-08:002014-02-05T16:50:55.086-08:00HIKING "THE EASY" TRAIL IN THE JUNGLE ABOVE LOA AYALA, MEXICO
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span><u>Hiking “The Easy” trail above
Los Ayala<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Article
and photographs by<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYi1tACMwDeukd-Zz53l4k5ncKdFNp02sm-kCqopf1qX2c9dDn3mYpyyYtmILt9aI9y6HdQzPu9uFxFrceTVgNC991uZpYwBh6oY1ksh8qV_AaVhu8VQ1HQrp-r49C_xaJ6Wz21wSkBnpP/s1600/P1150403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYi1tACMwDeukd-Zz53l4k5ncKdFNp02sm-kCqopf1qX2c9dDn3mYpyyYtmILt9aI9y6HdQzPu9uFxFrceTVgNC991uZpYwBh6oY1ksh8qV_AaVhu8VQ1HQrp-r49C_xaJ6Wz21wSkBnpP/s1600/P1150403.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>One of the many hiking groups that enjoy the jungle trails.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt 288pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">John
and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt 288pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The dawn of a bright
sunny Sunday morning motivated Doreen and I to leave our bungalow and hot
coffees early to hike the “The Easy” trail located above Los Ayala.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was our second exploratory hike of the
season to determine which of the jungle trails were clear and suitable for
forthcoming group hikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With perspiration
dripping from our brows, we crested the first hill to pause at the junction,
where three trails begin, for a water break before proceeding onto “The Easy”
pathway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trail gained its name by
default as in previous seasons, members of our hiking group thought it was an
easier hike as compared to other route choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As a result the trail’s name was born.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We moved through the
first sector, an older orchard area again being cultivated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gently flowing path continues into the
solitude of the jungle portion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we
were greeted by the early morning song birds welcoming the glorious morning’s
rays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The varied palm trees, the peeling
tourist trees and the giant tropical trees <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPmn0-paRxDlUBQKKXqtXBbrj8-qQZGl75PO_wZvl6oXF6GR2UlA6mycd-2Q-32o2Ue2mtubkzsBUPRQIsruKDqgwK_Ue-Pco19ML5OlnyIEnrybQfPEdP89CnV7h0c_u1eaCd7zd094G/s1600/P1090858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPmn0-paRxDlUBQKKXqtXBbrj8-qQZGl75PO_wZvl6oXF6GR2UlA6mycd-2Q-32o2Ue2mtubkzsBUPRQIsruKDqgwK_Ue-Pco19ML5OlnyIEnrybQfPEdP89CnV7h0c_u1eaCd7zd094G/s1600/P1090858.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>TOURIST TREE. TURNS RED AND PEELS</strong><br />
<strong> JUST LIKE A TOURIST!</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
give this trail’s section a Jurassic
Park ambiance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The well-defined track begins
its descent to the lower reaches of the bright sunlit grass meadows and marsh
area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we observe the colourful
flowers opening their bright petals to welcome the morning warmth and entice
the butterfly profusion to alight for a draft of nectar.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“The Easy” trail
received our stamp of approval and we declared it fit and ready for future
group hikes. With sweat drenched bodies from the hour and a half exertion and
moisture soaked pants from the heavily dew laden tall grasses our footsteps
quickened as we followed the familiar El Monteon pathway toward Kissing
Beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-925oa5A32-9cYRHFC3enE5dxryPS2QflkclYehD4bD6_gt7JZT0P0Myef5Ahr_1JZW620w9wrCTSjxWvLO_u8QwjaTuZJX8uDqZYNdoBo4B3QjtHWzlv6jFr4HWTM0ctj1i6XAw3ksm/s1600/P1100267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-925oa5A32-9cYRHFC3enE5dxryPS2QflkclYehD4bD6_gt7JZT0P0Myef5Ahr_1JZW620w9wrCTSjxWvLO_u8QwjaTuZJX8uDqZYNdoBo4B3QjtHWzlv6jFr4HWTM0ctj1i6XAw3ksm/s1600/P1100267.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>TRAIL END. </strong><br />
<strong> DIFFICULT TO SEE BUT THE TWO S's FACE EACH OTHER!</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span>We soon arrived at our bungalow
with a sense of accomplishment and a desire for a cleansing, cooling shower and
a hearty, healthy breakfast.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Small groups of five to
twelve hikers leave the roadside entrance to El Delphin at 7:30 a.m. every
Tuesday and Friday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hikers enjoy the
many trail permutations created by Bill Smyth carving out a series of
interconnecting trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The approximate
two hour hikes start and finish in Los Ayala, giving people the opportunity to
enjoy the remainder of the day or locate a Los Ayala restaurant to enjoy a
breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Periodically, during the
season, we hike to El Monteon, enjoying the hike and a trail-end breakfast plus
hikes to Punta Raza. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leave the morning comforts of your bungalow and
the sparkling waters behind to come enjoy nature’s beauty while trimming the
waistline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See you on our next hike.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<strong></strong><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieeFzKaStSVuraFajVG1v57p1DbwT4OZ3l1qspXxZqcAraUI2qQik9mVJEbkGNOa1bF8hfE737Y8piMU1AaiNM6p5eF1aWot7VKAS_pqKo6dHocp8XpKU_7E9lsHFcT44xNTOP_x2-876S/s1600/P1090486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieeFzKaStSVuraFajVG1v57p1DbwT4OZ3l1qspXxZqcAraUI2qQik9mVJEbkGNOa1bF8hfE737Y8piMU1AaiNM6p5eF1aWot7VKAS_pqKo6dHocp8XpKU_7E9lsHFcT44xNTOP_x2-876S/s1600/P1090486.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>ONE OF THE LARGER TROPICAL TREES.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></u></i></b> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKy0MsMhLX-PCbDL-lmjneT7yNmPGi_CYYiHgHQGhbD8l0F-c996HcirdeAye3eAwf5cKba4FWuW6JEWRqdNPAf3GGFrmwj8gArLTqTdJGwRqHwbU_qR_5r1SxoJIAteHLWfJPlgBQHdX/s1600/P1150362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKy0MsMhLX-PCbDL-lmjneT7yNmPGi_CYYiHgHQGhbD8l0F-c996HcirdeAye3eAwf5cKba4FWuW6JEWRqdNPAf3GGFrmwj8gArLTqTdJGwRqHwbU_qR_5r1SxoJIAteHLWfJPlgBQHdX/s1600/P1150362.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>NATURE AT IT'S BEST!</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span></o:p></span></u></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></u></i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<strong></strong><strong></strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span> </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAt9exhnSebVoO9ihF-harURWNAJe46MMus_H_lga1MYF_8bOufFH7wGfM45VCSOLEQTbh_O8EjgI07nPTag4_Jca68TuKq1goEZD2gBpqVQJSZUf_5ui-0Xk0wGfZ_GpZPUbUZPll0shB/s1600/P1150480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAt9exhnSebVoO9ihF-harURWNAJe46MMus_H_lga1MYF_8bOufFH7wGfM45VCSOLEQTbh_O8EjgI07nPTag4_Jca68TuKq1goEZD2gBpqVQJSZUf_5ui-0Xk0wGfZ_GpZPUbUZPll0shB/s1600/P1150480.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>BIRD SANCTUARY</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Q1ScrNSktPNNGS4dhRNv2as8Fik3IIw4jLIqNuWazIFEFXl4jvOSvXn7b_taiL-fyBF2WzK0BF3d0Z0ZKre6z76vGqohNA_KDlf5b6Hp68hLnyerP-j9hhMHx1rf0IKapwIF18nSVBQx/s1600/P1090706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Q1ScrNSktPNNGS4dhRNv2as8Fik3IIw4jLIqNuWazIFEFXl4jvOSvXn7b_taiL-fyBF2WzK0BF3d0Z0ZKre6z76vGqohNA_KDlf5b6Hp68hLnyerP-j9hhMHx1rf0IKapwIF18nSVBQx/s1600/P1090706.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>OBJECTS TO CLIMB OVER.</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>As a rule we do not usually publish our newspaper articles as part of our travel blog. But just for fun we thought we would add this piece.</strong><br />
<strong> </strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-37561143071862041982013-11-21T10:29:00.002-08:002013-11-21T10:29:16.206-08:00GOLDEN AGE BACKPACKERS - Pause and Smell the roses not the Fumes!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pause and Smell the Roses, not the
Fumes</span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>.....The Covered Bridges of Cottage Grove,
Oregon<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNdIPxlHunXQ6NY_odnG7mu8-RgFrUVe_vh4JPCNeH9B7r6cvDX-jxy8VXsdWl8qDC7lyRipOIaU0Md8veRlq9_F7mLwn5f8u1qDIhjXhwIWsIUXdI2dPSqU-2tOBgqwR5ShYabB_jYMO/s1600/P1140309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNdIPxlHunXQ6NY_odnG7mu8-RgFrUVe_vh4JPCNeH9B7r6cvDX-jxy8VXsdWl8qDC7lyRipOIaU0Md8veRlq9_F7mLwn5f8u1qDIhjXhwIWsIUXdI2dPSqU-2tOBgqwR5ShYabB_jYMO/s200/P1140309.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silk Creek flowing through<br />
the center of Cottage Grove.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Article
and Photos by John and Doreen Berg <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Are
you heading south on Interstate 5 and wishing an alternate to an overnight stay
in a chain motel/hotel, having an evening dinner and rising to an early alarm to
hit the pavement for another tedious day of driving?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had considered venturing
off the beaten path making our drive more of an exploratory trip but our selections
usually involved considerable detours to and from I-5.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time we did discover the perfect stopover
location, Cottage Grove!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPc7lgrIUXpe8fa5HPn_K_rrJGblqImgAmUb6OaJIjFk4sD-4-XQX81tAMNNbSiXC9_stZXc1wpRlLPCI3vO3gXr7KB_jQ0KvyGWTzvjNjtAXw11CQgwQQmC7V7XN95ERFdHPXrxFwla3g/s1600/P1140298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPc7lgrIUXpe8fa5HPn_K_rrJGblqImgAmUb6OaJIjFk4sD-4-XQX81tAMNNbSiXC9_stZXc1wpRlLPCI3vO3gXr7KB_jQ0KvyGWTzvjNjtAXw11CQgwQQmC7V7XN95ERFdHPXrxFwla3g/s200/P1140298.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our deluxe room complete with my foot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This
fall our annual trip to Sacramento to visit our brother-in-law was significantly
different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On "Travel Zoo"
Doreen discovered a "Dinner Package Special" being offered by Village
Green Resort and Gardens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dinner
package included two night's accommodation, breakfasts and a dinner for two in
their restaurant with a bottle of complementary wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(See following "General
Information" for details.)</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Village
Green is located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Eugene, Oregon
in the heritage town of Cottage Grove.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
driving eight to nine hours it was the perfect stop-over spot for us to enjoy
the countryside and relax before continuing to our final destination-
Sacramento.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cottage
Grove bills itself as a friendly recreational, family oriented small town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us the town added interest to an
otherwise predictable drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cottage
Grove is small enough to be able to wander the local antique shops, view hand
painted murals and examine intact collections of historic 20th century
buildings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, of course, dine at local
restaurants to sample the regional cuisine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The first evening witnessed us dining at Stacy's Covered Bridge
Restaurant marveling over their cedar plank salmon special.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
town also boasts a 17 mile dedicated paved bike trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately due to the season's lateness,
the resort's bikes were stored and the local bike shop had bikes previously
booked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trail sections we saw from
the road looked impressive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next time!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzl4M647DK90kIqcrcwEMO81Fykla5Y8D2sHSp6QjCUlJgp3TytBmKFj3WBwPVP9zHqVxP90JIBHQmo0cBOFye6Ti1qz8fyknXGubR1A-b2Bsp62c6ySirmpzTeMrZaDgoCejspim3khn/s1600/P1140310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzl4M647DK90kIqcrcwEMO81Fykla5Y8D2sHSp6QjCUlJgp3TytBmKFj3WBwPVP9zHqVxP90JIBHQmo0cBOFye6Ti1qz8fyknXGubR1A-b2Bsp62c6ySirmpzTeMrZaDgoCejspim3khn/s320/P1140310.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swing Bridge -<br />
The current bridge is at least the 4th on the site.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cottage
Grove has the distinction of being the "Covered Bridge Capital of
Oregon."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The seven restored covered
bridges do verify the town's claim as this is the largest number in any town in
Lane County!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bridges were built
between 1900 and 1925, the regions heyday for construction and farming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From local sawmills, readily available timber
was used and house-like structures were built over the bridges to prolong the
bridges' life spans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first morning
of our stay we followed a detailed easy-to-follow map that was part of our
resort package.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The roads we drove were
paved and the traffic was sparse with the fall colours and landscapes creating
a magical atmosphere as we visited and photographed each bridge.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuVdinSlVo1a7X_UfAPOCWEZG1ieD3fO5t13IFxr0X3TIIVerdAXJlX9xAyMzCbmX9xVRWt2ArbMCjiSGwd2toLB8zqYaZVtQW7Het3f1hsP6dV2PcI4YHcgQA40IYj5vbngUxSjNDsxK/s1600/P1140318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuVdinSlVo1a7X_UfAPOCWEZG1ieD3fO5t13IFxr0X3TIIVerdAXJlX9xAyMzCbmX9xVRWt2ArbMCjiSGwd2toLB8zqYaZVtQW7Het3f1hsP6dV2PcI4YHcgQA40IYj5vbngUxSjNDsxK/s320/P1140318.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall colours highlight the Mosby Covered Bridge<br />
with Mosby Creek gently flowing beneath.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lunch
was at Torero's Mexican Restaurant and after a wander through the historical
business section, we again consulted our tourist map and drove River Row Road
to the Brice Creek Trailhead beginning at Cedar Creek Camp Site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After taking a wrong gravel side road and
climbing for a few miles, we turned back and easily located the camp a few
meters past the erroneous turnoff.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpdMjEuMJwWYQq6E90unCIAjDtF_s6QlhNLibIWQqtboC5fFowWaNeLtYuk4lH-9ZA_edqR2VmevPHLrzlRik-1J2jdceAhjr4awMIK5uJEDD2wqA0zWNyaz5JeyJtDd6JoqcGln-WfeJ/s1600/P1140370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpdMjEuMJwWYQq6E90unCIAjDtF_s6QlhNLibIWQqtboC5fFowWaNeLtYuk4lH-9ZA_edqR2VmevPHLrzlRik-1J2jdceAhjr4awMIK5uJEDD2wqA0zWNyaz5JeyJtDd6JoqcGln-WfeJ/s320/P1140370.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beginning our afternoon hike.<br />
The trail follows the scenic Brice Creek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our
plan was to hike to a set of falls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, presented with a fork in the trail we elected to hike left
while we should have gone right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
missed the falls but the hike was enjoyable and scenic, plus providing needed
exercise.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That
evening in the Village Green Restaurant, we enjoyed our complementary dinner
complete with a bottle of wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
selected a trout dish special and Doreen chose the salmon plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both selections were delicious and cleverly
presented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After our meal a short stroll
was in order prior to retiring for the evening and preparing for tomorrow's
road journey.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cottage
Grove is favourably located to allow us to divide our 1500 kilometer drive into
two days driving<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>with an intrepid pause
to explore a region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The historic town
is situated close to the freeway making for an easy exit and return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, only a short drive from I-5 and you encounter
the town surrounded by rolling pastures, lakes and beautiful forests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We left Village Green refreshed and with an
appreciation and better understanding of the county's environment and
culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our next drive south we plan
to pause at Cottage Grove to further explore the surrounding countryside and
ride the bike trail!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></o:p></span></u></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">General Information</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Resort<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">Village Green Resort and Gardens</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>725
Row River Road, Cottage Grove, Oregon, 97424.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>www.villagegreenresortandgardens.com.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Telephone: (541) 942-2491 or (800) 343-7666.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wi-Fi<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>is in all rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMUc5O23q2Z6xc6c1L4V3ZRHIccEKpFtIGuVy378gy5IgzDSSIWqJoKKndmKDsFm6k_6a92kR-rhDzj8s9RqjbIgJCokHg_uhuzkSSopqnGXpRkiCoa17B9_qpEfO7FuGQ-7P6DEt6SWe/s1600/P1140356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMUc5O23q2Z6xc6c1L4V3ZRHIccEKpFtIGuVy378gy5IgzDSSIWqJoKKndmKDsFm6k_6a92kR-rhDzj8s9RqjbIgJCokHg_uhuzkSSopqnGXpRkiCoa17B9_qpEfO7FuGQ-7P6DEt6SWe/s320/P1140356.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the resort's beautiful gardens.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our
deluxe room sported a fireplace plus T.V., fridge and microwave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A set of patio doors led to a small private
patio area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent decor and king
size bed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76qxx9UEW3L1d49VStRhBkf3gNnKnc2ShFgQ15WX8Kogvq4otWjH_6wYs39_CverkqqPe_vSLR6v0D_MkvZzPoBKofn4VqpeJnuEpQTzS_HXqFfv8wULHY-tZ0OlQXeYpB8ebDql1vn8n/s1600/P1140352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76qxx9UEW3L1d49VStRhBkf3gNnKnc2ShFgQ15WX8Kogvq4otWjH_6wYs39_CverkqqPe_vSLR6v0D_MkvZzPoBKofn4VqpeJnuEpQTzS_HXqFfv8wULHY-tZ0OlQXeYpB8ebDql1vn8n/s200/P1140352.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A spider enjoys the garden.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
resort offers a variety of special packages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our Dinner Package Special included a dinner with wine and two nights'
accommodation in a deluxe room and breakfasts. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At check-in we were presented with an
information package about restaurants, local maps, entertainment and coupons
for a wine tour as there are many successful wineries in the region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The resort features large gardens of flora,
ideal for wandering through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We felt
that the package special was an excellent value as the dinner for tipping
purposes was valued at $62.00 US.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
total package cost $139.00.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Restaurants<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Torero's Family Mexican Restaurant</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>1205 Highway 99 North, Cottage Grove, Oregon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phone: (541) 942-1155<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Located
in a small shopping mall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good ambiance
and the Mexican lunch was tasty plus pleasant prompt service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reasonably priced.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></u> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Stacy's Covered Bridge Restaurant</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> 401 E. Main Street, Cottage Grove,
Oregon, 97424.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phone: (541) 767-0320<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Located
directly across from the police station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Stacy's is an excellent restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We ordered the day's special, salmon cooked on a cedar plank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was one of the most delicious salmon meals
we've enjoyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The server was courteous
and attentive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There's also a bar area
for lighter snacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our meal including
drinks and tip was $60.70 US<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Wal-Mart</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>located next to Village Green
Resort just off Row River Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The supermarket
is a good place to stock up on lunch provisions for the next day's travel.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Travel Zoo</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>www.travelzoo.com<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Travelzoo
is a publishing company listing travel, entertainment and local deals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The company evaluates deals to judge their
value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the company's web site they
publish a weekly top 20 selections that can be sent to your e-mail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We've taken advantage of offers and have been
extremely pleased with the results.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmQRFtof_T4AOP5TrDVfdjBZaX5GYDGJ3QuLe3oYiZGU7-xlCYBNUXGa-5hVbMhbxbXafAFl7Qv3vl65wK4jQYPxN7mda4jf0E_6LKPlKcR1Ke5UXYIkfA0EaXH3wq6rXRK4zjfHccCgM/s1600/P1140304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmQRFtof_T4AOP5TrDVfdjBZaX5GYDGJ3QuLe3oYiZGU7-xlCYBNUXGa-5hVbMhbxbXafAFl7Qv3vl65wK4jQYPxN7mda4jf0E_6LKPlKcR1Ke5UXYIkfA0EaXH3wq6rXRK4zjfHccCgM/s320/P1140304.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centennial Bridge<br />
Built on old abutments to celebrate<br />
Cottage Grove's centennial.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Seven Covered Bridges<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<br />
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Centennial Bridge - reconstructed in 1977<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Swinging Bridge - built for foot and bicycle
traffic<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ViZbNHvicpNYm43Zlv8_7UU_H-fHyjqyvdfhySl8-2aAA1VM45IxoX6piPtx6J700DVQzmS0ItZr444Qw5bJ0VzUEWvGlqTqcWZ8B7HIScMk5VpF3SA9vR2aEZLwu50uwohZW7jWjobD/s1600/P1140311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ViZbNHvicpNYm43Zlv8_7UU_H-fHyjqyvdfhySl8-2aAA1VM45IxoX6piPtx6J700DVQzmS0ItZr444Qw5bJ0VzUEWvGlqTqcWZ8B7HIScMk5VpF3SA9vR2aEZLwu50uwohZW7jWjobD/s200/P1140311.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chamber's Covered Railway Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3)
Chambers Bridge - built in 1925 and restored in 2011 - employed by a
timber<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>company as a train
bridge.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mosby Creek Bridge - 1920 and restored in
1990 - oldest bridge and open to traffic<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stewart Bridge - 1930 Restored in 1996.- deep
water below for swimming<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dorena Bridge 1949 - now closed to traffic<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Currin Bridge - 1925 ( replaced an earlier
bridge built in 1883) -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Restored 1995.</span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqn3wo0806J67Gn7vF3dYt1j9KKmI0fwpFOQEepaydRkpvx2QHv1c2-wSc1nYlFSMuFuO0SCij1eUGc1iukjqHM5dy19RfM243EndvW_2yLravksAJ86e_oTkOefWX5bW3Am8HbABVJJci/s1600/P1140342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqn3wo0806J67Gn7vF3dYt1j9KKmI0fwpFOQEepaydRkpvx2QHv1c2-wSc1nYlFSMuFuO0SCij1eUGc1iukjqHM5dy19RfM243EndvW_2yLravksAJ86e_oTkOefWX5bW3Am8HbABVJJci/s200/P1140342.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Massive timbers were used in most covered<br />
bridge constructions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-idPyOP6Xj9EMG2EI9eg6PF5t_UYvx_kMi81AI9wWxYeQKPI8ftA9jT_pnfRdIT9xThgCxB0Oda0fssFBqrQ2Aen1S0kG7oUJPEGVCnIZkNq2H0Qn68o8rzwwW0cIabwJN0zime22xYy/s1600/COTTAGE+GROVE1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-idPyOP6Xj9EMG2EI9eg6PF5t_UYvx_kMi81AI9wWxYeQKPI8ftA9jT_pnfRdIT9xThgCxB0Oda0fssFBqrQ2Aen1S0kG7oUJPEGVCnIZkNq2H0Qn68o8rzwwW0cIabwJN0zime22xYy/s400/COTTAGE+GROVE1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-14012374492573217562013-09-25T22:35:00.001-07:002013-09-29T17:50:00.024-07:00BUDGET TRAVELS- DRIVING THE ALASKA HIGHWAY WITHOUT A MOTOR HOME!<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Driving the Alaska Highway WITHOUT a Motor Home!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></span></u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcnf3AKRQc2Ot7RfuvtDGKHUUZhilwJfyKWbcoGRPXk4v_4v6Y_fqUciwGONxoiouWtARd2S1rsorUIIiuYQC1oebxGFKQuTWQWHjdJSndDFoe9z3Zr8VMMuY1ULdOpD9Bo_DZDRXCRSc/s1600/P1120066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcnf3AKRQc2Ot7RfuvtDGKHUUZhilwJfyKWbcoGRPXk4v_4v6Y_fqUciwGONxoiouWtARd2S1rsorUIIiuYQC1oebxGFKQuTWQWHjdJSndDFoe9z3Zr8VMMuY1ULdOpD9Bo_DZDRXCRSc/s200/P1120066.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>IN THE LATE 1800'S PART OF TRAIL TO REACH GOLD FIELDS</strong></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LjGiaaGAq-YsvhsSmzJT1Jpq7a60CGO6fXzTZKL9INOBdSBYKWkWeXdAbpb-AVcWqL0j1MElCJPlKObVRi1H2YdiKkJYqlA_j9LxMaTjrm79dplnwHBth9KiKeA2-y1gDpn9OTb92ev6/s1600/P1110111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LjGiaaGAq-YsvhsSmzJT1Jpq7a60CGO6fXzTZKL9INOBdSBYKWkWeXdAbpb-AVcWqL0j1MElCJPlKObVRi1H2YdiKkJYqlA_j9LxMaTjrm79dplnwHBth9KiKeA2-y1gDpn9OTb92ev6/s200/P1110111.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-CA"><strong>Natural Beauty and Animal Viewing</strong></span></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-CA"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 150%;">Article and photos by John and Doreen Berg <o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Snow capped
mountains, rushing swollen rivers, emerald green lakes, partially covered with
frosted blue ice and numerous roadside animal sightings were to be the
highlights of our Johnny Horton "North to Alaska" adventure.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>When one thinks about driving the Alaska
Highway, visions of motor homes chugging along the road with many pulling an
extra vehicle, is the common denominator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We elected to discover if the journey would be as successful using our
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 4x4 truck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
provided us with an option for back road travel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we did not have the convenience of
dragging our home behind us, we felt from a cost point, it was cheaper and made
for a more relaxed, flexible drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
used the tailgate for picnic lunches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
had an excellent two-way fridge in the backseat of our crew cab and took it
into our hotel accommodations, making breakfast in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This cut the cost of our vacation by having
only one meal a day in restaurants. From an economic budget perspective, we
deemed the use of our 4x4 truck was a huge success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us, a motor home rental or a used motor
home purchase was too costly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Furthermore
we were not left with a huge investment parked in our yard begging to be used
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We found it easy to locate very
adequate hotel/motel accommodations and concluded that our gas mileage savings
off-set motel/hotel expenses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A further
plus was that our truck 4x4 provided us with easy and safe access to more
remote spots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our trip provided a nice
balance of outdoor activities, animal sightings and off-road driving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
us, the holiday without a </strong></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97OdbsNbc3Rxrt-LzdV659W88hLa2JDGRLw4VBRoOnEdpDfulYltI2BJ3HiSD2jVwHGb1Sgk6utOAOJmxDM7qGBHcS57YOSzROwSHubV9b4NBSQl7DV9Dhho-0OoDIx5puj0254bPa5Ft/s1600/P1120495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97OdbsNbc3Rxrt-LzdV659W88hLa2JDGRLw4VBRoOnEdpDfulYltI2BJ3HiSD2jVwHGb1Sgk6utOAOJmxDM7qGBHcS57YOSzROwSHubV9b4NBSQl7DV9Dhho-0OoDIx5puj0254bPa5Ft/s320/P1120495.JPG" width="320" /></a></strong></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>motor home was a wonderful success.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong> </strong></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our May 15th to
June 4th time line frame proved to be an excellent choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Except for the first few overcast or rainy
days we encountered beautifully clear sunny days and cool nights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were too early to experience the distracting
annual insect hatch and the daunting annual summer tourist influx! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Alaska Highway was in excellent condition
with few winter frost heaves and cleared roadside right-of-ways for easy sightings
of numerous roadside animals. There are wonderful spots along our route and we
particularly enjoyed the Stone Mountain and Muncho Lake areas with beautiful
white-blue ice retreating and dramatic towering mountains shimmering in the
brilliant sunlight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The North Country
was welcoming the birth of spring as we cruised along the Alaska Highway.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Initially we
planned to include a Chetwynd family visit and then begin our Mile Zero Alaska
Highway trip at Fort St. John.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But as
events unfolded, our Mile Zero start became Chetwynd and Tumbler Ridge.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Larry and Penny,
brother and sister-in-law, rolled out the red carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leisurely paced mornings began with morning
coffee followed by scrumptious breakfasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Day One saw three of us drive to the nearby Windmill Electric Station
which has more than 30 windmills perched atop Bear Mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Speaking of bears, our first of many black
bear sightings happened on the return from the mountain and Mr. Bear co-operated
by hanging roadside long enough for us to capture excellent photos.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Northern spring mornings
arrive early and our experience was no different with the brilliant sun pouring
through the travel trailer's windows forcing an early departure from our cozy
bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shortly after a hearty breakfast we
drove to visit Kinuseo Falls. A feature of the falls is its 60 metre height
making it higher than Niagara Falls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From
the viewing platform you could feel the raw power of the spring runoff as tons
of frothing water thundered into the river below.</strong></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPmRTfzeJfZlFwcIVzKGtnac4sGWA8tK3sIeR1ztVS37leXuWDg3xXkq6c3f7GKogaeJlDrvXRRpOnxoTfheGfziD_hyphenhyphenLhuNVEUtzq89LhMXvgp8IdInSaw4Rx5W3ofBvz-vT8gXgkVa4/s1600/P1110241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPmRTfzeJfZlFwcIVzKGtnac4sGWA8tK3sIeR1ztVS37leXuWDg3xXkq6c3f7GKogaeJlDrvXRRpOnxoTfheGfziD_hyphenhyphenLhuNVEUtzq89LhMXvgp8IdInSaw4Rx5W3ofBvz-vT8gXgkVa4/s320/P1110241.JPG" width="320" /></a></strong></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong> KINUSEO FALLS IN FULL FLOAD<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>We stopped at Jade
Lake and decided to hike to a fossil find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While the trail was clearly marked it was steep in spots and not sure
how far, so most family members elected to return to the parking lot while
Neveah (Larry and Penny's granddaughter) and I hiked further but after half an
hour or more decided to return before the search and rescue team was sent out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
a tailgate lunch we returned with stops at Tumbler Ridge and at a trail sign,
outlining a hike to view dinosaur prints. Tumbler Ridge proved to provide ample
opportunity to embrace the outdoors.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All too soon our family visit and gourmet
meals came to an end. Our Alaska Highway Mile One departure day featured heavy
rain and a two centimetre snow warning for the Fort Nelson area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Penny wisely suggested we delay a day but we
felt a need to be on our way and thought, “What's a mere two centimetres of snow!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How wrong this thought turned out to be!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkPzmjYJXMLnBZ6uFRXELl0QH1sKaZZxifw8JjROHQUwJ3g_EOwliPOmm8JWWGu3cT90sipkwaz4KC1bs0ebiRIydEsyoM2egiSTf754_qxyjEy29h7UJXTJkFqjJML3NHcNh1ON_rsMI/s1600/P1110332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkPzmjYJXMLnBZ6uFRXELl0QH1sKaZZxifw8JjROHQUwJ3g_EOwliPOmm8JWWGu3cT90sipkwaz4KC1bs0ebiRIydEsyoM2egiSTf754_qxyjEy29h7UJXTJkFqjJML3NHcNh1ON_rsMI/s200/P1110332.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>WITHIN AN HOUR THE ROAD WAS CLOSED</strong></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Rain followed us
to Fort St. John where we picked up some groceries and were soon traveling
north.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time we reached Wonowon we
were encountering snow!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we traveled
toward Pink Mountain the snow intensified and the road conditions became
treacherous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally, we decided to call
it quits and returned to Fort St. John.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A stop at Wonowon confirmed our decision when checking with a truck
driver he too was turning back and informed us that the road was temporarily
closed near Pink Mountain as a freight truck had overturned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That evening we were a bit discouraged and
concluded that if the weather didn't improve we would select a more southern
route and return home early.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZFgb3CvDnqppIXVxwY2Sv0orVAWHIWs0lnXApLwg8ZbmmxcsWbTQMxJ6h2kRLrgboEMX4ZAIsxcGW25qgUecmQIEigN5TVaVdWKvbTogK55iozwyynfjo9eupEOmhgKnWpI9gRZz8FWY/s1600/P1110037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZFgb3CvDnqppIXVxwY2Sv0orVAWHIWs0lnXApLwg8ZbmmxcsWbTQMxJ6h2kRLrgboEMX4ZAIsxcGW25qgUecmQIEigN5TVaVdWKvbTogK55iozwyynfjo9eupEOmhgKnWpI9gRZz8FWY/s320/P1110037.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>ONE OF MANY TAILGATE LUNCHES FOR TWO!</strong></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The next morning
we woke to sunshine and clear skies!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
this weather was to continue for the remainder of our holiday! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having learnt our lesson our next step was to
consult the Fort St. John tourist bureau to obtain a current road report for
Highway 97.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They reported that road
crews were busy clearing the highway and we followed their advice to delay our
departure until noon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our previous day's
trials had taught us to respect northern weather conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much to our delight road conditions proved to
be excellent with bare pavement and with snow roadside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only visual reminder of yesterday’s storm
was the tractor trailer upside down in the ditch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drive to Fort Nelson was pleasant which
comprised an early stop to enjoy our homemade bunwiches interspersed with photo
stops of scenic sections. <o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezPrfU6QUiOpvawM3aOHdee_jMWeb75rPn44Gzp1onBXeMy_43Ks63xM9GgoODBwHDUE0dWvIYxul9whwirCnebyVTLwRhGnl27NItDvB5MQvBIvdc9Ub7BAbHLz89B99dswYm58ZUXYF/s1600/P1110464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezPrfU6QUiOpvawM3aOHdee_jMWeb75rPn44Gzp1onBXeMy_43Ks63xM9GgoODBwHDUE0dWvIYxul9whwirCnebyVTLwRhGnl27NItDvB5MQvBIvdc9Ub7BAbHLz89B99dswYm58ZUXYF/s200/P1110464.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>GRANDEUR OF ALASKA HIGHWAY</strong></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>We left Fort
Nelson early for a brief drive to Liard Hot Springs where we planned a two
night stay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drive was truly a North
American Serengeti game drive!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right on
the outskirts of Fort Nelson we encountered our first animal sighting, three
caribou grazing. Throughout the drive we continued to glimpse numerous black
bear, more caribou, mountain sheep and several bison herds munching fresh
willow shots and new grasses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
little traffic it was convenient and safe to park roadside obtaining wonderful
animal photos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sundrenched snow
capped mountains and raging river runoff were an added bonus to our day's
drive.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>BULL BISON SHEDDING HIS WINTER COAT</strong></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>As well as
enjoying the many animal sightings we stopped at such historic establishments
as Tetsa River Campgrounds to enjoy their famous signature homemade cinnamon
buns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The delicious buns are now baked
by a third generation Andrews.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next stop
was Toad River Lodge which looked inviting with new cabins facing a picturesque
lake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After viewing the 6 800 caps
attached to the restaurant's ceiling we hit the road again arriving at Liard Lodge
late afternoon.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2vXPGD6ih2gVZOS6hqy4Aym-iLLV83704cIEf5cHUxLNehIlYGBuTp0I0NWL3xHV_05jwE6gJYQSM2zMVF0UNk5q1ptTyGMlCTktlK_QKcVKgb2py4N3Ph6x1cnGRYWqAnLLHa6Xj5XC/s1600/P1110482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2vXPGD6ih2gVZOS6hqy4Aym-iLLV83704cIEf5cHUxLNehIlYGBuTp0I0NWL3xHV_05jwE6gJYQSM2zMVF0UNk5q1ptTyGMlCTktlK_QKcVKgb2py4N3Ph6x1cnGRYWqAnLLHa6Xj5XC/s200/P1110482.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>DID YOU COUNT THE HATS</strong>?</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>After registering and
depositing our luggage in the room, we grabbed our swim gear and walked the
short distance to enjoy a hot soak in the Alpha Pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the evening we watched the bison herd
wander past the lodge as they munched the tender new grass shoots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a novel experience, in the late
evening, to sit reading near the window without the aid of an electric light
bulb.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The next day we
visited nearby Smith River Waterfalls and Whirlpool Canyon before returning to
the lodge for lunch and an afternoon soak in the hot pools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Liard Lodge was ideal as a place to relax and
walk directly across the Alaska Highway to experience and enjoy the natural hot
springs spa. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 42 to 52 Celsius degree
water bubbles from one end of the springs and flows into pools providing an
outdoor spa for people to soak and relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We strolled along a wooden walkway that meanders through a swampy
area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We searched for the possibility of
a moose sighting but alas we had to settle for a viewing of a variety of bird
species.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We agreed that our Liard Hot Springs
experience was a trip highlight.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Planning to reach
Whitehorse the next day meant an early morning departure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very quickly we encountered bison herds and
in fact traffic was stopped for a few minutes as an old bull and a few cows
slowly wandered across the highway!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
earlier black bear spottings had been so numerous that today's sightings only
warranted a "There's a bear," comment and a brief glance!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were "beary" spoilt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A grizzly bear and cub did generate interest
and an attempted photo through the windshield with the mother threatingly
standing on her hind legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately
she lost interest and raced into the roadside timber area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We stopped for breakfast at Kathy’s Kitchen
in Watson Lake and then went to the Visitors’ Center viewing a video on the
building of the Alaska Highway in 1942.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We walked to see the famous signposts before heading on to Whitehorse.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9MKyWk51TYVV70-qpaz_-7bVNSGHZ9Mm0v6jb1c5vzMYU8xmIo4W7_7ugBPqgPdgDiZb199NEveUa6A0SoyxFwccjMhjG4xNB0nj0JpTVycgKlj1Dk5JT-0j7Vkt0J9xUfh5CxSqbSC9/s1600/P1110939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9MKyWk51TYVV70-qpaz_-7bVNSGHZ9Mm0v6jb1c5vzMYU8xmIo4W7_7ugBPqgPdgDiZb199NEveUa6A0SoyxFwccjMhjG4xNB0nj0JpTVycgKlj1Dk5JT-0j7Vkt0J9xUfh5CxSqbSC9/s320/P1110939.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>BEAUTIFUL WHITEHORSE WITH IT'S HIKING TRAILS</strong></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Whitehorse boasts
a vibrant tourist infrastructure with a welcoming Main Street ambiance, coupled
with great restaurants, a fantastic tourist center, nearby hikes and numerous
museums and a restored paddle wheel steamboat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Leaving the tourist center with a city map and numerous brochures
supplied by the exuberant helpful staff, we decided to use Whitehorse as our base
and spend four nights exploring the many tourists' attractions being offered,
plus providing us with a more intimate understanding of the workings of a
northern community.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Blessed with
gorgeous sunny days we donned our summer clothing and spent our time hiking
well-defined local trails, visiting the excellent museums and wandering through
the interpretive center capping the busy day with an authentic Mexican dinner!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>TRAIN TRIP WAS A TRIP HIGHLIGHT</strong></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A highlight to our
Whitehorse visit was a day bus/train excursion to Skagway, Alaska.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The White Pass and Yukon Route of 1898 is a
rare story in the world of railway constructions and was built as a result of
the human stampede caused by the discovery of gold in the late 1800's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the years the narrow gauge railway has
been kept busy transporting war supplies, ores and today's payload of
tourists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many travellers arrive in Skagway's harbour by
cruise ships and elect to take the popular train trip.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBv8rltzZat3ZbiHm_Bg_Y8EbgtpEka8ny-qmPNFaVaz4j-bhkzmB9JmxM7uTf9owVqILfjJzWzSLPinouXVcJkIf6vW0vXslxwPhrXAg98A4HKnycXJEBfpbNb6bOhhmI98wdrMfOUEM/s1600/P1120327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBv8rltzZat3ZbiHm_Bg_Y8EbgtpEka8ny-qmPNFaVaz4j-bhkzmB9JmxM7uTf9owVqILfjJzWzSLPinouXVcJkIf6vW0vXslxwPhrXAg98A4HKnycXJEBfpbNb6bOhhmI98wdrMfOUEM/s200/P1120327.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>BUSY BUT WELL ORGANIZED</strong></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The bus departed
Whitehorse at eight in the morning and our first stop was at historic Carcross
a picturesque village and home to the Carcross/Tagish First Nations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carcross was first named Caribou Crossing for
the caribou herds that swam across the narrows between Bennett Lake and the
Nases Lakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like all tourists we
photographed some of the Yukon's oldest buildings in Carcross dating back to
1898.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We entered a few to browse the
souvenirs and purchase a coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We remounted
our bus and enjoyed scenery on the drive to Fraser, BC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon our approach I counted 21 parked coaches
with more arriving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The parking lot and
railway platform looked like total chaos with countless hundreds of smiling
tourists disembarking from the train cars searching for their bus to return to their
cruise ship in Skagway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the time
came for us to board the train, I thought we would be running, pushing and
scrambling to gain a preferred right side for the best view!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This proved not to be as the train's loading
and unloading systems were cleverly organized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were assigned a car and since there were few people on our bus we found
ample available space in our designated car, a pleasant surprise compared to
some of our earlier world travel experiences.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Leaving Fraser
behind for our 27.7 miles trip to Skagway, expectations were high and we were
not to be disappointed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the train
twisted along its narrow gauge track we were treated to a yawning chasm of
gaping gorges and beautiful waterfalls crashing from glaciers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A much photographed steel bridge constructed
in 1901 was the tallest cantilever bridge in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Its usage was discontinued in 1969.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A black cross at
Mile 10.4 marks the final resting place of two railway workers and their
horses, buried under a 100 ton rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Their deaths in 1898 were the result of a blasting accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All too soon we were passing the maintenance
sheds and rolled into the Skagway station. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our exhilarating train trip was over.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>SKAGWAY , ALASKA THE END OF OUR TRAIN TRIP AND A CRUISE SHIP DESTINATION</strong></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Armed with a city
map and inside information supplied by our motor coach driver, we set off to
capture Skagway's touristy atmosphere with the main street featuring a wide
variety of shops, three or four selling diamonds, and numerous
restaurants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As there were four cruise
ships in port, approximately 7000 tourists provided a brisk business for the
shops, restaurants and tour agencies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
our limited two hour time in Skagway we browsed a few shops and decided to sample
a locally brewed beer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finding no space
downstairs, we wandered to an upstairs room and played a game of shuffleboard
before heading back to explore the Skagway harbour and a walk back to the train
station to locate our bus for our return trip to Whitehorse to complete a brief
but enjoyable introduction to Skagway, Alaska.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Again, we enjoyed
the drive with panoramic views, a stop at Fraser to pick up passengers and to
clear customs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We've now returned to
Canada!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a full but relaxing
worthwhile day trip concluding with an evening meal at the excellent Klondike
Rib and Salmon Restaurant, housed in the two oldest buildings still in use in
the Yukon’s Capital. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen had oven
roasted veggies with mashed potatoes and bannock and I had elk stroganoff with
sourdough and a Caesar salad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We enjoyed
the restaurant's ambiance and food while re-living the day's many highlights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The White Pass train day excursion proved to
be another trip highlight.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The following
morning saw us being on our homeward journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Arriving in Watson Lake we again visited the signpost display and
attended an evening Northern Lights Show.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our plan was to
return via the Cassiar Highway # 37 stopping overnight at Stewart and possibly
Smithers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The morning drive was pleasant
with excellent road conditions encountering few vehicles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We stopped at the Beaver Dam Restaurant for
breakfast and were informed the Cassiar Highway was flooding and closed to all
traffic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No wonder we hadn't encountered
trucks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One needs to check road
conditions before departures. Again we were reminded that the north's weather
conditions can be more severe than the coast. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a two hour return drive back to the
Alaska Highway and then south to Fort Nelson where we once again stayed at the Shannon
Motel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That night we decided to travel
directly home via Whistler and not wait for the Cassiar Highway to re-open. As
we later discovered this was a wise decision as the Cassiar stayed closed for
several more days.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>ROAD HAZARD NOT OFTEN MENTIONED. HIT BY A CARIBOO</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>For us the Alaska Highway’s appeal was its
breath-taking scenic vistas and its fantastic road side animal viewing plus the
visits to historical towns. Our road trip took in only a small portion of the
many locations leaving more for a future visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We certainly enjoyed our experience plus found lodging, food and fuel
easy to obtain. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A trip we recommend for
others to explore. <o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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</strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>General Information<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Accommodations:<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our accommodations were budget, central,
quiet and clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prices are Canadian
dollars plus 15 % in taxes must be added to the price. The hotels/motels,
unless noted, provided television, coffee makers, refrigerator and internet.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fort
St. John<o:p></o:p></span></u></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Blue Bell Motel</u>, 9705 Alaska Road,
Telephone: (250) 785-2613, <o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">b.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">email: </span></strong><a href="mailto:bluebellmotel@yahoo.com"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;"><strong>bluebellmotel@yahoo.com</strong></span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">c.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reservations: 1 866-833-2121<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">d.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Description:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Basic motel but was clean and well appointed, bed was comfortable. Motel
was close to stores and restaurants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Easy to access the Alaska Highway from motel.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fort Nelson<o:p></o:p></span></u></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Shannon Motel</u>, 5473-50<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
Avenue south, P.O. Box 480, Fort Nelson, BC, V0C1R0<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">b.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Description:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Located next to the Alaska Highway on a lateral road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although an older motel it had excellently
appointed rooms with separated sitting area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Friendly helpful managers. Rooms have been recently refurbished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent value and our favorite
accommodation.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9rUTa_7wCCxCLmi6alpxe2mi2F0Hu-hByN7Dn795T6TS521fonAgfYdIWddNMKVbZfEEKQlnZmz4IPy2rqMkXtWbXr1NanOPo3jQesCGbY3dcLVU2SIpMdQTl8rMDum22ft0UvStJ2PF/s1600/P1110735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9rUTa_7wCCxCLmi6alpxe2mi2F0Hu-hByN7Dn795T6TS521fonAgfYdIWddNMKVbZfEEKQlnZmz4IPy2rqMkXtWbXr1NanOPo3jQesCGbY3dcLVU2SIpMdQTl8rMDum22ft0UvStJ2PF/s320/P1110735.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Liard Hot Springs <o:p></o:p></span></u></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Liard Hot Springs Lodge</u>, Mile 497 Alaska
Highway, Liard River, BC<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">b.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Telephone: (250) 776-7349<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">c.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reservations:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>1 866-939-2522<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">d.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Description:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Liard Hot Springs Lodge and campgrounds are ideal for visiting the
hot springs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Liard River Hot Springs
Park is the reason to relax and utilize the lodge’s comfortable basic
rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms lacked televisions, coffee
makers and refrigerators.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Wi-Fi system
was being installed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lodge’s
restaurant provided wholesome home cooked meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was relatively an expensive basic lodge,
but the only lodge accommodation located near the popular hot springs.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Watson Lake, BC<o:p></o:p></span></u></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Air Force Lodge</u>, Watson Lake, BC<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">b.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Telephone: 867-536-2890<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">c.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Description:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Air Force Lodge is a restored pilot headquarters used during the
construction of the Alaska Highway and W.W.II.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Lodge is quiet and spotlessly clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The lodge is similar to a hostel with shared washrooms and showers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The basic rooms were comfortable with
televisions only.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Complimentary tea and
coffee were always available in the reception area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Helpful friendly management.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent value at $75.00 for a single person
and $85.00 for two people.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Whitehorse, Yukon<o:p></o:p></span></u></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Stop In Family Hotel</u>, 314 Ray Street,
Whitehorse, Yukon<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">b.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Description:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hotel was reasonably priced, clean and comfortable and has been recently
renovated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our room was well appointed
with a comfortable queen bed plus table and chair set.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We received good service at reception desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel’s Indian Restaurant was not open as
the chef was holidaying in India.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lodging is expensive in Whitehorse so we found The Family Hotel to be
good value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel is centrally
located, close to tourist bureau and excellent restaurants.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><strong><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">c.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Restaurants in Whitehorse we enjoyed.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Klondike Rib and Salmon Bake<o:p></o:p></strong></span></u></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>2116 2nd Ave.,<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Whitehorse, Yukon<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Telephone:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(867) 667-7554<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>This restaurant was busy with a casual restful ambience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Service was excellent with fresh and
flavorful food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The varied menu featured seafood dishes.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Sanchez Cantina<o:p></o:p></strong></span></u></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>211 Hanson St.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Whitehorse, Yukon<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Telephone: (867)
668-5858<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The
popular restaurant featured authentic Mexican food with a varied menu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Small restaurant, brightly decorated with Mexican
ambiance. <o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<u><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Gasoline Prices -The Alaska Highway<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8HRE_HKf9YFwm_3HwSiaFO_iXQFIk0hpoCWEJmVoL4TbaH0qM7be7af6Um_6h5IqLt-W4o-gmG_nj48sCHajQhZuWsje_-9Fl55DhHOOJO2-icMZN13bOWDrlCz2xGt96v1k894QHV1I/s1600/P1110417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8HRE_HKf9YFwm_3HwSiaFO_iXQFIk0hpoCWEJmVoL4TbaH0qM7be7af6Um_6h5IqLt-W4o-gmG_nj48sCHajQhZuWsje_-9Fl55DhHOOJO2-icMZN13bOWDrlCz2xGt96v1k894QHV1I/s320/P1110417.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Gasoline
was readily available along the highway and in the towns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The price was a high of $179.9 per liter at
Coal Lake with $149.9 per liter being the most common price.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
<strong></strong><strong>
</strong><strong>
</strong><strong>
</strong><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSL85tmlajJXEH1BcV4rHKhIoDgTz-ITqCHhG1Aj5pnw5y2JDWLsg1x-RGv7ru4h_DgoOHzoOJpadVkSYxxZ3miE5mZBAYUa84WaBZGfNRDAvbYy7F2sO7tpkcaB1M-Rx-_-FsL1tRSNql/s1600/P1110405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSL85tmlajJXEH1BcV4rHKhIoDgTz-ITqCHhG1Aj5pnw5y2JDWLsg1x-RGv7ru4h_DgoOHzoOJpadVkSYxxZ3miE5mZBAYUa84WaBZGfNRDAvbYy7F2sO7tpkcaB1M-Rx-_-FsL1tRSNql/s200/P1110405.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>MOTHER BEAR AND THREE CUBS.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><strong></strong><strong>
</strong><strong>
</strong><strong>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>STONE SHEEP</strong></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>OUT OF MY WAY</strong></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SKAGWAY LOCAL BREW AND MY NEW HAT</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>BISON MOVING TO SLEEPING AREA</strong></td></tr>
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com1North America51.47152649275052 -118.12525.94949199275052 -159.433594 76.993560992750517 -76.816406tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-55302185725417208172013-05-08T21:51:00.001-07:002013-05-08T21:51:43.171-07:00BUDGET BACKPACKING- Petroglyphs Found Near La Luz Del Mundo, Los Ayala, Mexico<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <u>
</u></span><u>Petroglyphs found near La Luz Del Mundo, Los Ayala,Mexico</u></span></strong></span></div>
2013/05/06<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> <strong> </strong></span><strong>By John and Doreen Berg</strong></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Ancient Rock Art Soon To Disappear!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_6FmzS_WVjICjAvtZht9wcO0TS1YRX2MS676reoqxFmiBs6uMCLKUHfGWcVjLWWF1Tm7nHFxttgA67vTjRGVqEKwUtppY9tr-zhX6_e2pSO6vQPHqAWDMGuvbsk71mmUytmaWnOh0rZb/s1600/P1090443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_6FmzS_WVjICjAvtZht9wcO0TS1YRX2MS676reoqxFmiBs6uMCLKUHfGWcVjLWWF1Tm7nHFxttgA67vTjRGVqEKwUtppY9tr-zhX6_e2pSO6vQPHqAWDMGuvbsk71mmUytmaWnOh0rZb/s320/P1090443.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Visitors and snowbirds wintering in the Jaltemba Bay area have
probably visited or certainly heard of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alta
Vista, a fabulous Tecoxquin(“Throat Cutters”) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>archeological site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What most visitors do not realize is that
there are numerous, but smaller ancient sites displaying petroglyphs located
right in our own backyard.</strong></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECPrwJUVMrO69VrfMWsG_x8y0O6-x5jeUs2B-b-5pOOcyaL07Uneu4EDTwOFUqksBsbPHgroE4t8p37E7r2bo3sfALyuZ7au3QIkoOChbg2CCS8jk3UocAvqo9KH0q_a17U0C-3Xv58DE/s1600/P1090442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECPrwJUVMrO69VrfMWsG_x8y0O6-x5jeUs2B-b-5pOOcyaL07Uneu4EDTwOFUqksBsbPHgroE4t8p37E7r2bo3sfALyuZ7au3QIkoOChbg2CCS8jk3UocAvqo9KH0q_a17U0C-3Xv58DE/s320/P1090442.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>One such Tecoxquin site can be found just off Highway 200
and close by La Luz Del Mundo Church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not having visited the goat field since the 2012 season I decided to
re-visit the field and update my notes prior to publishing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, part of the plan fell apart when I discovered
that the goat pasture containing the ancient art had been left to the goats and
the ancient stone carvings were difficult to view being hidden in tall grasses
and vines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately, I was able to
locate most of the spirals and mysterious carvings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, one decorative rock segment
containing a beautiful spiral shape had been chiseled free and carted off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A difficult feat because the missing stone
slab must have weighed well over a hundred kilos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The exact meaning of the rock carvings has
never been fully explained, but the spirals have been interpreted to relate
with the weather and the seasonal weather cycles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve also noted that an article suggested a
coiled snake or comet as a possible explanation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few seasons ago a Huichal Indian convinced
a friend and me that one rock shape represented an eagle in flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time his explanation was
convincing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll have to decide what
you want to see!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxAG66LXKP3EXpjE4UwbXfXRu1o-T1G3kzujrPc68vEO6U_opgCO56bYIp9MHcIkRMgg3iKa1Trj_AtzF-ErY2YJTNaVG2NkPnrmF5WdRAQAkIOUaWIB77OkQAQ1w0yCwvPc3DT_4vz2c/s1600/P1090446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxAG66LXKP3EXpjE4UwbXfXRu1o-T1G3kzujrPc68vEO6U_opgCO56bYIp9MHcIkRMgg3iKa1Trj_AtzF-ErY2YJTNaVG2NkPnrmF5WdRAQAkIOUaWIB77OkQAQ1w0yCwvPc3DT_4vz2c/s320/P1090446.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With each visit over
the last four or five seasons I’ve noticed that homes and pastures are slowly
encroaching and damaging the number of boulders inscribed with petroglyphs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Continued attrition is probably in the works
because the ancient historical site is neither government protected nor guarded
in any fashion. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s time to visit
before the ancient rock art disappears.</strong></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe-38hmI23KEjS_q3AiBT0usZqmRIgQmrXutrbhU1XNRZlddrV6NSqrvL6XMOsPozn056tGbviDAjX1UMp26DaeH_NhaSk2ox9SMEhaJHdO-DNLw_RVxEb3csVUJU4Y3T2LnLsYvTENIWN/s1600/P1090447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe-38hmI23KEjS_q3AiBT0usZqmRIgQmrXutrbhU1XNRZlddrV6NSqrvL6XMOsPozn056tGbviDAjX1UMp26DaeH_NhaSk2ox9SMEhaJHdO-DNLw_RVxEb3csVUJU4Y3T2LnLsYvTENIWN/s200/P1090447.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxfMHQ0UcvXjC66NQs-FCRoCoEmNG1QFUNIgqqLuHx7wlmGiDVZ12HMiYgsnW8IecXj8AorogPY_U1UTBBNCwtTQva0uF5TF0vevab1vigJjYM06ZOVCIrJq8JdR-nszsqttv_o-Ku06P/s1600/P1090448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxfMHQ0UcvXjC66NQs-FCRoCoEmNG1QFUNIgqqLuHx7wlmGiDVZ12HMiYgsnW8IecXj8AorogPY_U1UTBBNCwtTQva0uF5TF0vevab1vigJjYM06ZOVCIrJq8JdR-nszsqttv_o-Ku06P/s200/P1090448.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>If you have time, and don’t we all, take a stroll through the
lower goat pasture to the top of the sloping field and you’ll find spirals and
other shapes carved onto the large boulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The small site where you’ll find goats grazing is located in a grass
filled pasture within easy walking distance from your parked vehicle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As well as observing the ancient symbols
you’ll be rewarded with a view of Los Ayala with the sparkling azure waters in
the background.</strong></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>How To Get There<o:p></o:p></strong></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxWZ_asDkxig8vLmwf5dUbTWiotx32UoIX_lunXNef-9-GTeaGQnJV-Eu3GSuzjVTZUCZNFEcrzVzCAIKc4VDaiG755PbJw7ztoMnvFIvdG5UbBTHEKj3iLNCpN4e2KQGnWjdvEO9mxi5c/s1600/P1090453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxWZ_asDkxig8vLmwf5dUbTWiotx32UoIX_lunXNef-9-GTeaGQnJV-Eu3GSuzjVTZUCZNFEcrzVzCAIKc4VDaiG755PbJw7ztoMnvFIvdG5UbBTHEKj3iLNCpN4e2KQGnWjdvEO9mxi5c/s320/P1090453.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Take Highway 200
driving toward Puerto Vallarta past the Los Ayala turn off and past the Oxxo Store
and church on your left.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH89GYVWDXBcguDlT30REquamZ1PBuanUx_9z066WrOQzr7sb_x-J3DgzVPLwVEHimCaWHSKDJrSD7acTg2OFdMjW0ifZQRMOJOLpZvZd3N2P6Ogh_M0PMxSH_ZbU6NPD8qs_PuYjliJBM/s1600/P1090425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH89GYVWDXBcguDlT30REquamZ1PBuanUx_9z066WrOQzr7sb_x-J3DgzVPLwVEHimCaWHSKDJrSD7acTg2OFdMjW0ifZQRMOJOLpZvZd3N2P6Ogh_M0PMxSH_ZbU6NPD8qs_PuYjliJBM/s320/P1090425.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></div>
<strong> </strong></span><strong>Continue on
about a half kilometer from the traffic light and turn off to your left just
past a large steel traffic sign and park at a new palapa restaurant, La Ceiba.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4z2NaEzE1gZz2qGHIoZvKtAGCXHCRxyo1oF6vMYiaGp722FkdvkvWUDUwMp64SrXtNN2Oj-olql6WwQZnAXux6M_206JtPRIXxFP8uSi0goIj8nBYAXqRS-hZQqcGNr_xS6JRsBdb_Ux/s1600/P1090427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4z2NaEzE1gZz2qGHIoZvKtAGCXHCRxyo1oF6vMYiaGp722FkdvkvWUDUwMp64SrXtNN2Oj-olql6WwQZnAXux6M_206JtPRIXxFP8uSi0goIj8nBYAXqRS-hZQqcGNr_xS6JRsBdb_Ux/s320/P1090427.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></div>
<strong> </strong></span><strong>Walk up the gravel road passing on your left
a home and goat pens until you reach a fence.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdw8_mEiS_L6dN82s2FwQvUTYmAaILyX4m78JbzRNdon8_WlXgvTIBsuMvR_VlyJsydwgy4t4XOJT4Web_Yg2j9ZnWASaW9cY1Y3wAu8j_ZpIjF2JnVWLLE2oF3UfqtQWcRS-whX4P6-2/s1600/P1090431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdw8_mEiS_L6dN82s2FwQvUTYmAaILyX4m78JbzRNdon8_WlXgvTIBsuMvR_VlyJsydwgy4t4XOJT4Web_Yg2j9ZnWASaW9cY1Y3wAu8j_ZpIjF2JnVWLLE2oF3UfqtQWcRS-whX4P6-2/s320/P1090431.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></div>
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</strong></span><strong>Follow the path along the fence line to an iron wire gate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pass through the gate into the lower pasture
and walk diagonally uphill to the left hand corner of the field.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQgibqbiuvHj-qJhLm2HpF0hnJwTenryAyOnWJuHwBn79elMRNVgfJtT6hxSmP8IqEkNdHXhVBNDy51guRDdYO64Vh0j2yQpaF3vXp8F42rYT4-u_I6XDsk8fS94kesP33T_JB9TwGUNp/s1600/P1090437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQgibqbiuvHj-qJhLm2HpF0hnJwTenryAyOnWJuHwBn79elMRNVgfJtT6hxSmP8IqEkNdHXhVBNDy51guRDdYO64Vh0j2yQpaF3vXp8F42rYT4-u_I6XDsk8fS94kesP33T_JB9TwGUNp/s320/P1090437.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></div>
<strong> </strong></span><strong>Once you reach the green belt of palms and scrub
growth look to your left for an opening in the fence into the next or adjacent
field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s in this pasture that you can
search out the large rocks with the shapes cut into their surfaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While this is private property the owner has
never minded us visiting the site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just
make sure you close the gate coming and going and a “gracias” or two will never
hurt.</strong></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Running shoes, long pants, hat and water are suggested plus
bring your camera!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy the ancient stone
carvings before they completely disappear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Returning to your vehicle stop at the new birria restaurant and enjoy a
cool beverage of your choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Possibly a
snack or a cerveza!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong> </strong></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnE7uj1XhGMc4IzMuR38N1BeWgArf9ITQ8svjzNArie6vJ5aK279T5OKeNtMND94_KPWaUltNKwEqOECw2vOES42Futix9cgzLXxC2omjhy_nlWfRlZBPV35UuD8mOFVz50OXR2dRoHDS/s1600/P1130163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnE7uj1XhGMc4IzMuR38N1BeWgArf9ITQ8svjzNArie6vJ5aK279T5OKeNtMND94_KPWaUltNKwEqOECw2vOES42Futix9cgzLXxC2omjhy_nlWfRlZBPV35UuD8mOFVz50OXR2dRoHDS/s320/P1130163.JPG" width="320" /></strong></a></span></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">We love to read your comments!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<em>Written by John and Doreen Berg</em><br />
<br />
<a href="http://jaltembabaylife.com/blog/?attachment_id=16345"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><span style="color: blue;">
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<em>We are golden age backpackers in our seventies and have traveled
extensively throughout the world. We come to Los Ayala every winter for three
months enjoying the Mexican people and the warm waters of Jaltemba Bay and
surrounding area. We first started coming to this area in 2002 and although we
had been in Mexico many times before that we had never settled on one place
until then. We like to explore new territory and to consider settling down for
three months was beyond our imagination. At first we came for two weeks,
returning to Canada and coming back to Los Ayala within the month. We just
loved it! As the years went by we increased our time to three months. We
haven’t extended it beyond this as we do love to explore other places in the
world during fall and spring. Our goal is to provide viewers with travel
information that will assist with travel planning. We place trip information in
our articles to stimulate interest plus specific facts that readers can follow
to duplicate our travels. Other travel related articles may be viewed on our
blog: </em><br />
<a href="http://www.thegoldenagebackpackers.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank"><br /></a><br />
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-77972307106384712422013-02-25T07:27:00.000-08:002013-03-02T07:30:33.697-08:00JORDAN - PETRA, JERISH AND WADI RUM ON A BUDGET<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>JORDAN, MUCH <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>MORE THAN PETRA</strong> </span></span></u></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCLTLNsWzDO0HnvILW8rM44oFnERIAtYQ5LjYSUR029NCUAn-JsW4ioD7EtEZAKBdjRXSd5Lp7cKvrFzoENhuXWDL044Bz_uuzB9tMIw7azEC7MTX6q9NsdWKQ6aWch3ERXCnuCkrlxfl/s1600/PETRA+153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCLTLNsWzDO0HnvILW8rM44oFnERIAtYQ5LjYSUR029NCUAn-JsW4ioD7EtEZAKBdjRXSd5Lp7cKvrFzoENhuXWDL044Bz_uuzB9tMIw7azEC7MTX6q9NsdWKQ6aWch3ERXCnuCkrlxfl/s200/PETRA+153.JPG" width="139" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>PETRA</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YsnhGdzZ-Nr_DqS_m3AI9uEkilc5CWcUpq22e87NPiAPZazIFfNveICwlfvIcNgh2ZT6o8PudA040NM7yTNCrMFAuGVPL5XOThJuUgNI6vElv65xELeMkpOQ7aKvZcfg6bDFxZac9I-G/s1600/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YsnhGdzZ-Nr_DqS_m3AI9uEkilc5CWcUpq22e87NPiAPZazIFfNveICwlfvIcNgh2ZT6o8PudA040NM7yTNCrMFAuGVPL5XOThJuUgNI6vElv65xELeMkpOQ7aKvZcfg6bDFxZac9I-G/s200/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+303.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>JERASH</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNhP0yd2PX6T1UeftRw5b1kmtgoDRNGLGdmaDc2LiuSDR0uQFCV-qY5DOhm-pWAKq-BUJ6rODgr8jgOBXirkpB-jvC5ZIK6Hk1g5J-lBiUi-qL7YHo47f29fhdNH5VHNWW2oZ4aTikUeSZ/s1600/234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNhP0yd2PX6T1UeftRw5b1kmtgoDRNGLGdmaDc2LiuSDR0uQFCV-qY5DOhm-pWAKq-BUJ6rODgr8jgOBXirkpB-jvC5ZIK6Hk1g5J-lBiUi-qL7YHo47f29fhdNH5VHNWW2oZ4aTikUeSZ/s200/234.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>WADI RUM</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 8;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 10pt;">Article and Photos by</span></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong> John and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Introduction</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The ancient city of Petra was the catalyst that
motivated us to visit Jordan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However,
it was not long before the research exposed Jordan’s hidden secrets indicating
that the country has numerous worthy sites of interest for the intrepid
traveller.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though Jordan is
surrounded by countries that are in conflict, we found Jordan to be a safe
peaceful tourist oasis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Jordanian
people made us feel welcome with their spontaneous wishes to enjoy their
country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A fantastic tourist
destination! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Our use of a driver and car in Romania </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"> was so successful and rewarding
that we decided to adopt a similar format for Jordan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our local tour operator choice was Jordan
Beauty Tours. The small independent company located in Petra, custom constructed
an eighteen day tour that met our desires and fit our budget.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ali, the manager, provided excellent service
right from our airport arrival to our airport departure. (<span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.thegoldenagebackpackerw.blogspot.ca/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.thegoldenagebackpackerw.blogspot.ca</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"> – Romania)</span><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Chapter One</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amman, Jerash
and the Desert Castles</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Bustling City to Barren Desert<o:p></o:p></u></span></strong></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tJcspufdtNvS2XM1uJLZd92z1f5TBFuX3beTvD8Js-YMw-ue_T-ZYCJxutwh3IA8qb32EpJVSoWi-b9DbvFJc7m2i-tQ9G-h40YEthAPllmBNiAK6flMoe7cpbzEz18EkqgH3PDcVaBI/s1600/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tJcspufdtNvS2XM1uJLZd92z1f5TBFuX3beTvD8Js-YMw-ue_T-ZYCJxutwh3IA8qb32EpJVSoWi-b9DbvFJc7m2i-tQ9G-h40YEthAPllmBNiAK6flMoe7cpbzEz18EkqgH3PDcVaBI/s200/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+135.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The
centrally located Amman Pasha Hotel was to be our hub for city visits and trips
to nearby destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our first day found
us across the street from our hotel investigating the Roman Theatre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We clambered the steps of the beautifully
preserved amphitheater that seemed to stretch indefinitely up the
hillside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Near the top we looked down to
marvel at the beautifully sculptured Roman columns and newly re-built plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our driver whisked us away to visit the impressive King
Abdullah Mosque. The mosque is dedicated to the late King Hussein's
grandfather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gigantic prayer hall is
able to accommodate 7000 worshippers at one time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The large blue domed landmark is located in
Amman's modern section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Travelling to
our third morning destination found us navigating the busy city streets to
finally arrive at the entrance to the citadel that sits atop the highest hill
in Amman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Artifacts found at the site
indicate that the hill was a fortress and agora as far back as the Bronze
Age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most interesting attractions
are two giant pillars as remains of the Roman Temple of Hercules.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The viewpoint provided a panoramic view of downtown
Amman stretching beneath us.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A chicken shwarma ( flatbread rolled sandwich) washed
down with a Pepsi was our lunch before heading back to the hotel for a brief
nap before embarking on an early evening city stroll.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcScGzvX0BbSCYzT2s8nLkHEDiQdwYC5UT4w8n5p40InR5qIq2BojDzAo2LJiFXkh99iZzNJQADKnsmg6AYKpIaaMyzuVWS5grryob2fm-ol5-3XX6HOF1xVH3q49_7sgwCkRHDIG69dsU/s1600/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcScGzvX0BbSCYzT2s8nLkHEDiQdwYC5UT4w8n5p40InR5qIq2BojDzAo2LJiFXkh99iZzNJQADKnsmg6AYKpIaaMyzuVWS5grryob2fm-ol5-3XX6HOF1xVH3q49_7sgwCkRHDIG69dsU/s200/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+201.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<strong>The Keffiyeh is woren by many Bedouins</strong>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our first stop on our late afternoon walk was at the
legendary Hashem Restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The eatery
is located in a narrow alley and cement-style pillars were the stools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Judging by the long line of locals waiting to
be served we anticipated the deep fried ball-like donuts called felafels to be delicious
and they were as they melted in our mouths.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tourism Jordan is attempting to expand the ancient cities attractions by
including the first post office as a choicThe post office contains
interesting early implements and memorabilia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Once the curator's tour was finished, tea was offered which we enjoyed
as we sat on a balcony chatting and viewing the passing parade of vehicles and
pedestrians below us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the bottom of
the street the restored Al Husseiny Mosque is compact and its outside courtyard
is a busy meeting spot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Following our brief
mosque visit we walked through the gold souq, past the medicine stalls, finally
gravitating to the many souvenir shops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While they all appeared to contain the same tourist souvenirs our
guide/driver, Fawaz, suggested Orientals Quasaybate Shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After much viewing and trying a variety of
items, Doreen selected a fancy fuchsia pashmina and quickly learned to weave it
about her head and face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried on a
red and white keffiyeh, but decided that it was too complicated and time
consuming to tie so decided to stick with my floppy hat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A small mosaic was also purchased. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the way home we opted to spoil our
appetites by indulging in a decadent dessert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The small pastry shop was an outdoor eatery and the delicious
"kunafa" desserts of cream cheese, crumbled crumbs smothered in honey
syrup and served hot, became a favourite. <o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>While we had the option of eating at the hotel or
exploring Amman's restaurant scene, we elected to dine at the hotel's
restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As events unfolded we had
all our dinners at the hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
discovered that the food was tasty and the second evening, the owner's wife,
planned a birthday celebration for her husband, Raymond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were invited to enjoy varied foods and
joined in with the staff, friends and other hotel guests to party away the
evening, dancing and eating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the
first of many unexpected cultural experiences.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Next morning we arrived in the hotel lobby prior to
our appointed departure time to be greeted with Fawaz’s smiling face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each morning Fawaz met us promptly with a
cheerful attitude which continued throughout the tour making a pleasant
beginning to each day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day's journey
was into Jordan's northern fertile region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We came to the town of Ajloun with an ancient castle which is a
formidable presence strategically built atop a hill overlooking three
wadis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Islamic armies of Saladin
used it to protect the region against the crusaders. After a couple of hours of
inspecting the towers, chambers and staircases of this well-preserved castle we
were off to Jerash.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Fawez selecting just the right tasting jar of olives.</strong> </td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The olive season was in full swing as the olive trees
were laden with fruit and the roadside stalls were saturated with boxes of green
olives and jars of pickled olives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fawaz
stopped at one of the roadside stalls to purchase a gallon of olives for his family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shortly after this we persuaded Fawaz to
deviate from the day’s program to visit an olive processing plant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although they were in the midst of a repair, it
was easy to follow the olive oil extraction process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The visit's highlight was a spontaneous snack
of flatbread and freshly squeezed olive oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Staff workers, customers and tourists all partook of the impromptu
offering and with fresh olive oil dripping from our chins and without verbal
understanding, the big smiles conveyed a sense of goodwill and friendship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A fantastic "off beat" experience!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Lunch was at a tourist style restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The buffet-serving restaurants were a common
occurrence located close to a tourist attraction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had ample seating and offered a wide
variety of Jordanian foods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drivers
ate free and usually excused themselves to join their colleagues while their
clients sat in another seating area to enjoy lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We felt privileged that Fawaz elected to dine
with us and together share good fellowship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The meal cost ranged from 10 to 12 Jordanian dinars ($14 to $16 CA) plus
drinks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After our earlier snack we
weren't hungry enough to justify a complete buffet lunch so elected to order a
chicken shwarma and a coke.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Jerash is generally acknowledged to be one of the best
preserved ancient Roman cities and is often referred to as the "Pompeii of
the East".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We entered the site
through the impressive monumental south gate and opted not to hire a guide but
to wander, following the "Lonely Planet's" outline and our noses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The massive site included the plaza
surrounded by splendid columns, the theatre with marvellous acoustics as
demonstrated with bagpipes playing for a tour group, the imaginary roar of the
crowd at the hippodrome chariot races and the splendid triumphal Hadrian's
arch.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The following day we visited three of the best
preserved desert castles located in Eastern Jordan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The group of misnamed castles served as
caravanserais, hunting lodges and forts dating from the 8th century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The once richly decorated castles attest to
Jordan's glorious historical past.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our first stop was at Qash Kharana an impressive block
structure located in the middle of a vast barren plane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We climbed the stairways and explored the
many rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We noted a basin for
collecting rainwater and two larger rooms near the entrance that we concluded
were the stables.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Next up, was our favourite, Ausayr Amka, which is on
the UNESCO list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This particular
structure was a private home, thus, the risqué frescos displaying nude
women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is something that would not
be displayed in public buildings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
house walls are richly covered with frescoes and two rooms have colourful
mosaic floors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were fortunate to
encounter an Italian archeological team with whom we spoke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One group was unearthing a nearby burial site
while another was in the interior restoring the frescoes to their former glory.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Qass al-Azraq located near Azraz was an impressive
fort where T.E. Lawrence based himself and his men during the 1917-18 Arab
Revolt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though busy Highway 5 flows
past the entrance and a 1927 earthquake destroyed much, one can still sense
Lawrence dressed in his Arab robes sitting around a fire to fight off the
winter cold or pushing open the huge heavy entrance doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This connection to “Lawrence of Arabia” is
the castle’s major draw for tourists.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Chapter Two</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Madaba, Dona
and Little Petra</u>: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Mosaic City to
Desert Caves<o:p></o:p></u></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Following the desert castle visits we undertook a
frantic drive to Madaba to visit Mount Nebo prior to its gates closing at 5:00
p.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the eighteen day tour this was
the only time Fawez rushed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually we
had ample time to enjoy the passing countryside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mount Nebo is where Moses viewed Canaan
across from Jericho and God gave the lands to the Israelites and told Moses he
would die on the mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The prophecy
did occur!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>After our visit Fawaz selected one of the many
roadside mosaic workshops demonstrating the art of creating mosaics complete
with attached showroom selling their products with no obligation to buy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ladies love the shops as it's an
opportunity to purchase a souvenir or two to collect dust on the shelf at
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to the late hour the workshop
was empty as the workers had left for the day but we briefly observed the works
in progress at each workstation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next were
the showroom displays and true to form we did not escape unscathed as we
purchased two of the most expensive coffee cups we've ever owned!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And low and behold, one broke on the way
home!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All in all, good fun bargaining as
we could have been more forceful with our "No Thanks" and promptly
left.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Entrance to St. George's Church.</strong></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Madaba is considered the "City of Mosaics"
with the most famous mosaic found in St. George's Church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The floor mosaic represents the oldest
Palestinian map in existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has
provided scholars with historical insights illustrating the major biblical
regions of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, our
visit to Madaba was on a Friday and other major sites were closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By this time we had fallen in love with the
city and elected to approach Ali to rearrange our last two days to return to
Madaba instead of Amman and visit the previously closed sites. As things turned
out the alterations were easily orchestrated and we enjoyed our revisit visit
to Madaba.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Leaving Madaba we drove the King's Highway, the same ancient
trade route that was followed 3000 years ago to access the central regions. The
highway passes through a barren landscape possessing a beauty of its own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With many curves and switchbacks we snaked
our way down through Wadi Mujib, the "Grand Canyon" of Jordan, stopping
at Karak Castle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fort is the most
impressive crusader fort perched high upon an easily defended hilltop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Karak demonstrates the crusaders'
architectural skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our flashlights
came into play as halls and endless passageways are a dark maze and the best
preserved rooms are underground.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Bridge connecting the hotel together.</strong></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our overnight stop was at the Dana Tower Hotel that overlooks
the Dana Biosphere Reserve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reserve
has four distinct eco-systems and is ideal for hiking enjoying nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hikes are easily arranged through hotel
managers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dana’s local residents are
slowly restoring the abandoned stone houses to further enhance the tourist trade.
Our Dana Tower Hotel was an interesting menagerie of rooms, patios and dining
room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We found the surrounding area
intriguing but unfortunately we had only planned one night here.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Little Petra, further south of Dana, was our morning
destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While many visitors bypass
the region we felt Little Petra was well worth a visit, an impressive
introduction to Petra itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the
car park we followed the path into the narrow siq (canyon) emerging into a
larger open area housing various sized caves carved out of the dusty rose
coloured canyon walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the far end we
climbed a series of stone steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The top
of the climb opened to present a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding
landscape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was here we met a Danish
girl who, earlier on holidays, had met a Bedouin and over time married him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The young couple sold jewelry and trinkets and
the husband leads hikes through the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were especially interested in talking with her as we'd read the book
"Married to a Bedouin" by Marguerite van Geldermalsen and as events
unfolded we later met Marguerite's son, Raami ,at the family souvenir stall in
Petra.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our final day's destination was modern Petra City and
a visit to Jordan Beauty Tours' office to meet Ali Al-Hasanat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After concluding business Ali invited us to
his home to share their dinner with his gracious wife and two lovely
children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ali made certain we enjoyed a
traditional Bedouin dining event providing only one concession by giving us two
small plates and two forks rather than sharing directly from the large family communal
platter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The meal served was a traditional
rice and chicken dish called maqluba- an “upside down cake”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all sat on the floor taking food from the
communal food tray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a wonderful
cultural shared encounter.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Chapter Three</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Petra</u>: <u>Mountain
Tops to Valley Floors<o:p></o:p></u></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The early morning walk from ancient Petra’s entrance
brought excitement and anticipation surging through our bodies as we passed the
Djinn Blocks and the Obelisk Tombs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Entering the narrow twisting siq with its towering walls was a surreal experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we walked we paused to take numerous photos
and to allow the few early-rising tourists a chance to vacate our view giving
us a further sense of wonder and awe, imagining the many cultures that over the
centuries had trod upon these very same stones.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>It was a breathtaking sight as we emerged from the
narrow siq to view the famous Treasury!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There isn't a camera or description that has truly captured the perfect
scene with the morning sun just rising and bathing the rose coloured Treasury
in sunlight with contrasting dark shadows on the high hilltops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The massive facade carved out of the shear
pink stone did not disappoint!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpX3b5ZSvMVlnVWipRW4a4hVLe1gvgfncYLtQoUfV8Xs8-4VCaj7GquqT9Iv9_nO4WjCGODNyY3f2KgIMU3SaPILL4vD4NpwQHCpoS0swfH1XJLcephLQCFwug4ndFOCfUyTfrTFmQfPNW/s1600/PETRA+494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpX3b5ZSvMVlnVWipRW4a4hVLe1gvgfncYLtQoUfV8Xs8-4VCaj7GquqT9Iv9_nO4WjCGODNyY3f2KgIMU3SaPILL4vD4NpwQHCpoS0swfH1XJLcephLQCFwug4ndFOCfUyTfrTFmQfPNW/s200/PETRA+494.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Once the adrenalin spurts had subsided and
our many photos were taken we were ready to move on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We negotiated the hire of two donkeys to pack
us like bundles of firewood to the High Place of Sacrifice and to trek to the
Monastery, finally returning to the starting point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In hindsight paying $83.00 ($60 JD) was extravagant
on our part. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At first it appeared to be
a bargain as Mohammad spoke excellent English and our thoughts were that he
would be able to share his knowledge with us on our donkey trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was not to be as we were placed in the care
of his two young sons!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only the oldest
spoke English and once we reached the top he stayed behind to manage the
family’s trinket shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We became very
adept at employing hand signs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were we disappointed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not at all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When travelling things are not always what they appear to be so we’ve
learnt to accept and enjoy what’s presented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Makes travelling life a lot more enjoyable.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>With us clinging to the saddle horn the sure footed
donkeys worked hard trudging up the steep narrow winding path to the High Place
of Sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The location is a leveled
top of Jebel Madhah mountain to create a sacrifice platform dedicated to the
Nabataean gods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At first the sacred
place did not appear to be much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking
time to look more carefully the location began to unlock its features.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaving the carved stone we spent time at
this lofty height observing Petra's daily activities far below of the camels
and donkeys flowing to and fro, of the tourists milling in groups supposedly
listening to their guides, and of the shopkeepers haggling with customers. Turning
away from the scene below we soaked up the amazing surrounding mountain top
views before beginning the descent.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>I'm sure our trip down was a lot slower than our young
guide wished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sooner he finished,
the quicker he could collect his money and contract another couple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, we were determined to enjoy the
views and points of interest and to insist on walking instead of riding on
steeper trail sections for safety reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had read that the donkeys and guides travelled too fast descending
and accidents have occurred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We did not
wish to become a statistic!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Once reaching the valley floor we rode along Colonnaded
Street passing the museum to begin our ascent to the Monastery located high in
the mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again the path was steep
and hard work for the sure footed donkeys. The spectacular Monastery is similar
to but larger than the Treasury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
ignored the shopkeepers’ invitations and hiked a short distance to a vantage
point for Monastery photos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we sat
in the shade of a huge boulder to share a meager lunch. Afterwards we explored
the Monastery's interior rooms. Finally we decided to walk via the same steep
slippery, but now much busier, trail to the valley floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leading the donkeys our guide knew our
routine and agreed to meet us at the trail head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our day's journey ended near the treasury and
our goodbyes with a tip left our young guide with a broad smile.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9cUhwxtADKQfpgOAor9Z7zfZqsCJ__C5e3vcATFraW5TsrtDzhMHwFXf1iSxHwunT6qQ_c68H0VTGdCo8meL04hIH_GdyM7m6CzSyneEM5MgSXnYUteV6EpK6bdD2WRv1fs460mXEGGc/s1600/PETRA+333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9cUhwxtADKQfpgOAor9Z7zfZqsCJ__C5e3vcATFraW5TsrtDzhMHwFXf1iSxHwunT6qQ_c68H0VTGdCo8meL04hIH_GdyM7m6CzSyneEM5MgSXnYUteV6EpK6bdD2WRv1fs460mXEGGc/s200/PETRA+333.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>There were many spots where the beautiful</strong><br />
<strong> coloured rock had been exposed.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The sight that met us when we walked into the
courtyard fronting the Treasury was wall to wall people! It was difficult to visualize
that only a few hours before this space had been virtually empty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was tricky to maneuver around the flowing
mass and the two kneeling camels were partially obscured from view.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scene was a complete contrast to the
morning experience so photos of the jam-packed area were in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It reminded us of a rock concert crowd!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The return walk in the siq was an adventure as we
needed to be aware of the horse drawn buggies rapidly approaching and listen
for the returning ones, plus avoid bumping into individuals in large tourist
groups navigating the siq.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure if
you did not pay attention to your surroundings you could be run over by horse,
bugguy or man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were certainly pleased
that we had started early morning and pledged to repeat the same procedure beginning
the following day.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>As it turned out we were the only dinner guests dining
at the hotel and the chef and waiter created special meals for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the last evening dimmed lights and a candle
lit table met our restaurant entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The two young men were excited and pleased with the romantic candlelit
dinner atmosphere they had fashioned for us. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We appreciated this special treatment.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>As promised to ourselves, the next morning found us entering
the siq early.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the best time to
see Petra as there are fewer people and more importantly the early morning sun
enhances the amazing natural colour tones of the rock faces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our second day we visited the four Royal
Tombs and our favourite was the Urn Tomb recognizable by the enormous urn on
its top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We continued past the tombs
following a walking path to the seldom-visited Sextius Florentinus Tomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course we paused to share a cup of tea
with a Bedouin grandmother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the
path we stopped at caves and photographed the exposed colourful layered reddish
rock formations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was apparent by the
strong odour that a few caves were being used to stable goat herds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hiked to the Petra Church and admired the
exquisite Byzantine floor mosaics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lunch
time found us sitting on two rocks in Wadi Musa just below the ancient city of
Petra’s center sharing our meager lunch of bread and cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The possibility of a flash flood did cross
our minds but the wadi did afford us a tranquil moment complete with shade.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The afternoon was spent clambering over and around the
ancient Roman ruins and visiting the two museums.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All too soon the day and our energy were
spent and it was time to rent a donkey taxi from in front of the museum for the
return to the siq entrance and home to Sunset Hotel for a much deserved nap.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The "Petra at Night" walk through the siq to
the Treasury is lit by candles draped with paper bags which soften the
light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The atmosphere was awe-inspiring
and mystical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One could surmise that
ancient travellers must have viewed Petra in a like manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hundred of lit candles filled the Treasury courtyard
as we sat toward the back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Traditional
Bedouin music began and the flash cameras erupted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Further mystery was added as a breeze sprung up
causing a few bags to ignite sending sparks skyward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The breeze increased and raindrops began to
fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We elected to leave before the
performance finished anticipating a deluge of water flowing through the siq and
people rushing to leave, soaked to the skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even leaving early we felt the candlelight experience was one not to
miss.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>"Petra by Candle" is currently being held
Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Check the weather forecast as there are no ticket refunds if the evening
is cancelled due to rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People are
instructed to walk quietly, not to use flash and no flashlights until the
return walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A flashlight is a must for
the return walk as many of the bag lanterns will have expired and light is
needed to navigate the rougher spots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dress in layers or take a jacket as the evenings can be cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pre-purchase your ticket at the main ticket
office during the day thus avoiding a lineup and being in front with fewer
walkers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This truly is an awe-inspiring
occasion.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Chapter Four<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Wadi Rum</u>:
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Bedouins and Camels<o:p></o:p></u></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>About five minutes before our designated departure
time from Petra, Ali showed up in the hotel lobby to inform us there was to be
a change of drivers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fawaz had phoned
half an hour earlier to inform Ali that his wife was in the hospital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ali had already arranged for a replacement,
an English speaking driver, and wished to make sure we were satisfied with the
change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ali instructed the driver as to
the day’s program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were amazed how
quickly and seamlessly Ali was able to deal with the adversity and adjust our
transfer to Wadi Rum.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>On arrival in Wadi Rum, Salameh, the manager of
Caravan Desert Camp, met us at the entrance and placed us in a three person
tent thus providing extra space for storing our backpacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once stowed away, lunch was served.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What fantastic meals were prepared by our
chef who had recently retired from a five star Aqaba hotel to enjoy the more
relaxed pace of a desert camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The three
daily meals were varied and scrumptious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As a result meal times were an event to anticipate with drooling taste
buds.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<strong></strong><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM0iUGFz6rldtzzYd0Q7sck3SxNvWFPnm90ANoHHga55g9eRg2bitm84CahyeBG3HuIExVkqLj3sNTMv1JVz3azc4Z5nRBJUZ_MgLU49OPyO6_2_ZTG4ge2Q8ehqRQnOZwUaFzNF4_Fab/s1600/281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM0iUGFz6rldtzzYd0Q7sck3SxNvWFPnm90ANoHHga55g9eRg2bitm84CahyeBG3HuIExVkqLj3sNTMv1JVz3azc4Z5nRBJUZ_MgLU49OPyO6_2_ZTG4ge2Q8ehqRQnOZwUaFzNF4_Fab/s200/281.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Photo was taken from a hilltop behind our camp.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>In the late afternoon we climbed into the back of an
older Toyota 4x4 for our desert tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
young Bedouin driver dressed in traditional gowns drove us to sand dunes where
we were joined by truck loads of tourists from other camps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course the dunes presented a challenge to
reach the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was two steps forward
and one step back plus a pause or two before we reached the sand dunes'
summit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The spectacular view of the vast
desert stretching before our eyes made the onerous climb all worthwhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After descending the dunes we drove to view
petroglyphs depicting camel caravans, warriors and animals inscribed on the
rock faces by the Thamudies and Nabataean many centuries ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The visit to Lawrence of Arabia's house was
more of a tea stop in a large Bedouin tent to relax and enjoy tea traditionally
brewed over an open fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Driving around
the maze of monolithic hills, one could imagine Lawrence in his flowing robes,
with rifle in hand seated on a camel, to come galloping around the next corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day ended watching a brilliant sunset.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLm1D76-ma2K1uGo7CM7afxkQqZas-Zu8vGqU-NxWsYULRR8YezfKDJDeSC1PsD7RLWNVE-kU1mSMHqGq8Rq38C4SDwyBtmMJW5o-zPdnPeDAxZkonzfEbZkcNluswCUIp_bY1AzpaXUf/s200/254.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Early morning sunrise ride</strong><br />
<strong> and doreen hanging on.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><strong></strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Wishing to witness a desert sunrise we arose the next
morning in the dark and met our camel driver outside the camp entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once seated on the ungainly animals, we bounced
around until they stood and then off we went at a fast walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sun was an awesome sphere as a fiery ball
slowly rose to blank out the shadows and fill the morning sky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next morning with heavy hearts, we bid
the fabulous Caravan Desert Camp staff a heartfelt farewell as the Red Sea
beckoned. <o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Chapter Five<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aqaba
and the Red Sea</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Sun Tanning to Snorkeling<o:p></o:p></u></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our morning's drive covered the last
segment of the King's Highway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
highway flows from Madaba through the central part of Jordan ending in Aqaba.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even today the highway, as witness by the
many tractor trailer trucks on their way inland, provides the main access to
the interior much like it has over the centuries.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD9_VArpe0CQVAg63JwqK3XFX0rFiZ1tAzerNpWmnHrK9tzCx70yzGFRJS3Yrm430Qvx0h-AjFaO0uXbnhFJs6634SXXSOOOampvp4O0V8_3C1N7lMvm292mxuHfyQ-eBbnPZgtx2ixzg/s1600/300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD9_VArpe0CQVAg63JwqK3XFX0rFiZ1tAzerNpWmnHrK9tzCx70yzGFRJS3Yrm430Qvx0h-AjFaO0uXbnhFJs6634SXXSOOOampvp4O0V8_3C1N7lMvm292mxuHfyQ-eBbnPZgtx2ixzg/s200/300.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Lunch at a restaurant near our hotel.</strong> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>We did not spend much time visiting Aqaba's
historical sites nor did we find them interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us this was a time away from our busy
schedule to relax and enjoy Aqaba's beach scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
stroll along a tree-shaded street found us at the nearby beach renting a glass
bottom boat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was an opportunity to
keep our feet dry and to quickly be out on the water viewing the brilliant
coloured fish swimming amongst the picturesque coral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only unsettling observation was seeing
discarded cans and food containers resting on the sea's floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will we ever learn to protect our fragile
environment?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The following morning a shuttle bus
transported us to Berenice Private Beach Resort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the ticket booth we discovered that all
personal snacks and water were collected to be returned to us when we
left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to say we had no other
option but to purchase food and water from the resort which was expensive!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Sun umbrellas and loungers were plentiful
and soon we put on rented snorkels and fins to delight in swimming amongst the
colourful corals and tropical fish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
soon became clear why the Red Sea is considered a world class diving and
snorkeling center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Dining at a downtown restaurant was the
evening plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The selection was the
popular Ali Baba Restaurant with its large outdoor seating and oodles of ambience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The delicious sayadieh, a fish and rice dish
cooked with caramelized onions, was a recommended local favourite and an
excellent choice followed by kunafa, a dessert that was now an addiction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Chapter 6</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Wadi Ghuweir</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">: <u>Bedouin Family Stay<o:p></o:p></u></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our question as to who our driver might be
for the next two days was answered as Fawaz with a grin from ear to ear walked
into the hotel's lobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once we said our
warm welcomes and heard the good news that his wife was well enough to be
discharged from the hospital we piled into the car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fawaz drove around the corner and stopped at
a local restaurant and ordered coffee and our favourite dessert, kunafa, all
around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 9:00 a.m. time was early so
there was to be a half hour wait until the pastry was available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We suggested foregoing the decadent treat and
pushing on, but Fawaz would hear none of this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As we waited, I coughed, so I explained that I'd developed an irritation
in my throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fawaz, with me in tow, was
off to the nearest pharmacy to purchase a cough suppressant! These are just two
examples of the many reasons our Jordanian trip was special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our past experiences with tour personnel had
been their focus on visiting the designated spots without deviation except for
a photo opportunity when asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But not
Fawaz?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was his treat and not the
first time he had surprised us with a local delicacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No wonder we enjoyed this guy!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmykTMlyyyC2_CWfP9_VbcdCmkKKuhGjl1bcP4HFxZvwPwZwdlcS622LqKPnXvEa-HPebH8-W6HuS6iaiBxJga7z_u41b8iSOOjR65Cpo0aem5di_cdoHnkD8hvkObRmXWrN0o-u6lkOF/s1600/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmykTMlyyyC2_CWfP9_VbcdCmkKKuhGjl1bcP4HFxZvwPwZwdlcS622LqKPnXvEa-HPebH8-W6HuS6iaiBxJga7z_u41b8iSOOjR65Cpo0aem5di_cdoHnkD8hvkObRmXWrN0o-u6lkOF/s200/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+140.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Enjoying the evening meal Bedouin style.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>After enjoying our treat, the day's
destination was to visit Wadi Ghuweir to explore an ancient copper mine and a
Roman settlement, finally stopping to spend the night with a Bedouin family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon reaching the visitor's center we transferred
to a battered-looking Toyota 4x4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen
and I squeezed into the cab and Fawaz stood in the truck box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We endured a rough bumpy ride which explained
the truck's wounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Directional signs to
Feynan Eco-lodge were posted roadside, promising a great end to the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we topped the ridge a Bedouin tent was
established in the hollow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the truck
had stopped, I grabbed the camera for shots of a typical Bedouin camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Little did I know I would later be obtaining
close-up photos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon my return I was
informed to grab my backpack as this was home for the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not the eco-lodge I was anticipating!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After meeting the family and surveying the
tent and surroundings, I must admit I was in a state of shock but was confident
that when we returned from watering the goats the night's lodgings could be
altered and we would be on our way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Expecting a green lush oasis I was again surprised as the watering spot
was fed from a half dozen small holes in a three inch black plastic pipe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The water was permitted to leak forming small
water puddles and a sparse growth of vegetation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the watering hole for all the small
goat herds.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A newer Toyota 4x4 was waiting to transport
us into Wadi Ghuweir where we walked the creek bed to the water source for the
valley vegetable farms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since Fawaz's
English and knowledge of the archeological sites was limited we were not sure
which of the many sites we visited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was fun and interesting to poke about the many remnants of metates and manos
and to peer into the many dug holes and speculate whether the excavations were
the result of an archeological team or of treasure seekers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Driving back I was still fussing and not
convinced that we were going to stay at the Bedouin camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen continued to assure me that the
Bedouin tent was indeed where we were spending the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I finally was convinced when upon our return
the delicious smells of cooking were drifting from the open pit cooking
fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen smiled telling me that was
our dinner cooking and since she wasn't troubled with the evening's
accommodation or lack of privacy, I resigned myself to what, in the end, turned
out to be a fantastic cultural "happening".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not many tourists would experience the chance
to be adopted by a Bedouin family for one night.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<strong></strong><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZIHZ9X5sU1cAdFHxkoYscDgDriGkUct9lZGBROoC6uHDOX7eM2wsqhXgTF4xDfZiMFaKPLej3EuDajvHHUwvS6piw7dF40tm7KcK2MXc1Rp8i7ylchg5DRxluIPAlAPB4SS7gotdEoiE/s1600/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZIHZ9X5sU1cAdFHxkoYscDgDriGkUct9lZGBROoC6uHDOX7eM2wsqhXgTF4xDfZiMFaKPLej3EuDajvHHUwvS6piw7dF40tm7KcK2MXc1Rp8i7ylchg5DRxluIPAlAPB4SS7gotdEoiE/s200/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+147.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>VIEW INTO OUR HOTEL ROOM!</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The goat hair tent was open to the front
and farrsha thick mattresses stuffed with wool were placed around three sides
of the enclosed perimeter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These were
used for reclining as we chatted or for sitting as we ate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next door was the female and cooking
tent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was closed in, affording more
privacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The goats and donkeys were
corralled nearby.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Prior to the evening meal a water pitcher
was provided to use for hand washing and if need be for other washroom
tasks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The complete meal was served on
one large circular platter with an accompanying basket of flat bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No plates, no silverware, no condiments, no
water glasses just your fingers!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
followed Fawaz's example and ripped chunks of bread to use as a spoon to scoop up
a tasty tomato based dish and with our fingers selected deliciously flavoured
chicken pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The outdoor smoke-scented
air created a camping ambience flare.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>In the evening the men and boys sat around
the perimeter many smoking and drinking tea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The father entertained us playing the rababah, a one-stringed musical
instrument shaped much like a violin and can be found in most Bedouin
homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fawaz could have remained in town
but he chose to remain with us blending and enjoying a new experience too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just one small cozy tour group spending the
night in an unexpected setting!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>For sleeping there was no privacy at
all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the males slept on a farrsha or
outside the tent on the hard ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Doreen stated that she was going to sleep in her clothes and I followed
suit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An easy solution to the privacy
concerns. Out came our flashlights and a small toilet paper roll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our hosts provided each of us with a thick
heavy blanket which we folded in half using one half for further padding atop
our farrshas and the top half for warmth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At our age there's bound to be a needed toilet trip in the wee morning
hours and here the bathroom was gigantic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All we had to do was stumble over rocks to pick a spot away from the
tent!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At night the open air plan was not
a concern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, in the daylight, our
western customs caused us self-conscious embarrassment.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>After a hearty breakfast of bread, fresh
fruits, canned tuna, cheeses and of course hot tea, we were to leave with the
oldest son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would return us to the
tourist office and continue on to his school teaching employment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tourist office afforded private washrooms
where we completed our morning routines.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>When we first outlined the trip we had
asked Jordan Beauty Tours (Ali) to factor in different "off the beaten
tourist track" activities. The Bedouin family stay was one of the
events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember to be careful what you
ask for as you might just get your wish, and we certainly did.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Chapter 7<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Dead Sea Resort </span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">: <u>Floating and Relaxing<o:p></o:p></u></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>On the way to our Dead Sea Hotel we
selected an option to visit Hammamat Ma'n.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The resort is considered the most famous of the many hot springs located
in the region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hot waters cascade
off the hillside in a series of waterfalls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We three musketeers enjoyed the water pelting off our backs as we sat
beneath the falls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eventually we climbed
to a cave behind the falls where the water was too hot to dip your foot
into.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cave's moist air created a
sauna like atmosphere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After enjoying
our refreshing soak we changed and continued on our way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The steep twisting and turning road returned
us to the main Dead Sea Highway.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The new Winter Valley Warwick Hotel was
difficult to locate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon arrival we
were pleasantly surprised how lovely the hotel's exterior was and how near to
the Dead Sea the hotel was situated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From
the hotel we could see the Dead Sea’s bright blue waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After checking in we said our goodbyes to
Fawaz, thankful for his cheerful disposition and safe driving skills.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAp4mD7yXKR351gNfQaO_EM35UX7ikvl4lxUkfDc3k2kWJ2Mq6HNPnCWfQP1aND4XXwIGRXlpPo19jzcBZgnNrfmnFln4tjU5j6KX63kOf2pJlCbaj35zIcJSOUyVJqPmM5sgK9DFdCPD/s1600/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAp4mD7yXKR351gNfQaO_EM35UX7ikvl4lxUkfDc3k2kWJ2Mq6HNPnCWfQP1aND4XXwIGRXlpPo19jzcBZgnNrfmnFln4tjU5j6KX63kOf2pJlCbaj35zIcJSOUyVJqPmM5sgK9DFdCPD/s200/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+252.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>We treated our Warwick stay as a resort
hotel holiday remaining on site, booking spa treatments, covering ourselves
from head to toe with mucky mud and soaking in the buoyant Dead Sea waters. The
time flew by and soon we were to the trip's last days.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Chapter 8</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Madaba</u>:
<u>More Mosaics<o:p></o:p></u></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The day's highlight was a visit to Bethany,
Christ’s baptismal site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon arrival at
the tourist office we were instructed to wait for the next shuttle bus to
transport us to the starting point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, our driver wished to visit the site too and arranged with a
guide to transport the three of us to the tour's beginning point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of the sights we were most interested in was
the spot that is believed to be where John the Baptist baptised Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The others were viewing the wilderness in
which John the Baptist wandered and the Jordan River itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While rather narrow and muddy in appearance,
the Jordan’s historical significance makes the river a favourite spot to be
baptized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the Israeli side two
tourist groups were proceeding with baptismal ceremonies accompanied with
singing and cheering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our return walk
we stopped to visit a mod<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXB6s3C-vRONhP-W_AwuIHVrBrQ-3UdXcmHt8jiICCj6B_3cp01nuO2cCSkxZtxBXLtp45iSKwHH1Ea4pB4ZQysKWeN76yW6SQ3rsA8x-q_5g8wL2iXoqkT7DUuawr2TxmFxwDT0lsULsS/s1600/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXB6s3C-vRONhP-W_AwuIHVrBrQ-3UdXcmHt8jiICCj6B_3cp01nuO2cCSkxZtxBXLtp45iSKwHH1Ea4pB4ZQysKWeN76yW6SQ3rsA8x-q_5g8wL2iXoqkT7DUuawr2TxmFxwDT0lsULsS/s200/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+339.JPG" width="200" /></a>ern Greek orthodox church with a lovely golden dome on
top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once at the car park we thanked our
guide and completed the drive to Madaba.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>It was pleasant to enter the Mosaic City
Hotel's lobby in Madaba and be greeted with familiar faces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After having been living out of backpacks,
the return felt like entering one's own home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The evening witnessed us returning to what was now our favourite local
restaurant, Haret Jdoudna Restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The meal featured Jordanian dishes such as humus, fatteh, (bread), and
roast lamb ending with a fig dessert.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Returning to the room we "skyped"
our kids and found that only a few hours earlier our grandson's wife had given
birth to Jackson, their first child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thanks to modern technology we had discovered within hours of the birth
and thousands of miles away that we had just become great grandparents!<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The following day we were able to visit the
attractions that had been closed on the first visit to Madaba.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The purchase of a combined ticket provided
entrance to the Church of the Apostles, Madaba's museum and the Archeological
Park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We leisurely visited all three
great sites, each having distinctly different contributions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We stumbled across a small mosaic workshop
and watched the owner creating mosaic wall plaques for a hotel order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course we purchased a mosaic design and at
a much lower price than the tourist shops on the roadway to Nebo Mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The homeward bound flight from Queen Alia
Airport was scheduled for a midnight departure time providing ample time to
celebrate our last night in Jordan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Entering the lobby we noticed the hotel's steel shutters drawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon inquiry we were informed that street
demonstrations were in progress protesting the government's 30 % gas
increase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The family felt we would avoid
the protesters and be safe walking to the city center so they unlocked the door
letting us out onto the front street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
had not walked ten meters before the shouting increased and we were immersed in
a pushing panicked crowd running down the main street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We broke free of the pack turning down a side
street to regain entry to the hotel via a side entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The initial plan was to pound on the door to
attract the owner's attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fortunately our destination was realized and the son was already there
unlocking the side door when we arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What a relief! <o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>The nightmarish experience altered our
plans for an evening dining celebration. Stranded in the hotel we retreated to
the second floor restaurant to order dinner and peered out the restaurant’s
windows at the erupting street scene of fires and damaged cars. The family had
not planned on serving us an evening meal as other guests had opted to eat
elsewhere too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had prepared their
own meal and inquired if we would like to share it with them or they could cook
a chicken meal for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We happily agreed
to share and enjoyed a typical meatless Jordanian dish similar to our cabbage
rolls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This turned out to be a most
satisfactory solution to our plight.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Due to the street disruptions we were concerned
our taxi would not be able to enter the downtown area to transport us to the
airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, the taxi arrived on time but the
driver had to make several route adjustments to gain Madaba's outskirts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was with some relief when we arrived at
the airport without further incidents and were safely past airport security to
wait for our flight to London, England.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>For us, Jordan was not just Petra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Certainly, Petra is the main attraction and
deserves the world wide recognition it receives but we discovered there are
other worthy sites and activities to challenge the intrepid tourist.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>General Information:<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></u></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Hotels</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotels were
centrally located close to attractions and restaurants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rooms had ensuites, televisions and air
condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The amenities varied widely
from hotel to hotel but all were comfortable and clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotels were ideal for getting a
comfortable night’s sleep and with breakfast included were very good value
hotels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotels book tours and/or
hikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Internet was available in rooms
where indicated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prices are for a room
in Canadian funds.<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Amman</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Amman Pasha
Hotel</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:booking@ammanpashahotel.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">booking@ammanpashahotel.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.ammanpashahotel.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.ammanpashahotel.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"> ($46 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>)<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>This is an excellent location with the restaurant
serving tasty inexpensive meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Outstanding service and Raymond, the English speaking owner, would
assist with any problems a guest might encounter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Comfortable rooms with basic facilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A great value hotel.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Madaba</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Mosaic City
Hotel</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:info@mosaiccityhotel.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">info@mosaiccityhotel.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Web:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.mosaiccityhotel.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.mosaiccityhotel.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>($62)<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>This is an excellent beautifully appointed
accommodation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Offering more than the
hotel’s three star rating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms have a
mini bar and free Wi-Fi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A family run
hotel located about a half hour drive from Queen Alia Airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A pleasant surprise to find such luxury at
this price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of our favourite hotels.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Dana</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Dana Tower
Hotel</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:danatower2@hotmail.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">danatower2@hotmail.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.danatowerhotel.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.danatowerhotel.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>($22)<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A collection of quirky rooms, seating areas
and restaurant all cemented together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The reconstruction process used existing ancient structures adding stone
and block to create a funky hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms
have quaint names like ours “The Cave” or “Flying Carpet”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ask for an ensuite room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fun place to stay.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Petra</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Sun Set
Hotel</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:info@petrasunset.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">info@petrasunset.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.petrasunset.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.petrasunset.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>($39)<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Located on the main street within walking distance
of the entrance to Petra which is the hotel’s main feature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lobby is spacious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms were basic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dinners were excellent and better value than
nearby restaurants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good value at the
price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Internet in the lobby.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Wadi Rum</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Desert
Caravan Camp</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Business cards being
printed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Web: Desert Caravan Camp or
Trip Adviser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Priced from ($24 to $33)<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>An excellent organized well-run camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Satameh, the manager, made our visit special
with attentive service and provided us with a three person tent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The three daily meals were excellent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The shower/washroom building was clean and
set away from the spacious eating/sitting areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent value and hospitality.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Aqaba</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Days Inn</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail: info@daysinn –aqaba.com<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Web:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.daysinn-aqaba.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.daysinn-aqaba.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>($62)<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Well appointed rooms and extremely helpful
staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breakfasts were very good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dining room lacked ambience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spotless, comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another favourite.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Wadi Ghuweir</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Bedouin
Family Stay</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Book through Jordan
Beauty Tours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:info@jordanbeauty.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">info@jordanbeauty.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Wanting an “off beaten” travel experience
this is it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great hospitality and a true
taste of Bedouin life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Facilities are primitive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food was flavourful and served Bedouin
style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A fantastic travel experience we
still reminisce about!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Dead Sea</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Winter Valley
Warwick</u> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:info.wintervalleywarwick@warwickhotels.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">info.wintervalleywarwick@warwickhotels.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.wintervalleywarwick.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.wintervalleywarwick.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>($155)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All meals included.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A spectacular new property with staff
striving to make one’s stay most enjoyable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The reception area of modern architectural design provides a bright,
cheerful ambience throughout the hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rooms are spacious and well appointed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Free Wi-Fi and free mini bar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However,
I would assume this feature would disappear as the hotel becomes
established.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pool is large with ample
lounging chairs and the Dead Sea touches the property.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phase two will be the construction of the
beach front.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Currently there are
umbrellas, loungers, towels and a fresh water shower, plus buckets of free
healthy Dead Sea mud to slather on from head to toe. Beach safety is a focus
with a lifeguard on duty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Restaurant is
spacious with ample seating and wide food choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An excellent resort/spa hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A favourite.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong> </strong></span></span></o:p></span></u></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Tour Company</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Jordan Beauty Tours</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>E-mail:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:info@jordanbeautytours.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">info@jordanbeautytours.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.jordanbeauty.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.jordanbeauty.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ali
Al-Hassant – Sales and Marketing Manager<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Our tour included all transfers by deluxe
car with an English speaking driver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Entrance fees to all sites including Petra, hotel accommodations with
breakfast and all dinner at the hotels, a jeep desert safari plus airport
pickup and departure assistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within
our package were extras like side trips to an olive factory, a brick plant and
a stop at local produce stalls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cost for
18 days was $1500 US p/p. As independent travellers we usually utilize local
transportation and book tours when needed, but considering the excellent
services and experiences we received, I doubt very much that we could have
organize our own tour for less!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ali
strove to create a “once in a lifetime” Jordanian experience and he most
certainly did this.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Transportation</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Fawaz Farajat:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mail: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="mailto:fawaz.farajat@yahoo.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">fawaz.farajat@yahoo.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mobile:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>00962(0)7774457950<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>A safe driver and equally important, a
wonderful cheerful person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prompt and
helpful.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Research Sources</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Lonely Planet</span></u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jordan, 8<sup>th</sup>
edition Published July 2012<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Internet:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.visitjordan.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.visitjordan.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;">Hotel Bookings:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.agoda.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.agoda.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.booking.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.booking.com</span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus
many others.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please use the comment box to let us know of any errors. Unable to make a hard copy thus difficult to edit. Thanks. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><o:p></o:p></em></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgxFzhCjwv3Ek_CW8EUc-R6j84j57j3wlHTbqYmUWZKtprhUm3t-cFiNanGfPx40K8lkZVNJG-mh0ymD7uhyphenhyphensYQOg-C2SWAzWtBgbaRTpOxX_IevtSZq80nq29NRb_xqeZZ2ecPaeIyXp/s1600/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgxFzhCjwv3Ek_CW8EUc-R6j84j57j3wlHTbqYmUWZKtprhUm3t-cFiNanGfPx40K8lkZVNJG-mh0ymD7uhyphenhyphensYQOg-C2SWAzWtBgbaRTpOxX_IevtSZq80nq29NRb_xqeZZ2ecPaeIyXp/s320/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+376.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>JERASH -COLONNAED STREET</strong><br />
<strong>Original stones complete with ruts worn by</strong><br />
<strong>chariot wheels.</strong> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsi1fftWolXGOnwoJ6xOjGHqOb-4XKX6PAxRrZbf_GiC_p5Q92Lr61NcqC8t9spQvvUV4dpp_Vj2G7ijGN_2K7-8QN3NsE1ZMR-yNpNbVMOd17hSYXlkyt2AbfEiLm-yZdEYttOMwLlOnJ/s1600/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsi1fftWolXGOnwoJ6xOjGHqOb-4XKX6PAxRrZbf_GiC_p5Q92Lr61NcqC8t9spQvvUV4dpp_Vj2G7ijGN_2K7-8QN3NsE1ZMR-yNpNbVMOd17hSYXlkyt2AbfEiLm-yZdEYttOMwLlOnJ/s200/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+194.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsi1fftWolXGOnwoJ6xOjGHqOb-4XKX6PAxRrZbf_GiC_p5Q92Lr61NcqC8t9spQvvUV4dpp_Vj2G7ijGN_2K7-8QN3NsE1ZMR-yNpNbVMOd17hSYXlkyt2AbfEiLm-yZdEYttOMwLlOnJ/s1600/AQABA+and+DEAD+SEA+194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiutrlSarZOSafB1n1VMUnGyL-iqQCXdYY5OF4EMqDPQJb1Pa2jRDy2dGlE9AYXQv-_SPffxJ7Hc52WvTwr5cH77Grag-GDfYbx9oG7ZeBbqJUh9YUGzjF4nbKCD4nxXN4wbNQjxTeLcY4/s1600/270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiutrlSarZOSafB1n1VMUnGyL-iqQCXdYY5OF4EMqDPQJb1Pa2jRDy2dGlE9AYXQv-_SPffxJ7Hc52WvTwr5cH77Grag-GDfYbx9oG7ZeBbqJUh9YUGzjF4nbKCD4nxXN4wbNQjxTeLcY4/s200/270.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Vast selection of foods and this was only our breakfast offering!</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</a><br /></div>
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-41826073171360029082012-12-30T20:41:00.000-08:002012-12-31T08:47:11.765-08:00<br />
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tug-at-Your-Heart Adventure in
Vietnam<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Family Holiday with Mya, Our Seven
-Year-Old Granddaughter <o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzRz6DsYNLsfnIUn3drvsRVsfvl3zBYJRoavkA9G5VGRRDRHSAb9_yzmGRuXmV1FpCgsqsvWhmuLloOIrPDKoMKxXnWj9whtrvXAIS4XVi9IwKAl4tQ3XJ3aYP-60C6pJ4joate8O_1hO/s1600/PC055546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzRz6DsYNLsfnIUn3drvsRVsfvl3zBYJRoavkA9G5VGRRDRHSAb9_yzmGRuXmV1FpCgsqsvWhmuLloOIrPDKoMKxXnWj9whtrvXAIS4XVi9IwKAl4tQ3XJ3aYP-60C6pJ4joate8O_1hO/s320/PC055546.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dreams Do Come True</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter One<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Can you imagine a family trip to a
small Asian country that still retains its old cultures, emerald green rice
paddies, sparkling sandy beaches and one of the world’s seven wonders next door?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We travelled to Vietnam with our seven year
old granddaughter, Mya, and her parents, Rhonda and Jason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
one of the most remarkable and memorable holidays we have ever had, and we have
traveled to many places throughout the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is fascinating to see the world through a child’s eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My story is a gift to our granddaughter and
to encourage other grandparents to travel with grandchildren and experience
similar joys and wonders.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our daughter, Rhonda, and her
husband, Jason decided they would like to visit Vietnam for Christmas. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a privilege <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>when they asked us to join them and we didn’t
hesitate to say “Yes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John was keen to
support our daughter in planning the Vietnam trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He searched the internet and read, “Lonely
Planet” and “Let’s Go”, a gift from Rhonda, looking for information and country
highlights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the meantime, Rhonda was busy
researching the best airline to fly to Hanoi, looking for activities that would
be fun for the whole family, and searching out hotels in different cities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason and I just had to relax and wait for
the plans to unfold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many emails and
phone calls flowed back and forth for several months as the plans were formulated
for our vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda started the
idea in early spring for our December holiday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was necessary to start early as Christmas is a busy time for vacationers
all over the world and it’s a good idea to establish where you will be for
Christmas.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We planned our holiday for the month
of December, leaving our small town of Powell River early on the morning of
December 1st and returning on December 29th.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The weather was warm in Vietnam in December.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had expected to encounter rain as December
is considered part of the rainy season but it only rained one day while we were
in Hoi An, but otherwise we had excellent weather, not too hot, but warm enough
to enjoy each day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We usually started
the day with a long-sleeved shirt or a fleece but it wasn’t long before it was
shed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was cooler in the north than in
the south and the air was fresher in the north, compared to the air pollution
in Ho Chi Minh City.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We decided to start
in the north and travel to the south as we would be closer to our Christmas
destination on Phu Quoc Island.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rhonda’s research determined Asiana
Air, a Korean airline, to be the best flight option with a great service
record!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This meant we had to fly from
Seattle, to Seoul, Korea, change planes and continue to our final destination
of Hanoi, Vietnam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We drove our
four-door crew cab Chevrolet truck to Seattle as there was plenty of sitting room
for five of us and a good roll-back covered box which held all our luggage. We
arrived at our hotel near Sea-Tac Airport by 6:00 pm just as it was getting
dark. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were soon assigned our rooms
in Sleep Inn Hotel which we had booked earlier in the month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The good news about this hotel was, they had
a free continental breakfast and we could receive two weeks free parking for
each room booked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John phoned them using
“Skype” and negotiated four weeks free parking since we had booked two rooms,
and they agreed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerj8qhM1z3BZO_tArTLYAZOq1_Sxmun4kZIhGMS5MQEOt9qJBcITe25bnQB_vihxV-05-MbLzh6wM5Qn5THBCf5IAbMBH2fFFxeWz5dDMZz-y2iuc1uu2sLBJ2IbxapN1xiKFwcyREXQY/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerj8qhM1z3BZO_tArTLYAZOq1_Sxmun4kZIhGMS5MQEOt9qJBcITe25bnQB_vihxV-05-MbLzh6wM5Qn5THBCf5IAbMBH2fFFxeWz5dDMZz-y2iuc1uu2sLBJ2IbxapN1xiKFwcyREXQY/s320/DSC_0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Airplane Bedroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At 9:30 in the morning the shuttle transported
us to the Sea-Tac Airport. We got our boarding passes at the check-in kiosk and
waited for our Asiana Air flight to Seoul, Korea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our memorable “tug-at-your-heart” adventure had
begun!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda brought two pillows for the plane as a
mattress for Mya to sleep on as it was a twelve hour flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, things went so well for us that the
pillows were unnecessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plane was
only two-thirds full so Jason and John acted quickly to secure extra seats. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason moved to another row of three seats and
took the complete row, while Rhonda and Mya were in the original row.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After we were in the air and the seatbelt
sign turned off, Mya came to visit and told us they had two rooms- a bedroom
and a living room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She explained that if
you wanted to sleep you went to the bedroom- the first three seats, otherwise
you stayed in the living room- the second three seats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We chuckled at Mya’s explanation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a successful plan as we often saw one family
member asleep in their “bedroom.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is one of those times when you see the world through a child’s eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The flight surpassed all our
expectations with superb service, comfortable seats, quality food, and little
turbulence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were served two meals on
our twelve hour flight with free alcoholic drinks and all the juice, water,
coffee or tea we desired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
surprised at the excellent service and the newness of the plane, considering it
was the cheapest air flight Rhonda could find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We crossed the International Date Line and arrived in Korea by noon
Korean time, but we had lost a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has
always puzzled me as to where that day goes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I write a daily journal for each holiday and it’s confusing when
Wednesday follows Monday instead of Tuesday!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I told Mya about the predicament and explained to her how we lost a
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t understand it myself so I’m
not sure that my explanation helped her understand the Date Line but maybe one
day she will be able to explain it to me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On arrival in Korea we changed planes
for our six hour flight with Asiana Air to Hanoi with excellent service once
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After clearing customs in Hanoi,
we grabbed our luggage and booked a taxi van to our previously booked central Thaison
Hotel II in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
room was on the third floor and the Mya's family on the fourth floor so Mya had
fun going from one floor to the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsEPsiP1r2WuJvG1rtPs2mBu3LCMsn9urkWwHgfer2XQ-ReRFXYlIvFO7sqfxyD8VT8cd4oq0uULigOS3qtvBEawl5ryUcwXHnqB3WLIlkSN0xfLf3EEQmyAIISpcd3RgmqRzEDyTW4xa/s1600/PC116025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsEPsiP1r2WuJvG1rtPs2mBu3LCMsn9urkWwHgfer2XQ-ReRFXYlIvFO7sqfxyD8VT8cd4oq0uULigOS3qtvBEawl5ryUcwXHnqB3WLIlkSN0xfLf3EEQmyAIISpcd3RgmqRzEDyTW4xa/s400/PC116025.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya & Vietnamese Friend</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Chapter Two</span></u><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7AqyaOhLtXKsB45qYhDPTkcwa9GgDKyBYzRDbdw0HJxBHsdNzLXDfDGdtxLufcfcMo68u6pmI_bx9mVhg2U6iWTshS1EpU8Q7oDIb-fKmeEjXrs4PqoOr4lnuq1oeE3nX3kADp61jcta/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7AqyaOhLtXKsB45qYhDPTkcwa9GgDKyBYzRDbdw0HJxBHsdNzLXDfDGdtxLufcfcMo68u6pmI_bx9mVhg2U6iWTshS1EpU8Q7oDIb-fKmeEjXrs4PqoOr4lnuq1oeE3nX3kADp61jcta/s320/DSC_0027.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya & Rhonda in Hanoi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After
a good night’s rest we were off on our beginning adventure after our first of
many Vietnamese breakfasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hiked to
the Hoan Kiem Lake which was a ten minute walk from our hotel where we wandered
past many street-side noodle shops, vibrant and cheerful Vietnamese faces, and
noisy motorbikes and cars maneuvering through the traffic. A red wooden bridge connects
an island in the lake to provide access to Hgocson Temple Hoankiem, a famous
Buddhist temple on the lake, often photographed in travel magazines to promote
a holiday to Hanoi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, the
family had its photo on the bridge too! Mya didn’t seem nervous about her new culturally
different environment but Rhonda had told her in advance that people would like
to touch her head as it was a novelty to see strawberry-blonde hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t take more than five minutes before
people were “oohing” and “aahing” as they looked at Mya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One older man touched Mya’s cheeks, not once,
but twice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya wasn’t sure she liked
that but I watched the expression on the old man’s face and a mountain of
memories seemed to come flooding in, perhaps reminding him of when the
Americans had been in their country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya wasn’t sure she liked it and her mother
reminded her that she could say, “No”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many, many more times people would touch Mya’s hair or want a photo of
her, and Mya was gracious and managed very well with all the attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya gave
Canadian pencils and pens to<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>people whom
she encountered or who helped us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
would give them to taxi drivers, hotel reception clerks, little children in a
restaurant or elephant drivers and it was always with the same respond- a big
smile and a bow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was our little
magnet!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While
we were in this vicinity we decided to travel by tuk-tuks which are three-wheeled
bicycles driven by a driver using foot pedals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is a small covered bench in front of the driver for passengers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason was in one, Rhonda and Mya in another
and John and I in the third.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We rode
part way around the lake to a coffee café which was great fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each ride cost about 150,000 Vietnamese dong
or $7.50 Canadian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we maneuvered
through the traffic Mya could be seen smiling back at us from her vantage
point. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_EiZMTxeo8e5s9cmRmHaPkJAhexblmLLlD_87CEiWUZ-Pnox43sdQwx2ov-9OmBYu7RKF1XrqETFk8v47fDJGI9Tip8T0c3WSJFW9ocnTs_tPmHktJX3gkEgtNwerhldsfsQDcoUG7cEN/s1600/PC035481-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_EiZMTxeo8e5s9cmRmHaPkJAhexblmLLlD_87CEiWUZ-Pnox43sdQwx2ov-9OmBYu7RKF1XrqETFk8v47fDJGI9Tip8T0c3WSJFW9ocnTs_tPmHktJX3gkEgtNwerhldsfsQDcoUG7cEN/s400/PC035481-1.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Little Model</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mya is a natural model often posing
for photographs. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a skill that will
be useful to her as she gets older.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
Mya was born prematurely she only weighed two pounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is hard to believe that this little “rat”,
as I used to lovingly refer to her when she was first born, could become a
bright young girl with a curious, dynamic and unique personality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya adapts to all situations and is happy
with all her extended family. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many
times on this holiday I appreciated this little one for who she is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would thoughtfully consider new
situations before participating and would demonstrate a cooperative spirit that
was very mature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should give credit to
her parents for some of this, but I think Mya has built her own lifestyle, even
at seven years of age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will give you
an example.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One day after we arrived at
our new hotel Mya immediately dumped her whole suitcase onto the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason said, “Mya that is no place to put your
clothes.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon which Mya replied,
“That’s how I roll, Dad!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya was
constantly making us laugh, which is such a healing stress-relieving balm when
traveling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another time Mya made us
laugh when I had asked what Mommy and Daddy were doing and she responded,
“Mommy’s itching her hives and Daddy’s lying down.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kids tell it like it is.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Through an internet organization
Rhonda discovered that Hanoi student guides were available free of charge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They wanted to practice their English as they
took tourists around the city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They could
not legally accept money, but small gifts were suitable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tai, our student guide, gave us a tour of the
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, native tribes’ homes and a water puppet show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tai had his special haunts, probably
pre-arranged, like the Weasel Coffee Café where the vendor offered us delicious
iced coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He explained that the
coffee beans were swallowed by weasels which they defecated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It sounded strange but it was suppose to make
excellent coffee so we purchased bags to take home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason and Rhonda needed another suitcase as
theirs had broken so they asked Tai where to get one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once again he had his special small store
away from the center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason purchased a
suitcase from a choice of two suitcases and then asked about a used cell phone
which he was also able to purchase from the same merchant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later it was decided that they paid too much
for the poor quality suitcase but the cell phoned served us well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For lunch Tai brought us to Quan An Ngo
Restaurant, a very busy and excellent Vietnamese eatery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We especially enjoyed the extra large crepes
filled with fresh green vegetables, bean sprouts, and spring onions served with
a dipping sauce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya tucked right into
the crepe using her chop sticks with agility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This was our first, not counting breakfast, of many excellent Vietnamese
meals!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2ciXR9OfTZEQaN6hH1HJdOdNivUsXSbzgXjWuQV7Mry8uQYJUBgIgEtu6M3iCMFpy_khFRUPv-0EJnLyYIKxF3J4lPVUnSDCE09AJffG-Sz5bDzHJZCLNTb93vYHbvXh_UrTBBSn01Ri/s1600/PC085903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2ciXR9OfTZEQaN6hH1HJdOdNivUsXSbzgXjWuQV7Mry8uQYJUBgIgEtu6M3iCMFpy_khFRUPv-0EJnLyYIKxF3J4lPVUnSDCE09AJffG-Sz5bDzHJZCLNTb93vYHbvXh_UrTBBSn01Ri/s200/PC085903.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious Pho</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">During our stay in Hanoi, we enjoyed eating
delicious food, like “pho” which Jason looked forward to, especially for
breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pho is a dish mainly of rice
noodles, beef or chicken broth with a little meat, loaded with fresh herbs, and
sprinkled with chopped green onions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
is popular all over Vietnam and we must have had it every day for one meal or
another. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both Jason and John predictably
ordered spring rolls for lunch or dinner which was another one of their favourite
dishes, one would guess!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just shook
our heads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJcHziRPnPBoT3goCH3iIEQID5OPUTQU88cnaJXM9ohLSOnEnq-vWYqJtHemCo5tMNrNdJt9kqX1oR_Y_F9-9wRusi3zMHejQahZ8xWOSTEpSCnb2zVKmEZ5lWg_7Jv73C45n6NsBD_Qc/s1600/DSC_0105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJcHziRPnPBoT3goCH3iIEQID5OPUTQU88cnaJXM9ohLSOnEnq-vWYqJtHemCo5tMNrNdJt9kqX1oR_Y_F9-9wRusi3zMHejQahZ8xWOSTEpSCnb2zVKmEZ5lWg_7Jv73C45n6NsBD_Qc/s320/DSC_0105.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya checking out our cabin in Halong Bay</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After three wonderful days in Hanoi,
we loaded onto a shuttle bus for a tour of Halong Bay, about a four hour drive
to the northeast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a very popular
place for tourists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda made an
executive decision and booked staterooms on <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dragon Pearl 1, through Indochina Junk, for a
two day, one night excursion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The wooden
pirate-style ship with redwood walls and floors, queen size beds, glass
enclosed double-headed showers, and fancy counter-top sinks was spotless and had
an exceptionally well organized staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
sailed to Cat Ba Island and upon our arrival disembarked into small Dragon
Pearl skiffs to transport us to a small beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some people swam in the cool water at the beach but most of us chose to
walk to a cave further up the hill where we entered a large cavern with many
stalactites and stalagmites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We walked
out the back of the cave to another beach and then returned through the cave to
our junk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya and family joined others
for a short swim in the cool water from the deck of Dragon Pearl 1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The crew had towels and a tub of hot water
ready to rinse feet before entering the cabins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After showering and dressing for dinner, we relaxed on the deck loungers
before enjoying our nine course dinner of soup, salad, seafood, rice, chicken,
fresh fruit, wine, and coffee. The table setting, cuisine and setting sun were
storybook perfect.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the morning Dragon Pearl 1 dropped
anchor near a floating village. We had to transfer into bamboo tenders to reach
the floating village where we observed fish farms and pearl farms that used
mussels to make pearls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The village
contained a small school and tourist shops selling paintings, weavings and pearls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our return to Dragon Pearl 1, we ate an
early lunch and then set off for Halong Bay City to disembark and walk to our
pre-arranged rental van for a long trip to Ninh Binh and Cuc Phuong National
Park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"></span></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Three<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Arriving late in the day, we stayed
in the Cuc Phuong National Park where we rented rooms in a two-storey colonnade
building away from the central reception area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were in the forest and heard animals near at hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason and Rhonda had one side of the top
floor and we had the other side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At one
point the electricity went out which I guess was a usual occurrence in the
park, and we got out our trusty headlights and found some candles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it wasn’t long before the electrical
power was returned, to Mya’s great relief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After erecting mosquito nets over our beds we hiked up the road to eat
dinner in a small park restaurant before heading back to our hideaway rooms in
the forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We played cards for a short
time in the Zroback room while Mya slept in her bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
next day we walked about 200 meters from our house to meet our guide who would
show us the monkey and turtle conservation area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were several types of monkeys in cages
which were tagged with computer chips before they were released to the nearby
forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they adapt successfully they are placed in
different areas of the wild forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
problem is poachers!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The turtles and
small tortoises were also there in terrariums or aquariums and both the monkeys
and turtles were bred in the conservation area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The park was well worth the
effort of the drive from Halong Bay.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcS7tjcUAv7h1_olrFMjY5YufwyZjiMVZV28gdG6hnwxMn533LEkx38Quk3p-TY5yLxV8SlydBTAwI0hew4ZEUldF2qHBeMDGKY2-SYxxEaVbiIFn-fn37IzwQOevu-GYxCsyyVJ-HviQu/s1600/PC065662-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcS7tjcUAv7h1_olrFMjY5YufwyZjiMVZV28gdG6hnwxMn533LEkx38Quk3p-TY5yLxV8SlydBTAwI0hew4ZEUldF2qHBeMDGKY2-SYxxEaVbiIFn-fn37IzwQOevu-GYxCsyyVJ-HviQu/s320/PC065662-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zroback Family at Trang An Grottoes</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
park manager arranged a taxi van for us for a day tour of park sites and on to
Trang An Grottoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These grottoes had
been newly developed for tourism and lacked the crowds and “hard sell” of Tam
Croc Grottoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a marvelous tour
in one small bamboo boat which held all five of us with a woman paddler/guide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were sixteen limestone caves and we
went through at least thirteen of them along the Sao Khe River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took oodles of photos and saw beautiful stalactites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The caves were well lit so we could enjoy the
whole journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our daughter, Rhonda,
thought the caves were the highlight of our trip so we were glad we went. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason suggested we return to Hanoi and not
stay in Ninh Binh since we would be flying out of Hanoi the next day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We thought this was an excellent idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The return trip to Hanoi was only two hours
from Ninh Binh but made for a long day for our taxi driver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He spent the whole day driving and waiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was excellent service and he certainly
earned his tip. We expected to be able to get back into Thaison Hotel II, but
there were no vacancies so we took a sister hotel which wasn’t as nice, but was
still of a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>good standard and centrally
located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oYNZ-jOGLega8DFWOpFvQjYPD22KJctV_h4DLOkNOUXrX2ApVYlbWP-Ze8dpLYkOxxGp1d_Mq6-E17a7hApmhFeES-HhT1xQeSF5T-zuZgiMciRnbZgLSvGeeHtHl9QDmtVh842hkTBX/s1600/DSC_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oYNZ-jOGLega8DFWOpFvQjYPD22KJctV_h4DLOkNOUXrX2ApVYlbWP-Ze8dpLYkOxxGp1d_Mq6-E17a7hApmhFeES-HhT1xQeSF5T-zuZgiMciRnbZgLSvGeeHtHl9QDmtVh842hkTBX/s320/DSC_0090.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya at Ho Chi Minh's Summer House</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We
returned to the excellent Quan An Ngo Restaurant that our student guide had
taken us to earlier in the week, stopped at Hoi Chi Minh’s summer home and
attended a movie house viewing “Harry Potter”, with English sub-titles. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We rushed back to our hotel to gather our
bags to wait for a taxi to the airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The traffic was heavy so the taxi arrived late, but we arrived in time
for our flight to Hue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Four<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We had booked this flight from Canada
and John and I didn’t realize that we were in Business Class!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were no other available seats when we
booked it and we had forgotten our decision to go “Business Class”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made us feel like royalty with a separate
lounge for drinks and food and a separate shuttle to take us to the plane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who would have guessed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our “poor” family ate in a crowded restaurant
and paid for their food while we ate in luxury!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mya joined us for some chocolate treats and Rhonda soon appeared
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the plane we were given constant
attention with drinks and special foods of open face sandwiches and gelatin-covered
cake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was also amazing to have larger
seats with only two of us sitting side by side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Business Class is something to consider if it isn’t too expensive!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Obviously we got a ribbing about our “First
Class” tickets!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We flew to Hue rather than take a van
as it is inexpensive to fly with Vietnam Airlines and the road from Hanoi to
Hue is long and narrow and goes up over the mountains, which makes it
difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On arrival we ordered a taxi
to take us to our internet-reserved hotel rooms, which were modest but
nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were soon off to rent bicycles or
motorbikes, which Rhonda had researched.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMkkBrljQIYOg4b5NitTaJJ4OqA0gkjVXjaDuutD9j2o4I4JovUxfGgSjt6nDwEgaSP1ZE0w4gabpkuAn6YGP9CPTzCOYU36ABSRwrxFVgDw1KWwOx-Qz_tu7-5Iwt7K7_K3cosGeRYal/s1600/DSC_0435-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMkkBrljQIYOg4b5NitTaJJ4OqA0gkjVXjaDuutD9j2o4I4JovUxfGgSjt6nDwEgaSP1ZE0w4gabpkuAn6YGP9CPTzCOYU36ABSRwrxFVgDw1KWwOx-Qz_tu7-5Iwt7K7_K3cosGeRYal/s320/DSC_0435-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rhonda & Mya in Royal Costumes in Hue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jason rented the motorbike and took
Mya with him and John, Rhonda and I rented bicycles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We started down the alley from our hotel and
onto the main street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything went
smoothly and I kept my balance, allowing much traffic past me without worry, so
we were ready for the big highway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh
dear!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda was leading and I just kept
my eye on her blue shirt and followed along and over a bridge which naturally
narrows with no shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kept peddling
as crowds of bicycles moved all around me and then I spotted stop lights at the
bottom of the arched bridge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now what was
I to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I realized that Rhonda had
already gone through the light as I saw her shirt on the other side of the
street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I looked up at the light and saw
that it was still green with four seconds to go so I pumped like crazy through
the traffic light to get to the other side knowing that John was following
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t think he would make it
through but he was closer behind me than I thought and there he was right
beside me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason and Mya in the meantime
were waiting further up the street and to our delight Jason was taking photos
of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best thing about this was
Rhonda’s “thumbs up” as we crossed that busy intersection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya loved riding with her dad on the
motorbike and when Jason passed us on the road she called out, “Hi Grandma, Hi
Grandpa.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She rode in front of Jason with
her little helmet on and looked the picture of joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason was also pleased as he got the chance
to ride the motorbike, which he loves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
wouldn’t be surprised to see Mya riding a motorbike in a few years!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We particularly enjoyed Hue as there are many
old Royal temples to visit that haven’t been changed, providing you with a glimpse
into the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The town isn’t as big as
Hanoi so we could get around easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
went to visit the Emperor’s Citadel and the Royal Tombs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The citadel has two meter thick walls with
three straight sides and one curved to follow the bend in the river and the
walls are ten kilometers long with a 30 meter wide moat to protect the
structure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the Vietnam War in 1968 the Vietcong
shot more than 2500 people and the Americans came in and recaptured the city
with a loss of 10,000 people. In 1975 the North Vietnamese forces returned and
captured Hue after three days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much of
the Imperial Enclosure was damaged during the war but the walls held up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our visit to the royal chambers, Rhonda
and Mya dressed in authentic royal costumes which were provided to the tourists
for a fee. Rhonda wore a white satin gown with a yellow headdress and Mya wore a
pink satin robe with matching headpiece. Many photos were taken in their
beautiful costumes for memory enjoyment when we returned to Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the afternoon we rented a car and driver
to tour three more temple sites along the banks of the Perfume River.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">We stayed in Hue three days, which
was our pre-determined plan for most cities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It gave us time to get settled into our hotel, reconnoiter the area and
still have a full day to enjoy the city sites before travelling again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This plan worked well for us.</span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></o:p></span></u></div>
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Five<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGsD9toOOmEB4YXBqj-fTxFRWelmQHt5-zHKdmtYrbglHRIjsZIu9pOzR7ADt58zAVALJPR_wajE50HhXhLFdTNTrgR0rWXZgaJ1mYh7ihs0hn9tZPqBWHBy41v3j2rZXG3rpjR0L0pDv_/s1600/DSC_0614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGsD9toOOmEB4YXBqj-fTxFRWelmQHt5-zHKdmtYrbglHRIjsZIu9pOzR7ADt58zAVALJPR_wajE50HhXhLFdTNTrgR0rWXZgaJ1mYh7ihs0hn9tZPqBWHBy41v3j2rZXG3rpjR0L0pDv_/s320/DSC_0614.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya and her friend from Singapore in Hoi An</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our
next stop, Hoi An, was about four to five hours south. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hired a private van from Hue to Hoi An so
we could enjoy the scenery along the way and stop at interesting places to see.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our first stop was for coffee at a
resort north of Danang where we used facilities and then sat on the deck
overlooking the ocean while sipping our refreshments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We climbed the Hai Van (Sea Cloud) Pass of
the Truong Son Mountain, stopping at the summit where John and Jason wandered
up to see the war’s fortifications while Rhonda, Mya and I interacted with the
hawkers who sold their wares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a
shorter route to Hoi An via a 6280 meter tunnel, which shaves off an hour of
the journey, but we chose to take the more scenic route. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Animal and fuel trucks are not allowed in the
tunnel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we drove through Danang and
Marble Mountain I felt a pang of sadness as we approached China Beach which is basically
not accessible to the general public as large resorts and hotels are filling
the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After this it was a short hop
to Vinh Hung Riverside Resort, in Hoi An, which Rhonda had booked on the
internet using our computer while we were in Hue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On arrival we were assigned two rooms
overlooking the pool which were perfect for our needs. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In only a few minutes Mya was enjoying the
pool with her parents and we soon joined them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Later, as we ventured into the town of Hoi An, (which Rhonda and I kept
confusing with Hanoi when we talked about the town), there were many Christmas
lights displayed along the river’s edge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we walked down our street near the river and up two blocks to the boardwalks
which framed both sides of the river, we immediately encountered gorgeous
illuminated shapes of turtles, clowns, trees and other fascinating forms
floating in the river. As we walked onto the arched bridge admiring the
beautiful displays, we took photos under the Hoi An name, like most tourists
were doing; then we walked the streets on the other side and looked at all the
fabric stores displaying garments of all sizes and shapes, and other curio
shops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We found an excellent restaurant,
which wasn’t difficult as there were many to choose from, and we took pleasure
in our evening feast in Hoi An that would be duplicated many times in the coming
week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hoi An is extremely popular with tourists as
it is a shopping paradise with tailors on every street corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many choices of fabrics and many
tailors to choose from who sew the well finished garments within a day to two. It
is relatively inexpensive compared to North American prices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason and Rhonda exuded excitement as they ordered
tailored-made suits, pants, dresses, shorts and shirts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda had researched the best tailor, Yaly
on 47 Nguyen Thai Hoc St., Hoi An City.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
had great fun going back to get more fittings and sometimes another outfit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As it turned out we stayed in Hoi An six
days, which wasn’t our plan but it allowed lots of time for clothes shopping, rest
and relaxation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When we arrived in Hoi An, Rhonda’s cough
was getting worse so we booked extra days in the resort and on the third day
with Rhonda’s temperature reaching 38 degrees, she saw a doctor who prescribed
three medicines for a throat infection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
Rhonda and Mya ordered in pizza that night, the rest of us walked into town to
Cargo Restaurant for supper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had
lemon-grass chicken stir-fry, John ate white fish fillet and Jason enjoyed red
tuna.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we stopped for ice cream and
coffee in another little café. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
stayed three more days for Rhonda to regain her strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya enjoyed swimming all day long and met two
young girls from Singapore and the three became great swimming buddies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, one day the girls’ parents invited
Mya to go with them to another town to shop and have lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason and Rhonda had met the girls’ parents beside
the pool and enjoyed their company so when the girls’ mother asked to take Mya
it wasn’t a problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mom bought Mya and
the two daughters each a bracelet and necklace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mya had been adopted for the day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our resort offered free Vietnamese
food most afternoons between four and five, which was a real treat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We would usually buy a drink and then enjoy
the “Happy Hour” food, of noodles, spring rolls, bean treats and sweets so we
soon became full, sometimes abandoning the evening meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One thing we discovered about Vietnam is that
it is well set up for tourists and it hasn’t become expensive yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5rJUlDl4XumLPNnG8OMHpTWZwhrUrz8XuuuEJ9_Z8v04oZWC1Vg396rIh362FgR9Rb3LizaQObrsBVUinBDAALsWDduEZdPV1Sv9_iWoT-vuv34jb1iXBzLZRg-7zaW3FRVjK3oV-mtp/s1600/PC116031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5rJUlDl4XumLPNnG8OMHpTWZwhrUrz8XuuuEJ9_Z8v04oZWC1Vg396rIh362FgR9Rb3LizaQObrsBVUinBDAALsWDduEZdPV1Sv9_iWoT-vuv34jb1iXBzLZRg-7zaW3FRVjK3oV-mtp/s320/PC116031.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya riding with Dad in Hoi An</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While in Hoi An, Jason rented another
motorbike, similar to the one he had in Hue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was keen on taking the bike out and investigating the countryside
along the seashore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, in town,
he took Mya with him which she really loved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rhonda, John and I walked into town crossing the little popular bridge
and along the streets to join Jason and Mya who would be sitting in front of
the restaurant patiently waiting with big grins on their faces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later we strolled along the street peering
into stores to view what we might purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mya was keen on the silk scarves with their bright and varied colours of
yellow, fuchsia, purple, or orange.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rhonda and I just loved shopping!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKs1YIEq9_rnZxxr6G8wX7rfGJA16ivxXQXX1CBzqmrodis8p9tH7goFTpX0MnbUOIhbQW0GpMVKu5O-LbuCJ6b7n2jil87qJ41W7UGm-1Rh8JLptUoYXin6zH4WhGdsDyPw5J5REvzyf/s1600/DSC_0633-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKs1YIEq9_rnZxxr6G8wX7rfGJA16ivxXQXX1CBzqmrodis8p9tH7goFTpX0MnbUOIhbQW0GpMVKu5O-LbuCJ6b7n2jil87qJ41W7UGm-1Rh8JLptUoYXin6zH4WhGdsDyPw5J5REvzyf/s320/DSC_0633-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning Glory Cooking School in Hoi An</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A funny thing happened on our last
day in Hoi An.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda and John booked Morning
Glory Cooking Class for all of us to attend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We started at four o’clock, because another large tourist group booked
the area immediately following.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moon,
our excellent instructor’s nickname, explained all the different fresh herbs
they use in Vietnam for different dishes. Some of these herbs are basil (lemon
and sweet), lemon grass, morning glory, cilantro, and small garlic which have a
stronger taste than large ones. There was a tilting mirror above her gas stove
and counter, enabling us to view what she was doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it came time to cook, Moon told me to
use her station and then all four adults and Mya could make spring rolls and
crepe pancakes at the same time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
instructor explained how to heat up the pan and that the timing was important in
the cooking process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Almost immediately
John’s pan caught on fire with flames about two feet high and Mya’s eyes were
as big as saucers!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The flame was put out
quickly but Mya kept her eyes on Grandpa in case of any more surprises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya had an opportunity to cook too with Mom
and Dad’s assistance, an activity Mya enjoyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We all wore Morning Glory aprons and later received recipes and zest
tools to take home. Our instructor made a green papaya salad to accompany the
food we had cooked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She used a special
peeler that was double-bladed in the middle and very sharp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason decided he would like to buy two
right-handed ones, one for himself and one for his brother, Jamie, who loves to
cook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After we dined on the delicious
food that we had created, we were guided into another room to relax and enjoy
dessert and coffee while the staff set up the cooking room for the next tour.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></o:p></span></u><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Chapter Six</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After six days in Hoi An, we took a
taxi to Danang Airport, stopping at China Beach for photos. We opted to fly
with Vietnam Air rather than drive as flying is very reasonable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dalat is a mountainous flourishing artistic
town, with alpine forests, adventure tours and waterfalls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had not pre-booked our hotel so on
arrival we had a taxi take us to several hotels without success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spotted one in the central part of the town
and made a note of it on a piece of paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After Jason and John had checked more hotels without success we decided
to give the one I had chosen a try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
Jason and John returned from the pink-sided central hotel, we knew we were in
luck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took our bags from the taxi and
entered our hotel rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason had
chosen a beautiful large room overlooking the street with loads of windows and John
chose one further back to eliminate street noise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well the noisy street side was a problem so the
next day Rhonda, Jason and Mya moved across the hall from us to a much quieter room.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dalat’s mountainous air is cooler at
night causing us to put warm fleeces on before we headed out for supper. We ate
at Long Hoa Restaurant, and had sweet and sour soup, noodles, rice, chicken and
stir-fry vegetables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also found an
excellent bakery on the up-hill street so Jason picked up donuts and croissants
to eat later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cold air had given us
appetites!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We experienced different outdoor activities
in this town, one being a slider ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You sit in a rubber wheeled sleigh which rides on metal rails and takes
you down a steep slope, zigzagging all the way to the bottom, with warning
signs along the way to use the brake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
watched as a bride and groom got into a slider. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bride had hoops under her a full-length
red gown so she pulled them out and passed the hoops to the photographer who was
riding in the next car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was next to
get into a slider and not knowing exactly what to do I was rather tentative on
the curves, holding up John who was behind me and then Rhonda with Mya who
called out, “Faster Grandma, faster!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jason fortunately waited five minutes before he left so he could go all
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He loved it and wanted to go for a
second ride!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we got to the bottom
we saw the bride posing on the small arched bridge in front of a sparkling
waterfall which made a beautiful backdrop for photos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After spending about ten to fifteen minutes
at the bottom of the hill and taking photos, we came back by the same system
which automatically pulled us up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
didn’t have to worry about using the controls or slowing down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIbJkDEe1rQXJ3XXeSlz2E-AXmP180HH7sxW6XAobhyphenhyphenmMLsQM1Fv1CfUdnw_6Fn9IKsJqgzgEhKFLS5IcY8Jc15BWEGRkqSAwLqvHJbciEJm2ifD3P53WMGbtte4ob5BLKK6GgwjRRQ5T/s1600/DSC_0666-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIbJkDEe1rQXJ3XXeSlz2E-AXmP180HH7sxW6XAobhyphenhyphenmMLsQM1Fv1CfUdnw_6Fn9IKsJqgzgEhKFLS5IcY8Jc15BWEGRkqSAwLqvHJbciEJm2ifD3P53WMGbtte4ob5BLKK6GgwjRRQ5T/s320/DSC_0666-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya's frst elephant ride wth Rhonda in Dalat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After arriving back at the top of the
hill we hiked to another tourist spot where Rhonda and Mya experienced their
first elephant ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya knew there were
elephant rides in this region so she was excited to ride. Upon arrival we saw
the large beast in the distance and Mya watched in awe as the trainer brought
the elephant to the platform for the next customer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda wasn’t sure as she’d seen the elephant
shy as a dog barked close by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya took
the stairs up to the platform with the help of her parents eased herself into
the wooden carriage on the back of the elephant. Rhonda overcoming her doubts, joined
Mya for the elephant ride while Jason took photos and Grandpa and Grandma
watched with interest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya loved the
ride and sat like a little princess watching curiously as the animal swayed
from one side to the other along the narrow lake-front path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the elephant ride Mya hiked up the
mountain trail keeping up with the adults as we trudged to the top of the hill.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The second night in Dalat we walked the
uphill street looking for another restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we got to the top we arrived at a square where many vendors were
selling their wares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One fellow had
little rockets which lit up as they shot into the air and then parachuted down
to the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya, of course, wanted
one so Jason bought her one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had fun
pulling on the elastic band and shooting it as hard as she could up in the
air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was concerned that she might
hit someone as she pulled on the elastic, so she would step away from people
before she let it go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were also
small rubber balls which lit up when you bounced them so I said to John, “Get
one of those and we’ll put it away for Christmas for Mya.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just stuck it in my pocket and nothing was
said about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, on Christmas
morning she got her colourful ball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
John and I had been travelling alone, we wouldn’t have taken the opportunity to
enjoy a child’s toy, but traveling with Mya made it so intriguing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-F1gseY0n9HP5bPVeJiqvplGI_7AFBobz4WY5KnIK_KF-UhgFq4ZUjWOcGPTed41GX_HNpAv8oB0wDSrwbyN_K_wcYj6HHO0TtB-reGbFVeaK67EDBHvkoxDkNWfLAefONOTDAatzTYf/s1600/PC176114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-F1gseY0n9HP5bPVeJiqvplGI_7AFBobz4WY5KnIK_KF-UhgFq4ZUjWOcGPTed41GX_HNpAv8oB0wDSrwbyN_K_wcYj6HHO0TtB-reGbFVeaK67EDBHvkoxDkNWfLAefONOTDAatzTYf/s320/PC176114.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Crazy House</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another adventure in Dalat was to
visit the Crazy House, and possibly book a night in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya really wanted to stay there as Rhonda had
told her all about it in Canada when she had checked it out on the
internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we arrived at the Crazy
House we recognized it right away as it looked like a tree with many extended
branches. It was made of cement with more rooms and fanciful characters being
added even as we visited it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were
several bedroom suites for rent and tourists viewed them as they meandered
throughout the narrow cement walkways that joined one part of the creation to
another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were mythical characters
and interesting fabrics and artifacts throughout the rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beds were often raised into a loft and wooden
tables and chairs made into animal shapes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We spent a couple of hours there just enjoying the fantasy but Jason did
not like the idea of staying overnight as it was open to the night breezes and
bugs, so Mya did not get to stay in the Crazy House.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9DSMw53x8zW2xL4fiZppHE5WYrgZeUKg3L2_jBoKllBtkUEZuCiVF4ZM_21lm3tw4ZuWOmtVBktArOxMAdehqWO_Z-JA7tl4FI0zSn_oorNJlom6qP8YAQIG-zKSMroR8qEITJ6VPf6Cw/s1600/PC196267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9DSMw53x8zW2xL4fiZppHE5WYrgZeUKg3L2_jBoKllBtkUEZuCiVF4ZM_21lm3tw4ZuWOmtVBktArOxMAdehqWO_Z-JA7tl4FI0zSn_oorNJlom6qP8YAQIG-zKSMroR8qEITJ6VPf6Cw/s320/PC196267.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I love it Grandma!</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our last night in Dalat was
memorable. Mya loved the silk colourful scarves we had seen in Hoi An stores
but she didn’t have one yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I was
in Hoi An I had purchased a scarf to match my new tailor-made dress but later I
found another one which I thought matched the dress even better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya was in our room watching me dress as I
put on the second scarf for our final night in Dalat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could see she really liked it so I pulled
out the first scarf and handed it to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She took it and looked at me and I said it was a gift for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She immediately hugged me and ran to her
parents’ room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda asked, “Did
Grandma just loan this to you?” but Mya kept saying it was a gift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya returned to our room and climbed up on a
chair so she could see herself in the small mirror and began to try different
ways of tying her scarf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was such a
delight to watch her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She finally
decided she would do what Grandma did, fold it in the middle and wrap it around
the neck and through the fold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
then, it hung down long on her but I saw that scarf many times during our
holiday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was so delighted to see her
wearing her new scarf with her Hanoi white and fuchsia satin dress, as we
headed out to eat in the Art Café. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda
had wanted to eat at the Art Café ever since we had checked it out on a Sunday
when we found it closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had heard
good things about the restaurant but more importantly, the owner was a
well-known artist, hence the name, Art Café.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we sat down to our table, Rhonda and Jason were looking directly at
the painting that Rhonda had seen earlier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They both liked it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since the
artist was willing to take us to the hotel to view his work, we all got up and
left our table and went next door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many
paintings were on the walls and Rhonda and Jason spotted another painting they
both liked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first one measured two
feet by three feet in red tones and was called “Fire Earth"; the second
one in blue tones was only slightly smaller. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason offered to pay cash and the deal was
finalized. They were delighted and so was the painter, Vo Trinh Bien.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rhonda had researched the artist, Vo Trinh
Bien, and discovered that he is internationally known for his style of painting
using his index finger to paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
we ate our meal he painted a small black and white picture using his finger, which
looked like bamboo with our five initials embossed over the background.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John and I now have it hung in our entrance
hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Seven<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9E7T2qiBhF0ndTnhegJFCl_TFdHhHFG9UZkpvpHeKA_MmytxdddXXU4OWX4x2HsRBZHLFWVBCX0uxJKzD7X7Ar1lJoDUx8IxVv7el4lhheGTxAj7b07e8ygteBd3kwtwxVJbUkonYTe2/s1600/PC196278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9E7T2qiBhF0ndTnhegJFCl_TFdHhHFG9UZkpvpHeKA_MmytxdddXXU4OWX4x2HsRBZHLFWVBCX0uxJKzD7X7Ar1lJoDUx8IxVv7el4lhheGTxAj7b07e8ygteBd3kwtwxVJbUkonYTe2/s320/PC196278.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Independent Mya Ready for our Flight to HCMC</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After three days in Dalat we flew to
Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon as many people refer to it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the airport Mya could be seen with her
backpack, one picture tube, and her passport as she approached the customs
agent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were often in awe of her
maturity and independence as she took responsibility for her luggage and even
her passport!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We only had a few hours in
HCMC before our flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, so on arrival we put our time to
good use and visited the Cu Chi Tunnels. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took a taxi to the tunnels, which is one
and a half hours from the airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
tunnels are the only part of our trip that seemed not to change over ten years;
the only difference would be the popularity of the site with the vast number of
tourists viewing them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On arrival we
waited in line to buy tickets while our driver went off to park the vehicle in what
seemed a full parking lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally we
were ushered in and taken down to an underground viewing room, where we watched
a video of the war in Vietnam from 1960-1975. The tunnels were used by the
Vietcong to attack the Vietnamese and the Americans. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had underground food and supply storages,
medical areas, kitchens and HQ centers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some were 60 feet deep! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
tunnels ran for miles underground with air-vents opening into deserted termite
nests where the vents were not readily visible to the naked eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had several escape holes from the
tunnels too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During our tour I
volunteered to get into the tunnel hole and hold the wooden lid above myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got in but I needed help to get out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mya
would have liked to do it but she knew it was too far down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jason tried it too while the rest of the
family watched, but he couldn’t get all the way down because his shoulders were
too broad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guide showed us many
different traps that were used during the war, one being a wooden door with
spikes on the underside that swung over when you stepped on it, causing you to
fall into the pit and be struck with spikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There were also leg traps, like the ones for wild animals that could
break your foot. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcUY63osjCQt6VZlj-2MBxXLxZB89sEBqHOob1jmtsEhnYREUKXulHdhVk5yVBPt_8usvmfEm1T2WzQ4Cg85pXVqBO-r8q0eM1DzMPZYgKxbRNLd-P4lw-PCL6-KycfwCvRYP1XWMy2Sde/s1600/PC196325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcUY63osjCQt6VZlj-2MBxXLxZB89sEBqHOob1jmtsEhnYREUKXulHdhVk5yVBPt_8usvmfEm1T2WzQ4Cg85pXVqBO-r8q0eM1DzMPZYgKxbRNLd-P4lw-PCL6-KycfwCvRYP1XWMy2Sde/s320/PC196325.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa in the Cu Chi Tunnels</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In some of the displays there were mannequins
outfitted in guerrilla garb with the necessary artifacts to demonstrate the
authenticity of the war, so we stood with the display models for more picture
taking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our guide allowed us to go into
a tunnel, which we did with difficulty even though it had been widened for
tourists to get through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We definitely
were bent over and felt somewhat claustrophobic during the experience. We all
opted to get out at the first exit but a few tourists tried to go further where
the tunnels narrowed, with some of them turning back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Chapter Eight</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After touring the Cu Chi tunnels for several hours we caught a taxi to return to the airport to board our afternoon flight for Siem Reap, Cambodia, a forty-five minute flight. We were hungry and after clearing security we had time to eat before our flight. We stopped at an airport Japanese restaurant and had sushi, which was a nice change from Vietnamese food. On arrival in Siem Reap we took a taxi to our five-star Tara Angkor Hotel, pre-booked on the internet. Mya immediately headed for the hotel pool to swim. It had been a long day and we were tired so we all relaxed poolside in loungers then ordered food and drinks from the pool attendants’ station. Cambodia seemed hotter than Hoi Chi Ming and the cooling pool waters were just what we needed. Siem Reap has grown in popularity with wall to wall resort-style hotels and restaurants. We spent two nights and two full days here visiting the ancient sites. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nose to Nose in Cambodia</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Siem Reap has become a tourist mecca, reflected in the high costs but it is a “must see” if one is interested in ancient temples of the Khmer Empire. There are beautiful five-star hotels lining the streets all the way from the airport into Siem Reap and there are an abundance of restaurants, but everything costs more than in Vietnam. We were glad we only booked two nights as that’s all you really need. Mya enjoyed going through Angkor Wat as much as we did even though we had to walk for hours in the heat to see all of the buildings and different sites. It’s amazing to observe her curiosity about different cultures and new environments. She never seemed to be bored. We rode elephants, which Mya especially enjoyed as a fun and different mode of transportation and we</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">fed roadside monkeys. Mya fed bananas to the elephants and also to the monkeys which was a harder task because some of the monkeys were very aggressive.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewJk0UBwrAaggZfnxeRnFYF6StMOKqGqPdkxoIL1qfa-Z5s1GoUDxiLT9TmFSffCo7nitqjKX68Yqe-8_CoXgxEFC7GKdvaMMbqUHnxKrB5H31AWWgNHg43-nK6rES_Gy_pU-kSUcXJUQ/s1600/DSC_0368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewJk0UBwrAaggZfnxeRnFYF6StMOKqGqPdkxoIL1qfa-Z5s1GoUDxiLT9TmFSffCo7nitqjKX68Yqe-8_CoXgxEFC7GKdvaMMbqUHnxKrB5H31AWWgNHg43-nK6rES_Gy_pU-kSUcXJUQ/s320/DSC_0368.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you want this banana?</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Angkor Wat, built in the 12th century, is considered one of the seven-wonders-of-the-world and if you visit it you will know why! We stayed around the main site the first day and our tickets were checked regularly as we wandered from one part of the huge complex to another. The tickets cost us $20 each and they were good for one 24 hour period so we were able to leave the site in early afternoon and then return after a needed lunch break. One of the benefits of travelling with Mya was that if she got tired and needed a rest, it gave us an excuse to rest!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We took lots of photos around the ancient site using the panoramic view of the structures as a backdrop for our photos, especially Bayon, which has a small lake in front of it so we could get the reflection of the temple. The giant stone faces of Bayon have become one of the most recognizable images connected to classic Khmer art and architecture. There are 37 standing towers, most but not all, sporting four carved faces oriented toward the cardinal points. We visited the site on December 21st which happened to be a holy day so we were not able to climb up to the top of the temple. We also visited two more temple sites close to Angkor Wat. One is Angkor Thom, which we enjoyed because it had many gnarled trees entangled in the stonework. The trees appeared like reptiles with their twisted roots being pushed around the strong rocks. The other site, Ta Som, had even more contorted trees entrapped in the stone work which made for fascinating black and white photos. There are so many temples and ruins located in this area but the most important are Angkor Wat and Bayon. A history student would want to spend several days exploring the whole complex but it was enough for us to see three sites. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJhKt7KhMJfEgkKhdtbrnTF-IIhBc2fLaWYgFSwV-7rHWFZ642qj9VeUMI0BLpT85QVg0E-k1KQO0wew3dMXLRTHjDZoFOvPXhZHYj-WEoaJf4GVKYpec-PPWb2TfOxLzgXmkenwWujII/s1600/PC216453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJhKt7KhMJfEgkKhdtbrnTF-IIhBc2fLaWYgFSwV-7rHWFZ642qj9VeUMI0BLpT85QVg0E-k1KQO0wew3dMXLRTHjDZoFOvPXhZHYj-WEoaJf4GVKYpec-PPWb2TfOxLzgXmkenwWujII/s320/PC216453.JPG" width="219" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twisted Trees at Angkor Thom</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">On the second day to Angkor we were allowed to enter the grounds without paying as we asked the day before if it would be possible to go in and ride the elephants. Mya loved riding the elephant, especially since both Mom and Dad would be riding with her. She was so small compared to this huge animal and we watched her bouncing along in the wooden chair behind the mahout, as John and I followed on another elephant. The workers had the rides well organized and it looked like the animals were well cared for. After that we searched out our tuk-tuks, our unique two-wheeled wagons attached to a motorcycle, and asked the drivers to stop so we could feed the monkeys. Since it was still early in the day the hungry monkeys were grabbing food from people, with or without permission. It was quite funny as we watched a lady who was riding a bicycle; lose her plastic bag from her handle bars to an inquisitive primate.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After three days in Cambodia we hired tuk-tuks to take us to the airport as we had enjoyed the experience of riding them around the ancient site. It took longer than a taxi but was great fun weaving in and around the traffic with our luggage stacked high. We arrived at the airport with all our backpacks and suitcases to depart for Hoi Chi Minh City in late afternoon. </span></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Nine</span></span></u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rhonda with Elephant Fish</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jason with Python</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On arrival in HCMC we piled into our taxi van, which had been pre-arranged earlier in the week, to drive to My Tho. Although our flight had been delayed, our driver patiently waited for us and took us to My Tho, a two-hour drive, where we found a hotel of choice and were soon asleep in comfortable beds. We opted to stop at My Tho and drive to Can Tho the next day to enjoy two aspects of the Mekong Delta. The next morning we took a two-hour boat ride moving along canals and under bridges and stopped for an elephant fish lunch along the river bank. The fish was so large that you can understand where they got the name. After this we went to see pythons which John and Jason “bravely”placed around their necks. While in this riverside forest we enjoyed local honey drinks while the bees buzzed around the honey pot and later we visited a local candy factory where young women stood to a long table wrapping small white square candies. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ha cutting pineapple in Mekong Delta</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We departed My Tho and travelled by taxi to Can Tho arriving by three in the afternoon and settled into a hotel near the river’s edge and close to the market. This was probably not one of our favorite hotels but a great river view! After an early-to-bed evening, we were ready for another tour of the Mekong Delta the next morning before boarding our flight to Phu Quoc Island where we would spend Christmas, basking in the sun of the South China Sea. We had a pleasant , 37 year old English speaking guide named Ha. She made us earrings from drinking straws which we put on our ears including Jason and John. Our boat maneuvered alongside other boats which had samples of their merchandise hanging from flag poles in the floating market. We saw sweet potatoes, watermelons, pineapples, pumpkins and sometimes a combination of produce, swinging in the breeze as well as other products like cooking utensils or bottled drinks. We purchased a watermelon and a pineapple from a vendor whereupon Ha trimmed them into beautiful shapes, dropping the peelings into the Mekong, before presenting the delicious fruit to us. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John and Doreen (Mya's Grandparents)</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After tipping our guide we returned to our hotel and then John, Mya, and I took off to find Christmas decorations. Mya had her own money to purchase decorations and she had her heart set on garlands, which weren’t easy to find. However, after much perseverance in the hot sun and walking on many streets inquiring where to buy Christmas ornaments, we finally found what we were looking for, at which point we purchased a small Christmas tree and Mya bought her colourful garlands of red, blue and green. As we walked toward our hotel in the heat of the day we spotted Ha riding her motorbike. She stopped and offered me a ride when she realized I wasn’t feeling well. I hopped on the bike while John and Mya continued their walk. We met in a pre-arranged restaurant for something to eat, joining Jason and Rhonda. We then returned to our hotel for quick showers and the drive to the airport. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Chapter Ten</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrived at the brand new airport which had only been opened a few days. Our plane was delayed for Phu Quoc Island but it was only a 45 minute flight and we arrived mid afternoon. Since our shuttle for our hotel was not there we took two taxis, on the drivers’ recommendations, costing us more and arriving at Kim Hoa Resort to a cranky receptionist when we asked for compensation for the cost of the taxis. The drivers had said that the hotel would cover the cost, but that was not the case. Mya couldn’t wait to swim so her mother gave her permission to swim in her clothes until we could unpack. She loved the cool water in the hotel pool and swam from one side to the other while the adults arranged the rooms. After a rocky start we were given two lovely bungalows a few feet from the warm water of the South China Sea. Mya decorated the rooms immediately so I helped her string the garlands onto the mosquito netting supports in both cabins. She flipped the garlands around and around until they covered the string, putting four in our cabin and four in her cabin. Then we sat on the front porch and cut out white paper snowflakes and pasted them around the front windows of each bungalow fastening the snowflakes with scotch tape and soon the cabins looked very festive. We were ready for Christmas the next day! </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Morning arrived on the shores of Phu Quoc Island</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Santa arrived at both cabins for Mya. He left a note in her cabin to say that Santa had left most of her gifts in Powell River, and when Mya came to our cabin she had gifts to open too. They were on the spare bed in colourful tissue paper, brought from home for the occasion, and encircling the little Christmas tree. The first gift she unwrapped was a Vietnamese doll about fourteen inches tall and dressed in pretty fuchsia colors. Next were two little items and lastly a colourful ball that shone colours when one bounced it on the floor. We took photos of Mya in her sleepy appearance with the ball colours reflecting on her face, as she stretched out on the bed. Later she took all the streamers down and took them to the sandy beach to make patterns around the small Christmas tree in the sand. We took more photos. It was a Christmas morning to remember! Mya’s parents were even able to enjoy a sleep-in after probably being wakened at the first sign of daybreak!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While on Phu Quoc Island we went swimming daily, enjoying the warm and inviting water with its clean beach. It was easy to get into the sea because it was so warm, in fact, warmer than the waters off the Pacific Coast north of Puerto Vallarta in Mexico where we stay for three months every year from January through March. We also had a swimming pool behind our bungalows where we could take a refreshing swim.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mya loved her massages</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The women resort employees gave inexpensive massages to guests. We took advantage of the massages and enjoyed the attention and relaxation we received, sometimes getting two or three massages a day since it was so inexpensive, costing two to three dollars each for over an hour! However, the champion massage client was Mya. She loved getting them but told her mother she wanted the masseuse to press harder. I guess they didn’t want to hurt this little child. After they got used to Mya returning for more massages, at least twice a day, they gave her the complete treatment.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One day, after Mya had had a massage she said to me, “Grandma I’ll give you a massage.” I said, “Okay”, thinking she would gently massage my back, but her little hands pushed thoroughly on my back and across my neck. I was surprised at her strength. After doing this for a few minutes she said, “Turn over on your stomach,” which I did then she said, ”Take off your top.” I said, “No, Mya.” Then she said, “Everyone does Grandma.” Well I wasn’t about to take off my tankini bathing suit top. I started to laugh and called John and as I did Mya said, “Oh, never mind,” as she continued to rub my shoulders. I guess she figured she was in trouble if I called Grandpa. Much later I had my first real massage and discovered that I needed to wear a bra-type top so I could undo it for my back massage. What you don’t learn from your granddaughter!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am writing about Mya as though through rose-coloured glasses, and perhaps I am, but Mya’s disposition was superb throughout the whole holiday. She began the day early, bright eyed and ready to experience the day’s adventures until late in the evening without a break and definitely with more physical activity than most of us. She swam every day where it was possible and she would often play by herself on the beach or with other children if they were in the vicinity. She interacted with four adults constantly as well as any other visitors we might meet along the way. She was very tolerant. While dining, she would put her little head right down on the table if there was no other place to lay her weary head. We tried to provide a bench or soft area for her to lie down, sometimes putting her head on her mother’s lap and when we were through dining, Jason would pick her up and carry her to our unit or catch a cab if it was too far to walk. This happened frequently to end our busy Vietnam days. She often fell asleep at a restaurant in the evening after she had eaten some of her supper. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On December 26th we decided to celebrate Christmas by going to a fancy restaurant that Jason and Rhonda had reconnoitered earlier in the day. We dressed in our fancy clothes and caught a cab to take us to this beautiful resort, about ten minutes away. We had set up a bench for Mya, against the wall, before we started our meal as we knew she wouldn’t last long and sure enough, she had only a couple of bites of her favorite meal, a “cheese only” pizza, before it was “lights out” for Mya. We spent a lovely evening together enjoying the best meal of our island holiday, while Mya slept on her bench, which was probably one of her more comfortable early evening sleeping spots!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next morning we stayed on the beach as long as possible and then packed our bags to be ready for the two o’clock airport shuttle for our flight to HCMC.</span></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Eleven</span></span></u></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We had a hotel booked from the internet for HCMC. We wanted a central hotel but also a little upscale which suited our needs with our family. We were delighted once again with our rooms and the service. We were pleasantly amazed at the quality of accommodation for the price. Vietnam is still cheap enough to travel even though the quality has improved exceedingly in the last ten years, as more tourists discover this gem. John thinks Vietnam will become more expensive in the next few years. We felt lucky to experience it before it becomes costly and too crowded.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Near our hotel we found the excellent Zanzibar Restaurant. We enjoyed the ambience and relaxed while Mya ate her cheese pizza and then immediately fell asleep with her head on Rhonda’s lap. We ate in the same restaurant again the next night before our flight which didn’t leave until nearly midnight. Vietnamese restaurants are in abundance on every street so we had many choices but having experienced a delicious meal at the Zanzibar Restaurant with a euphoric atmosphere, why not repeat the experience!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Vietnam is beautiful with fields of rice paddies, green valleys, warm ocean waters, mountains and forests. The people are friendly and helpful and many speak English, especially in the larger centers. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After dinner we went back to our hotel passing all the beautiful hanging Christmas garlands that filled our street. It was a sight to behold and continued to keep us in awe each time we ventured from our hotel. That’s one benefit of traveling at Christmas, being able to see all the beautiful Christmas decorations! On arrival at the hotel we immediately collected our luggage and brought it to the reception. We ordered a taxi to take us to the airport, about a forty-minute drive from the hotel. We got to the Asiana Air check-in counter at the International Terminal and soon had our bags checked for Seattle, USA, via Seoul, Korea. It was late in the evening and we were all tired before our 23:50 flight. I can’t say enough about the good service we received from Asiana Air. </span></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Twelve</span></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">On arrival at 6:55 am in Seoul we were taken by shuttle to a hotel owned by the airline and given a room each and a meal since our flight did not leave until 18:40 in late afternoon. That meant we had twelve hours in which to rest, shower, eat and relax. John and I found ourselves asleep for the first few hours in a beautifully decorated ultra-modern room. John said that the toilet operation needed a course in “Bidet 101” as it was so complex with all the buttons and whistles along the side of the toilet seat. At 11:30 a.m. we received a call from the reception that lunch was served in the restaurant on the bottom floor. As we were gathering ourselves together, Mya arrived at the door and planned to go to the restaurant with us. Rhonda and Jason told her she could not disturb us in the morning but it was okay now. We took the elevator down to the main floor with Mya. We had no idea we were about to learn a difficult lesson.</span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></u></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now every time I enter an elevator I think about the elevator in Seoul, Korea, with Mya. John was standing near the operating panel and I was off to one side while Mya stood at the back of the elevator. As we arrived at the first floor and we started to leave the elevator, Mya cried out, “My arm is stuck!” She had dropped her little elbow behind a metal round bar and couldn’t get it out. I told John to lift her up, but Mya cried louder as it hurt too much. We realized we needed help. John stayed with Mya to reassure her as she tried not to panic. I got out and told the reception that we had an emergency. They didn’t understand until they heard Mya crying, as the elevator returned to the reception floor. Someone on Floor #3 had pushed the button and John and Mya ascended to #3 and John said, “Push # 1 please, we have an emergency.” In the meantime I took the second elevator and got to the 6th floor for Jason and Rhonda. Jason was boarding the elevator as I arrived and I told him that Mya was stuck and he needed to come now. We rode the elevator down together and Jason immediately went to Mya. By this time the crew had the door locked open so the elevator didn’t move from the first floor. Jason tried to lift Mya up and he got the same reaction as John. In the meantime the managerial staff arrived with a drill to remove the screws out of the bar. However, the bar wouldn’t budge, even with all three men trying to pull on it. This all happened within minutes. I asked Jason where Rhonda was and he said, “She’s in the restaurant”,so I dashed down the stairs and looked into the restaurant and saw Rhonda holding a glass of juice in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. I signaled her to come quickly. She dropped everything and came hurrying across the floor. As we entered the stairwell I told her it was Mya, but that she was all right. As we ascended the stairs, Rhonda heard, “911.” She knew I had said, “Mya is all right” but she caught the words, “911.” On arrival to the first floor Rhonda immediately went to Mya to reassure her and saw that she was caught in the bar. By this time three men arrived from a fire unit and one returned to the truck to get a “jaws of life” tool. He didn’t cut the bar, but used it as leverage to move the bar with the help of his two buddies. In the meantime I stood behind a pillar and bawled my eyes out and I kept thinking of Mya stuck behind that bar and I felt so badly that my heart ached. Finally, which seemed like a life-time but in reality was only a few minutes, I could hear a sigh of relief from behind the pillar as Mya was set free. I came around the pillar with tears in my eyes and Mya saw me and immediately came and gave me a hug. She must have known how sorry I felt for her and wanted to console me. After a moment she went to her daddy who picked her up and held her to him. The staff offered to take her to the hospital but Rhonda and Jason both said, “She’ll be fine.” Mya said her arm hurt, but we knew it would only be temporary. We were so thankful for the maturity that Mya had shown in such a stress-filled event. We went down to eat our lunch but I couldn’t eat for awhile as I was still filled with sorrow. John, Jason and Rhonda handled it much better than I did. Later when we got on a people-mover bus at the airport and Mya was sitting with John and I, Mya said to me, “I’m not going to stand over near that bar.” I think that was the understatement of our holiday!</span></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chapter Thirteen</span></span></u></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our flight from Seoul, Korea to Seattle was without incident. It only took nine and a half hours compared to twelve hours in the opposite direction so we were pleasantly surprised. We had excellent service once again and we even obtained one extra seat for Mya to lie down and sleep.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrived in Seattle at 11:30 in the morning and we immediately called a taxi to take us to Sleep Inn Hotel to pick up our truck. The receptionist was on the phone at the hotel so we just took our bags through the reception area into the parking area off the main floor. Jason had the truck backed up and ready as we loaded our five large bags, five small backpacks, and two picture tubes into the box, covered it with our roll top and climbed into our vehicle and headed north on Interstate-5 for Vancouver. Jason drove and we had no glitches, except hail and snow, but none of it lasted. Jason and Rhonda were hoping to get to Powell River today, the 29th of December. It meant we needed to make good time through the border and down the main streets of Vancouver to Ann and Frank’s place in Burnaby, where John and I would be dropped off while Jason, Rhonda and Mya continued home to Powell River. Talk about timing! We arrived at the Nadalini’s at 16:45, dropped our luggage on the lawn, and quickly said our goodbyes as John reminded Jay to drive safely as they sprinted for the 17:30 ferry. We gathered our belongings and entered the Nadalini house where we were greeted warmly. Jason phoned at exactly 17:30 and said they were on the ferry. It couldn’t have been better timing!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our Vietnamese holiday surpassed all our expectations! We all have fond memories, flash backs and “remember when” comments from Mya of our holiday in Vietnam. We all agreed it was a wonderful journey of interesting experiences, delicious healthy food and grand sites, but especially family built memories to last a lifetime. Relationships are built on trust and love and both were expressed so many times over and over again during our family holiday. For me, the beauty and pleasure of this travel experience, was seeing Vietnam with our seven-year-old granddaughter, Mya!</span></span></div>
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-129500742581395502012-12-16T21:39:00.004-08:002012-12-23T08:08:22.878-08:00BUDGET TRAVEL TO JORDAN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There Is More To Jordan Than Petra<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9fwB3k6bpWvk15b3qZ8JzefdyEEvbki_n_S2RFSttxLQLF2MttomwumyraBLuyT6wZ1IHfjzhsdfdocjsEV87dq74wRC6DmVfRcKYbu3Imxx9od5OmUuz-JBStYRFnqUuV9kP0gOLJnk/s1600/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9fwB3k6bpWvk15b3qZ8JzefdyEEvbki_n_S2RFSttxLQLF2MttomwumyraBLuyT6wZ1IHfjzhsdfdocjsEV87dq74wRC6DmVfRcKYbu3Imxx9od5OmUuz-JBStYRFnqUuV9kP0gOLJnk/s200/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+210.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>One of the many roadside sellers. </strong><br />
<strong> Our driver stopped and purchased olives for his family</strong>.</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is more to Jordan
than Petra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We flew into Amman and used the
capital city as our hub to visit Jerash and the desert castles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Driving to Jerash we passed olive groves and
many roadside stalls selling olives. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An
impromptu stop at an olive oil factory resulted in a lunch presentation by the staff
of bread and freshly squeezed olive oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jerash's ancient ruins are in abundance displaying Roman amphitheatres,
Roman roads, castles, hippodromes where chariot races took place and Roman
forums encircled by Corinthian columns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On to Madaba, south of
Amman, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and Mount Nebo where Moses was to
see the Promised Land but he would not enter it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jordan is filled with Biblical sites
including John the Baptist's wilderness and the Jordan River where John
baptized Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We drove the King's
Highway, the ancient trade route for the past 3000 years, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>from Madaba to Petra snaking through Wadi
Mujib, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the "Grand Canyon" of
Jordan, briefing stopping at Karak Castle and ending our day at Dana with its
diversified eco-system to overnight at Tower Hotel, renovated from ancient
stone blocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next day we hiked
Little Petra and then drove <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to world
famous Petra where we stayed two full days. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvCS0dC-lLFy-YHdoqd1HGqAqV2RDQHm1uPpV_lGLRAKUVtbdozWwnNIkDojlgQljGE9YACyhGcdcKAL1FwPTDZNSBz7fX9CrHlVtzKhxLVvMymRp8N9jRka8Z5wAofBh40Zm2dQqC_wt/s1600/PETRA+135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvCS0dC-lLFy-YHdoqd1HGqAqV2RDQHm1uPpV_lGLRAKUVtbdozWwnNIkDojlgQljGE9YACyhGcdcKAL1FwPTDZNSBz7fX9CrHlVtzKhxLVvMymRp8N9jRka8Z5wAofBh40Zm2dQqC_wt/s200/PETRA+135.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Early morning walk along</strong><br />
<strong> the 1200m. narrow siq</strong>.</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Petra is a place we wished
to visit for years and had finally decided this was the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rock canyon walls were spectacular as we
walked the Siq entrance to the Treasury taking pictures in awe of the Djinn
Blocks and Obelisk Tomb in the massive sig walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The morning
light was perfect as the sun was just coming up and the deep shadows on the
high cliff were contrasted with the distant sunlit hills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hired two mules and set off with two young
lads to guide us to the High Place of Sacrifice and on to the Monastery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a journey going over the steeps bluffs
and stone staircases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We seemed to be
going either straight up or straight down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They say that Petra is "a rose-red city half as old as
time..."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>( from Dean Burgon's
famous poem).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many tombs on
site, temples, and huge facades carved into the red and yellow sandstone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Petra is beyond words as we marvel at its
vast <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>beauty and its integrity over two
millenniums. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Our breakfast at Caravan Desert </strong><br />
<strong>Camp. Huge with variety</strong>!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>After
Petra we drove to Wadi Rum and enjoyed a desert camp for two nights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was pure relaxation as we lay Arabian style on the
mats and pillows arranged in the outdoor visitor's area, sometimes playing
cards or reading, or sleeping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The staff
catered solely to us as we were the only guests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had the best </strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong>meals on our trip at
this desert tent camp as we had a five star chef who presented <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a variety of dishes with great flare for every
meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stay included a 4x4 drive
visiting Lawrence of Arabia's home and a chance to climb sand dunes for a
spectacular view of the vast desert sands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were truly spoiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the
second morning we hired a camel driver who was waiting in the dark with two
camels to take us to view the sunrise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
an adventure as we quietly climbed the sand dunes and waited for the sun to
appear on the horizon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were mesmerized
with the time exposures as the earth turned and the sun rose to its full glory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hated to leave Caravan Desert Camp, this
pure solitude of the desert, but the Red Sea was calling.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong>As we drove to Aqaba on
the Red Sea we observed the numerous container trucks on the highway, as the port city is<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the main shipping
center of Jordan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After finding our
hotel we strolled to the harbour where we hired a glass bottom boat tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We circled some of the tankers in the bay and
saw one that had burn damage from a recent fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later we <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>took a shuttle to a private beach south of
Aqaba and enjoyed snorkeling and swimming for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were many colourful fish and I saw a
lion fish which I was glad to avoid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Around
four in the afternoon we returned to our hotel and then went out for supper where
we enjoyed sayadieh (a fish and rice dish cooked with lots of caramelized
onions) and kanefe,( a rich buttery cheese and syrupy dessert.) <o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>An odd sensation to be able to float for hours.</strong></td></tr>
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<strong></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong>After Aqaba we drove to
the Dead Sea and stayed in a fabulous modern resort right on the edge of the
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We covered ourselves in mud,
waded into the warm water and floated as long as we wanted without
sinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's a fabulous feeling!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
fun!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong>There is so much to see
and enjoy in Jordan and we felt safe and relaxed as we toured this marvelous
country. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>November is probably the best
time of year to visit as it's weather perfect with sunny days in the mid 20's and very
little rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We used a local tour
company called Jordan Beauty Tours and they met our every need, even upgrading
our Aqaba hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Petra was certainly a
highlight of this country, but there is much more to see.</strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><strong></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EXHmj_ZEUzg8M4rzRLebxKPcRYraFuvbtdM5lP4ZnC9WradFsG-F3WcUu_6oXZ8s6gsDG2ohjUe40T7wMW9uySqp-aQNA2VD99ug4WIbfeQQJnSeWZDivPrwVOGJOn9Fxz7q78di1iHF/s1600/PETRA+493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EXHmj_ZEUzg8M4rzRLebxKPcRYraFuvbtdM5lP4ZnC9WradFsG-F3WcUu_6oXZ8s6gsDG2ohjUe40T7wMW9uySqp-aQNA2VD99ug4WIbfeQQJnSeWZDivPrwVOGJOn9Fxz7q78di1iHF/s200/PETRA+493.JPG" width="200" /></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Our transportation to the High Place of Sacrific</strong><br />
<strong> for a bird's eye view of Petra</strong></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gUOrYHEmU8asa973f2ikiS7fytZJ0_7s_JSxccc1gnt2f3X2Xx70eW4dfEWE76UN6TMdp1aYZmHCITleg3Kyo8BIcgsoiCw1zAwNZj4xEpEXP-elrGsSHnX7SJ8eSPdQONzHuqHXO6O-/s1600/072-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gUOrYHEmU8asa973f2ikiS7fytZJ0_7s_JSxccc1gnt2f3X2Xx70eW4dfEWE76UN6TMdp1aYZmHCITleg3Kyo8BIcgsoiCw1zAwNZj4xEpEXP-elrGsSHnX7SJ8eSPdQONzHuqHXO6O-/s200/072-001.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>After climbing the sand dunes, the view from</strong><br />
<strong> the rock cliff at Wadi Rum.</strong></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd39zsABSxJW0GPe8R3-cfdKUckc-qlMjX2VxSrLO1YLAahLjlUoFxuCaOk9A7i_i0zcEFpIinNaXfnMgku8tNqlS5J1nypp2xqZ8IxqYhCMTK18X0fukniq4HXBiaVji5mkzMXYtVg1g/s1600/PETRA+188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd39zsABSxJW0GPe8R3-cfdKUckc-qlMjX2VxSrLO1YLAahLjlUoFxuCaOk9A7i_i0zcEFpIinNaXfnMgku8tNqlS5J1nypp2xqZ8IxqYhCMTK18X0fukniq4HXBiaVji5mkzMXYtVg1g/s200/PETRA+188.JPG" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 466px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 2229px;" width="72" /></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><o:p></o:p></strong></span> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtri3rvyhUgLUf8ZBGRSX4Q22Yn1FxbbQTm3H0DAGUKquWzGVrTnnp0tf3aB5hz9RA-xQ4hDWKP0Iyk_t5bbozK8w2jdh6o5nH8I0B69dEvYuo4ZhxYg0haPiuyVFeSgDWJXIAn9OTIhK0/s1600/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtri3rvyhUgLUf8ZBGRSX4Q22Yn1FxbbQTm3H0DAGUKquWzGVrTnnp0tf3aB5hz9RA-xQ4hDWKP0Iyk_t5bbozK8w2jdh6o5nH8I0B69dEvYuo4ZhxYg0haPiuyVFeSgDWJXIAn9OTIhK0/s200/JORDAN-AMMAN+TO+DANA+2012+564.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Floor mosaic reprsenting the oldest map of Palestine.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;">. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd39zsABSxJW0GPe8R3-cfdKUckc-qlMjX2VxSrLO1YLAahLjlUoFxuCaOk9A7i_i0zcEFpIinNaXfnMgku8tNqlS5J1nypp2xqZ8IxqYhCMTK18X0fukniq4HXBiaVji5mkzMXYtVg1g/s1600/PETRA+188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd39zsABSxJW0GPe8R3-cfdKUckc-qlMjX2VxSrLO1YLAahLjlUoFxuCaOk9A7i_i0zcEFpIinNaXfnMgku8tNqlS5J1nypp2xqZ8IxqYhCMTK18X0fukniq4HXBiaVji5mkzMXYtVg1g/s200/PETRA+188.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Standing at the alter area after our donkey</strong><br />
<strong> ride up the steep trail!</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Watch for a second posting that will include hotel and tour company information. We organizd the tour in Canada with Ali at Jordan Beauty Tours whose office is located in Petra. This was a lot cheaper then booking through a N.American company. If you wish further information please contact us at <a href="mailto:jedmberg@yahoo.com">jedmberg@yahoo.com</a>.</strong><br />
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<br />jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-89693510062125182612012-12-05T16:44:00.001-08:002012-12-05T16:44:13.512-08:00<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: blue;">Tequila Has it All, Except the Mexican Riviera Beaches<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>GOING ON TOUR</strong></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> Story and Photos</span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> by John and Doreen
Berg<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Mexican tourists mention Tequila, numerous images spring
to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Certainly, one thought that is
often overlooked is to consider Tequila as a multifaceted tourist
destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The majority of tourists
visiting Tequila simply tour a distillery and partake of its famous drink then immediately
return to the Puerto Vallarta coastal area or to the Guadalajara region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tequila and the surrounding countryside has
much more to offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The inquisitive
tourist is able to plan excursions to visit exceptional museums, historical sites,
natural springs, concentrical pyramids, spherical boulders and photographical
landscapes as well as taste-testing tequila, and all at a reasonable price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What more could the intrepid tourist wish for?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each winter season, Doreen and I abandon the damp chilling British
Columbia rains to enjoy the warm dazzling sun and clear sparkling waters of the
Mexican Riviera, Nayarit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basking on the
beach with warm sands trickling between our toes, with pristine waters washing
against the shore, and with frequent fitness hikes continue to be our Mexican
activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, after a month or so
we require an alternative to enjoying our beach paradise and our decadent
lifestyle and must seek different destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Last season we visited Tequila and enjoyed the town's ambiance so we
decided to revisit Tequila and expand our travel plans to include excursions to
two nearby archaeological sites:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Los
Guachimontones and Piedras Bola.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
interior destinations seemed the ideal region for us to visit as we both enjoy
exploring Mexican ruins and learning more about the regional history.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">An 8:30 a.m. start, saw us loading our one suitcase into the
back of our rented Jeep Cherokee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
drove from Rincón de Guayabitos, stopping at Las Varas to enjoy a breakfast in
our favorite restaurant, La Birra de Angelita.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After hueves rancheros and a Mexican omelette washed down with numerous
cups of coffee, we headed toward Compostela, where we switched to the toll road
(cuota) and continued driving to Chapalilla and here changed back to the free
road (libra).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the roadside many
small pottery stalls can be found.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's a
great place to pause to purchase pottery gift items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our purchase was four different shaped and
coloured coffee mug sets for family Christmas gifts!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nice when you luck out as the four kids loved
the gift mugs!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Lunch pool side</strong></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Continuing along Highway 15 the next major town encountered
is Ahaucatlán.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On this year's trip we
elected not to turn off to again visit the wonderful hot springs at Burranca de
Oro.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The springs are located deep in a
narrow canyon with sturdy access walkways, adequate change rooms, and a variety
of swimming pools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Located at the
canyon's rim is a restaurant and accommodations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last year our group of four spent an
enjoyable few hours swimming, exploring and consuming a poolside lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Barranca de Oro would be a convenient
overnight stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, we elected to
push on to Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Attempt to find time
to enjoy Barranca de Oro as it is a fascinating spot and will be a complete
surprise.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We returned to Highway 27 driving to Etzatlán junction where
we turned north to Magdalena to join the toll road to Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The secondary road is satisfactory but expect
rough sections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If in no hurry, Highway
15 is a scenic drive passing through farmlands and small villages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An alternate to consider is to drive back to
Ahaucatlán and take the faster toll highway directly to Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the elevated Tequila approach highway
you can enjoy sweeping views of the agave fields.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The area was declared a World Heritage site
in 2006!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This trip we managed an earlier mid-afternoon arrival at
Hotel La Rienda Mision Tequillan's enclosed parking area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel is centrally located in Tequila's
historic downtown area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once checked in
it was a short walk to visit the 17th Century Santiago Apostol Church and a few
meters away is the Plaza de Arms, complete with a colourful bandstand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Located just off the square is the Sauza
Family Grandparent's Museum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The museum
is certainly worth a visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here you'll
find personal artifacts that once belonged to the Sauze family, as well as
displays depicting the traditional tequila-making process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After our museum visit we noticed tequila
keg-shaped vehicles parked nearby. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Couldn't miss them! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After inquiring we booked a distillery tour
for the following morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next was a
search for an evening meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
checking out several restaurants we decided to dine at Cafe Rossy and later
watch the social interactions in the plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A few night photos and it was back to the hotel to tuck in.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wNdtDNpOdcrnfz4Goh7b7Noq-vx_ef1D65B5RRysQ_3uj61t0UCGEhEUaXckVvb_eiKSXM_UNbOOMoknp81IrI5Z-y-M1fyq72BLbW8bZiaz4yjCcwlE_uBmzZynoNOxISe3WuCTjB08/s1600/P3122939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wNdtDNpOdcrnfz4Goh7b7Noq-vx_ef1D65B5RRysQ_3uj61t0UCGEhEUaXckVvb_eiKSXM_UNbOOMoknp81IrI5Z-y-M1fyq72BLbW8bZiaz4yjCcwlE_uBmzZynoNOxISe3WuCTjB08/s200/P3122939.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Probably the most popular distillery tour is the José Cuervo
Distillery as its within easy walking distance from the plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having visited three distilleries over the
seasons, José Cuervo, La Cofradia and Romo, we recommend the Romo Distillery
Tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tour provided a visit to the
original distillery area where we were able to view the old washing stands
where once ladies chatted as they washed their clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did these ancient wash stands evolve into our
present day laundromats? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next stop was a
visit to Distillery Reyes, an older equipped factory which only operates part
of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a brief tour and a
few sample drinks we felt an obligation to purchase an almond tequila drink
which, I'm sure, pleased everyone.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvLMsjtg3o2aYt0qWnGBWzPm4TNaC8wd0W1L9X3sYzdK0pjIy11PTXDauwEt4BBQL5XawaMSI36hiR0TKi1tA9UY3aoniXBuez7Yf69TSbGVfsCjXTbQ_Q0PHxsBYwjS3-xUFkOJjrVv9/s1600/P3123056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvLMsjtg3o2aYt0qWnGBWzPm4TNaC8wd0W1L9X3sYzdK0pjIy11PTXDauwEt4BBQL5XawaMSI36hiR0TKi1tA9UY3aoniXBuez7Yf69TSbGVfsCjXTbQ_Q0PHxsBYwjS3-xUFkOJjrVv9/s200/P3123056.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Back on the Tequila bus to visit a blue-tinted agave field
followed by a tour of the Romo Distillery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At the time of our visit the plant was in full operation enabling us to
enjoy the sweet smell of cooked agave nectar wafting through the spotlessly
clean distillery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was surprised, for
safety reasons, at how near the tour guide brought us to moving tractors and
operational machinery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The keg tour bus
returned us to Plaza de Arms where a visit to an obsidian (volcanic rock) stall
led to a home factory visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we
chatted and admired the curved obsidian shapes the owner invited us to his home
workshop to view how the beautiful obsidian pieces were made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short taxi ride brought us to his abode.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHn6XIRpRdcSsz1-SPwXf1GbPOZj2LolxWLvWq70JEzxHHswpYeJP6D1MCW5u2kGq3L4D5cyIVVbvMmP3rKKNAgFxHCAHJGqiHuBC65xWvc1b6UQgXBgCK9ACQHaMTmeq2YYa3iRh94VG7/s1600/P3123101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHn6XIRpRdcSsz1-SPwXf1GbPOZj2LolxWLvWq70JEzxHHswpYeJP6D1MCW5u2kGq3L4D5cyIVVbvMmP3rKKNAgFxHCAHJGqiHuBC65xWvc1b6UQgXBgCK9ACQHaMTmeq2YYa3iRh94VG7/s200/P3123101.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We entered the living quarters and passed through to the rear
factory area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a large workshop where
four or five workers were busy working at various machines cutting, shaping and
polishing obsidian pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Out of all
the designs the ever-popular heart shape was the favourite as it allows one to
appreciate the beautiful colours of the rainbow obsidian and it sells well
too!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen fell in love with a
beautiful 20 -25 cm tall female statue of silver sheen obsidian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time, the price caused us to
reconsider its purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, in hindsight,
Doreen wishes she had purchased the lovely lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over time the price would be forgotten but
the statue's beauty would continue to be enjoyed in our living room. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or this is what I'm being led to believe! The
final event of the day was a dinner at El Palmolar Restaurant on the church
square.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day after a breakfast at the market we visited,
Nunat, the National Museum of Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
museum depicted the history of tequila making complete with tequila bottles
from three generations of Sauza production.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We returned to Hotel La Rienda to collect our baggage and check out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We retraced our drive back to Magdalena but before
turning off to Etzatlán we browsed the local shops selling opal and obsidian
handicrafts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I'm sure their beautiful store
displays will tempt a purchase or two.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From Etzatlán we drove Highway 27 to Teuchitlán watching for
the turnoff to Los Guachimontones, the archaeological site of the round step pyramids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The site is easily located with highway
signage to keep you on track and a paved road into the site's parking lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Los Guachimontones was discovered some fifty years ago, quite
by accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently, Dr. Phil
Weigand and a teacher Acelia Garcia stumbled upon some skilfully crafted
obsidian objects in the town of Teuchitlán.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Further investigation led the pair to present-day Los Guachimontones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The site continues to be excavated and
present literature states there are 10 pyramids and the main round step pyramid
is named "La Iguana."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
approximately 10 meters high and has a diameter of 29 meters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>La Iguana is an impressive mass and quite different
structurally as compared to the East Coast Mayan pyramids. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We observed a tour guide and his student group performing
ancient chants. Later we spoke with the tour guide and he informed us that each
year previous to March 21st, people come to Los Guachimontones and for two
days, dressed in white, they take part in indigenous rituals which includes
native dances and concerts with pre-Hispanic music.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Climbing a hill behind the main pyramid presented us with an
excellent overview of the site with La Iguana in the foreground and Teuchitlán combined
with Lake Presa de la Vega in the background.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A great photo opportunity!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Los
Guachimontones is a splendid archaeological site to visit, and is especially
important to the Jalisco region which only a few years ago was thought to
contain few<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>if any archaeological finds.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the day's end was a return drive
to Etzatlán where Hotel El Centenario, our hotel choice for the night, is
centrally located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel can be
found just off the corner of the town's main plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel has great ambiance with an airy
courtyard ringed with antique furniture plus our room was spacious and well
appointed. The courtyard was a great spot to relax and enjoy a card game before
our rumbling stomachs encouraged us to venture out for an evening dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, we found it difficult to
locate a suitable restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one
that was recommended turned out to be mainly for lunch or breakfast
dining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally finding a restaurant, we
consumed an "okay" meal and after watching dancers in the plaza and
enjoying an ice-cream we returned to our hotel for a well-earned sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After our morning breakfast we
visited the Oaxicar Museum with its recreations of shaft tombs, clay pottery
and many more artifacts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next on our
agenda and our main goal for the day found us enroute on Highway 27 driving
toward Ahualulco de Mercado to find the protected area of Piedras Bola (round
boulders).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just before Ahualulco we turned
onto Highway 608 driving towards Ameca for 14 km.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The highway climbs from the valley floor into
the mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just past the 14 km
marker is a pullout area complete with a clearly illustrated park map.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well worth taking time to study the map to
obtain an understanding of the parks layout and the location of the round boulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, we failed to notice the
pullout and signage on our journey into the park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result we missed the park's signature
display of tall compacted soil mounds each supporting a single round stone
ball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently they're located about
1.5 km from the amphitheatre and behind the main boulder find!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 5 km single lane dirt/gravel road was in
good condition and while we navigated it slowly we encountered no difficulties
or other vehicles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would appear that
the park was an ecotourism project that is either seasonal, or didn't gain
popularity, or monetary funds were withdrawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We passed camping spots, hiking trails and zip lines in disrepair and without
seeing a soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The park seemed deserted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what a shame as there appeared to be much
potential for a variety of outdoor recreational activities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the Piedras Bola site we found an amphitheatre with
benches, an administrative building and numerous toilets with their doors
flapping in the breeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We followed a
path past here and soon encountered the first of many round boulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What an amazing sight!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We wandered the area taking numerous photos,
in complete awe of the huge perfectly formed spherical stones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some approximately two meters in diameter,
numerous smaller boulders scattered here and there and many partially buried
with their round tops poking above the ground's surface.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Naturally questions sprinkled our discussions as we asked
ourselves how were these many perfectly round boulders formed and how did they
get here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you can imagine there are
many theories and legends to explain the phenomena. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After much "intellectual"
speculation our theory is that centuries ago gigantic giants occupied the park
area and the Piedras Bola site was their outdoor bowling alley!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Visit and research the site to formulate your
own theory!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our return drive back to the
main highway was quicker and more comfortable as local road conditions were now
known to us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once we rejoined the highway our focus was to return to our
coastal hotel before night fall, for us avoiding Mexican night driving is a
cardinal safety rule. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since we knew the
route it wasn't long before we reached the Magdalena junction , switching to
the pay highway brought us quickly to Compostela.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next driving segment found us arriving at
Rincón de Guayabitos late afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
brief visit to the shops to purchase dinner items and we soon found ourselves
safe and sound in our bungalow preparing our evening meal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The three-day road trip exceeded our expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a variety of Mexican towns,
archaeological sites, informative museums and active tours we were exposed to a
great host of experiences to recall and share.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For us the trip was not only a learning experience but also provided an
alternative to our beach life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One thing
for sure- this was a journey to remember and one we encourage others to travel and
to expand the time frame to include visits to other interesting nearby spots.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Helpful
Facts</span></u></b><span style="font-size: 16pt;">:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jalisco, Mexico<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tequila<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Hotel<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Hotel
La Rienda Mision Tequillan<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Abasolo
#47 Centro<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>www.tequillan.com.mx<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Phone: 374 742-3232<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Great location with secured
parking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms well appointed<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>450 pesos ($37.50)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Restaurants<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Real
Marinera</u>- Seafood Restaurant<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Juarez
# 92 Atrás de Parriquia Cáfe<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Rossy
and Pasteleria</u><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two restaurants located beside each
other on the square in front of the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Great spot late evening for eating and people watching.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Local
Market</u> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-located beside church plaza<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>*Many
small restaurants<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>*
Great for breakfast<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Tours<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tranvias Turisticos de Tequila<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Look for tequila keg van<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Tour
time - two hours approximately every 30 minutes<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Mon
- Fri <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Sat.
- Sun. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>10:00 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>100
pesos ( $10 approx. )<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">www.vistandojalisco.com.mx<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Phone:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>045-33-12-99 7536<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Museums<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Sauza
Family Museum<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Vicente
Albino Rojas #22<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Central
Plaza behind the bandstand<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Features family memorabilia. 10 pesos
($1 approximately)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>National
Museum of Tequila<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Ramón
Corona # 34<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well designed displays of photos and
artifacts detailing the history of Tequila.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Water Park</u></span></b><u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></b><u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Parque Acuatico La Toma<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">La Toma water park
is an often a missed destination .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cascading natural spring water, swimming pools, panoramic views and much
more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>La Toma is located approximately
two kilometres on the right hand side of the highway driving towards
Magdalena.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we didn't partake of
the swimming it was enjoyable to visit and wander the walkways and take
advantage of an opportune photo shoot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take a few hours to kick back and enjoy La Toma water park.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Barranca de Oro<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Located a short
drive from Ahaucatlán off Highway 15.The canyon development is a man's life
time dream project and he has done a wonderful job of developing the
location.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are a variety of
swimming pools to enjoy and paths to follow providing an opportunity for the
camera buffs to photograph the steep colourful canyon walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great spot to spend a day swimming and
relaxing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Etzatlán<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Hotel<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Hotel El Centenario<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Escobedo
290, Etzatlán <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>500 pesos ($50)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rooms are well -appointed, secure
parking , splendid courtyard<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Museum</u></span></b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oaxicar Archaeological Museum housed in
the House of Culture has a collection of pre-Hispanic artefacts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short walk from the main plaza<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Escobedo
# 359 Centro,<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span> Monday to Saturday 10:00
a.m. to 2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>Sunday
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>Telephone:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>386 753 3052<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Teuchitlán<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotel<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hacienda El Carmen described in James
and Sonia's TTS<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>September 2011 article
is nearby. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Museum<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Museum of Archaeology:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Located in Teuchitlán's cultural center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The museum exhibits artifacts, obsidian
objects, and stone utensils.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>16
de Septiembre 10,<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Monday to Friday
9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>Saturday
to Sunday<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Amatitán<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You will find the
Inmaculada Concepción Church with a beautiful plaza and picturesque surrounding
area approximately 11 kilometres from Tequila on Highway 15.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<strong><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></u></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<sub><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></sub></div>
jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-50261510766325503362012-07-22T21:00:00.000-07:002013-09-28T15:12:51.603-07:00ROMANIA - A COUNTRY OF SUPRISES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <strong>Romania – A Country of Surprises<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></strong></span></span></u></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span></span>Article
and Photos by John and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Romania surprised us by
unlocking a wealth of unexpected intrepid travel experiences. Our three-week
journey was a fantasy visit to a country steeped in history and culture. We
visited medieval fortresses, walked ancient streets, marveled at castles,
discovered wooden churches, photographed painted monasteries and clamored about
fortified Saxon churches. We were delighted with the warmth we received from
our hosts and the delicious traditional dishes we consumed. In our humble
opinion there's never been a better time to visit Romania and discover what
this Eastern jewel offers for the adventurous travelers!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our initial reason for visiting Romania was not based upon prior
research nor our bucket list, but was dictated by a KLM seat sale! In the fall
the Dutch airline offered a flight special to five European capitals. Since
Bucharest was the only listed capital we had not visited, Romania became our spring
travel destination by default. We heard or read of Romania’s 1990 political
unrest and Dracula's blood-thirsty lust, but knew little else. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn't long before our research began to expose
an insightful overview of the country that contains a wealth of varied travel
experiences. Our expectations and excitement of our forthcoming visit began to
build and in the end we were not to be disappointed.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our Bucharest customs clearance went smoothly and with backpacks on our
backs met our prearranged airport pickup to transport us to the Green Frog Hostel
for our comfortable three night stay. On the drive to the hostel our English
speaking driver treated us to a historical/political dissertation addressing
the main domestic and fiscal issues currently facing Romania. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LxGFImz4rS49nR00iA9B_AKsUKPh4bswsCTanYrdmp1KgpgWobsBI2koCdlOEmwIYDUGHADUGMKolWVofpisyHZWDHFDlDUVquwYdTqxr8gItdBykR4lyVn4n_qgPNAJGSdCMIJcU355/s1600/ROMANIAN+2012%252C+APRIL+%25231+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LxGFImz4rS49nR00iA9B_AKsUKPh4bswsCTanYrdmp1KgpgWobsBI2koCdlOEmwIYDUGHADUGMKolWVofpisyHZWDHFDlDUVquwYdTqxr8gItdBykR4lyVn4n_qgPNAJGSdCMIJcU355/s200/ROMANIAN+2012%252C+APRIL+%25231+052.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful wooden church relocated to the<br />
National Village Museum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our few days in the capital were spent strolling through the parks,
wandering the central historical quarter and viewing the many sights. The visit
to Bucharest’s Village Museum and the Palace of Parliament were two highlights.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Village Museum is an open air collection of homesteads, churches, watermills
and windmills relocated from different regional locations and placed in the
park-like setting. The village was established in 1936 and is considered one of
the oldest open air museums in Europe.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Palace of Parliament is the world's second largest building in
surface area after the US Pentagon. Ceausescu’s infamous creation built in 1984
cost billions while Romanian people starved and suffered shortages during the
various construction stages. Today the massive edifice supports daily tours and
we too marveled at the many crystal chandeliers, special staircases and parquet
floors as our tour guide ushered us through the many rooms and floors. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With still much to see our Bucharest visit
came to an end as we planned to leave the next morning for Brasov.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOFQnIDggvNNFK7J9SoDJ4bhnSefRTyvEoqA35-hUbc2p41mSO26OUH26iABOI_8evga32XTrLcMVbIBdlCTdYHSJ46Bpoti_2ReYWS6e3R4nBvtF531R0SXZSRhxTxTyS4fwaKYh2CjRW/s1600/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOFQnIDggvNNFK7J9SoDJ4bhnSefRTyvEoqA35-hUbc2p41mSO26OUH26iABOI_8evga32XTrLcMVbIBdlCTdYHSJ46Bpoti_2ReYWS6e3R4nBvtF531R0SXZSRhxTxTyS4fwaKYh2CjRW/s200/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+213.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first view of the fairytale like Pele Castle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Initially, we had planned to take the train to Sibiu, but through our
hostel arranged for a driver transport to Brasov with stops en route. Our first
visit was Pelle's Castle which is cast in a picturesque mountain location. It's
one of the most beautiful castles we’ve visited. The crowded-shoving wait for
an English tour was well worth the frustration as the castle’s interior is
superb, paying homage to the area’s skilled craftsmen. From the courtyard
paintings to the detailed interior woodworks and beautiful Murano crystal
chandeliers the tour was breathtaking. Pele was the first castle entirely lit
by electricity provided by its own plant.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After the visit we hiked a short distance to nearby Pelzer Palace.
Ironically, we had to wait for a group of 15 people to form before being
allowed entry. It's unfortunate that most tourists choose not to visit the
Palace as it’s certainly worth a visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The palace’s furnishings were imported from Vienna and features a
beautiful gold room with walls covered in gilded leaf.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KGeh_-7FjR7RpB9_lbeOSgDvs3ISh45Iv-mQQeCu8yL-d2GAVGI4RSXw5IJApk62gva4-3XL-otuK6jC2nsyK_sAKJyQAr6Y6BEan1g46HeHY7ozMkgCaYvbmttaEJef5k3KpZn4_Ezt/s1600/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KGeh_-7FjR7RpB9_lbeOSgDvs3ISh45Iv-mQQeCu8yL-d2GAVGI4RSXw5IJApk62gva4-3XL-otuK6jC2nsyK_sAKJyQAr6Y6BEan1g46HeHY7ozMkgCaYvbmttaEJef5k3KpZn4_Ezt/s200/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+284.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bran Castle's inner courtyard.<br />
Can you spot Dracula?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our next stop was Bran Castle which Romanian tourism promotes as Count
Dracula's Castle which in fact it's not! The castle has a fairytale appearance
with tall turrets rising from rocky outcroppings. Inside, the castle houses a museum
featuring medieval weapons and armory. The castle has secret passageways plus
narrow stairways with wooden balconies overlooking the central courtyard. Bran
castle was constructed in the 14th century as a defense against the fierce
marauding Turks.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Late in the day, our driver, Dan dropped us off in front of Jugend Strube
Hostel. The hostel is strategically located in Brasov's historical center
providing ease of walking to the city’s sites.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our first day’s adventure found us riding a cable car to the top of
Mount Tampa to enjoy panoramic views. Our descending hike through the beautiful
wooded forest following the twisting trail was very enjoyable although we felt envious
when a group of young runners rushed passed us on their way to the top and it
seemed only minutes later before they again passed by on their descent! Great
to be young with such energy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next was a
chance to explore the interiors of three fortress bastions. In the 15th century
each bastion was defended by a guild to warn of a pending attack. Remembering
the cold wet weather we had left behind in Canada, it was exhilarating to
wander ancient streets seeking a restaurant that served lunch on a shaded
patio!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0wJCs3v0sIlW0FH1T8bI9GtD691Rs3qkkmrtNzRaIeUO8Mon4vmbn3lKYOWiFXBMhONumPgYyXM5dB1INbV9Dt0yRnrhApt_dAEJdFUCJBH-kwebTVOPIZweSeaN5V2ZiVXoZQ4OO1ci/s1600/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0wJCs3v0sIlW0FH1T8bI9GtD691Rs3qkkmrtNzRaIeUO8Mon4vmbn3lKYOWiFXBMhONumPgYyXM5dB1INbV9Dt0yRnrhApt_dAEJdFUCJBH-kwebTVOPIZweSeaN5V2ZiVXoZQ4OO1ci/s200/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+394.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance to the Orthodox Church of<br />
St. Nicholas Cathedral, Brasov.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">An early start to our second day was a morning stroll to the Shushan
District to visit the beautiful St. Nicholas Church and tour the first Romanian
school. We were fortunate to be early, as the caretaking priest provided a
personalized explanation of the ancient school books and printing press. A few
books dated as far back as the 15th century. Fascinating!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our sightseeing included a visit to the Black
Church and an afternoon bus trip to Rasnov Fortress. Within the walls are small
restaurants and a fun archery station. Standing on the wall and looking left
and right you can quickly understand why Rasnov was an important defense
structure to protect the Transylvania region.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To reach our Gypsy home stay location in the small village of Valenii
we traveled by bus to Sighisoara and transferred to an 18 passenger mini- van
traveling to Targu Mures. We stayed two nights with the Gabor family. The home
was spacious and the family exuded a warm hospitable feeling. The first thing
we noticed was the many new pot and pan sets stored on shelves in the kitchen
and living room. Apparently, the cooking sets are the dowry the wife brings to
the wedding. Klara, the eldest daughter, spoke excellent English and was to be
our guide. The father is a busy backyard mechanic and the mother is a
homemaker. Klara has a nine year old sister and a seven year old brother. The
grandmother lived with them too. Grandmother's role is to sell hooch out of the
pantry. It's common for countryside families to use plums to make a distilled
clear potent alcoholic brew.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To experience the public's attitude and reaction toward gypsies, Doreen
dressed in a colorful wrap-around pleated skirt, a beautiful patterned blouse
complete with a headscarf. The plan was to visit Targu Mures to wander the
shopping area visiting shops and taking in the cultural center and I was to be
the neutral observer. It was remarkable to notice shop clerks closely watching Doreen
and Klara while paying little attention to my browsing. At the Cultural Center
the two gypsy ladies were regularly asked to show their tickets. And again, I
was never questioned in fact I was directed to a special auditorium where a
musical group was rehearsing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently,
cultural biases do exist. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaS2E_blghsrplyJAgSRE1p4YjA7saFvmurbRh-d85NqX_2noIRKSu5Bd5SXqkHycNLf_Xu5AGlUT7d2LKgxcXv5Gig4MKnSRRSLEMqfYUFqT2BByiu2cc_YADJVjbg4hALXnwfAwvD5K/s1600/BRASOV+&+SIGHISOARA+2012+158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaS2E_blghsrplyJAgSRE1p4YjA7saFvmurbRh-d85NqX_2noIRKSu5Bd5SXqkHycNLf_Xu5AGlUT7d2LKgxcXv5Gig4MKnSRRSLEMqfYUFqT2BByiu2cc_YADJVjbg4hALXnwfAwvD5K/s200/BRASOV+&+SIGHISOARA+2012+158.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gabor family-three generations -from the left-<br />
Mother,grandmother and Daughter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a hearty breakfast and warm hugs we caught a mini- van returning
to Sighisoara. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the bus stop in Sighisoara,
we hiked a steep stairway to the Citadel at the top of a fortified hill and found
our Casa Saseasca located in the medieval town square. Arriving at the helpful
tourist office we booked an afternoon walking city tour and a car visit to
three fortified Saxon churches for the following day.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The tour’s first stop was Capsa Mara a small almost deserted community
as many German residences fearing further political unrest had returned to
Germany in 1990. The church is in disrepair and badly in need of restoration
work. The caretakers unlocked the church allowing us to meander through the
church's interior eventually clambering rickety stairs to the bell tower. From
here we were treated to a sweeping view of the surrounding fertile farmlands.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next stop was Biertan, another small village with a much visited
church. The site was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993. The church’s
interior is decorated beautifully with frescoes painted on the walls. We
observed the three walls surrounding the church with the narrow openings to
allow for shooting at invaders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seemed
the church’s courtyard would be impossible to penetrate.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The last visit was to a restored mansion in Melincraw. Prince Charles
has a residence here and visits regularly to relax and enjoy the regions
tranquil grounds – far from the paparazzi. The” Wanderlust Tours” provided an
excellent overview of the famous fortified Saxon churches and the role they
played in the 15th and 16th centuries.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHV33q8EtWmHpIFSAHZjbdLb0sx1KLo78S1beWWq_7H6sNROtrd294QrU5AkjpbJkPYeDcTNQaaqf3H6AbBtFYDsH8SaYp4S2qMxN8Ql1xOEtlNznSE6_4Qp0MsjlVK7W3IWbsYkdZUmy/s1600/BRASOV+&+SIGHISOARA+2012+315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHV33q8EtWmHpIFSAHZjbdLb0sx1KLo78S1beWWq_7H6sNROtrd294QrU5AkjpbJkPYeDcTNQaaqf3H6AbBtFYDsH8SaYp4S2qMxN8Ql1xOEtlNznSE6_4Qp0MsjlVK7W3IWbsYkdZUmy/s200/BRASOV+&+SIGHISOARA+2012+315.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sighisoara's clock tower at night.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sightseeing in medieval Sighisoara included a visit to the top of the
clock tower, a climb up the scholar's wooden staircase combined with a visit to
the church on the hill. Evenings found us enjoying the local cuisine.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next day a train ride to Bara Mare began a ten day tour of the
traditional villages of Maramures and the painted monasteries of Bucovina. Have
you ever experienced a vacation that you would like to repeat because it was first-
rate?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was our experience with
Daniel Rosca as our driver/guide for Maramures and Bucovina regions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every day was like a new painting and although
we knew what the plan was it evolved Sighisoara's clock tower at nightinto a storybook each day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Daniel met us at the train, calling out my
name as I stepped down from the metal stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He recognized us from our Skype computer call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He immediately took our bags and off we went
to his car, a small compact red number that suited our purposes perfectly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was arranged that we would pay for the gas
and our meals and accommodation and his bill would cover the touring cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We knew well in advance what to expect and
Daniel held true to our pre-arranged itinerary.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Daniel picked us up from the train at 7:30 in the evening, he
immediately took us to a homey Hungarian restaurant where we heartily consumed
huge hot bowls of soup, mine being beans and sausage and John and Daniel's being
roe (deer).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had warm drinks too.
Finally around nine we drove 20 kilometers to Baia Sprie, where we selected our
spacious and beautifully decorated room at Casa Olarului. We had a huge bedroom
with large handmade woolen blankets which covered the duvets (it must get cold
in this region) and our own ensuite.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6DZi1NuYk-3U-iDCdfsbD9YUs8gHUQXdmWYl3sko4p7CeXPkrxTZkppWxeXN2DLHymKtgLZl2NeuL2eE977PBbAQIxpSCt2PxmzoLSmqUESM0ETWC-mA82-yrksn83U7RhTA7BKfkVgc/s1600/101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6DZi1NuYk-3U-iDCdfsbD9YUs8gHUQXdmWYl3sko4p7CeXPkrxTZkppWxeXN2DLHymKtgLZl2NeuL2eE977PBbAQIxpSCt2PxmzoLSmqUESM0ETWC-mA82-yrksn83U7RhTA7BKfkVgc/s200/101.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daniel looks on as I admire my creation.<br />
The bowl made it home safely!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Daniel Les, the casa owner, is a master potter and is teaching his son,
Nicholas and others to follow the traditional ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a scrumptious breakfast of fresh bread,
jams, cheeses, meats, tomatoes, vegetable spread, eggs, yoghurt and hot
steaming coffee, we entered Daniel’s shop beside the house and he taught us how
to make a piece of pottery using the wheel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>John made a bowl and I made a plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It wasn't easy but we had fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Daniel has wonderful figurines, bowls, jugs, vases, and large special
pieces displayed in his shop which are for sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We bought a beautiful steel-blue tinged bowl
with handles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Daniel</span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After lunch in town we drove to Surdesti to see the tallest wooden
church in the world built in 1721.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
72 meters high!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We carried on to Plopis
to see similar churches and walked around the village and looked at traditional
homes, outdoor toilets, gardens, cane-type fences and modern three-storey
homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also saw tractors, horses pulling
wagons, ladies working in their garden who offered us a drink of wine which we
turned down, and pigs in pens and yapping dogs and graveyards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very country-like! <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day we travelled from Baia Sprie to Breb, a beautiful small
village in a valley where hospitality exudes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the early morning we walked from our Babou
Hostel, owned by Matthijs and Eveline, a lovely Dutch couple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We met people in the pastures and along the
roadsides and a farmer and his wife who were working a field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While watching a sheepherder passing by
struck a conversation with Daniel and told him about a shepherd festival held
once a year where farmers bring their sheep to be milked and then taken to the
high pasture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Daniel exchanged phone
numbers with Ram to find out the exact time and location for the festival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCl8kektMoxbab4s3dawHyGNKYe1gJlrD_RyjMEr3Q3Mjcf1NVdLIslittxeBgJIQD-uY_yvZ6LU4EBNhy1jtz1YXDOOmU83ReoblkWFHbkGK4dWP2Lf1PHSimtR1vkgBrS2muKdqqCeVV/s1600/572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCl8kektMoxbab4s3dawHyGNKYe1gJlrD_RyjMEr3Q3Mjcf1NVdLIslittxeBgJIQD-uY_yvZ6LU4EBNhy1jtz1YXDOOmU83ReoblkWFHbkGK4dWP2Lf1PHSimtR1vkgBrS2muKdqqCeVV/s200/572.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fun train ride smellling the wood scented smoke<br />
while enjoying the ever changing landscape. On the return trip<br />
we experienced a derailment and were able to watch <br />
as the train was placed back onto the tracks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Early morning saw our departure from Babou Hostel travelling to Viseu
de Sus for the narrow gauge steam locomotive train ride into the picturesque
Vaser Valley. The train was originally used to remove logs from the valley but
proved so popular with visitors that the train has been maintained for daily
excursions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today the logging industry
has modernized using up to date equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was fun to smell the wood smoke and hear the shrill blast of the
locomotive’s whistle while attempting to snap a photo of the steam engine on
one of the many curves.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRBPVmw4Ng0lt03H7mfqjGy47axGD_7QBcNxhMuwY3JPNoR7u0g-A7-AOCouJTghScQ1FJK2On0ciMHh1BWPgmDi1o8cuUam2QUW2eI92dk6L46vTVsE45_fr_0oJUMisOGHKKMSIvW_IF/s1600/058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRBPVmw4Ng0lt03H7mfqjGy47axGD_7QBcNxhMuwY3JPNoR7u0g-A7-AOCouJTghScQ1FJK2On0ciMHh1BWPgmDi1o8cuUam2QUW2eI92dk6L46vTVsE45_fr_0oJUMisOGHKKMSIvW_IF/s200/058.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sheep pens and the even<br />
being blessed by the priest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day was Saturday, the day of the Shepherds’ Festival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course we went to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was thrilling!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People arrived via horse and wagon or
vehicles and set up camp on the hillside for the day, making meals and putting
babies into tents to rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You could
hear the sheep arriving from all around the valley to be brought to the milking
locale and put into separate pens according to the owners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pens were made with sticks and wire and
are movable to accommodate the number of sheep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There were small gates at the front to allow one sheep at a time to be
milked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After each sheep is milked they
put the milk into a bucket and then the bucket is taken to a weighing area
where they measure the milk to determine how much cheese each farmer receives
when the sheep are brought down from the high pastures at the end of the
summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much arguing goes on as the
farmer wants to get the best measure possible.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJ9bpId9zzmQYBdgMvo1iAnTy-hiu3V5YvVAPCix64Ika_YCpAyNecC3lJNqf2DAhqgSi_dSZbc09F7TVF1mHaKKNwIbmMeGEshd-4tvrpAJ7cpXQlOUQ1eTR6yO26usPybNkVVu1M0yx/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJ9bpId9zzmQYBdgMvo1iAnTy-hiu3V5YvVAPCix64Ika_YCpAyNecC3lJNqf2DAhqgSi_dSZbc09F7TVF1mHaKKNwIbmMeGEshd-4tvrpAJ7cpXQlOUQ1eTR6yO26usPybNkVVu1M0yx/s200/027.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very quickly the goat <br />
was ready for the grill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We watched a farmer butcher a young sheep to be roasted for the
meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All part of the day's work but
unusual for us to view. We were invited to stay for the afternoon and enjoy
spit-roasted lamb with them but we had a wedding to attend- another special
event for us. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We went back to the lovely
Marioara Pension. Maria is a very special lady who works hard running the pension
for guests as well as performing farm tasks helping her husband.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These people are very industrious and have transformed
the interior of a lovely wooden house into a casa with four bedrooms complete
with ensuites and are presently working to complete a second guest house, even
larger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One excellent feature was a washing
machine for guests which we took advantage of as we hadn’t done laundry since
leaving home.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqe1AJNxrGVtAi5bs1HyQyoHLhyfzHv88yrgaH0LwIX2FVrM9iUvXogzM6rHyRpg_XW7M1neo-JZiYQqggVjRVDR0aeKxsAElA6GIJvtSNIPNI7TShF7CcFPpxpgoTNeODQXLw_ceHO22L/s1600/210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqe1AJNxrGVtAi5bs1HyQyoHLhyfzHv88yrgaH0LwIX2FVrM9iUvXogzM6rHyRpg_XW7M1neo-JZiYQqggVjRVDR0aeKxsAElA6GIJvtSNIPNI7TShF7CcFPpxpgoTNeODQXLw_ceHO22L/s200/210.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A most spetacular sight to view the <br />
costums and decorated horses.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The traditional wedding was
spectacular!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It started early in the day
with the decoration of the horses which took hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bride has four horses and the groom in
his village, a short distance away, also had four horses to be decorated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They hang streamers and bells from the
horse's back all the way from the front to the back so that it is difficult to
see the actual horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All you see is
colour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even the horse has difficulty
seeing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are special riders for
each horse who are dressed in Romanian costumes with blousy white shirts and
cummerbunds with rich bead work around their waist, black pointed shiny shoes
and small conical hats with a ribbon around the brim and flat on the top. Once
the horses and riders are ready they wait for a signal from the groom's village
before they begin to ride to meet the groom's horses and car cavalcade which
brings the groom and family to the bride's house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We drove toward the groom's house and watched
along the roadside as the eight horses and riders met in midpoint and then the
bride's horses turned around and escorted the groom's horses and family to the
bride's home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The groom walked from the
car into the bride's home and presented her with a huge bouquet of
flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After some time, everyone in
the bride's home appeared and started walking toward the church where the
ceremony took place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the people from
the village lined the roadside watching as the wedding party and guests walked to
the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The horses dropped their
stool and some of the beautifully dressed participants stepped right into
it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All part of the joy of a village
traditional wedding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the small
Romanian Orthodox Church could not accommodate all the guests, some waited
outside for their turn to view the wedding ceremony. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Later the bride and groom appeared and had their photos taken in front
of the beautifully decorated horses while people watched from all angles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The couple then proceeded down the hill a
short distance to a reception hall, such as it was- nothing fancy, but the
organizers had set up rows upon rows of trestle tables and benches in a small
hall to provide as many seats as possible and then an added platform covered in
a plastic roof with more trestles and benches and an open area to allow for
dancing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sat in the second area which
was lovely since we could watch the dancing, keep cooler and be out of the
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not everyone was invited to the
reception but we were privileged because we were Maria’s guests.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The party literally went on all night with many not returning home
until eight o'clock the next morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
made it until three a.m.! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On arrival at
the hall the narrow tables were covered with white cloths set with dishes,
cutlery, drinks and antipasto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
were bottles of wine and water on the tables and servers to assist you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After guests consumed the first course there
was dancing for an hour before the next course of salads was served. The
dancing was fun to observe as they formed circles- both young and old, and held
hands facing into the circle, dancing in an anti-clockwise direction with a two
step and the hips moving slightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John
and I joined into the circle several times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As the tempo of the music changed partners whirl around holding each
other's shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They whirl and whirl
in one direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When John and I tried
it I became very dizzy and we weren't twirling very fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don't know how they do it. !<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The evening continued with more food courses
and more dancing and no one was leaving. We spoke to our hostess, Maria; the
next day as she was wonderful at twirling and she said when she was younger she
could even go faster.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was interesting to observe the young teen girls at the wedding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many arrived in very pretty party dresses,
often strapless and either long gowns or just above the knees, but it was the
shoes that were so fascinating usually at least four inches in height, either
spikes or wedges and the colours were spectacular- gold, pink, orange, bronze,
white with polka dots, red, black - some laced but usually with straps. Some
girls dressed traditionally so there was a real contrast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The traditional dress was a coloured printed
skirt just below the knee, a white embroidered peasant blouse and a crown hat
with streamers down the back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometime
through the evening most girls went home and changed into party dresses. However,
Daniel said they looked more beautiful in their traditional dress!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75CQisprJot5Cw-tgwMUZdl-MLL0MPQqsZvoNrxolTg8RU9zL8x9sQRv7g4J9Br3i63_chq2_uZi_oR2PDipVVZcNqpvcX4PPa1eVPlI0GaXbcFApI-dOgiVhEgfXWCG3rwtNfAMbHJnf/s1600/053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75CQisprJot5Cw-tgwMUZdl-MLL0MPQqsZvoNrxolTg8RU9zL8x9sQRv7g4J9Br3i63_chq2_uZi_oR2PDipVVZcNqpvcX4PPa1eVPlI0GaXbcFApI-dOgiVhEgfXWCG3rwtNfAMbHJnf/s200/053.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our next stop was Voronet in Bucovina.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To arrive here we drove over the Carpathian Mountains and actually hit
snow. Snow in May!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the way to
Voronet we stopped at a small village museum in Ciocanesti.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It housed lovely old farm equipment - butter
churns, separators, paintings, samples of weaving and Easter eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We purchased eggs to take home for our
children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The waxing and painting
procedures are time consuming and difficult, but the results are magnificent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As it turned out later we actually visited a
master designer in the Eggs Museum in Moldovita. Her name is Lucia Condrea who
is world renowned and designs her own patterns, following the traditions of
Moldavian culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has a great
passion and talent and has a new personal design that looks like lace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of Lucia's special ones was called
"The paths of sadness" which represented Christ's shed blood for the
whole world. She also has a collection of international eggs which she has
traded from all over the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
husband showed us the museum and Lucia's work, of which he is proud.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBRUUZmvwCjNxQXAjLYLFvjjOuJeS7Bp_qVfoFy9bE_7y1xHOFZn0VqIQRbJFlbv_y9GODQzu25Ym4BHOxNVs4KEgEhmtGWhluB1SgYp5_OxKy6Fib-xeLCHJbh9BvgSb72iqlRy6Wt-C/s1600/075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBRUUZmvwCjNxQXAjLYLFvjjOuJeS7Bp_qVfoFy9bE_7y1xHOFZn0VqIQRbJFlbv_y9GODQzu25Ym4BHOxNVs4KEgEhmtGWhluB1SgYp5_OxKy6Fib-xeLCHJbh9BvgSb72iqlRy6Wt-C/s200/075.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doreen and Daniel admired the well-known bibical<br />
storiies painted on the church's exterior walls.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bucovina is famous for its painted monasteries which were built in the
16<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> century by Stephen the Great and his son, Petru Rares. In Voronet,
32 km from Suceava, we viewed the blue monastery built by Stephen the Great in
three months, three weeks and three days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The blue colour permeates the wall paintings and is world famous,
displaying biblical stories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
exterior paints were added during the reign of Petru Rares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The church's artwork is considered the best
representation of Moldavian feudal art.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The blues and greens are natural vegetable colours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each monastery visited, while similar,
provided its own distinctive shape and basic colour-a fitting end to our
Romanian visit.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We stayed in another lovely accommodation in Voronet called Conacul Domnitei
Guest House.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Helen, our host, made our
stay special with her delicious meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She served sour milk as a beverage that I tasted <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and liked <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>so I asked for the recipe which Daniel
translated and I've been making ever since. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAYvW-BegWCbot_K7ezJrQ9XbOfMnHGGux_bcv_ADpDa7BDtGQpPFVZ-qH8gAiKduVJjf6Td2Ib4rt5w9mtzy52dn6lDLDTSYUFbxUu_eeNl1Pn5GZigGetGs75PZIp7K4IU-DSdaUtD7/s1600/IMG_8035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAYvW-BegWCbot_K7ezJrQ9XbOfMnHGGux_bcv_ADpDa7BDtGQpPFVZ-qH8gAiKduVJjf6Td2Ib4rt5w9mtzy52dn6lDLDTSYUFbxUu_eeNl1Pn5GZigGetGs75PZIp7K4IU-DSdaUtD7/s200/IMG_8035.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Met as strangers and left as friends!<br />
From the left-Daniel,John and Doreen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From Voronet we drove to Suceava to catch our train to Lviv in the Ukraine
and leave our now friend Daniel who left us with fantastic memories of his
country and a wonderful relationship we have continued to keep. He really did a
splendid job in arranging different experiences for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking back we can appreciate the effort and
it gave us a broader understanding of Romanian life in the countryside. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Daniel is an ambassador for Romania and is passionate
about preserving the old traditions in his country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Romania, is truly a country of surprises. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<br />
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<u>Helpful Information<o:p></o:p></u></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tour Groups<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Tzigania Tours</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.tzigania.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.tzigania.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;"><a href="mailto:tzigania@tzigania.com">tzigania@tzigania.com</a></span><a href="mailto:tzigania@tzigania.com"></a></b><a href="mailto:tzigania@tzigania.com"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></b></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is an opportunity to experience a home
stay with a gypsy family.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Wanderlust Tours</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.wanderlust-tour.ro/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.wanderlust-tour.ro</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:info@wanderlust-tour.ro"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">info@wanderlust-tour.ro</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Operates in conjunction with the Cultural Heritage
Info Centre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The company does guided
walking tours of Sighasoara and the fortified churches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Offers free maps and excellent help.<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Via Transylvania Tours</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.viatransylvania.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.viatransylvania.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:Daniel@viatransylvania.com"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Daniel@viatransylvania.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Daniel Rosca works with clients to meet
their individual desires and budgets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Wide spectrum of cultural, natural and traditional tour options.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent organized tours.<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hostel and Casa Suggestions<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Accommodation prices are for two people and are expressed in Canadian
funds (Using 3.3 RON exchange rates.) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All accommodations have internet access and
unless stated otherwise provide a breakfast.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Bucharest</u><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Green Frog Hostel:</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>General Dona Street, nr. 11, Bucharest,
Romania<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.greenfroghostel.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.greenfroghostel.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:booking@greengroghostelo.com"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">booking@greengroghostelo.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A renovated home transformed into a well located hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We booked through HostelWorld.com, a standard
double with shared bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Staff
provides a friendly atmosphere and is keen to help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost 120 RON ($34 CA)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon request, free airport pickup was granted,
otherwise there is a cost.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Brasov<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Jugend Stube Hostel</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>13 Michael Weiss Street, Apt. 5,<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="http://www.hostelworld.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.hostelworld.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:office@JugendStube.ro"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">office@JugendStube.ro</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Excellent location, right in the heart of medieval Brasov.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our accommodation was a self-contained suite,
a short walk from the reception.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were
able to prepare meals is we desired. A helpful staff.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>140 RON ($40 CA)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Valenii:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></u><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gabor family home, two night’s gypsy home
stay.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.tzigania.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.tzigania.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:tziganiatours@tzigania.com"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">tziganiatours@tzigania.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRD5v4pscT8sTAM-XOR_BQlPKkf-DBxQ3tHR3ar5OZoBIJ3ciGX19SdJ5QhcMHBazlZPuio_QrPzmqUvL188JfTKUjC10tzAgZxFwplmKL0dhCRV6PY0vQcVoi8Ti3FqA5-iIoeD5FigTU/s1600/071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRD5v4pscT8sTAM-XOR_BQlPKkf-DBxQ3tHR3ar5OZoBIJ3ciGX19SdJ5QhcMHBazlZPuio_QrPzmqUvL188JfTKUjC10tzAgZxFwplmKL0dhCRV6PY0vQcVoi8Ti3FqA5-iIoeD5FigTU/s200/071.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shepherds Festival.<br />
Getting the last drop to register <br />
as much milk as possible!</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We had twin beds in a comfortable bedroom and a clean outdoor toilet,
conveniently located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time of our
visit the indoor toilet wasn’t working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We enjoyed huge tasty breakfasts and dinners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surpassed our expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>120 RON ($34 CA) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Sighasoara:</u><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Casa Casasaseasca:</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Piata Catatii 12<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.casasaseasca.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.casasaseasca.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:office@casasaseasca.com"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">office@casasaseasca.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Comfortable hotel style casa located on the citadel’s main square.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breakfast is not included but restaurants are
within walking distance.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>140 RON ($40 CA)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Maramures and Bucovina Regions</u><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Baia Sprie</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Casa
Olarului:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Str. Luncii nr.1<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.casaolarului.ro/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.casaolarului.ro</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:rezervari@casaolarului.ro"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">rezervari@casaolarului.ro</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Baia Sprie is located 10 km east of Bara Mare.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>A boutique casa with loads of character and ambiance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Owned and operated by Daniel<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>, a potter who offers
lessons in his attached workshop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
room was spacious and comfortable with attached ensuite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The breakfast was fantastic-probably the best
breakfast provided.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>120 RON ($34 CA)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Breb Village<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Used the village as our countryside hub
while visiting its local craftsmen and driving to the nearby sites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We split our five nights stay between two
accommodations.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Babou Hostel</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breb 149, 437206 Breb, Maramures, Romania<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.baboumaramures.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.baboumaramures.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:info@baboumaramures.ro"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">info@baboumaramures.ro</span></b></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFM8gwDr41q4tKu3m3xdDjXRe5sG9TEcgQiRXWfLdUQdlBzVp37LAynkYablZo-IlynlHuJcOi6ZLxOoaFLLZ4esTTW3rqZPcSQ5ID5WJpJnP6IGQx1PhXfJc26vzi2334Slm_5F2-eJTA/s1600/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFM8gwDr41q4tKu3m3xdDjXRe5sG9TEcgQiRXWfLdUQdlBzVp37LAynkYablZo-IlynlHuJcOi6ZLxOoaFLLZ4esTTW3rqZPcSQ5ID5WJpJnP6IGQx1PhXfJc26vzi2334Slm_5F2-eJTA/s200/ROMANIAN+2012,+APRIL+%231+309.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A traditional romanian meal.<br />
Cabbage, polenta and a meat.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A helpful young Dutch couple has transformed an old farm barn into a
charming hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The top floor has five
single beds and the main floor has a kitchen with two large bathrooms on either
side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meals can be arranged at a local
family home.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>120 RON ($34 CA)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Miarioara Pension</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ocna
Sugatag, sat Breb, nr. 346<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.marioara.ro/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.marioara.ro</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></b><a href="mailto:pensiuneamarioara@yahoo.com"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">pensiuneamarioara@yahoo.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Charming, immaculate, traditional wood framed guest house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our room was spacious with an ensuite and
well appointed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beautifully carved
wooden gate marked the entrance to our accommodation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maria served an excellent breakfast and upon
request provided evening dinners at $10-$12 p/p.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another larger casa complete with a
restaurant will soon be completed, providing even more room for guests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Free laundry available for guests.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>160 RON ($46 CA)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bucovina Region<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Voronet:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Conacul Domnitei Pension:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></b><a href="http://www.conaculdomnitei.ro/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.conaculdomnitei.ro</span></b></a><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span><a href="mailto:conacul@conaculdomnitei.ro"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">conacul@conaculdomnitei.ro</span></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The pension offers comfortable well appointed rooms with spacious
bathrooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The countryside setting
provides picturesque views from each room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s a large dining area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
breakfast, guests order from a menu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Other meals are also available and of an excellent quality.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cost<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>130 RON ($37 CA)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4j7I7ZFk1dCNbeGFtEUut31b_BUR1AyYBcsphLtVQFJnvs94jEOCrjE32O9CZKojzVKsn1Y6c6-kCE8VTjRWAp9fyFc0bhNFBU8NeuWpk6krK973gbGtJoLIfPBKcai6qyCFic3vcErfq/s1600/776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4j7I7ZFk1dCNbeGFtEUut31b_BUR1AyYBcsphLtVQFJnvs94jEOCrjE32O9CZKojzVKsn1Y6c6-kCE8VTjRWAp9fyFc0bhNFBU8NeuWpk6krK973gbGtJoLIfPBKcai6qyCFic3vcErfq/s200/776.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May was a busy haying season.<br />
The grass is hung on wooden racks to dry<br />
ready for feeding the cows during the winter season.</td></tr>
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jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-44730177956617967612012-04-17T09:10:00.001-07:002012-04-19T08:14:54.969-07:00TRANS-SIBERIAN-MONGOLIAN BUDGET TRAIN TRAVEL<br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Trans-Siberian-Mongolian
Railway – One of the World’s Great Train Journeys!<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"> </span>By
John and Doreen Berg</span><br />
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<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">A dream, a desire, a discussion, a decision to undertake the legendary Trans-Siberian-Mongolian train journey from St. Petersburg to Beijing became our goal. Our dream trip enabled us to traverse the vast Eurasian mysterious land mass from vibrant Moscow in the west with an extended Mongolian stopover to experience the nomadic lifestye on the vast steppes in central Asia, then to the east ending in Beijing to climb the Great Wall, wander the narrow Hutong streets, visit the Forbidden City and dine on Peking Duck!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxpvHDHUj_D44ztmF274N1_nobwkoSu8eEqtfkoNJnGlPqVuv4G5mPjpd3AWLkxNq7lq-y5eTPgMDJdD-xqjxH4x3DElrkbOdY2k60S8AO9fqIIbnaPjbDZsrXIPuOXkYQjvcPx9qahu2/s1600/P9219105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxpvHDHUj_D44ztmF274N1_nobwkoSu8eEqtfkoNJnGlPqVuv4G5mPjpd3AWLkxNq7lq-y5eTPgMDJdD-xqjxH4x3DElrkbOdY2k60S8AO9fqIIbnaPjbDZsrXIPuOXkYQjvcPx9qahu2/s200/P9219105.JPG" width="158" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>DOREEN ABOUT TO BOARD</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">There are two main train routes-
the Trans-Siberian-Vladisvostock and the Trans-Siberian-Mongolian route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our route selection was the Trans-Siberian-Mongolian
as we wished for an introduction to the nation’s nomadic way of life practiced
by many Mongolians today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus an
opportunity to visit one of the world’s largest deserts – the Gobi and to experience
home stays in family gers sharing a bowl of fermented mare’s milk and the local
nomadic cuisines.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">This article’s objective is firstly,
to share our trip of a lifetime and secondly, to encourage you, our reader, to
duplicate our excursion which includes stopping along the train route to enhance
the epic train journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For someone to
board a train in Moscow and remain on board for six or seven full days, in our
humble opinion, would be a lost travel experience.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96uqFhuX6xG3QR7Zq8XI95cKE0_cgrdeefK88DrmYExr_VWq8pk2sC6hH0hgiQspJyqW42_d-ioSEnvc_2yu085NMx9hGLhw1PFK-L-io7WqIQbiIdo0kfaWAnVE9Mld5uwGBrLbRL2hF/s1600/P9259325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96uqFhuX6xG3QR7Zq8XI95cKE0_cgrdeefK88DrmYExr_VWq8pk2sC6hH0hgiQspJyqW42_d-ioSEnvc_2yu085NMx9hGLhw1PFK-L-io7WqIQbiIdo0kfaWAnVE9Mld5uwGBrLbRL2hF/s200/P9259325.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>SAMOVAR VISIT FOR WATER</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Along the route are hundreds of
kilometers of birch forest, interspersed with small drab wooden homes often
featuring brightly painted window trim, a backyard vegetable plot complete with
small outhouses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our days on board the
train were spent looking out the window, standing in the corridors, making numerous
cups of hot coffee or noodle soup meals using the hot water from the steaming
samovar, playing cribbage, reading novels or guidebooks, sleeping soundly,
conversing with fellow travelers, attempting to speak to local Russian
travelers, briefly disembarking at small remote stations for a stretch to
returning to repeat the activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
long term stops provided a golden opportunity to be immersed in Russian-Siberian
history and culture.<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>A digression to outline our
train procedurers</u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx51uJp032uZZLkTnCb1T6g9PV2y89a1yfECQQC48w6wENhAi6kd_Ev2B8NF0WRxfAAaZHGdrPCHlKXRQiWx2Gn8vTBZsFOUMfRL9A_1JYMS6gGaAhLhyphenhyphen2pjrMKiy96NaT_P9zx0cTDhxz/s1600/P9249274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx51uJp032uZZLkTnCb1T6g9PV2y89a1yfECQQC48w6wENhAi6kd_Ev2B8NF0WRxfAAaZHGdrPCHlKXRQiWx2Gn8vTBZsFOUMfRL9A_1JYMS6gGaAhLhyphenhyphen2pjrMKiy96NaT_P9zx0cTDhxz/s320/P9249274.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>SPENDING TIME AS THE KILOMETERS CLICK AWAY</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">We booked second class or Kupé
carriages on all our trains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
four berths in each cabin and we always booked the two lower bunks as they
provided more luggage storage and easier bunk access plus immediate access to
the small table under the window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bedding is provided.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each bunk
has a reading light and a 200 volt plug-in to charge electronics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are usually two washrooms, a Western
style and a squat style, at one end of the carriage. At the opposite end, the
much used samovar and attendants' quarters are located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result we booked in the center of a
carriage avoiding berths one to four and twenty-nine to thirty-three.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trains have a dining car but we never
booked tickets with meals included nor did we eat in the dining car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We found it easier and more economical to
bring our own food supplies on board which included drinking water, noodles,
cheese, bread, salami, fruits plus Doreen’s favorite – a jar of peanut butter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had two insulted mugs plus plastic spoons,
forks and a Swiss army knife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No need to
dine out! Our train dining provided us with an opportunity to justify the
exquisite dining opportunities enjoyed at our various stopover destinations.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">On each train there are first class
(luks) cars that use only two bunks in each compartment plus more space with a
well appointed interior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently,
most first class coaches have televisions and complementary meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, first class is rather expensive.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Third class is an open floor plan
carriage having four bunks in the main compartment plus a pair in the narrow
corridor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are no doors in third
class so less privacy and more noise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
would suggest the only benefit offered in third class is the cheaper ticket
price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our impressions are based on
visits to first and third class wagons.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">To select and book our trains we
logged onto an English site which adds 30 plus per cent to ticket prices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Real Russia” is an excellent site to
determine which trains suit your timetable for departure and arrival
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who wants to leave or arrive in
the middle of the night if it can be avoided?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The lower the train numbers the better and faster the train.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While the “Real Russia” site was more
expensive we found their service to be excellent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ordered tickets for the first two trip
legs and the tickets were waiting for us in Godzillas Hostel in Moscow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In hindsight I would only book our first leg
and book the remainder independently through our hostel or at the train
station.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Using the website </span><a href="http://www.ticket.rzd.ru/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.ticket.rzd.ru</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"> to book your tickets
online will save you money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only difficulty
is the website is in Russian!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Russian
speaking friend could help with the language issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We attempted to use the site but found it too
difficult and frustrating. </span><a href="http://www.maninseat61.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.maninseat61.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">
provided a wealth of train information and current train schedules.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Real Russia” is also a significant part of
the site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the schedule below, your
selected date may not agree with our train numbers so you may need to change
your day of travel as a specific train does not run every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Trains We Booked:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>St. Petersburg - Moscow</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Red Arrow 001<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>$155.00
p/p</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">8 hours 0 minutes<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Departure 23:55<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Arrival 7:55 next morning</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Moscow –Yekaterinburg</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ural 016<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>$225.00
p/p<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>(also spelled Ekaterinburg)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">25 hours 24
minutes<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Departure 16:50<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Arrival 20:14 next day</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Yekaterinburg - Irkutsk</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baikal 010<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>$331.20
p/p</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>50
hours 36 minutes<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Departure 6:30<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arrival 12:06<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>two
days later</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Irkutsk- Ulan-Ude</u>:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>008<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>$65.00
p/p</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">6 hours 3 minutes<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Departure 7:55<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Arrival 14:25<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>same
day</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Ulan-Ude - Ulaanbaatar
(Ulan-Bator):</u> 008<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>$162.00
p/p<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> 17 hours 26
minutes<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Departure 13:04<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Arrival 6:30<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Next day</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Ulaanbaatar - Beijing</u>:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>024<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>$222.00 p/p</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">30 hours 49
minutes<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Departure: 7:15<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Arrival 14:04</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Thursday – Direct
train<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Prices were obtained from “Real
Russia” postings and will vary throughout the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, again it’s cheaper to book yourself
at the station or through a guesthouse. For example, Ulaanbaatar to Beijing
costs $100.00 p/p less when booked by Khongor Guesthouse!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To us this was a huge saving.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJ50Uao2sLUUCIdPn-sXk3U7S-d0VfwO0cEsorB7ULYiVvuES0drF-EicyNiGSi1w7viOqs1_6IA4AhtvlwngXYzUCf3jbds0eOCX2LWnsK68GEhJFg8LVElNorbBygUnSU1GkAhXSQ6s/s1600/PA094574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJ50Uao2sLUUCIdPn-sXk3U7S-d0VfwO0cEsorB7ULYiVvuES0drF-EicyNiGSi1w7viOqs1_6IA4AhtvlwngXYzUCf3jbds0eOCX2LWnsK68GEhJFg8LVElNorbBygUnSU1GkAhXSQ6s/s200/PA094574.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>HERMITAGE - WORLD FAMOUS MUSEUM</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our epic Eurasia train voyage
actually began a year earlier in St. Petersburg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were visiting the Baltic countries and
included a visit to St. Petersburg, Moscow and two of the Golden Cities near
Moscow, in our itinerary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, we
blended our earlier Russian experiences with our second trip where we actually
began our Trans-Siberian trip departing from Moscow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find the extra time to begin your trip of a
lifetime in St. Petersburg, a magical city that Peter the Great ordered built
on a swamp.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Fly directly into St. Petersburg
and pre-arrange a taxi transfer to your hostel/hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plan to visit the world renowned Hermitage,
stroll Nevsky Prospekt, stopping to marvel at the Saviour on Spilled Blood
Church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Provide time to visit other
sites such as the Peter and Paul Fortress.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Arrange or purchase train tickets
for an evening departure on the Red Arrow #001 leaving at 23:55.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will save you the cost of a room and you
won’t miss any sights not taking a daytime train between St. Petersburg and
Moscow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is little to view from the
train’s windows plus the day trains are usually costly express trains.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our current holiday began in Moscow
with us pre-booking a double room at Godzillas Hostel and through the hostel
arranged for a car/driver to meet our British Air flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Godzillas Hostel is professionally run and
spotlessly clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reception has an
English speaking young adult on duty 24/7.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We experienced exceptional assistance with our many inquiries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nearby is a metro station with fares only two
rubles to any place, inexpensive restaurants, food marts, ATM machines plus the
Moscow circus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it’s only a twenty
minute trek to Red Square!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Godzillas
Hostel is perfectly located and most importantly met our budget needs!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Moscow has economically embraced
capitalism with open arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result,
food and room prices are sky high, but don’t permit the cost factor to curtail
your enjoyment of the cosmopolitan capital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Soak in its history, marvel at its architecture, feast on its cuisine,
cheer at its hockey matches, enjoy its circus performance and wander through
its many museums.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once on the train
recharge your drained batteries!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimBF5gcluJVPi2bFd3Kch-37LpOUZXslOWmFHrSwEAUufbXPEDP7iRKypAGP09H9KXSY01uJZM2zVY6aCC3vwtibW4LvmcxPV8C4dwlCJJjNmqqu5psfrzdkRCcIGVsoqm49lpuIehdKpf/s1600/P9188946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimBF5gcluJVPi2bFd3Kch-37LpOUZXslOWmFHrSwEAUufbXPEDP7iRKypAGP09H9KXSY01uJZM2zVY6aCC3vwtibW4LvmcxPV8C4dwlCJJjNmqqu5psfrzdkRCcIGVsoqm49lpuIehdKpf/s320/P9188946.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>SAINT BASIL CATHEDRAL</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our first visit was to Red Square
to marvel at the multi-domed and colourful St. Basil’s Cathedral!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure we must have a hundred plus photos
of the magnificent cathedral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank
goodness for digital cameras.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A trip
through the G.U.M. department store surprised us with its many high end and
expensive stores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Kremlin and
Lenin’s tomb were on our agenda saving a circus performance for the following
afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our four nights in the
magical city were extremely busy as we worked our way through our Lonely Planet
guide books, “Moscow Sights” section.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">To visit two of the Golden Cities,
Vladimir and Suzdal, we used Moscow as our hub city, leaving extra clothing at
the hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Godzillas’ reception staff
suggested booking the daily express train which stops at Vladimir and then bus
to Suzdal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the travel plan we
followed.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Early morning saw us disembarking
at the Vladimir train station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaving
the station we hiked up a steep hill pausing often and soon located Hotel
Vladimir.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We didn’t have hotel
reservations but this was not a concern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The hotel is a renovated state hotel and our room was charming complete
with an ensuite and the price included a buffet breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel did not accept credit cards and was
cash only.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel’s “cash only”
policy resulted in our first destination being a walk to the bank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately the bank’s ATM machine spewed our
rubles!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Again, cash richer and relieved we
concentrated on visiting the white Assumption Cathedral, viewing Vladimir’s
golden gate and wandering the residential streets admiring the older wooden historical
homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The following day saw us climbing
a narrow staircase to check out the Military Museum followed by a visit to two
other museums.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGjrXDBrhW7n9drEhzhR6iVAp_ZTnml0pG6hlcLnWjtnbuiOxO5zDqw3G_J6eBicW2zSbzxAwFPz4cS3bBuQADQg8dVHDEgOOnVcv7PxUrhCAKGFcMSWSnzRdw8VUbi41syyQ__NNIAIh/s1600/PA205100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGjrXDBrhW7n9drEhzhR6iVAp_ZTnml0pG6hlcLnWjtnbuiOxO5zDqw3G_J6eBicW2zSbzxAwFPz4cS3bBuQADQg8dVHDEgOOnVcv7PxUrhCAKGFcMSWSnzRdw8VUbi41syyQ__NNIAIh/s200/PA205100.JPG" width="171" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>OUR FAVORITE CATHEDRAL</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">On the morning of the third day we
returned to the bus/train station and caught a mini bus to Suzdal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The local buses run every half hour to and
fro from Vladimir taking about a half hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suzdal was a step back in time having a rural
country side ambience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent two
nights in medieval Suzdal admiring the numerous ancient architectural buildings
and charming churches projecting picturesque spires and cupolas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our favourite church was the Nativity of the
Virgin Cathedral with its blue onion-shaped domes sprinkled with gold-like
stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short hike across the river
brought us to an outdoor museum featuring early peasant life in the
region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early morning saw us at the
small bus depot patiently waiting to board a mini bus back to Vladimir.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the Vladimir station we could not believe
our good fortune as a Moscow bound bus was ready to depart in ten minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No waiting for us!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, alas it was not to be. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though the bus had ample empty seating we
were unable to purchase a ticket from the service counter or from the coach
driver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had to wait two hours for the
next Moscow bus and to this day don’t know why we couldn’t purchase a
ticket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The setback is all part of the
travel experience and lack of being able to communicate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once back in Moscow we took the efficient and
inexpensive metro to the Tsvetnoy Bulvar metro stop located close to Godzillas
Hostel for one more night prior to leaving Moscow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since our train departure was late afternoon
we had time for a trial run to Kazansky train station and to visit Museum of Modern
Art before enjoying a late lunch at Grabli Restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the restaurant it was a short walk to
the hostel to grab our stored bags and say a final farewell to an incredible
staff and manager.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">A bit unsure of just what to
expect, we planned to arrive at the Kazansky railway station early with time to
spare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Better to be early than late, and
as things turned out security was minimal and we reached the train platform
area without delay, providing time to wander.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our Ekaterinburg train #16,
departed promptly at 16:50.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As this was
the first leg of our odyssey the adrenalin was flowing as we wondered what we
would encounter on our 25 hour journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We unpacked our travel needs and stowed our bags and shoes under our
bunks and set out our food supplies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This routine would be duplicated each time we boarded a train.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our dinner planning flowed smoothly and we
enjoyed bread and cheese washed down with hot noodle soup followed by a
sweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Guess this could be called gourmet
train dining!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Arriving in Yekaterinburg the
following late afternoon, we took a taxi to the Meeting Point Hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Katia, our hostess, met us and introduced us
to the many people resting in the small cozy hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seemed to us the small hostel was wall to
wall people and backpacks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen and I
weren’t sure what we had booked ourselves into!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It seemed our best plan was to go for dinner and worry about finding a
bunk when we returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, upon our
return from dinner many guests had left to catch trains and we enjoyed a quiet
two-night stay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Katia Tkacha<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>was exceptional and went out of her
way to assist us and three other Irish lads with our train bookings and
locating hotel rooms as her hostel was pre-booked for our third night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It turned out to be a fun enjoyable stay at
her hostel.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our city explorations began with a
stroll to Yekaterinburg’s historic square, followed by a visit to the massive
Byzantine Church of the Blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The seven
domed golden church honours the Romanov family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The nearby royal family death site is marked with an iron cross.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To the right of the church we discovered a
beautiful three storey building that was the Romanov’s family home and is now a
memorial to Tsar Nicholas II and the royal family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well worth the visit.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The afternoon found us searching
for the new office location of the Yekaterinburg Guide Center to determine if
they, on short notice, could provide a tour to the Monastery of the Holy
Martyrs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After much searching we located
the office staffed by two helpful ladies who organized a taxi and driver to
arrive within a half hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maria, one of
the staff members, spent considerable time clearly explaining our tour desires
to the taxi driver as we could not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
service we never expected as we were charged only for the taxi service not Maria’s
assistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maria’s explicit directions
resulted in a smooth excursion.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYA__HwLZWdxkhYYZK8CjhCAhiHKw6GXSMoJqiuISv_Rh8-heSbPKjpq9h5nvuALlG0dJ1gTvpnVTQeVjmrR2eIv2fiGWxKEW5vPoydnEQaXM3OMAbaA37yDFn9-hP8Cs22uUW9X8Ri-M0/s1600/P9239185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYA__HwLZWdxkhYYZK8CjhCAhiHKw6GXSMoJqiuISv_Rh8-heSbPKjpq9h5nvuALlG0dJ1gTvpnVTQeVjmrR2eIv2fiGWxKEW5vPoydnEQaXM3OMAbaA37yDFn9-hP8Cs22uUW9X8Ri-M0/s320/P9239185.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>MONASTERY of the HOLY MARTYRS</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The Ganina Yama pilgrimage site is
beautifully situated in the depths of a pine forest 16 km outside Yekaterinburg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Orthodox Church has constructed five or
six wooden churches crowned with golden onion-domed spirals plus as observation
platform that overlooks the mine shaft where the Romanov family remains were
dumped and later located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sacred
grounds are spectacular in colour and structure, but also rather
thought-provoking as a page that changed history.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our second train leg of fifty hours
found us in Irkutsk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Irkutsk is probably
the most popular stop on the entire Trans-Siberian Railway route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And most certainly one stop that needs to be
part of any itinerary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We bussed to
centrally located Baikaler Hostel and were happy with our greeting and the
organization and cleanliness of our double room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first item on our agenda was to have the
hostel book a taxi van to transport us to Olkhon Island the following morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olkhon Island is about halfway up Lake
Baikal’s western shore and is a great spot to explore and view Baikal
Lake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The solo reason we stopped here!</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0TwqwIZbgv_veMo0hLkrhH9klBrFPXSSrAxJ9N0LAqz369TKk35ia01_hHp76y4-sVmnCgVBLSK6_2rxBXiDND_hgSdtqJf_xEsxmPE2i7Ujk7TapSO_UUPur0_AAJKjIsuqAwdbb7kdA/s1600/P9289557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0TwqwIZbgv_veMo0hLkrhH9klBrFPXSSrAxJ9N0LAqz369TKk35ia01_hHp76y4-sVmnCgVBLSK6_2rxBXiDND_hgSdtqJf_xEsxmPE2i7Ujk7TapSO_UUPur0_AAJKjIsuqAwdbb7kdA/s320/P9289557.JPG" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>FORMER GULAG SITE ON LAKE BAIKAL</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Lake Baikal is 644 km long and 32
to 65 km wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lake is 1637 meters
deep and as the world’s largest lake contains 20 percent of the world’s fresh
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A fear of pollution has led to
the creation of one of the largest protected areas in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gone are the feared Siberian gulags and
harmful industrial plants.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Nikita Guest House organizes daily
tours to the island’s northern tip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
tour presents opportunities for beautiful views of Lake Baikal from sheer cliff
tops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tour included a campfire fresh
fish lunch cooked by our driver, complete with a salad, bread and great
fellowship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our return drive our
driver further demonstrated his versatility when our ancient Russian jeep
developed a mechanical problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
tools in hand he was under the jeep’s front end and a few bangs later we were
on our way again.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">We returned to Irkutsk via van to
spend one more night at Baikaler Hostel before catching the morning train to
Ulan-Ude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to an overbooking at
Ulan-Ude Travelers House Hostel we found ourselves staying at the newly opened
Hostel House. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As fate would have it,
this initial disappointment turned into one of our most enjoyable and
comfortable hostel stays, as we had the whole well-equipped and modern hostel
to ourselves!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Ulan-Ude was a brief stop for us as
we visited the main square dominated by the world’s largest Lenin head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well worth an evening visit is the city’s
picturesque light fountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The excellent
Ethnographic Museum is an outdoors collection of burial mounds, reconstructed
nomadic camps, old believers’ complex and much more for a worthwhile full day
visit.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our next train excursion was to
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ulaanbaatar
train #06 was an eighteen hours thirty minutes trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crossing the Russian border into Mongolia was
a rather time consuming process with dogs sniffing their way through each
carriage and Russian officials checking passports.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next interruption was the Mongolian border
guards duplicating the passport checking procedure. Finally we could settle in
for some much needed shut-eye.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Mongolian’s capital, Ulaanbaatar,
welcomed us with a gorgeous sunrise as our pre-arranged driver transported us
to Khongor Guest House. </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">An exciting time as our Mongolian visit was to be the highlight of our Trans-Siberian train journey.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Ulaanbaatar is a city experiencing
the rapid pace of modernization with older style Soviet built apartment blocks
contrasted with modern glass-faced office towers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And of course there is the curse of all urban
cities “grid lock” traffic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a
pedestrian, crossing streets became an art of survival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we were not discouraged and enjoyed our
visits to the Gandan Khid Buddhist monastery plus visiting its museums
including the Museum of Natural History which houses massive dinosaur fossils
dug from the Gobi Desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After our
train diet of noodles and bread, Ulaanbaatar’s international restaurant cuisine
was a welcome change from our train menu.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our main goal was to travel the
Gobi Desert and experience the rural nomadic lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through Khongor Guest House tour personnel we
arranged a seven day Gobi Desert tour staying in family gers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if we desired we could not have stayed
in tourist gers as they had closed for the season and we would have missed the
essence of the cultural experience.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a1Kwj1sY4W34vaCLQ3nMFFrKMexpIjYibqQobwf2SUdpp2awINtgiXVoJYARU5s2hleFXfb0Xv4r4EGHJd5mvj0FpUwV_gXtbZiBWLWGmPNYcZvIq_eK2Ebvi65YOLdtqrRI-Pc7cADw/s1600/PA070006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a1Kwj1sY4W34vaCLQ3nMFFrKMexpIjYibqQobwf2SUdpp2awINtgiXVoJYARU5s2hleFXfb0Xv4r4EGHJd5mvj0FpUwV_gXtbZiBWLWGmPNYcZvIq_eK2Ebvi65YOLdtqrRI-Pc7cADw/s200/PA070006.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>TYPICAL GER INTERIOR</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The evening desert lodgings that we
stayed at usually consisted of the family ger plus one or two gers furnished to
accommodate tourists to provide extra cash income for the family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rental gers contained four to six single
beds placed around the ger’s perimeter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
open central space was taken up by a low dung burning stove, a small low table
and a few stools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The woodwork and door
entrance were beautifully carved and brilliantly painted. The very comfortable
but basic accommodations provided an insight into nomadic family life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you imagine your family sharing one room
complete with outdoor plumbing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Truly an
experience!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our Gobi Desert highlights were a
climb to the top of the sand dunes at Khongoryn Els, a trek to ice patches in Yolyn
Am canyon, a view of the flaming cliffs and to marvel at the colourful
limestone formations of Tsagaan Suvraga.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our experience was so wonderful that upon our return to Khongor Guest
House we immediately booked a second four-day tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our only stipulation was that Hurlee, our
wonderful guide, and Sumiya, our exceptional driver, would be our tour
personnel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both were happy to
accommodate our wishes.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The highlights of our second tour
were first a visit to Erdene Zuu, Mongolia’s first Buddhist monastery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stalinist purges of 1937 ended with all but
three of the many temples being destroyed with an undetermined number of monks
either killed or transported to Siberian gulags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today Buddhist temples are being restored and
Tibetan Buddhism flourishes.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHc0C-6-ZCUT9G6qFO_6YJ8Mx7q-mh_NduBB0WwxhK8p8we8ZE-aG1mno9mDLtQKIUcNEjRr09l74iBdM7_B-5qbU8FfNWI2MfZgw12bN4tI3SQTU0UTwOPrQbLsAq350osmh2Y7wV6TS/s1600/PA170745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHc0C-6-ZCUT9G6qFO_6YJ8Mx7q-mh_NduBB0WwxhK8p8we8ZE-aG1mno9mDLtQKIUcNEjRr09l74iBdM7_B-5qbU8FfNWI2MfZgw12bN4tI3SQTU0UTwOPrQbLsAq350osmh2Y7wV6TS/s200/PA170745.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>TAKHI HERD</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The second high spot was a visit to
Khustain National Park, home to the magnificent takhi horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After viewing a documentary explaining the
reintroduction of the wild horses, a park ranger climbed into our jeep to guide
us on our park safari.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was our day
as we were rewarded with not only one sighting of a takhi herd but three
separate herds plus a herd of yaks and deer. This was a glorious
adrenaline-packed park visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurlee was
astonished at the number of animals we encountered on our park drive and stated
that she had never viewed that many animals in one drive!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">On our drive back to Ulaanbaatar we
were a quiet subdued group and a bit sad as we reflected and realized our time
together was rapidly coming to an end once we reached the hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We said our heart-felt goodbyes and parted –
us to the guest house to leave the next day and Hurlee and Sumiya home to
families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would we be able to continue
our new found friendships or over time would our bonding become a fond memory
in the recesses of all our minds?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Early the following morning, our
hostel driver swiftly delivered us to the train station for a comfortable
boarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Thursday #024 train pulled
out sharply at 7:15 for our last 30 hour journey ending in Beijing.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">By now we considered ourselves
experienced train travelers and quickly stored the luggage and had our
breakfast spread out on the small table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We prepared to enjoy the last segment of our odyssey quickly settling
into our train routines as the kilometers clicked away through the barren Gobi
Desert toward the Mongolian border and our entry into China.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Since the Chinese rail system
operates on standard gauge track and Russia employs a narrow gauge the bogies
of all wagons must be changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
carriages are unhooked in a bogie change shed and using hydraulic lifts each
wagon is raised and the Russian bogies are released.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the small wheels are being pulled out from
under each car via a cable a line of wider bogies is simultaneously being
pulled into place under each carriage to be released and attached to each wagon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While consuming five hours, the procedure was
a slick, smooth operation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, yes, the
Mongolian customs processing took another couple of hours and the Chinese
officials repeated a similar time-consuming process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The border crossing guaranteed that we would
receive little shut eye that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, still an interesting experience!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">After a few hours sleep we awoke to
find we were climbing and serpentining through a mountainous region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fellow travelers informed us that we would be
able to spot glimpses of the Great Wall of China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow we missed the opportunity and would
not see the Great Wall until later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
must have fallen asleep or were watching out the wrong window.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The Beijing train station is modern
and massive with what seemed like wall to wall people ebbing to and fro.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a visit to an ATM machine for a yuan withdrawal,
we were in search of a taxi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rather than
wait in a long slow-moving taxi line I thought I would be clever and avoid the
long wait by accepting a ride, in what turned out to be an illegal taxi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately a nearby traveler gave us a
heads-up before we climbed in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will I
ever learn? </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">After a long wait we had our taxi and
soon arrived at the Beijing Jade International Hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel/hostel was well located within
walking distance to the Forbidden City, about a pleasant ten minute walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The neighborhood contained numerous nearby
restaurants and small shops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within
walking distance was the Sijiminfu Restaurant where we enjoyed our Peking duck
dinner, plus two other fantastic meals in the busy restaurant.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2yugqIKMF-pWphWXZ5VzvWBr5w8RWTf24cKeb8Pgg8hsrtM7wCuqhj-bDiiqryV-9vqSiZRKCh61iXNgbF5wI48Q5WWNoUgLq0GUVd3ea_T1raBnLpQgoHCmn2Jqs74Kchyphenhyphen12D16EpVF/s1600/PA231234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2yugqIKMF-pWphWXZ5VzvWBr5w8RWTf24cKeb8Pgg8hsrtM7wCuqhj-bDiiqryV-9vqSiZRKCh61iXNgbF5wI48Q5WWNoUgLq0GUVd3ea_T1raBnLpQgoHCmn2Jqs74Kchyphenhyphen12D16EpVF/s320/PA231234.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MING DYNASTY GUARD TOWER</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our first Beijing morning was
cloudy and heavily polluted, reducing our vision and appreciation of Tiananmen
Square.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the square’s center we
could not clearly see Mao’s giant portrait hanging over the Gate of Heavenly
Peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To us this seemed to be an oxymoron
considering what happened in the summer of 1989!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We crossed the street to stroll Forbidden
City.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An independent tour guide
approached us and we negotiated a price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As it turned out, Johnson, our guide, spoke excellent English and did
such a great job that at the end of our successful tour we contracted him to
hire a car for the following day to drive us to the Great Wall of China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For our climb of the wall’s ramparts we chose
Mutianyu as the location is considered to be a less commercial experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since my energy level was at a low ebb, we
caught the cable car to the wall and spent three plus hours enjoying the bright
sunny day as we walked the wide ramparts marveling at the colossal size of the
Great Wall itself and admiring surrounding scenic countryside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To encapsulate our experience in a single
word - stunning! </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">A favourite tour company procedure
is to spend a minimal amount of time visiting the wall and maximum time
transporting clients to tea shops, to herbal clinics, to silk factories and to
other businesses where drivers are paid commissions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were aware of this procedure and had
discussed our concern with Johnson and he agreed our focus was to be the wall with
one visit to a silk factory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The simple
reason for the single visit was that Doreen wished to purchase a silk duvet!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the factory I’m sure records were broken
for the fastest silk making demonstrations of all time before ushering us to
the main sales rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose one
could view our silk factory visit as a win-win situation as all three of us
were satisfied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen had her new
quilt, Johnson had his extra commission and I had to only suffer through one
sales pitch!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The end of our day saw a
quick visit to the Olympic Village of 2008.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">On our three day Beijing visit we
wandered in the Summer Park, booked a bike tour through the Hutong district and
attended a performance of Chinese acrobats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The last act found us holding our collective breaths as four motorcycle
riders defied death as they rode inside a large metal sphere - the climax to
the show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our time to leave Beijing
arrived quickly signaling the official end to our Trans-Siberian Mongolian
Train journey.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Was this the final termination
point of our travels after forty-one days?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fortunately not!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were to
continue a further busy sixteen days travelling China before flying home from
Shanghai to Vancouver, Canada. Our secondary travel experience provided us with
an opportunity to see the famous Terra Cotta Warriors, the awe-inspiring Yuanyang
Rice Terraces, the picturesque water system of Gulin, and the spectacular
rivers and mountains surrounding Yangshu, finally ending in cosmopolitan
Shanghai.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The Trans-Siberian-Mongolian Train
odyssey was the easiest of our many trips to organize with only one mode of
transportation going in one direction to complete a travel experience of a life
time. </span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Helpful Facts to Ponder</u>:</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Obtaining Visas</u>:</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">A visa is required for each country
and we strongly recommend obtaining all visas early and in Canada.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Russian and Mongolia require an
invitation letter usually obtained as a service from your hotel or hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or this can be done through a travel agent,
but doubles the cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apply for a
tourist 30 day visa and download the necessary application forms from each
embassy’s web page.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The Canadian Russian embassy does
not accept mail-in applications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
may force you to use a visa agency thus further increasing your visa cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us the turnaround time was four to six
weeks and the fee is $135.00 per person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We used International Visa Passport Service Corp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.ivpsc.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.ivpsc.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Mongolia’s visa was easier to
obtain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Download the forms and send
directly to the Mongolian Embassy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
takes ten days and the fee is $90.00 per person.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">China requires you to obtain a visa
directly from their embassy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since they
have an embassy in Vancouver, we arranged to have our daughter do the footwork
to obtain our visas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This took two to
three days and the fee was $35.00 per person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Obtain your invitations and visas as early as possible.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.rusembassy.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.rusembassy.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and </span><a href="http://www.mongolembassy.org/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.mongolembassy.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and </span><a href="http://www.vancouver.china-consulate.org/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.vancouver.china-consulate.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">
</span></div>
<br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Purchasing Train Tickets:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<br />
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<a href="http://www.realrussia.co.uk/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.realrussia.co.uk</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Using
“Real Russia” is an easy way to book tickets on line, but will cost 30 plus percent
more than booking directly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would
book the first leg and then book at the train station or arrange with your
hostel to assist with purchases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We referred
to the “Real Russia” site to assist us in train selection as all trains and
schedules are posted on this site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The “Real
Russia” site can be easily accessed using </span><a href="http://www.seat61.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.seat61.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">.,
which also contains a wealth of helpful train travel information. </span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Booking Hostel Accommodations</u>:</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">All the hostels employed English
speaking staff, were centrally located, provided kitchens and were clean and
secure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bathroom facilities are
shared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We pre-booked our first hostel
and then using </span><a href="http://www.hostelworld.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.hostelworld.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"> or </span><a href="http://www.hostelbookers.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.hostelbookers.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"> booked as we
travelled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We recommend all the hostels we
booked</span></div>
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<u><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></span></o:p></u><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>St. Petersburg</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Hostel Pilau, </span><a href="http://www.hostel.ru/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.hostel.ru</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">., provided our invitation letter
at a cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent ratings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Perfect location for walking, restaurants, groceries, and the
metro.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Moscow:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Godzillas Hostel, </span><a href="http://www.godzillashostel.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.godzillashostel.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>this is an excellently run hostel with
extremely helpful well-trained reception desk staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bright rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Metro and restaurants close at hand</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Vladimir:</span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Hotel Vladimir.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.vladimirhotel.ru/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.vladimirhotel.ru</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Renovated hotel, spacious rooms with ensuite
and buffet breakfast included.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Suzdal:</span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Rizopolyhenskaya Hotel (two stars)
booking sites only, located on a monastery’s grounds, adequate rooms, café, can
arrange board, good location.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Yekaterinburg</u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Meeting Point Hostel<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="mailto:mephoho@gmail.com"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">mephoho@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Katia Tkacha is an excellent hostess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Books train tickets plus travel ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tea/coffee available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A small comfortable hostel.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Irkutsk</u>:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Baikaler Hostel, </span><a href="http://www.balkaler.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.balkaler.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>one double room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bright and comfortable room, helpful
staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tea and coffee available.</span><br />
<br />
<o:p><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Olkhon Island</u>:</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Nikita’s Guest House.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.olkhon.info/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.olkhon.info</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Best place to stay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Book early.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Full board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Decorative room with
ensuite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arranges island tours.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Ulan-Ude</u>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Hostel House<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.hosthouse.ru/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.hosthouse.ru</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Near train station, easy walk to center, new
hostel comfortable beds and spacious rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Limited English.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent
hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tea/coffee available.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Ulaanbaatar</u>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Khongor Guesthouse </span><a href="http://www.get.to/kronger"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.get.to/kronger</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"> or </span><a href="mailto:Kronger@mongol.net"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">Kronger@mongol.net</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"> provided our invitation
letter free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Extremely helpful staff, organizes many tours,
and will book train tickets free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tea/coffee and bread/jam breakfast included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needs refurbishing but clean and secure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fantastic location. Cheap double room in
October.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$7.00 p/p</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial;">Beijing:</span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Beijing Jade International Youth
Hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.xihuahotel.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">www.xihuahotel.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seems to have three names and is a hotel
style not a hostel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms pleasant with
ensuites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Excellent location.</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYI50YGqyMuYgSD6aB8wg1Xo3b71KF4WJMZ0MQMwb1QTl2ez5woXiK1-xd4uyMh8I6jlEfwZp0KzJefCbqq6S5Hpl4CUkvtohIfiU1sfpKsvmDwLT7VqTJhxg13et87DYfxyRiaoAUmRy/s1600/PA080178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYI50YGqyMuYgSD6aB8wg1Xo3b71KF4WJMZ0MQMwb1QTl2ez5woXiK1-xd4uyMh8I6jlEfwZp0KzJefCbqq6S5Hpl4CUkvtohIfiU1sfpKsvmDwLT7VqTJhxg13et87DYfxyRiaoAUmRy/s200/PA080178.JPG" width="171" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>GOBI DESERT - CAMEL RIDE</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuWRigr0T2XY6aEw911TeIe5suU-zhH0unS9beCx8yyPi7Wdjw7l3KeqkJI09vGpNoYiaN_tvfujeCJ-j25LpwWVKt9P_pnc1YvHgrrKaxFQhX_QJJ56ihJWIOlgYl4kOh7t6q3Pn0OSw/s1600/PA150532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuWRigr0T2XY6aEw911TeIe5suU-zhH0unS9beCx8yyPi7Wdjw7l3KeqkJI09vGpNoYiaN_tvfujeCJ-j25LpwWVKt9P_pnc1YvHgrrKaxFQhX_QJJ56ihJWIOlgYl4kOh7t6q3Pn0OSw/s200/PA150532.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>FAMILY GER</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<br />Our "Golden Age Backpackers in Mongolia 2011" Blog article expands our visit to Mongolia.<br />
</div>jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-91747538157270220492012-04-02T13:15:00.000-07:002012-07-22T22:16:28.980-07:00MEXICAN BUDGET TRAVELS TO TEQUILA-MEXICAN RIVIERA<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tequila Has it All, Except the Mexican Riviera Beaches<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Story and Photos by John
and Doreen Berg<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0eKXT5tojhn0MRhSsGS2axChF5Gmv3cgAmskpTvjbJChYW21Ze1YZBqOU1ZZ2csSU3n-jgyCM7B5sWa-FxtbZ_VP6XMkRJ2MIiwgyI74PCmIaKBk2R91zNLOef5WhoMwUG7WaqVmMLvV/s1600/P3147812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0eKXT5tojhn0MRhSsGS2axChF5Gmv3cgAmskpTvjbJChYW21Ze1YZBqOU1ZZ2csSU3n-jgyCM7B5sWa-FxtbZ_VP6XMkRJ2MIiwgyI74PCmIaKBk2R91zNLOef5WhoMwUG7WaqVmMLvV/s320/P3147812.JPG" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Mexican tourists mention Tequila, numerous images
spring to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Certainly, one thought
that is often overlooked is to consider Tequila as a multifaceted tourist
destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The majority of tourists
visiting Tequila simply tour a distillery and partake of its famous drink then immediately
return to the Puerto Vallarta coastal area or to the Guadalajara region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tequila and the surrounding countryside has
much more to offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The inquisitive
tourist is able to plan excursions to visit exceptional museums, historical sites,
natural springs, concentrical pyramids, spherical boulders and photographical
landscapes as well as taste-testing tequila, and all at a reasonable price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What more could the intrepid tourist wish for?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each winter season, Doreen and I abandon the damp chilling
British Columbia rains to enjoy the warm dazzling sun and clear sparkling waters
of the Mexican Riviera, Nayarit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basking
on the beach with warm sands trickling between our toes, with pristine waters
washing against the shore, and with frequent fitness hikes continue to be our
Mexican activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, after a
month or so we require an alternative to enjoying our beach paradise and our
decadent lifestyle and must seek different destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last season we visited Tequila and enjoyed
the town's ambiance so we decided to revisit Tequila and expand our travel
plans to include excursions to two nearby archaeological sites:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Los Guachimontones and Piedras Bola.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The interior destinations seemed the ideal
region for us to visit as we both enjoy exploring Mexican ruins and learning
more about the regional history.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">An 8:30 a.m. start, saw us loading our one suitcase
into the back of our rented Jeep Cherokee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We drove from Rincón de Guayabitos, stopping at Las Varas to enjoy a
breakfast in our favorite restaurant, La Birra de Angelita.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After hueves rancheros and a Mexican omelette
washed down with numerous cups of coffee, we headed toward Compostela, where we
switched to the toll road (cuota) and continued driving to Chapalilla and here
changed back to the free road (libra).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along
the roadside many small pottery stalls can be found.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's a great place to pause to purchase
pottery gift items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our purchase was
four different shaped and coloured coffee mug sets for family Christmas
gifts!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nice when you luck out as the
four kids loved the gift mugs!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXNKlGRPRgqfrz0yK4TQ3Dy9TyW_7TTNautezEpf5HZl0T9fpMVVn5VfHiBWd_ibA_0s7r2JvRSPziFCrN7-OjKCoJpIqZ8kO3YTx-kCQAoqJMWhHUhKlgCDkcqPhkmvpRsQdQSV1hM4i/s1600/DSCN2231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXNKlGRPRgqfrz0yK4TQ3Dy9TyW_7TTNautezEpf5HZl0T9fpMVVn5VfHiBWd_ibA_0s7r2JvRSPziFCrN7-OjKCoJpIqZ8kO3YTx-kCQAoqJMWhHUhKlgCDkcqPhkmvpRsQdQSV1hM4i/s320/DSCN2231.JPG" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Continuing along Highway 15 the next major town
encountered is Ahaucatlán.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On this
year's trip we elected not to turn off to again visit the wonderful hot springs
at Burranca de Oro.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The springs are
located deep in a narrow canyon with sturdy access walkways, adequate change
rooms, and a variety of swimming pools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Located at the canyon's rim is a restaurant and accommodations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last year our group of four spent an
enjoyable few hours swimming, exploring and consuming a poolside lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Barranca de Oro would be a convenient
overnight stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, we elected to
push on to Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Attempt to find time
to enjoy Barranca de Oro as it is a fascinating spot and will be a complete
surprise.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We returned to Highway 27 driving to Etzatlán junction
where we turned north to Magdalena to join the toll road to Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The secondary road is satisfactory but expect
rough sections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If in no hurry, Highway
15 is a scenic drive passing through farmlands and small villages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An alternate to consider is to drive back to
Ahaucatlán and take the faster toll highway directly to Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the elevated Tequila approach highway
you can enjoy sweeping views of the agave fields.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The area was declared a World Heritage site
in 2006!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-m4TyMkJk-KISagcgoqdl24eEXoVbMSwGygKWoE5hlfuIjWiVTZZKTwPBAFuvW-mtvOpcvizIGa5NYIy6XLE4XEUUxbKJiBg4PtFa45vurkUyBK6kqnE0pFxRfIpYzKjrA47NVPTE6Si1/s1600/P3147791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-m4TyMkJk-KISagcgoqdl24eEXoVbMSwGygKWoE5hlfuIjWiVTZZKTwPBAFuvW-mtvOpcvizIGa5NYIy6XLE4XEUUxbKJiBg4PtFa45vurkUyBK6kqnE0pFxRfIpYzKjrA47NVPTE6Si1/s320/P3147791.JPG" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This trip we managed an earlier mid-afternoon arrival
at Hotel La Rienda Mision Tequillan's enclosed parking area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel is centrally located in Tequila's
historic downtown area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once checked in
it was a short walk to visit the 17th Century Santiago Apostol Church and a few
meters away is the Plaza de Arms, complete with a colourful bandstand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Located just off the square is the Sauza
Family Grandparent's Museum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The museum
is certainly worth a visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here you'll
find personal artifacts that once belonged to the Sauze family, as well as
displays depicting the traditional tequila-making process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After our museum visit we noticed tequila
keg-shaped vehicles parked nearby. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Couldn't miss them! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After inquiring we booked a distillery tour
for the following morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next was a
search for an evening meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
checking out several restaurants we decided to dine at Cafe Rossy and later
watch the social interactions in the plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A few night photos and it was back to the hotel to tuck in.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Probably the most popular distillery tour is the José
Cuervo Distillery as its within easy walking distance from the plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having visited three distilleries over the
seasons, José Cuervo, La Cofradia and Romo, we recommend the Romo Distillery
Tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tour provided a visit to the
original distillery area where we were able to view the old washing stands
where once ladies chatted as they washed their clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did these ancient wash stands evolve into our
present day laundromats? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next stop was a
visit to Distillery Reyes, an older equipped factory which only operates part
of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a brief tour and a
few sample drinks we felt an obligation to purchase an almond tequila drink
which, I'm sure, pleased everyone.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Back on the Tequila bus to visit a blue-tinted agave
field followed by a tour of the Romo Distillery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time of our visit the plant was in
full operation enabling us to enjoy the sweet smell of cooked agave nectar
wafting through the spotlessly clean distillery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was surprised, for safety reasons, at how
near the tour guide brought us to moving tractors and operational
machinery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The keg tour bus returned us
to Plaza de Arms where a visit to an obsidian (volcanic rock) stall led to a
home factory visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we chatted and
admired the curved obsidian shapes the owner invited us to his home workshop to
view how the beautiful obsidian pieces were made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short taxi ride brought us to his abode.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We entered the living quarters and passed through to
the rear factory area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a large workshop
where four or five workers were busy working at various machines cutting,
shaping and polishing obsidian pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Out of all the designs the ever-popular heart shape was the favourite as
it allows one to appreciate the beautiful colours of the rainbow obsidian and
it sells well too!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doreen fell in love
with a beautiful 20 -25 cm tall female statue of silver sheen obsidian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time, the price caused us to
reconsider its purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, in hindsight,
Doreen wishes she had purchased the lovely lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over time the price would be forgotten but
the statue's beauty would continue to be enjoyed in our living room. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or this is what I'm being led to believe! The
final event of the day was a dinner at El Palmolar Restaurant on the church
square.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day after a breakfast at the market we
visited, Nunat, the National Museum of Tequila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The museum depicted the history of tequila making complete with tequila
bottles from three generations of Sauza production.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We returned to Hotel La Rienda to collect our
baggage and check out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We retraced our
drive back to Magdalena but before turning off to Etzatlán we browsed the local
shops selling opal and obsidian handicrafts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I'm sure their beautiful store displays will tempt a purchase or two.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From Etzatlán we drove Highway 27 to Teuchitlán
watching for the turnoff to Los Guachimontones, the archaeological site of the
round step pyramids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The site is easily
located with highway signage to keep you on track and a paved road into the
site's parking lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVBWbzwLecz8Nsl7RUbyLDcI-C0I-NoortRr9hOzKbL1t8CfA5ven71wRv0o-KYa9E-3uQSRJScD5g4DFPkdadA_nStHSTkwtHAIWZr0mZtb9MxtTl3HIxGfw_xhk7mWAnSOJHy87BGHG/s1600/P3157843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVBWbzwLecz8Nsl7RUbyLDcI-C0I-NoortRr9hOzKbL1t8CfA5ven71wRv0o-KYa9E-3uQSRJScD5g4DFPkdadA_nStHSTkwtHAIWZr0mZtb9MxtTl3HIxGfw_xhk7mWAnSOJHy87BGHG/s320/P3157843.JPG" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Los Guachimontones was discovered some fifty years
ago, quite by accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently, Dr. Phil
Weigand and a teacher Acelia Garcia stumbled upon some skilfully crafted
obsidian objects in the town of Teuchitlán.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Further investigation led the pair to present-day Los Guachimontones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The site continues to be excavated and
present literature states there are 10 pyramids and the main round step pyramid
is named "La Iguana."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
approximately 10 meters high and has a diameter of 29 meters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>La Iguana is an impressive mass and quite different
structurally as compared to the East Coast Mayan pyramids. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We observed a tour guide and his student group
performing ancient chants. Later we spoke with the tour guide and he informed
us that each year previous to March 21st, people come to Los Guachimontones and
for two days, dressed in white, they take part in indigenous rituals which
includes native dances and concerts with pre-Hispanic music.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Climbing a hill behind the main pyramid presented us
with an excellent overview of the site with La Iguana in the foreground and
Teuchitlán combined with Lake Presa de la Vega in the background.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A great photo opportunity!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Los Guachimontones is a splendid
archaeological site to visit, and is especially important to the Jalisco region
which only a few years ago was thought to contain few<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>if any archaeological finds.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the day's end was a
return drive to Etzatlán where Hotel El Centenario, our hotel choice for the
night, is centrally located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel
can be found just off the corner of the town's main plaza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel has great ambiance with an airy
courtyard ringed with antique furniture plus our room was spacious and well
appointed. The courtyard was a great spot to relax and enjoy a card game before
our rumbling stomachs encouraged us to venture out for an evening dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, we found it difficult to
locate a suitable restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one
that was recommended turned out to be mainly for lunch or breakfast
dining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally finding a restaurant, we
consumed an "okay" meal and after watching dancers in the plaza and
enjoying an ice-cream we returned to our hotel for a well-earned sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After our morning
breakfast we visited the Oaxicar Museum with its recreations of shaft tombs,
clay pottery and many more artifacts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next
on our agenda and our main goal for the day found us enroute on Highway 27
driving toward Ahualulco de Mercado to find the protected area of Piedras Bola
(round boulders).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just before Ahualulco
we turned onto Highway 608 driving towards Ameca for 14 km.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The highway climbs from the valley floor into
the mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just past the 14 km
marker is a pullout area complete with a clearly illustrated park map.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well worth taking time to study the map to
obtain an understanding of the parks layout and the location of the round boulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, we failed to notice the
pullout and signage on our journey into the park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result we missed the park's signature
display of tall compacted soil mounds each supporting a single round stone
ball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently they're located about
1.5 km from the amphitheatre and behind the main boulder find!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 5 km single lane dirt/gravel road was in
good condition and while we navigated it slowly we encountered no difficulties
or other vehicles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would appear that
the park was an ecotourism project that is either seasonal, or didn't gain
popularity, or monetary funds were withdrawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We passed camping spots, hiking trails and zip lines in disrepair and without
seeing a soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The park seemed deserted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what a shame as there appeared to be much
potential for a variety of outdoor recreational activities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR4bZQSVNnVDlaATAuCb6gI8GJ0PdsClIo9HEqftze285B9hp98OcWEVjUtJxAO9jyyZdIg5m_AF6Vo8s15HqN9aRqONctg3GnHRaUk3QbFOx2ZrGLNOMSV62y56DvSzP8B661kHu0xpS/s1600/P3167910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR4bZQSVNnVDlaATAuCb6gI8GJ0PdsClIo9HEqftze285B9hp98OcWEVjUtJxAO9jyyZdIg5m_AF6Vo8s15HqN9aRqONctg3GnHRaUk3QbFOx2ZrGLNOMSV62y56DvSzP8B661kHu0xpS/s320/P3167910.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the Piedras Bola site we found an amphitheatre with
benches, an administrative building and numerous toilets with their doors
flapping in the breeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We followed a
path past here and soon encountered the first of many round boulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What an amazing sight!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We wandered the area taking numerous photos,
in complete awe of the huge perfectly formed spherical stones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some approximately two meters in diameter,
numerous smaller boulders scattered here and there and many partially buried
with their round tops poking above the ground's surface.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhDTmK7oL82cs3Xlx92OiYT7vm9J9nDYJfIsqInCjs6HINr1-ZZOGNu-oTJ8FU129H5RQ4Oxv4CEnbBEUpkOchC1-pG5tiP9115pBbziwOYMUK87-NuLwo_Yoyk3ZHDRlat1onEfAv8Ap/s1600/DSCN4574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhDTmK7oL82cs3Xlx92OiYT7vm9J9nDYJfIsqInCjs6HINr1-ZZOGNu-oTJ8FU129H5RQ4Oxv4CEnbBEUpkOchC1-pG5tiP9115pBbziwOYMUK87-NuLwo_Yoyk3ZHDRlat1onEfAv8Ap/s320/DSCN4574.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Naturally questions sprinkled our discussions as we
asked ourselves how were these many perfectly round boulders formed and how did
they get here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you can imagine there
are many theories and legends to explain the phenomena. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After much "intellectual"
speculation our theory is that centuries ago gigantic giants occupied the park
area and the Piedras Bola site was their outdoor bowling alley!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Visit and research the site to formulate your
own theory!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our return drive back to the
main highway was quicker and more comfortable as local road conditions were now
known to us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once we rejoined the highway our focus was to return
to our coastal hotel before night fall, for us avoiding Mexican night driving
is a cardinal safety rule. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since we knew
the route it wasn't long before we reached the Magdalena junction , switching
to the pay highway brought us quickly to Compostela.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next driving segment found us arriving at
Rincón de Guayabitos late afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
brief visit to the shops to purchase dinner items and we soon found ourselves
safe and sound in our bungalow preparing our evening meal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The three-day road trip exceeded our
expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a variety of Mexican
towns, archaeological sites, informative museums and active tours we were
exposed to a great host of experiences to recall and share.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us the trip was not only a learning experience
but also provided an alternative to our beach life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One thing for sure- this was a journey to
remember and one we encourage others to travel and to expand the time frame to
include visits to other interesting nearby spots.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;">Helpful Facts</span></u></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;">:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jalisco, Mexico<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tequila<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">Hotel<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Hotel La Rienda Mision Tequillan<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Abasolo #47 Centro<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>www.tequillan.com.mx<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Phone:
374 742-3232<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Great location with secured
parking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rooms well appointed<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>450 pesos ($37.50)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Restaurants<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Real Marinera</u>- Seafood Restaurant<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Juarez # 92 Atrás de Parriquia Cáfe<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Rossy and Pasteleria</u><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two restaurants located
beside each other on the square in front of the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great spot late evening for eating and people
watching.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Local Market</u> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-located beside church plaza<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>*Many small restaurants<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>* Great for breakfast<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Tours<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tranvias Turisticos de
Tequila<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Look for tequila keg van<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Tour time - two hours approximately every 30 minutes<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Mon - Fri <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>10:00
a.m. - 4:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Sat. - Sun. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>10:00
a.m.- 5:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>100 pesos ( $10 approx. )<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">www.vistandojalisco.com.mx<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Phone:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>045-33-12-99 7536<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Museums<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Sauza Family Museum<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Vicente Albino Rojas #22<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Central Plaza behind the bandstand<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Features family memorabilia. 10
pesos ($1 approximately)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>National Museum of Tequila<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Ramón Corona # 34<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well designed displays of
photos and artifacts detailing the history of Tequila.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Water
Park</u></span></b><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></b><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">Parque Acuatico La Toma<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">La Toma
water park is an often a missed destination .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cascading natural spring water, swimming pools, panoramic views and much
more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>La Toma is located approximately
two kilometres on the right hand side of the highway driving towards
Magdalena.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we didn't partake of
the swimming it was enjoyable to visit and wander the walkways and take
advantage of an opportune photo shoot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take a few hours to kick back and enjoy La Toma water park.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Barranca de Oro<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Located a
short drive from Ahaucatlán off Highway 15.The canyon development is a man's
life time dream project and he has done a wonderful job of developing the
location.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are a variety of
swimming pools to enjoy and paths to follow providing an opportunity for the
camera buffs to photograph the steep colourful canyon walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great spot to spend a day swimming and
relaxing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Etzatlán<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">Hotel<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">Hotel
El Centenario<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Escobedo 290, Etzatlán <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>500
pesos ($50)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rooms are well -appointed,
secure parking , splendid courtyard<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Museum</u></span></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oaxicar Archaeological Museum
housed in the House of Culture has a collection of pre-Hispanic artefacts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short walk from the main plaza<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Escobedo # 359 Centro,<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>
Monday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>Sunday
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>Telephone:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>386 753 3052<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Teuchitlán<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotel<o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hacienda El Carmen described
in James and Sonia's TTS<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>September 2011
article is nearby. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Museum<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Museum of Archaeology:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Located in Teuchitlán's cultural center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The museum exhibits artifacts, obsidian
objects, and stone utensils.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>16 de Septiembre 10,<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Monday
to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>Saturday
to Sunday<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Amatitán<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You will find
the Inmaculada Concepción Church with a beautiful plaza and picturesque
surrounding area approximately 11 kilometres from Tequila on Highway 15.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other Road Trip Opportunities reported in TTS:<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"The
Hidden Gems Close to P.V." by James and Sonia Symes, vol. 29, No. 7,
September 2011<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><sub><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></sub><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;">James and Sonia's article stimulated us to share our
similar driving adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An intriguing
happening is that Sonia and I had connected soon after completing our
respective road trips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Experiencing a
"similar moment" I was unable to recall where or how we met, but
somehow we compared our experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact I've Sonia's first draft on my desk!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Small world!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>" The Mexican Riviera Beyond the
Beautiful Beaches" by John and Doreen Berg, vol. 20, No. 9, November 2010.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Outlines an
exploratory drive to a small interior silver town, San Sebastian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Provides driving directions, restaurant selections
and a great hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drive is on a very
good paved highway!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"Visiting the Sierra-Madre Silver Towns
Beyond Puerto Vallarta" by John and Doreen Berg, Vol. 25, No. 7, September
2011.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The article re-traces our steps to
San Sebastián del Oeste and Mascota, with the main focus to tell about our
exploration of Talpa de Allende, another easy, but rewarding road trip from
Puerto Vallarta.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-45288454807954319192012-03-02T13:47:00.001-08:002012-07-28T22:43:24.733-07:00<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></strong><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><u>Golden
Age Backpackers in Mongolia 2011</u></span></strong><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span> Doreen
and John Berg<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRmLux8E9LFn_jqYgE1Cc8iezES2VvTHb5EiZKVVr3qCu4zciPDef2tuTyBsbKj3cW4H2GG_b9Ul3IZafb_HRAC4Lk8uPCV2PIMlF3NEVkCySl8mixiNK6DbUHk5X5kR4OS1Mw9da8v0A/s1600/P9219105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRmLux8E9LFn_jqYgE1Cc8iezES2VvTHb5EiZKVVr3qCu4zciPDef2tuTyBsbKj3cW4H2GG_b9Ul3IZafb_HRAC4Lk8uPCV2PIMlF3NEVkCySl8mixiNK6DbUHk5X5kR4OS1Mw9da8v0A/s200/P9219105.JPG" width="158" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Mongolia,
the soul of central Asia, vibrates with a haunting yearning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a country of uniqueness both in people
and in countryside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s bitterly cold
in the winter and much of the country is desert, yet it has a vibrancy that catches
your soul, as it most certainly did with us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKOXD9TI34wjZvpqt71mlUuuSu9OBNq3sEKd0dcUpSS5h3CSQI-_Z5MDxn_nVbOy1v5DpdcdxanaTLnWcteRRJauAthL5G1_ORkhoCoAVS_WP-wJZgeUhq1Jq9PkjWNEHjqnPCHJ5vfubP/s1600/PA039857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKOXD9TI34wjZvpqt71mlUuuSu9OBNq3sEKd0dcUpSS5h3CSQI-_Z5MDxn_nVbOy1v5DpdcdxanaTLnWcteRRJauAthL5G1_ORkhoCoAVS_WP-wJZgeUhq1Jq9PkjWNEHjqnPCHJ5vfubP/s200/PA039857.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We travelled
to Mongolia in October 2011 via the Trans-Siberian Mongolian Train from Moscow
to Beijing, stopping at Ulanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A beautiful sunrise had appeared over the
horizon when a driver from our hostel drove us to the Khongor Guest House.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once we settled into our room with metal bunk
beds, a sink without the drain and a small refrigerator tucked into a corner
with a T.V. above it, we decided to go to the Amsterdam Café for coffee and
apple pie for 14,500 tugriks ($12.00 CA). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">One of the
reasons we decided to stay at Khongor House was because we had read good
reviews on their tours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We arranged to
have Hurlee, an English speaking tour guide and a great cook, take us on a six
day tour of the Gobi Desert along with Sumiya, our Toyota 4x4 driver. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s actually much easier with two, albeit
more expensive, but we could choose our own schedule and stop when we wished to
stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Next morning
Hurlee met us in the office, ready to travel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since Hurlee had just finished an extensive tour, I asked her if she was
tired, but she confessed, “No.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Observing
how she organized our departure, I agreed that she probably wasn’t tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it’s a fact of youth!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before we knew it, we were packing our bags
into the back of the vehicle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurlee had
boxes of food and cooking utensils which the workers helped bring down to the
vehicle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sumiya had a large spare petrol
tank behind the back seat which he covered with a cloth before loading the
boxes of food, five-gallon water bottles, a stove, sleeping bags and
backpacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were loaded down, but
Sumiya was very organized and prepared for our desert safari.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We were off on
our Gobi Desert Tour by nine o’clock on October 6<sup>th</sup>, 2011, and then
got caught in traffic for over an hour, trying to skirt the problem area of
Ulaanbaatar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally free!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It truly felt different once we were out of
the city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sparse rolling hills lay
before us as we entered the Gobi Desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our daily routine was to stop for lunch in a restaurant in a small
village.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had steamed dumplings filled
with mutton, onion, and spices which were delectable. This was a common dish
which was accompanied by salty milk tea of goat, camel, mare or cow’s
milk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes we had a stir-fry of
mutton, potatoes, carrots, onions and cabbage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pork and chicken are too expensive and unavailable!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We saw many large herds of sheep and goats plus
smaller herds of cattle and horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
interesting to see the sheep and goats together and it reminded me of the Bible
stories about sheep and goats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Interestingly, the goats are the leaders and the sheep follow.</span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6H2XlLV1yFZn7dUTow_likqT8DHf4RJ1-jkw4iEacs5FmwP5RxJW7Ha7Gu5bvACJRkb-Xd23BwpPhzb40MV-kMbyarIYpAReCOwzbmIhqIZ32-a8KhidGUqgJmdEvf1pzQozqobMUAk_/s1600/PA069940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6H2XlLV1yFZn7dUTow_likqT8DHf4RJ1-jkw4iEacs5FmwP5RxJW7Ha7Gu5bvACJRkb-Xd23BwpPhzb40MV-kMbyarIYpAReCOwzbmIhqIZ32-a8KhidGUqgJmdEvf1pzQozqobMUAk_/s200/PA069940.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We arrived
at Erdenedalai, about 300 km from UB at 5:20 p.m. and Hurlee arranged a hotel
room for us, while she and Sumiya stayed with a family. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the only night we would be housed in
a hotel. Since we were traveling in the low season, the nomadic families had
already moved their gers to a winter location.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We enjoyed a large clean room on the second floor with four poster
single beds, but no toilet facilities within the hotel except a workable sink
on the deck for washing, and a toilet located 100 meters to the rear. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hotel provided us with dinner which
consisted of mutton dumplings and a salad of carrots, cabbage and pickles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were all hungry and ate heartily before returning
to the hotel room for tea, which Hurlee had made in large vacuum bottles. Next
morning found us washing at the outdoor sink and packing our bags to be ready
for a sharp nine o’clock departure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurlee
and Sumiya arrived before nine to share our breakfast of bread, hazelnut spread
(which I have never bought but fell in love with), butter, jam and coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This would be our breakfast each morning on
the desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUG4cbGNCOw1CMNTfbV_rnEzUbrmtuOAu94JYRkldSinUXWQBkPRgvgdoYOIP0Xfkzq_jDqiqSbw16g-KW13aG6pvzhFqaLsNeLJhxf4NYQo7RecvndcoQVtrUDSSBS3npOXcDvrluDN-/s1600/PA150537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUG4cbGNCOw1CMNTfbV_rnEzUbrmtuOAu94JYRkldSinUXWQBkPRgvgdoYOIP0Xfkzq_jDqiqSbw16g-KW13aG6pvzhFqaLsNeLJhxf4NYQo7RecvndcoQVtrUDSSBS3npOXcDvrluDN-/s640/PA150537.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We drove
from the Middle Gobi to the South Gobi Desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We experienced a small sand storm but it didn’t cause any problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, Hurlee told us of taking a tourist
group in a Volkswagen van when they were caught in a sandstorm and had to hunker
down in the van until morning. To be sure the Gobi is a bleak harsh place of
isolation with rough bumpy jeep trails and sparse vegetation but it excites the
adventurer to experience wide open spaces and silent nights.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Our second
day brought us to a small village called Mandatovoo for lunch and then to our
ger at three o’clock in Bayanzag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had
driven 280 km.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To obtain extra income
the nomadic families built one or two extra gers to rent to tourists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our ger had six single beds around the
circular perimeter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The beds were standard
length with wooden slats and thin mattresses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were the only ones in the ger so John used two mattresses for
sleeping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After putting our bags into
our ger we went to the family’s ger, which is expected as they like to honor
their guests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were served camel’s
milk which we thought tasted somewhat like buttermilk but stronger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each ger contained a small dung-fired stove,
a small table and often a few low stools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The outhouse was located away from the gers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tourist gers seemed better equipped for
comfort for the visitors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eiSNBZwlduoWmX7tiCNj44nendTmj2svrb8VxgSFMxTzx26Bt0CLAguZx56aslo692kMBRx5grAy1knC3uVqQRiCe8pQXQeYzoY5Q7WvNRYTrXBFwB2pukSuvVqClUY0fvD2i3TVu3-4/s1600/PA070029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eiSNBZwlduoWmX7tiCNj44nendTmj2svrb8VxgSFMxTzx26Bt0CLAguZx56aslo692kMBRx5grAy1knC3uVqQRiCe8pQXQeYzoY5Q7WvNRYTrXBFwB2pukSuvVqClUY0fvD2i3TVu3-4/s200/PA070029.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">At four
o’clock we went to see the “Flaming Cliffs”, which means rich in saxual
shrubs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This area was first excavated in
1922 and is world renowned for the number of dinosaur bones and eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The landscape is classic desert consisting of
rock, red sands, scrub, sun and emptiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We hiked to the top of the canyon facing a stiff breeze. Hurlee took
photos of us jumping in the air as we pretended to fall into the chasm.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">That night,
Hurlee served us sushi along with vegetables and cold sausage meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who could believe sushi on the desert?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another culinary delight on this tour was
having fried dumplings filled with chopped beef, potato, onion and garlic
topped with dill pickles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were very
good and reminded us of the empanadas we had in Columbia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">After supper
we played cribbage and then walked 100 meters to the outdoor squat drop
toilet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By 9:15 we were tucked into our
sleeping bags, comfortable and toasty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
got up once in the night to urinate and as I squatted behind the ger, I noticed
that the stars were all at the “top of the circle” with no noticeable stars on
the horizon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The moon was bright like
sunshine!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTimxhkroZrRMVAUAr-B2JZpmn0H3AxkV96ihJajnRui4_-EOMUmXC89GQhjQ1laox3_H2ZFWSynoPlDgyCaKt-tCQ92Iw5B4hyjlwsVscxQtIP2JNyMma_WNGyfIXaqRq9W6zkwMi_-m_/s1600/PA070041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTimxhkroZrRMVAUAr-B2JZpmn0H3AxkV96ihJajnRui4_-EOMUmXC89GQhjQ1laox3_H2ZFWSynoPlDgyCaKt-tCQ92Iw5B4hyjlwsVscxQtIP2JNyMma_WNGyfIXaqRq9W6zkwMi_-m_/s200/PA070041.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">The next day
was Saturday, October 8<sup>th</sup> and Sumiya started the fire in our ger
before seven with twigs from the saxual trees. It wasn’t long before we felt
the warmth of the fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stove pipe
was red hot and Sumiya went outside to pull the cover back from the hot stove
pipe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had our usual breakfast, packed
our bags into the Toyota 4x4 and then joined the family in their ger to enjoy
pieces of hard curd that looked like maple fudge but had a sharp taste like
parmesan cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since it was very hard
I was able to nibble on it all morning.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">I mentioned
earlier that Sumiya carried a spare fuel tank in the back of the Toyota and it
was here that he siphoned diesel from it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Each time he put his mouth over the hose to siphon the fuel I’m almost certain
that some diesel entered his mouth!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
a procedure to top up our vehicle’s fuel tank!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxRMzo3FCyzoYLLOnwbuffR-L4oHQzxH1Rc8Im8iAWpCvcwLAU5AhxD-hUADeuN9AVMUUpk4zUVGM8O7XbDDk2ETfRpeA8uzAeyGt8Hgkb3G9P2lfK8Pn9pyC3gFnts_XjYNLQmJWGOyx0/s1600/PA070097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxRMzo3FCyzoYLLOnwbuffR-L4oHQzxH1Rc8Im8iAWpCvcwLAU5AhxD-hUADeuN9AVMUUpk4zUVGM8O7XbDDk2ETfRpeA8uzAeyGt8Hgkb3G9P2lfK8Pn9pyC3gFnts_XjYNLQmJWGOyx0/s200/PA070097.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We drove
from Bayanzag to Khongoryn Els, which took four hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This area is famous for high sand dunes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the way we took photos of wild horses in
the dry tundra and goats amongst the rocky outcrops of the mountainside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At one spot we stopped at a well for fresh
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurlee pumped while Sumiya held
the large water containers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The date scribed
into the cement cover of the well was 2004.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is necessary to gather water where it is available as the water
quality is sometimes poor at the ger site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As we arrived in Khongoryn Els the sand dunes appeared as mountains in
front of us reaching approximately 300 meters in height.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5F8PlsAtL4g_JOldMi86g-VsaW21zh9cpdjYGSFy43fSW3NDm_NoPBnsGOZh62QE7lhyFdDfeIwezrbMenEbpRJlFuNpgs0-1Wm_0UNFM8VMtNogWj_z1jGEQGswR81rdl_Hx-C8a1vMu/s1600/PA080153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5F8PlsAtL4g_JOldMi86g-VsaW21zh9cpdjYGSFy43fSW3NDm_NoPBnsGOZh62QE7lhyFdDfeIwezrbMenEbpRJlFuNpgs0-1Wm_0UNFM8VMtNogWj_z1jGEQGswR81rdl_Hx-C8a1vMu/s320/PA080153.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">After lunch
of penne pasta and mutton and peppers we decided to hike the dunes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were not prepared and we went without
water and hats!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bad idea!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were gone at least two hours and once on
the sand dunes with one step forward and two back we didn’t want to turn back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sun is warmer than one expects and by the
time we got to the top we were not only exhausted but thirsty and dehydrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a wind as well which created some
havoc to keep ourselves anchored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
an experience we wouldn’t have missed and we skied all the way down the slopes
keeping our heels firmly pressed into the sand as we slid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We kept chastising ourselves for not bringing
water and hats but we worked our way back to the ger and rested for a short
time before we were ready for the pre-arranged camel ride. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXd8AoktXbMXGcwJyF8rAb30nrtbWGy_fG4ZBCBq34q3GMmqkxueotxNsVdxiEDZTy_IstkYs9Jyl8TgfC4kH0xgNvBB9QQOejNtDpTZTlAsdaSGY8psyVhPzEEnfexHr-TYwdAFeGNln/s1600/PA080180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXd8AoktXbMXGcwJyF8rAb30nrtbWGy_fG4ZBCBq34q3GMmqkxueotxNsVdxiEDZTy_IstkYs9Jyl8TgfC4kH0xgNvBB9QQOejNtDpTZTlAsdaSGY8psyVhPzEEnfexHr-TYwdAFeGNln/s200/PA080180.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">As we rode
on the camels it felt safe sitting on the small saddle between the two
humps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We crossed over small streams and
travelled along the lower dunes with no problems as the camels are sure-footed
with their wide even-toed hoofs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Although we seemed high up from the ground these Bactrian camels are
much shorter than the Arabian, one hump dromedary camel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When mounting or dismounting the camel one
must always use the left side of the camel or they get spooked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These ornery beasts with shaggy wool coats
and long black eyelashes are low maintenance and can go for one week without
water and one month without food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
are extremely useful as they provide milk, meat, wool, and dung for the
fires!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Before we
left, Hurlee had suggested I take my winter coat even though the sun was warm since
she knew as the sun reaches the horizon the air changes from warm to cold!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s amazing how the temperature drops on the
desert. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took the hood of my coat and
pulled it firmly around my head as the wind blew hard against us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John didn’t have his warm clothes on and he
was shaking with cold by the time we returned to our ger where they had made a
fire of camel dung which we greatly appreciated as we sidled up to the hot
stove to get warm.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbfuPJXIRBW2EIta9ceYImXsK1b1_5-tV3s1LhPeEwPwUWRJy8omNhGO8sVTpAP5gDn9H_TKQ-MEG_lGltwlyYtZWKttIWy0KyUDhl2rQTgRS3jEVPZtWfJ8NwBwiDMeFbPdKN_d0kGz1/s1600/PA080239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbfuPJXIRBW2EIta9ceYImXsK1b1_5-tV3s1LhPeEwPwUWRJy8omNhGO8sVTpAP5gDn9H_TKQ-MEG_lGltwlyYtZWKttIWy0KyUDhl2rQTgRS3jEVPZtWfJ8NwBwiDMeFbPdKN_d0kGz1/s320/PA080239.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">The next day
we drove to the Yolyn Am Valley which has rocky cliffs and narrow, heavily
shaded canyons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ice remains in the
canyon most of the year and as we hiked we saw patches of ice from last winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a popular place in the summer because
it’s cool and the temperature on the desert can reach 38 degrees Celsius.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While hiking in the canyon we saw pikas which
are small rodents that look like miniature rabbits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are hundreds of these little creatures
running along the canyon walls or across our path as we hike along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are tawny/grey coloured with a
high-pitched whistle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The deeper into
the canyon we hiked the higher the mountains and the more shadowy the valley as
the sun reflected off the upper peaks. We hopped back and forth over the small
creek stepping on small stones until we came to sheets of blue-veined ice
hanging from the cliffs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cypress shrubs
with blue berries grow in the canyon and local people gather them and sell them
for incense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They also sell</span></span></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">miniature
camels made from yew.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LEpyh4G_WBoPWBw0khU5WG9WfYmm2ne3lp1CvcSGxbvgQGnMERvYV2LrdbOVsT-q0k1bO6Dn5BGXE3XGdbD5uCvWAuQEp716LjWaa2zBdAW1MiMD_W9dTitf48LNiSp0BL2362OZIUDn/s1600/PA090291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LEpyh4G_WBoPWBw0khU5WG9WfYmm2ne3lp1CvcSGxbvgQGnMERvYV2LrdbOVsT-q0k1bO6Dn5BGXE3XGdbD5uCvWAuQEp716LjWaa2zBdAW1MiMD_W9dTitf48LNiSp0BL2362OZIUDn/s320/PA090291.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">It was
colder on this part of the desert near the Yolyn Am Valley so we used more
blankets on our beds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we got up at
six in the morning to use the toilet, it was so cold we jumped back into bed to
get warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At seven-thirty the fire was started
and then we got up and held our clothes near the stove before we put them on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After breakfast, we drove to the capital of
Omnogov, the largest province of Mongolia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dalanzadgad has a new large government house with large animal statues
displayed at the entrance and some streets are paved, a novelty for any town
outside of Ulaanbaatar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this town is
a public bathhouse where John and I had showers for about $1.60 per person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a treat since we hadn’t showered for a
few days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Next on the
agenda was a visit to the South Gobi Museum and although there were few
displays, one caught my eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a
very large fur coat made from about ten fox furs hanging in a glass case which
belonged to a monk who was killed by the Russians.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Russia controlled Mongolia they purged
the country of Buddhist temples and monks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In 1937 there were 700 monasteries destroyed and 27,000 monks and
civilians were killed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Mongolian
Prime Minister was executed in Moscow with trumped-up espionage on November 26,
1937.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This day is now a public holiday
and is called Mongolian Republic Day.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nsmw4xIXF1GQUJuhML1ThJrj2_7Ce_4iFO2fdepe-dqe7-cOoa2lENWXHkDjkT-4UdygghWZCvSB1D68svzhZ7oLOiGpNFJRJRQ4vAqNjlTzWy6ZEm1FeqNueFG4JRN0KO_joOLbdwFb/s1600/PA100296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nsmw4xIXF1GQUJuhML1ThJrj2_7Ce_4iFO2fdepe-dqe7-cOoa2lENWXHkDjkT-4UdygghWZCvSB1D68svzhZ7oLOiGpNFJRJRQ4vAqNjlTzWy6ZEm1FeqNueFG4JRN0KO_joOLbdwFb/s320/PA100296.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Travelling
across the desert is not like travelling on regular roads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our driver bumped along one pathway and then
turned sharply going cross country to connect with another pathway and
eventually in the distance we would see some gers which were often our place of
rest for the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is amazing that
he could recall the roadways and where to find them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">The drop
toilets are fascinating and only once we didn’t have a toilet and had to use
the ravine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are usually about 100 meters
away from the gers and off by themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The nomads place two solid boards across a five foot deep square hole in
the ground which are separated just enough to squat down to go to the toilet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are three sides of canvass or in one
case, metal sheets, surrounding the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>hole
about three feet high to give one a little privacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, sometimes a goat or a yak will come
around to say “Hello” while you squat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If the wind is severe in the area they will tie down the sides of the
toilet with wires attached to spikes driven into the ground, and occasionally
the toilet has a roof and even a door to latch but this is not common.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Our sixth
day on the Gobi Desert brought us to Mandalgov, the capital of Dundgov.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We drove to high cliffs of white limestone
formations in Tsagaan Sunraga.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We walked
onto the cliffs and took photos of the violet lines in the limestone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was very pretty but I was nervous on the
top rim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It reminded me of Bryce Canyon
in Utah, USA.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">After lunch
we drove to Baga Gazryn Chuluu where granite rock formations stretch into the
sky precariously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The large rounded
humps look like cow pies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
remains of a monastery that was destroyed in the 1930’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently many monks were held prisoners
here and then killed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We stayed in
Baga Gazryn Chuluu for the night and there was a brilliant lightning and
thunder storm during the night, which we found unusual in the dry desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From counting the distance between the
lightning and thunder we felt it was from eleven miles away until it was nearly
overhead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It pelted on the roof and onto
the plastic opening at the center where the stove pipe projects out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rain leaked through near John’s bed, but
not seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By morning we had our
yummy breakfast of yoghurt and hazelnut spread on large chunks of bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we left our campsite we retraced a section
of the road we had taken the first day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Part of the road was washed out so we took a detour which wasn’t a
problem for Sumiya.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Before
returning to Khongor Guest House, our driver took us to Memorial Hill, seven
kilometers north of the city center, which was built by Russians to commemorate
unknown soldiers and heroes from various wars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>From the top you can view Buddha Park which has a gold-covered 16 meter
tall Buddha in the center of the park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To reach the top of Memorial Hill we had to walk 624 steps!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">This was the
end of our first desert safari in Mongolia. We decided immediately that we
would like to do another one so we asked both Hurlee and Sumiya if they would
take us again and they both said, “Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Our next
Gobi Desert Tour was a fabulous four day excursion to Central Mongolia. We
stayed in family gers once again. At one ger we enjoyed helping a family’s two
young boys shovel dirt into buckets and place the dirt around the perimeter of
the tent while the parents laid a piece of oilcloth on the floor and attached a
pipe from their stove up through the hole in the roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was an autumn ger of short term before
they moved into the winter ger nearer the mountain.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">While staying
in the family ger we observed their organizational skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part of the end of each bed had storage bins and
they had five small towels hanging above a gas washer and dryer for each member
of the family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A small bucket above a
cupboard held toothbrushes and toothpaste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The family members kept coming back to this ger to gather items they
needed. Understandably!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The two boys
attended school in town and lived in dormitories during the week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We left
after breakfast and drove to Kharkhorin, the first capital of Mongolia,</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">established by Genghis Khan in the mid 13<sup>th</sup> Century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It remained the capital for 40 years until it
was moved to Beijing when the Mongol Empire collapsed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2GZo6GR5I67QEJ1mv_UGmOvxYmvAuNNMFa0LTemKD9TdeLS7kgmtHLeS3lv1Z_yureYrjVRu0kf1bjCq5rlJK8RO8C94wwUlx77t2jWGEkRdbKy7jhllNDhg26Lyv4lIs3sypYVLLCZBJ/s1600/PA160626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2GZo6GR5I67QEJ1mv_UGmOvxYmvAuNNMFa0LTemKD9TdeLS7kgmtHLeS3lv1Z_yureYrjVRu0kf1bjCq5rlJK8RO8C94wwUlx77t2jWGEkRdbKy7jhllNDhg26Lyv4lIs3sypYVLLCZBJ/s320/PA160626.JPG" width="249" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">The
Buddhists built temples in the 16<sup>th</sup> Century which were destroyed
during the Stalin purge in 1937, but three remained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We visited Erdene (treasures), Zuu (100), and
Khild which holds three temples and saw 108 stupas around the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the hill above the temples a huge map
displays the different empires – Hunnu Period, Turkic Period, and Mongol
Period.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">We had a
glorious experience on return to our ger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>An older Mongol, who played four different instruments, gave us a
personal concert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He normally plays in
the restaurant nearby but since we were the only guests, we asked if he would
like to come to our ger and he willingly obliged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He played the flute, the horse fiddle, the
harp and a violin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also sang using
different parts of his voice- nose, tongue, throat (most difficult) and
chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We bought one of his discs and
have enjoyed it ever since.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The final day of our tour was to find takhi,
also known as Przewalski’s horse, with a visit to Hustai National Park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This particular park distinguishes itself by
implementing an eco-volunteer program in research activities of reintroduction
of wild horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This park was
established in 1993 and is 100 kilometers southwest of Ulaanbaatar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are 50,000 hectares of land and many
other animals live here too, such as, wolves, deer, yaks, steppe gazelle, lynx
and boar as well as many birds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we
drove into the park with our guide we were not disappointed as we soon saw
Asiatic red deer on the bluffs and within half an hour we caught a glimpse of
the takhi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What excitement!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took lots of photos and worked our way
towards them, spotting another group of horses as well as a huge herd of
deer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was magical!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John and I went further down the hill towards
a gulley while the others stayed on the crest of the hill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had to move very quietly and slowly as
they spook easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our return to the
main entrance we spotted more horses right beside the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a great find as most people are
lucky to view any.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a successful
and glorious day!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Before
leaving Ulaanbaatar we visited the State Department Store and found the fifth
floor where we bought several souvenirs to take home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We visited the National Museum and spent over
two hours gleaning and understanding Mongolian culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Genghis Khan, also written Chinggis Khaan, is
well featured from the 12<sup>th</sup> -13<sup>th</sup> C.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He spread Mongolian culture from sea to sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He outlawed feuds among clans, promoted trade
and communication by building an international network of postal stations, and
he ordered diplomatic immunity to ambassadors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Here are
some quotes from the Law of Genghis Khan taken from the Great Yasa.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Perpetua; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">1)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not wash clothes until they are completely
worn out.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Perpetua; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">2)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Don’t behave as high as a
mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though a mountain is high it
will be climbed by animals.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Perpetua; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">3)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">All religions are to be respected and
no preference is to be shown to any of them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">Today nearly
every country accepts and promotes, at least in theory, the ideas and policies
behind the ‘Great Law of Chinggis Khaan’.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;">As we were leaving,
we reflected on our travel experiences in Mongolia. Just beyond Ulaanbaatar,
Mongolia’s modern capital city, is found a nomadic lifestyle that is a step
back in time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The peaceful, humbling
desert environs with its kilometer after kilometer of desolate landscape, the
wind-swept high sand dunes, the cold lonely star-lit nights, and the herds of
sheep and goats gathered around the gers as the day comes to an end, will be
imprinted on our minds forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was,
as they say, an experience of a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-6836822171469359812012-03-01T14:42:00.001-08:002012-03-01T14:42:29.784-08:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><u><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">LOS TORILES RUINS in IXTLAN del RIO, NAYARIT, MEXICO</span></strong></u></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_W7XBmzpJjgC6bb9ZCk17zM06JTgPdGT-Cez2CBuvSdCL65559qnJL5lqne4E8_mvVEmlixu2MxloPOgqrivfFGBUeHl_DUUv9Pjyh2ulT1_zhhVCl8RwFxi2PiUUv5yBk8qcaC4n-9qG/s1600/P1000998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_W7XBmzpJjgC6bb9ZCk17zM06JTgPdGT-Cez2CBuvSdCL65559qnJL5lqne4E8_mvVEmlixu2MxloPOgqrivfFGBUeHl_DUUv9Pjyh2ulT1_zhhVCl8RwFxi2PiUUv5yBk8qcaC4n-9qG/s400/P1000998.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With roosters crowing and dogs barking our morning coffee
time began early, giving us extra time to reflect and plan our day’s
activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our final goal that emerged
from our early morning conference was to leave our beach paradise behind for
the day and travel inland to visit a prehistoric location.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our destination was to visit Templo de Quetzalcóatl often referred to as Los Toriles.</span> </span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXV3ZhEdVPHxgJ_gOhhAtKtHZGcuaaOo3RrgmBR092EbIfdJPWIWE5s5hjIGBD2pTLSdXACo8J6-qcQM3X0u69d4z8kf8GUW0ykjDwwQ0z5fI1sVJVc3c4BLkVKXZLEmNFQsJNz4xRGx-6/s1600/P1010012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXV3ZhEdVPHxgJ_gOhhAtKtHZGcuaaOo3RrgmBR092EbIfdJPWIWE5s5hjIGBD2pTLSdXACo8J6-qcQM3X0u69d4z8kf8GUW0ykjDwwQ0z5fI1sVJVc3c4BLkVKXZLEmNFQsJNz4xRGx-6/s200/P1010012.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Los Toriles is an important archaeological ruin located just
east of the town, Ixtlán del Rio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
site was home to the indigenous tribes of the Nahuath group around 300 B.C.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More than eighty known structures exist
within the large zone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Visitors are
easily able to visit the fifteen restored temples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The round pyramid, Ehecatl Quetzalcóatl, is
claimed to be one of the most beautiful buildings of the site in western
Mexico.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And for us it lived up to its
reputation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The temple is 80' in
diameter and 14’ in height with numerous cross- shaped openings around the
structures circular perimeter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the top
floor are two rectangular-shaped shrines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>On top of the flat shrines is a great spot to obtain panoramic photos
and an overview of the complete area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently,
the temple is dedicated to the wind god, Ehecatl Quetzalcóatl.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Los Toriles features shaft tombs that are dug three to eight meters
into the ground with chambers located to the left and right of the central
vertical shaft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s in the chambers
that their dead with the offerings are placed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Visitors are
able to a model shaft tomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unfortunately, we did not realize this when we were on location. Very little information is provided.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, we missed this opportunity!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s a small museum near the entrance but
it was closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For further information
relating to Los Toriles consult the web.</span></div>
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</span><u><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">GETTING THERE:<o:p></o:p></span></span></u><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Drive north on Highway 200 toward Tepic and at Compostela
take the highway toward Guadalajara.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At
Chapalila take old Highway 15 libra (free) road to Ixtlán del Rio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The archeological ruins are one kilometer
east of the town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once you pass under
the town’s impressive exit structure watch for the left hand turn off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The entrance is marked with a blue pyramid
sign.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cross the railway tracks and you’ve
arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The entrance fee is $50
pesos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With identification proof of age,
seniors are admitted free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorry, gray
hair alone will not suffice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other
groups that enter free are children, handicapped, students and professors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The driving distance from Rincón de Guayabitos is 100 km.
taking about 2 ½ hours. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is assuming
no stops for honey, pottery or meal purchases!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The distance is calculated from the Rincón de Guayabitos Pemex station
#8489.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGgFFGolqoW8Q69XVr_D8D9KUYGr4fjIgarVV6YrWTkrzWnznRifhRxMrLyW16EfyCLz0qJGZ5E363-bIJhsufcXhacpp91B-yrMGHgl4KIAg5D0IiBog8qdw_3ewWoPApSCXOJRT0erT2/s1600/P1010002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGgFFGolqoW8Q69XVr_D8D9KUYGr4fjIgarVV6YrWTkrzWnznRifhRxMrLyW16EfyCLz0qJGZ5E363-bIJhsufcXhacpp91B-yrMGHgl4KIAg5D0IiBog8qdw_3ewWoPApSCXOJRT0erT2/s400/P1010002.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">WIND GOD TEMPLE - CROSS-SHAPED OPENINGS</span></strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieG-1j35-_mSxoHZe1bePFssQnz7broyyedPlw9yT5z8KlKSsSsV7_eHojgwtyxM_5z3oQhvMyHg2c9WMEjahRVgwixaftcrbdSps1epiBaEsmqmeWXxYiDYat4aOnnmndcfg73_nN3YP/s1600/P1000980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieG-1j35-_mSxoHZe1bePFssQnz7broyyedPlw9yT5z8KlKSsSsV7_eHojgwtyxM_5z3oQhvMyHg2c9WMEjahRVgwixaftcrbdSps1epiBaEsmqmeWXxYiDYat4aOnnmndcfg73_nN3YP/s1600/P1000980.JPG" /></a></div>jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7825585141942367423.post-76198698616783630412012-02-22T09:49:00.000-08:002012-02-28T21:05:56.171-08:00MEXICO - HOT SPRINGS NEAR PUERTO VALLARTA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtE53d9VBPECmVlucJI4DVJDiLj3vxARHVKuORQDvXigp6svAgdSQvepGbMVGswwdlfPn5rJfD1cfKDspQK2epKo5KDNJgTECcIkTvo-aBTvcQ3FEtRvwG0j8iZP7Aov0wRXmcQj6L8XVJ/s1600/P1000789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtE53d9VBPECmVlucJI4DVJDiLj3vxARHVKuORQDvXigp6svAgdSQvepGbMVGswwdlfPn5rJfD1cfKDspQK2epKo5KDNJgTECcIkTvo-aBTvcQ3FEtRvwG0j8iZP7Aov0wRXmcQj6L8XVJ/s320/P1000789.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">PUERTO VALLARTA, ALTA VISTA -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aquas Termales de Nuevo Ixtlan<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">SPEND THE DAY SOAKING IN WARM
RELAXING HOT SPRING POOLS<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></u></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">February, 2012</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Escape the
hustle and bustle of the busy Mexican Riviera to enjoy an amazing country-style
hot pool soak with your friends at Aguas Termales de Nuevo Lxtlan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pack a picnic lunch, swim suits and include
folding chairs if you wish.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aquas Termales de Nuevo Lxtlan is a small
inland oasis set among shade-providing trees with a relaxing ambience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rustic but charming hot spring site
consists of twenty small to medium sized pools conveniently placed to provide a
feeling of privacy and isolation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pool sizes
vary but all are approximately a meter deep and three to five meters wide with
95 degree water gently flowing in and slowly spilling out the overflow,
thus insuring clean, clear, chemically free hot spring water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Near each pool there’s a 70 centimeter
diameter wooden slab table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On site are
two basic washrooms that might be employed as change rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three common usage barbecues are available,
but you’ll need to bring your own fuel supply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is also ample parking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An
all day admission pass costs twenty-five pesos per person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come and soak away the hours as you relax in
a country style spa.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting
There<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The site is
located about an hour and a half from Puerto Vallarta driving towards Rincón de
Guayabitos and La Penita. Continue driving north of La Penita on Highway 200
for approximately 12 kilometers or 15 minutes watching for a road sign
on the right to Alta Vista.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The distance
is taken from the Rincón Guayabitos Pemex station #8489 located on the right
side of the road. Once you see the Alta Vista sign be prepared to turn, as the right
hand turnoff arrives quickly. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Proceed on the gravel road approximately 17
kilometers from Highway 200.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stay right
when you come to the forks in the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When you drive through La Cucaracha village be assured you’re on the correct
road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Watch for the colourful agua
terminal sign on the left side of the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Turn left just prior to the sign and drive approximately 2.3
kilometers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ignore the signs “1
kilometer” distance marker!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A vehicle
with clearance is best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, with
caution, a standard car could reach the hot pools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drive from the highway is about an hour
at a slow rate of speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Park your
vehicle, pay the fee, select your spot and enjoy the day!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDAcTUELO5k37Pau2WpxQKSnpRIIK8Aybn8bx2aB85I0HxRbVzQJrEI3rHKfoeoyugb3-4HWOdZdJPEdf4ylnIIq9jbqaKyBhWMwwsCTQDfGhynyYYnhHpZGsxNXwCBLWGWb4l_BiAAtB/s1600/P1000908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDAcTUELO5k37Pau2WpxQKSnpRIIK8Aybn8bx2aB85I0HxRbVzQJrEI3rHKfoeoyugb3-4HWOdZdJPEdf4ylnIIq9jbqaKyBhWMwwsCTQDfGhynyYYnhHpZGsxNXwCBLWGWb4l_BiAAtB/s320/P1000908.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>jdberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07243473945680371023noreply@blogger.com4