Last full day

Since our last post we have not done any tours or trips. We have tried to get on a Sunset Snorkeling trip, but the waves and wind have been too high. Tara has an assignment to watch the moon (for a class she is taking in July), we have enjoyed finding the moon and observing its changes. It has been interesting to see how the tide has been effected by the full moon. During high tide there is very little beach still available, so we have to trek down to an area that actually has sand we can rest on. During the trek yesterday, the waves were especially vicious. They crash up against a concrete wall (created by a resort), so some nasty spills have left Tara with a scraped up hand and Mike with a scraped up foot. Nothing that is major, just enough to be a nuisance.

The boys have really wanted to experience a multi-pitch climb here in Thailand (the methods used on an overhanging multi-pitch are different than what we are used to). They woke up early to get there during low tide and worked their way up. The picture above is of the rappel, which ends on the bathroom roof of one of the local establishments! We leave tomorrow morning, so this will be our last post from Railey!

Cultural Expo

Thailand is considered to be the land of smiles. Trust me, you will notice that the people here have an ease about them. Airports are more service oriented and not as difficult to deal with and get through. In Bangkok you do have to be on guard for those that are trying to get you to go to the silk factory (which I am not sure if they are just trying to get your money or take you to the middle of no where for fun!). We did enjoy the school girls at Phat Wo (reclining budda) that were fulfilling a homework assignment by asking us questions about ourselves in English. In Railey, the people are hardworking and personable. Above is the view from our balconies in Railey.

Last night we went to the night market in Krabi. It involved a 15 min boat ride and a 15 min. van ride. The picture above is from the market. She is making fresh soda popsicles. They were yummy and cost 30 cents for 3! We did a little shopping at the market, but most of our fun was experimenting with the variety of food available! Delicious as always!! We had extra time before the van returned, so Tara and I decided to partake in a "relaxing" fish foot treatment. It tickled, I wouldn't consider it relaxing. The fish are eating the dead skin off our feet...yes, it was weird!

Finally, we thought we would include a picture of where we have been posting these things from (see below). This is the internet cafe/travel agency/restaurant/laundry services place we have been frequenting. You may notice that the tide comes right up to the entrance!! We have been enjoying the tide, since it was a full moon yesterday, the tide was pretty extreme!! Very little beach was available to keep our things dry!!

Wow, how time flies! It is already Friday and we forgot to tell you about Thursday. Yesterday was spent on a kayak tour. It was beautiful and challenged our boating skills! We paddled through the open sea in order to get into, what the guide called, a canyon. Paddling through the open water was an "athletic" adventure while paddling in the "canyon" was more of an exercise in navigational skills!

The transportation to and from the kayaking tour was... exciting to say the least. After taking a long boat to Krabi we were driven to the kayaking location in the back of a covered pick-up... We didn't enjoy that part.

When we were back in Phra Nang Nicole, Cody, and Mike went climbing at the 1, 2, 3 Wall. Yes, Nicole was climbing and here's the proof!

Tonight we're headed to a night market in Krabi... more shopping for "little" things to bring back. Maybe decorations... maybe nothing. We shall see!

Rain, Rain, go away!

After yesterday, there is no way we could top that, so we didn't! Today we spent the just chilling....some of that was decided by the weather. We were awoken this morning by a rain storm and it continued until lunch. After lunch the boys decided to brave the elements (it was still sprinkling) and go climbing. We met them for a sunset evening at the beach, I have included a picture of the beach for all to enjoy. Tomorrow....kayaking trip!

Best Day EVER!!

So, since our last post: Yesterday Tara and I returned to the beach for some more fun...what did we find?? I guess someone should have paid more attention to the tide!!

Today, we had to wake up "early" (as warned by the guide service) to be at the climbing shop by 9am for our day of deep water soloing. We went with a different company, which cost more, but boy it was worth it! We didn't take a longtail boat, instead our trusty steed was a SAIL BOAT! We took the dingy to the sailboat, and motored out to the deep water soloing formation. Where we climbed until lunch. For lunch we got dropped off on the beach, wedged between two sheer cliffs where we enjoyed the fish swimming at our feet. It is safe to say we were the only 4 people on the island!! We were then asked if we wanted to climb more or sail around. We opted for sailing around the rock islands, of course!! It was an amazing time on the boat, just enjoying the sunshine and stunning views! As were were sitting there Tara said to me, "Remember yesterday when we were sitting on the beach and you said Best day ever? You were LYING!"

We then did some snorkelling where we saw some amazing wildlife...best I have ever seen snorkling!! Upon returning to the boat and thinking "could this get any better?" we were offered fresh cut, ripe watermelon. Spitting the seeds off the gunwhales of the boat added to the experience that much more. We are now heading to dinner to enjoy the local cuisine. Great end to an amazing day.

Deep Water soloing Pictures

We have arrived!!

I have attached some photos from Bangkok of us: (top)Tara and myself drinking soda from a bag (yes, they didn't have diet coke)and(bottom) in a tuk tuk- bottom (seriously, do a google image search if you don't know how small these things are).

We made it to Railay! This is what we came for! The area is much more comfortable than Bangkok! It actually cools off at night, the people are polite and helpful (sincerely), the sun shines here, and there are fewer unexplainable smells! The photo (right) is what we looked like when we got here...2-3 bags each! This is what we had to carry to and from the boat, which was an experience all its own!

Upon arriving yesterday: We took a 45 min cab ride from Krabi airport to the port of Ao Nang. From there we took a 15 min longtail boat ride to the beach of West Railay. After checking into our hotel (which is much nicer than expected!), we spent the afternoon climbing and enjoying the beach atmosphere.

Today we have gotten our fill of sunshine (slight sunburns, but nothing we can't recover from quickly) and now the boys are out climbing while us girls have enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of Thai massages and Facebook. Tara has had some major accomplishments today 1) didn't get sunburned at the beach after 3 hours and 2) making it through an interactive Thai massage. I have tried to explain Thai massages to people and it is something I really struggle with. Here is what I can say, it only costs ~$10 (before the tip) and it is a combination of chiropractic, yoga, massage and wrestling. It is really something you need to experience to understand and respect!

We made it!!

After 21 hours of in air flying time, we have made it to the land of smiles (door to door it was 28 hours). We are not posting photos yet, Sorry! We left the camera chords in the room not expecting to find an internet cafe.

We arrived in Bangkok at midnight local time. We were told on the flight that we only had to fill out one immigration form per family. That would have been great if it were true!! Instead, Mike and Tara made it through the line quickly. Cody and I had to find forms (not as easy as assumed) and right at that time another flight arrived, so the line was rediculous!

After a restful night of sleep, we went on the walking tour of Bangkok (aka. we got lost and wondered). We got to see the reclining buddha, the royal palace. We ate at a pad thai place that we enjoyed last time in Bangkok! We are currently out on the town enjoying a night market. I rank my day as a 10 since I wanted to see the reclining buddha and drink soda out of a bag...DONE!(wait for pictures tomorrow!) They serve soda in a bag because the bottles are glass deposit bottles, so they want to keep the bottle. The soda is poured in a small plastic bag with ice...it was so delicious!

Interesting things we have seen so far: guy on the plane I am convinced is coming to Bangkok to film the Hangover 3 (sweatband and mustache...I couldn't stop staring), used/previously owned dentures for sale on the street, and many smells I cannot begin to explain.

Tomorrow we head to Krabi and the Phranang area. Known for its beautiful beaches and world class climbing!

Good Night!

Night before the trip, the last few details to take care of. If there is something not taken care of by now...we are just going to go with it! No cell phones for 12 days, it will be a nice break!! We will be checking our Facebook, e-mail and blog, so please feel free to use those to check in with us.

I know that every trip brings with it an "experience" during the travel, so here it goes!!

My travel motto, "As long as we have money (or credit cards) we are fine"

In a basket

We are highly anticipating our trip, but we have some stuff to do first. Not the usual: pack, pick up any last minute things, or getting cash. Oh no! Ours is more like: host a family reunion AND a party for 70 people. Both of which have additional tasks that go with it (i.e. grocery shopping, house cleaning, lining up logistics). This is all on the heels of a last minute trip to Albany, NY for the passing of Mike's amazing grandfather. We shall overcome! We have everything in a basket (more like two baskets) and in my mind I am convinced that I just need to organize it all (we will see how that really ends up). That will allow us to still enjoy the wonderful moments prior to leaving.

Here is a quick "down low" on our trip: We have travel companions this time, Cody and Tara are crazy enough to join us!! We are taking a 12 hour flight from Minneapolis to Tokyo, from there a 6 hour flight to Bangkok, we arrive close to midnight (local time), then a fun filled day in Bangkok seeing the sights. We are then returning to the world class climbing and beaches of Riley (see photo)! We will be in country for 10 days total.

We have brought our cameras, so we will keep you posted about our journey!

Thailand here we come!

Back, by Popular Demand

I apologize!! I did get back to SD on Sunday morning. Things have been crazy and I haven't gotten the last info posted. After getting comments from some of the followers, here is my last post on Ireland:

We had our final adventure in Dingle on Wednesday, horseback riding. We were issued the horses for those that are not experienced in English saddle riding. Basically, these horses could have done this trail with their eyes closed!! They were also willing to stop periodically to graze, I guess we were not supposed to let them do that! But they looked hungry...is that a good excuse? Below you can see Jennifer (the one in black) and her horse, Ivy.

We then moved on to the elusive, Ring of Kerry! This is a road that follows the coast through county Kerry. Supposed to be very scenic. Well, if you can tell from the picture above, it was foggy/cloudy all day. Scenic was not the way we would have summarized the day. The photo below is of a mountain/hill, ...enough said. This is a great time to talk about the weather in Ireland. Everyday could be a combination of rain, sun, fog, and clouds. That cycle could also be gone through numerous times throughout the day. There was no telling how to dress and you always had to be prepared for rain.

The following day we headed to Kilarney (through a gorgeous national park). The Muckross House (see below) was amazing. All of the original furniture from the 1800's, beautiful grounds, and stories of Queen Victoria's visit (prior to the death of Prince Albert).
Finally, we ended our trip with with the age old Irish tradition...kissing the Blarney Stone. I was surprised by how this was somewhat scary (sorry, this is the only photo Jennifer got for me). You have to bend over backwards and dangle your head over this hole in the top floor of the castle (I am going to estimate 60-70 feet up). I can say I did it (you are all going to be amazed by my now present gift of gab due to this visit!!). The flight home is a whole story I don't want to go into (still bitter about 8.5 hours on a plane that flew for 2.5). Another time...maybe!

The road less traveled

Yesterday we made it to Dingle!! This is a small community on the western coast of Ireland. A hike at a nearby lake was suggested by the hostel manager. We made our way up the hillside and the scenery was majestic. (see pictures , yes...those are my legs exposed. They haven't seen sunlight in a week!) The sun was out! Aside from the scenic landscape, we also had to dodge sheep scat and the water. It seemed to be abundant along, aside and on the trail. Jennifer's tennis shoes may not make it back home because of how wet and dirty they got!















This morning we decided to brave the seas and head out into Dingle bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It was raining/drizzling the entire time. Thankfully, we were working hard to get out of the bay...against the wind! I am in the background of the picture of Jeff above with the orange hat. (sorry, the pictures of just me were blurry and I thought that I should include Jeff in at least one photo since you got to see Jennifer's shoes!) We also got to be in the presence of a local celebrity, Fungi (pronounced Fun-gee) the dolphin. He has been in Dingle bay for 26 years now and likes to grace visitors to the bay with his presence. It was amazing to have him come within 4 feet of our boats!


So, tomorrow brings horseback riding (ye-haw) and driving the Ring of Kerry (it is a road around the Kerry Peninsula that takes 8 hours to drive).

PS-lots of pictures this time...enjoy!

Fields of Green

These past couple of days have been jam packed. We made our way west from Dublin to the area of Galway. We drove out along the coast line...beautiful country. Then, yesterday we headed south from Galway to see the Burren. This is a dessolate area with little soil and many rocks. This was also where we saw some of the most amazing pieces of archeology. There are stone tombs that are older than the Egyptian pyramids. The remains of a circular stone fort were equally interesting. We then headed the the notorious Cliffs of Moher. They are 700+ feet tall!! We were told we were lucky because it wasn't raining or foggy. (Sunshine is hard to come by in these parts.) We are heading today to Dingle, which is supposed to get quite the small town.

So far, what has amazed me the most is the stone walls. They are EVERYWHERE! Some of them have been there for thousands of years. It is said that farmers used to take the wall apart to pass their sheep through, then rebuild it. I can hardly pick apples at the grocery store without toppling them all down (I have found that buying them by the prepackaged bag is better for me).

(Sorry, no pictures today. Technical difficulties...maybe later.)

We arrived yesterday morning. We had some time to blow before we could get into the hotel, so we wondered around the city (see above). It is gorgious! There are so many things to see (i.e. parks, pubs, cathedrals, tours). There are cathedrals around every corner. They are like Starbucks!
During our search for things to do, we realized that the Guinness Storehouse did tours until 9pm! We thought that would be a good way to end the day. I will have to say the tour was nice, but the best part was the view from the 9th floor of the storehouse. It was amazing!! You could see all of the city AND the country side that lies beyond it! We ended the day at an Irish pub. I got Irish Stew...which was like a soup and it contained Rudabega!! Which has always been a family tradition, but I have NEVER seen it in actual cooking beyond my/my mother's kitchen.

Today, we headed out to check out more of the area we are staying. The Temple Bar area is very popular (by the way, here "Bar" means area near the river). We also went to Trinity College and saw the Book of Kells (a book of gospels from 300 A.D.). We did quite a bit of walking, but it is enjoyable. The temps are cool (50-60 degrees), so that makes it easier. I am pretty sure that Jennifer pulled off a sunburn with the overcase skies...I will offer her SPF 55 tomorrow!

Speaking of tomorrow...we are going to head off to the West Coast. That seems to be where all of the action is! Until then...

Ireland, Here I Come!!

I leave in less than 21 hours for Ireland. I plan on printing off my boarding passes so I don't get a lecture from the guy at the check in counter about how you need to arrive at the airport at least 1 hour prior to international flights. REALLY?!? This is Rapid City and I am NOT checking any bags! I feel that bi-passing that encounter might make a better start to my trip.

I am really going to miss Mike on this trip. :( Who am I going to talk to in the airports during layovers? Who is going to watch my baggage while I go to the bathroom so I don't need to navigate 2 bags in the bathroom stall? Who is going to handle all of the money because I don't want to carry my wallet around everywhere? These are just a few of the issues I will have because I am traveling without my best friend (no offense Jeff or Jennifer)!

Oh, I included the photo above (from the internet) to excite you (and myself) about the majesty of Ireland.

We're Back!!

We have now had one complete day back in SD. We are staying in Custer while we wait for our rally renters to leave tomorrow. We thank those of you that have been following the blog (both publicly and privately). This is going to be the same blog that I use for my trip to Ireland. I leave next Wednesday. Mike will be staying home to work, he doesn't have the time off.

In Ireland, I am going to be accompanying Jeff, Mike's brother, and Jennifer, whom you might remember from my trip to Chile. Jeff is returning from 8 months of active duty (6 mos. in Afghanistan) and he wanted to go to Ireland when he returned. I have the time off (glory of teaching), so I thought I would take advantage of the opportunity.

This will be our last post from Thailand. So, we put together some various pictures that we didn't attach before (mainly due to time, which of course is money when you are on the Internet in another country).
Last night, we had a late night (after midnight) watching Muay Thai boxing (see above). They start the evening at 9pm with kids (I would guess 9 or 10 year-olds) and progressively each match the kids got older. We left before the last match was over, it was getting too late and we still had to walk back to the hotel. Plus, by that time we had already seen over 3 hours of beatings! This style of fighting has a beginning ritual which includes a ceremonious dance each fighter does prior to the match.
We took this photo at the plaza (HUGE shopping mall). No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you, that is a small blizzard. Unlike the US where they have a 12oz. "kiddie" blizzard and the small is actually 16oz. This Thai small blizzard only cost $0.85 and was probably 6oz. By the way, I didn't even finish it. It was green tea almond, which was not my thing.
Here you can see the meat purchasing counter at one of the markets. This would be an example of where locals would purchase their meat products. This was a common site at the markets. There were usually fans above the meat to attempt to keep the flies off. I know what you are thinking, there is NO form of refrigeration being used.

This photo was taken on our way to the rafting "put in" site. The road was so rough, at one point we heard a dragging noise...NOT good!! Luckily it was only the spare tire being drug. The rafting guide that was with us had to sit for the remainder of the drive (which was rather rough) on the top of the van.

Also on the ride for rafting, this was a common site for the area. This is a very popular Thailand attraction for visitors, riding elephants. The sole purpose is to ride the elephant on a jungle trail. You end up right back where you started and the people on the ride really didn't look that enthusiastic about it. I am sure it was fun for the first few minutes...maybe!

Wondering Around

Above, is the view from our room at the Galare Guest House. It is a cute place off the beaten path, but very close to all of the markets and bazaars.

This morning we decided to get tailored suits & shirts. The turn around is less than 24 hours!! It has been an fun experience. We also went to the day market, which is a combination of a flower market and a locals' market. We have been on a quest to find a cooking utensil for Suzy, Mike's sister, during our time here. We finally found it at the locals' market, YES! After our shirt fitting this afternoon, we decided to check out the Central Plaza (it's a HUGE mall). We took a tuk tuk (see picture below) and enjoyed the AC in the Plaza. The tuk tuks are a fun, inexpensive way to get around the city (unless you leave your beloved Prana hat in one...not so fun-ask Mike).

We had to leave the movie at the plaza early to get back for our jacket and pants fitting this evening. We are now heading off to Muay Thai boxing/fighting (they do more than just punch eachother).

River Rafting-class 4

Today we rafted the Mia Taeng River, near Chaing Mia. It was the best rafting we have ever done together. The class 4 rapids were exciting! Our guide (with Siam River Guides), Jay Won, was great!! We are sorry for the lack of pictures, we didn't want to buy the CD of pic's and didn't bring our camera for obvious reasons (i.e. we were holding on to paddles)! They also have bamboo rafting, we only saw them in the calm waters. I don't know how well they would handle the rough rapids! Some of them were not floating completly in the calm water!!!

During the drive up, we got to see lots of elephants and elephant rides. I found them to be a little depressing...it was more for the glory of riding an elephant than to use as a mode of transportation.

We did a little shopping at the famous Chaing Mia Night Bazaar. It was not as great, to our standards, as the Sunday night street market. We only got a few things. Tomorrow we are going to venture out into the city more and figure out how the heck we are going to pack all of this stuff to get it back to Bangkok, then to the US!

Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market

We arrived in Chiang Mai early this afternoon. We were told that we had to go to the Sunday night market. We did not know what to expect, but it was supposedly the place to be. So true!! The streets were packed and it seemed never ending. The market probably covers 12 blocks on the main street and then 1-2 blocks on each of the side streets. It was amazing!! There were various goods, foods (see picture below (grass hoppers, bamboo worms, crickets...but only at one stand) and services. We took advantage of the foot massages after we were done. We spent a total of 7 hours exploring...we are tired. We are heading off to the room to prepare for river rafting tomorrow.