tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52801035482699638402024-02-15T22:34:14.287-06:00I'll take you in my backpackLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.comBlogger299125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-53918278327911989882019-06-23T23:53:00.000-05:002019-06-23T23:53:11.881-05:00Hiking Hawaii (on acompressed schedule); Makapu'u Lighthouse, Manoa Falls, Waimea Falls, Dole Plantation6/22/19<br /><br />With only one weekend for fun stuff and exploring while in Hawaii on a business trip, I knew that I had to make the most of my very limited time. There was no doubt that hiking would be a major part of those plans! I had intended on waking up around 4:30 am and heading to Koko Crater to kick the day off, but a week full of battling jet lag finally caught me and sleep won in the end.<br /><br /><u>Hike 1: Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail</u><br />
Starting a little later than planned (6:30am) I headed off to a my first destination, Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail. The drive from Waikiki to the light house was beautiful, along the coast, with several scenic stop offs that I took full advantage of, putting me even further behind schedule but with some added in Hawaii experiences too!<br />This park opens at 7am (something I hadn't previously known)<br />
Makapu'u Trail is completely paved the entire way up. I wore my hiking shoes but would have been very happy doing it in my Chacos. It's a pretty steep incline the whole way up, but the views make the huffing and puffing <i>well</i> worth it!<br />
Signs along the trail indicate that this is a good place to see the Humpback whales during the months of November-May when they are on their migration. Sadly I've missed it.<br />
The lighthouse can be seen from the trail when you're almost at the top (at the top you won't see it)<br />
From the top you have striking views of Hawaii, a panorama that doesn't disappoint.<br />
Total distance is approximately 2 miles round trip (I started my Garmin a little late)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summit of Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail</td></tr>
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<u>Hike 2: Manoa Falls</u><br />
Manoa Falls is closer to Waikiki, so heading back took a little bit of time, again driving back along the coastline and the beautiful views (and homes on the water to admire)<br />
Manoa Falls requires that you pay $5 for parking in the small concession store you pass right before the lot. Get there early it fills up quickly. I got there around 8:30am and it was full, I lucked out with a spot because someone was leaving.<br />
When I arrived here it was raining (misting really) but upon seeing the trail, it definitely made it way more difficult and slippery (even with Vibram soles)<br />
The beginning (before you get to the actual trail) is lush jungle with lots of bird sounds, reminded me of a scene straight out of Jurassic Park!<br />There were people hiking this in flip flops but I definitely don't recommend it. Lots of uneven terrain, mud, slippery rocks, etc. When I was about half way up the trail I saw fireman and a man with his leg fully secured (this would explain the firetruck that I saw at the bottom). A few minutes later a helicopter arrived to airlift him out. Apparently he fell at the top, the fireman were able to get him about halfway down after splinting his leg (that appeared broken) but couldn't take him further so an airlift was required. Needless to say I was much more cautious for the remainder of that hike!<br />
The falls is very pretty, it has a pool but swimming is strongly discouraged due to leptospirosis.<br />
Total distance is approximately 2 miles (again I forgot to start my Garmin at the very beginning)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manoa Falls</td></tr>
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<u>Hike 3: Waimea Falls (North Shore)</u><div>
This hike is all the way up on the North Shore (so if you're staying in Waikiki it will take you approximately an hour to drive there)</div>
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Waimea Falls is a short (all paved) trail to get to the falls, and you can swim there (life jackets are required, they provide them) but there are leptospirosis signs present and just looking at the water there isn't much movement and it certainly doesn't look very clear (I definitely opted out of swimming)<br />To enter the nature park where the hiking trail is, there is an admission fee (very steep for what this hike consists of if you ask me, $18 for adults) there are various discounts available but you'll have to show ID to prove it (military, Veteran, etc, the cost for those is $12).</div>
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This hike is less than 2 miles and can be rated "easy"<br />Very accessible using google maps, parking lot is labeled as a pay lot but proceed through and to the attendant and tell them you are going to Waimea Falls and you won't have to pay.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waimea Falls</td></tr>
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If you're all the way up on the North Shore for Waimea Falls you may as well go to the Dole Plantation. It's super touristy but also a fun place to stop for a quick snack after hiking (their grilled corn is amazing), can someone say Dole whip?!<br /><div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-71874841312688945012019-03-23T19:07:00.003-05:002019-03-23T19:07:49.928-05:00Hiking Diamond Head (the day of a flight out of Hawaii!)3/22/19<br /><br />I'm hoping that this post helps people wanting info about the Diamond Head hike because when I was looking for info online (including climb time) I found very little that provided the information that I needed.<br />
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<br />I was in Hawaii on a time crunch, there for 2 days for a training for work then flying out. I wanted to get in some of the beauty before leaving the island. When considering Koko Head and Diamond Head, Diamond Head won because of the close proximity to where I was staying (Waikiki) and the time crunch of needing to catch a flight that day.<br />
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I took a Lyft to Diamond Head, they stop you at the tunnel until the park opens. Some people park there (very limited spots) and tour buses drop people off there as well. There is a park ranger who lines people up to try to make sure it's a smooth process and flow getting people into the ticket booth. From the tunnel you go down a small hill and around the corner and the ticket booth will be in front of you (it's along the road). I chose to jog the whole way there to get ahead of the large group of people. I suggest this if you're able and on a time crunch (or just want to get to the top and enjoy some peace up there before the masses arrive)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tunnel before they let you in to head down to the ticket booth</td></tr>
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The path starts as a very smooth (almost like a sidewalk) surface that starts winding up the crater. After a little bit it changes to uneven surface with rocks and ditches that you really can't see unless you have a light of some sort.<br />
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Further up the crater there are steep stairs and even winding staircases that you have to navigate. When you get to the winding staircases you're almost there!<br />
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This hike is 100% worth it if you're traveling to Hawaii and 100% doable if you are on a time crunch! I had plenty of time to do the hike, enjoy the top, get back down, back to my hotel, and even enjoy some additional time in Waikiki before having to leave for the airport.<br />
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At the bottom there is a small souvenir shop (not open when you first start hiking if you start at 6am) as well as some food stands. Especially wonderful was the fresh cut pineapple that I chose for my post hike snack! The food stands open when the park opens but they also can take a little while to get set up so it could delay your start. I would advise (if you want to get to the top before the crowd) eating before or just waiting until you get back to the bottom, it's not that long of a hike. Small sacrifice for serenity at the top (before all of the selfie sticks arrive!)</div>
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Happy Hiking!</div>
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Tips:<br />
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<li>Get there early. Park opens officially at 6am for hikers/runners, but they will let you through the tunnel leading down to the ticket window starting around 5:50am. I highly suggest getting there early, even running ahead of the tour bus crowd to get to the ticket window and start your hike</li>
<li>Use the bathroom at the bottom, there is nothing along the trail or at the top. No real place to do a quick "pee in the woods" along the trail either so consider that!</li>
<li>If you want to enjoy the top, book it, hike fast (and start immediately when the park opens). It gets VERY crowded.</li>
<li>Getting down can be a little tricky because there is a tiny staircase near the top where you almost climb out of a hole, it fits one person at a time, so if there is a crowd of people coming up to the top and you're trying to get down, this process can take a while...unless you're pushy!</li>
<li>There is a $1 entrance fee (bringing exact change is helpful as they don't have a cash drawer to break bigger bills. I had a $20 they couldn't break so I paid on my way out after they had more money)</li>
<li>There is a parking lot ($10 for cars) but it's very small and fills up very quickly. Much easier to take a Lyft/Uber there. Mine was about $25 from where I was staying in Waikiki (and because of the time of day)</li>
<li>Times to get up/down may vary. I was really moving to get up to the top and then stayed at the top until I started to see other hikers coming (the crowd) then I started back down. Total time up/down was 35 minutes for me</li>
<li>Distance (according to my Garmin) was approximately 1.5 miles. </li>
<li>Bring a headlamp (if you're doing it right when they open!) Wish I had one for when the path surface changed to the uneven stuff, you really can't see unless you use your cell phone light or a small hand held flashlight, a headlamp would have been best</li>
<li>Dress in layers (it was a little chilly at the bottom but once I started I was very warm). I hiked most of it in a tank top and capri leggings. I also wore trail running shoes (hiking boots are not necessary for this hike)</li>
<li>Prepare to feel completely unfit. People literally run up this bitch. RUN. I was huffing and puffing at the "brisk walk" speed. I got lapped 3 times by one guy. Not sure if I was more impressed with his Matrix like abilities to get through the crowds, or that he was running up a mountain. For fun. Either way a million times fitter than I!</li>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-38404835875782439762018-04-06T23:32:00.000-05:002018-04-06T23:32:46.416-05:00Day 10: Last full day in Nepal, Backstreet Academy Khukuri MakingUp pretty early, wanting to get every ounce of life out of the day seeing as it's my last full day here in Nepal. I don't even know how it happened so fast, but it did and I fully intend to make the most of it! Tomorrow (and part of Sunday) will be filled with traveling back to Japan and before I know it I'll be hit with the reality of the work week schedule.<br />
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Something that has always been important to me when traveling is making sure to positively contribute or support the local people. When I traveled in Thailand and Cambodia a few years ago I was fortunate enough to find Backstreet Academy. It's a program (that is in many countries) that provides meaningful travel experiences by connecting you with local trades and experiences, and helping to support and boost local economies in the process. Impact travel. I've blogged about the importance of human connections, and did an entire podcast episode over on my podcast <a href="https://play.radiopublic.com/a-glittery-affair-8gJZrp" target="_blank">A Glittery Affair</a> about it as well, the Backstreet Academy is exactly that. Meaningful travel experiences that give you human connections you'll never forget!<br />
Backstreet Academy has experiences in the following locations:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Nepal</li>
<li>India</li>
<li>Cambodia</li>
<li>Vietnam</li>
<li>Laos</li>
<li>Philiphines</li>
<li>Myanmar</li>
<li>Malaysia</li>
<li>Indonesia</li>
<li>Thailand</li>
</ul>
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If you're traveling to one of those places I highly recommend looking into one of the experiences and checking it out, plus if you do one of the crafting ones, you'll go home with a unique one of a kind souvenir that you made with the help of a local person. So neat! Money can't buy that in a store!</div>
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You can browse the options and book experiences <a href="https://www.backstreetacademy.com/#AP0086" target="_blank">HERE</a> </div>
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Resha made a delicious breakfast for us, complete with some tea (not Masala but she made it like Masala so I know how to do it when I'm home), Yak cheese (my new favorite), eggs, toast, and fresh papaya. Oye, I'm going to miss these yummy things.</div>
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I've become obsessed with the Nepali spice containers, it's like a large stainless container with several smaller round stainless containers inside to hold the individual spices in it, then a large lid to cover it all, it's so neat and organized and visually appealing! I'm on the hunt now! I believe it's called a Masala Dabba but I could be wrong.</div>
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After easing into the morning, it was off for a serious adventure! You don't think I mentioned Backstreet Academy for nothing did you?! So Backstreet Academy found me via my podcast Instagram (they didn't even know that I had done Backstreet events before!!) They saw a picture that I posted in Nepal and asked if I'd be interested in doing an event in Kathmandu, no brainer, of course. I picked the one that most interested me (although they all interested me, this one MOST interested me for so many reasons). Khukuri making. The khukuri is the knife used by the Gurkha's (soldiers). This is the only weapon they used to fight. Granted the one they used is a little bigger than what I will be making today, but still I'm so excited to be experiencing such a unique piece of Nepali culture and history. The person that Resha and I are taking the class from is a man who has been making Khukuri's for a very long time and comes from a long lineage of Khukuri makers. </div>
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We were picked up by the coordinator (someone to translate because Indra doesn't speak English) Resha speaks Nepali and could have translated but when most people sign up for Backstreet Academy events they don't speak Nepali or have someone with them who does so in this case they provide a coordinator to go with you. When I was in Cambodia I didn't have this, but there also wasn't a language barrier. The coordinator also helps you to physically get to Indra's place (he works out of his home) which we never would have found on our own!</div>
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In Indra's shop working is also his brother-in-law, he speaks some English and also works on khukuris, he seemed to be doing a lot of the detail work (the design on the blades, which was insanely talented.)</div>
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When we started I had no idea the beautiful work of art that I would leave with. NONE! I mean, I started with a rusty old piece of metal. How could this possibly turn into a beautiful knife that I could use in the kitchen? One that would last a lifetime? Indra picked up a khukuri that he had that his grandfather had made (it was 70 years old) and indicated that only the wooden handle had started to go so he replaced that, the blade was still sharp! Indra promised us a 50 year guarantee on our khukuris made today.</div>
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The process start to finish (with a break in the middle) took a solid 5 hours...including the ride there which was probably at least 30 minutes). There were many steps, as is expected. When we arrived he already had our bone handles and bone sheaths made, thankfully, as I'm pretty sure that's out of my league and skill set! The bone handles and sheaths are made from buffalo bone.<br />
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There was a lot of heating, then pounding, this happened several times. I used the little mallet and when my efforts just weren't cutting it he called in his brother-in-law (and the big sledge hammer...good call not having me use that, he would be missing body parts) and things moved along faster! Soon the khukuri started to take shape, then it was on to the grinding machine, this was not my favorite, I did try it, but quickly decided that I didn't want to participate in that anymore when it started to send sparks into my hair, my clothes, my skin, and I was feeling and smelling burning, none of which was pleasant! I let Indra finish this stage for me! There were more buffing and grinding phases, Indra made my knife so sharp and strong (because I indicated that I wanted to use it for the kitchen). Actually when he asked I said I wanted to use it for fighting. But I was being a smart ass. He laughed when the coordinator translated it for him. The process of the handle install was really kind of fascinating and at first I had no clue how that was going to happen. I missed it the first time around but caught it again when he did Resha's khukuri, check it out:</div>
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After things were in place there was more buffing, to make sure that the bone, and the brass that was put onto the handle and sheath were also smooth. Then he even applied polish to the blade and buffed again. I know I forgot steps in the retelling but you get the point, the craftsmanship and attention to detail is out of this world. He put some cooking oil onto the blade and informed us that this is how you clean it. After using it you get a towel that is damp and wipe the blade off (to get the food bits off) then you use kitchen oil to wipe the blade. You don't "wash" it like standard things in the kitchen. That's how you preserve the longevity of this khukuri.</div>
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Here is the before/after pic. I placed my finished product onto a piece of metal that is the exact same thing that mine started as. Hard to believe isn't it?!</div>
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Indra proved the sharpness of the blade when he finished on mine by taking it to my arm and "cutting"/shaving the hairs off of my arm. After I agreed to this I realized that this was potentially a really bad idea and that it was putting a lot of trust into someone's hands with a blade that sharp at my arm, but, I trusted the stranger, more than I trust some people I know, what can I say?! haha! So I agreed without hesitation!</div>
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Today was a beyond amazing experience! I can't say enough about Indra, his skill, the ability to step into his world, his home, his workshop, to be able to experience this piece of Nepali history from someone with such a long lineage of it, priceless. These kind of meaningful travel experiences are what life is about, these kinds of human connections absolutely fill my soul in unimaginable ways!<br />I can't recommend trying a <a href="https://www.backstreetacademy.com/#AP0086" target="_blank">Backstreet Academy</a> event enough when you travel!</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0Kathmandu 44600, Nepal27.7172453 85.323960527.6047838 85.162599 27.829706799999997 85.485322tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-48327975889943504192018-04-05T09:21:00.000-05:002018-04-05T09:21:09.281-05:00Day 9: Shopping in KTM, Playing with the Kiddos, and Learning to Make Momo'sThere were a few things that I absolutely didn't want to leave KTM without. The tea that I've become addicted to (that I can only describe as similar to chai tea, but that description is doing it a huge injustice), spices to attempt to replicate the delicious meals I've had here (or better yet to convince someone else to cook for me!), some candies that you can only get in Nepal, and lastly some super soft cotton (don't cringe at that word this is like the most soft fabric ever) jammies for my nephew. Once I touched the fabric I also bought my self a blanket. Once you wash it, it becomes even softer! Because I was taken by Resha and her mother, we went directly to the factory where everything is hand sewn, so I had the ability to pick the fabric, my nephew will have custom made jammies finished by tomorrow. I had a choice of so many fabrics, it was nearly impossible to choose, so I went with a very "traditional Nepali" fabric in a beautiful blue, instead of the cute rhinos or elephants that I was oh so tempted to go with. I can't wait to see them and mail them off to him with his other Nepali gifts!<br />
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After the sewing factory it was off to buy spices, tea and sweets. The store I probably could have left with pounds of things, thankfully I have a one suitcase limit. I'm also not trying to exchange more currency, so there was that also! I spent nearly every last penny that I had though!<br />
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Next up was lunch with the kiddos. While today had initially been planned as a down and chill day it actually turned out pretty busy. Tomorrow is a very full day, it also happens to be my last day in Nepal. It's so terribly sad and unimaginable that this trip is already coming to an end. I vividly remember showing up here and having so many days ahead of me, it seems as though I blinked my eyes and now I'm approaching my departure date. But not without so many amazing adventures and memories to show for it. This trip has been so amazing and I'm so fortunate to have experienced it.<br />
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This evening I had the opportunity to learn to make momo's. If you've been to Nepal you've eaten momo's and if you haven't eaten momo's...well, then you certainly haven't been to Nepal. Momo's are like dumplings. Or like a distant relative to the Japanese gyoza. Tasty little steamed dough filled morsels. Holy goodness are they time consuming and tedious to make! I have a new found appreciation for momo's after seeing how labor intensive they are. It was really amazing being able to see the process (and try it out) and to learn in a true Nepali kitchen with Resha's mom.<br />
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As I head to bed, I have one last day of excitement on the horizon and I can't wait to share it...but that will have to wait until tomorrow! But until then, here's the Quik video of today! Have I mentioned yet how much I'm going to miss Nepal?<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-18425758405273494082018-04-04T21:38:00.000-05:002018-04-04T21:39:00.010-05:00Day 8: Rupakot to Kathmandu...the adventures of flying domestic in Nepal!Because it wasn't an early flight it was a slower start, no rush to get up, pack and head out. Unfortunately there wasn't enough rain to burn off the smog and reveal the Himalayas for that picturesque view that Rupakot offers with the 3 lakes. You will just have to google that to see what others have been fortunate to see. Rupakot is stunning, and even with smog you can see the 3 lakes, but when the Himalayas are visible you can imagine how breathtaking that view is. Next time. Because yes there will be a return visit to Nepal, I have no doubt.<br />
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Breakfast. This was the first breakfast without porridge, not by choice, but because they didn't offer it. A taste of what life without porridge will be like I suppose. I wasn't quite ready to get used to that.<br />
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Then it was off on the crazy dirt road to venture to the airport. On the way down we saw monkeys on the side of the road. Super cool. The way down seemed a little easier than the way up, perhaps because we could use air conditioning.<br />
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Traffic caused a bit of a delay but we still arrived to the airport on time and were told that the flight would be taking off on time as well. Things were looking positive. When we went through security there was another Buddha Air flight departing to KTM and we asked if it was full (to see if we could get on that one instead) it appeared full, until at the last minute they seemed to be looking for a passenger/passengers. They grabbed a guy who was sitting there (traveling alone), apparently they just had one seat available. Lucky him. He wouldn't know how lucky he truly was!<br />
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As it turns out we were about to be in for quite an adventure at the Pokhara airport. Approximately an hour into waiting it started to storm, badly, lots of thunder and lots of rain. Our airport closed to air traffic (which we wouldn't know until later). Our flight actually started doing other routes so when our airport did open up again they didn't even have a plane for us!. Approximately 2 hours into the storming the airport completely lost power, for about 30-40 minutes. So we sat there in the dark.<br />
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There isn't much for food inside the security check area, a shop with some snacks like chips and cookies but that's it. Since we didn't know if things would clear up and a plane show up, we couldn't just leave to get food. We were starving at this point. Finally about 5 hours later we finally had a plane and were able to leave Pokhara for KTM. What a seriously long and exhausting day of doing nothing!<br />
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Not much to show in the Quik video today as we did a LOT of sitting at the airport! The rest is driving down the mountain to get to the Pokhara airport! None the less, I made one anyways! Tomorrow is a bit of a down day before Friday's fun activity of making Khukuri's, my final day in Nepal before leaving Saturday. I can't believe how quickly it's gone by.<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-80394384253473590952018-04-03T21:15:00.000-05:002018-04-03T21:15:36.866-05:00Day 7: Pokhara to Rupakot, and how driving up a mountain absolutely does feel like you might die!A bit of a slower start today, it was appreciated since it was the first one since getting to Nepal, first day without jam packed activities. Only real thing on the schedule was the 11:30 pick up to head to Rupakot (approximately an hour drive on a bumpy dirt road, up a mountain...oh what an adventure!)<br />
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The driver showed up about an hour earlier than planned so we headed to Rupakot earlier than planned, which was fine. The ride there was definitely an adventure. The normal; cows in the road, tractors driving down the road, having to stop and wait for various things to cross (humans, machinery, animals, you get the point). Once we hit the dirt ascending part I knew we were in for it. Oh I forgot to mention, when we started this point the driver also had to kill the AC (and it was sweltering) because he couldn't run the AC while also climbing the mountain. The road was, uhhh, thrilling. And questionably safe. For even one car, but turn that into a two way road and you have a true adventure! Literally end of the earth if you look over the side and cars (including ours) were flying up/down this mountain. Which also caused sandstorms so bad that you couldn't see ahead of you! We drove up this mountain for what felt like 30 minutes before reaching the top (and a truly breathtaking view of the 3 lakes). Granted there is absolutely NOTHING to do, you're at the top of a mountain with nothing but the hotel/resort up there, but the view is spectacular. Hoping for some rain to burn off the smog/haze and to bring out the mountain view for some pictures!<br />
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The haze just seemed to intensity so there was little hope of seeing the mountains today! I'm hoping that the the rain happens and gives a nice appearance for the morning before we leave to fly back to KTM!<br />
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Went down to the restaurant for an afternoon tea (and dessert, go ahead and judge away, sure I'm coming home probably 10 pounds heavier, but they've been delicious and I've enjoyed every single bite). The Nepali chai tea that I've been having is delicious and I'm on a mission to find some to bring home before I leave. The dessert, described as "traditional Indian dessert" was two donut hole looking balls in some syrup. They were tasty, the syrup was very sweet. No sooner than finishing the dessert a freaking wind storm (and the beginnings of the rain) settled in blowing dust and dirt up the mountain. We quickly had to take cover inside the restaurant rather than at the outside table.<br />
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Laziness (and perhaps a little rain) won and room service happened for dinner. I mean, did you see the picture of the stairs I had to climb up/down to access the restaurant for food? You'd reconsider too! Elevation between the restaurant and my room nearly requires an oxygen tank and proper trekking attire (ok maybe not but it felt like it!)<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-18128977723243214332018-04-02T11:31:00.000-05:002018-04-02T11:31:06.089-05:00Day 6: Heli Ride to Annapurna Base Camp, Devi's Falls, Peace Pagoda, and PatchesUp nice and early to adventure by heli to Annapurna base camp! A quick google search looks like it's over 1000m higher than Fuji (yikes! Here's to hoping I don't get altitude sickness!! I did on Fuji!)<br />
Pick up from the hotel was said to be between 6:15 and 6:30am, it ended up being around 7:15am, I'm told this is common for Nepali time. I think Nepali time is teaching me to relax and not be so uptight about timing and a schedule!<br />
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Thankfully things went off without a hitch and we were able to go off without an issue. I'm happy to report that I'm no longer a heli or Himalayas virgin! Super happy to be able to have experienced both of those things<br />
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I can't recommend this experience enough to people. I will say that preparing for this trip I didn't think it would be possible because researching it on the net produced some very expensive options. So my best advice is to wait until you get to Nepal to book it. Go to Pokhara, and book it from there. It was the best $350 I've ever spent. When I looked on the internet the prices were $1800 to $2000, so obviously a little rich for my blood, but I was super happy to see that it was an option when I got here. Granted I'm not throwing hundreds and making it rain on the regular but for an opportunity to ride in a heli and put my little feet on the Himalayas (without having to trek for 2 weeks) yes, sign this bitch up! Because let's face it, I'm good for about one night of camping, definitely not more.<br />
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If you follow my insta (stories) you probably saw many of these photos already (sorry not sorry for flooding your life with the Himalayas, it's exciting, and well, stories worthy).<br />
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After the heliHimalayas experience it was back to the hotel for some breakfast, which was skipped intentionally beforehand because of 1.not wanting to barf in the heli and 2. not wanting to have to figure out restroom situations in the Himalayas or on a heli. These are things you have to think of in Nepal. I'm really digging porridge, and don't really know what I'm going to do with myself without it. It's quite tasty, way freaking better than gross oatmeal that's for sure.<br />
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Next up it was down the street to find a taxi to take us to the Peace Pagoda (a Japanese Buddhist Stupa) and Devi's Falls. We were going to do the half day tour through the hotel but kind of decided to just do it on our own because 1. we can and 2. we didn't want to go to the Tibetan Refugee Camp. I initially thought that this was a closed camp (aka-no people residing there, but when I learned that it's actually an active refugee camp, I certainly didn't want to go there, pay money, and use it as a tourist opportunity, it just seems degrading to humans and I'm not up for that).<br />
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Driving in Nepal is entertaining and a thrill ride at times. There are no lanes on the roads. At any given time you'll find people in all lanes going in all directions, sometimes directly at you. Often times there are animals in the roads. Particularly cows. In Nepal cows are sacred. If you hit and kill a cow it's automatic life in prison. If you hit and kill a human, only about 10 years, so pick your target wisely if you need to swerve to not hit one or the other.<br />
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This evening brought some walking around, some more shopping, and a mission to re find the Annapurna Base Camp patch that I saw the day before (but didn't want to buy in the event that we didn't get to go). Thankfully we found a shop that had not only that patch but also a Chitwan National Park one that had a rhino on it, appropriate considering how many endangered rhinos we saw while there. I also opted for a Nepali flag patch to round out the flair on my beloved Anderson Supply Co bag!<br />
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Today was an amazing day. I'd love to accurately put words to the amazing experience of taking a helicopter to the Himalayas but words would only fall short. I can only wish that you will be able to feel these same feelings in whatever makes you this happy in life.<br />
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Here's my day...in a video. I hope you enjoy it! Off to Rupakot tomorrow for one night before heading back to KTM.<br />
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In other news, if you're coming to Nepal, specifically Chitwan, bring bug repellent (or be sure to buy it here) especially if you have sensitivities to mosquitos. I have an allergy to them and they normally swell up for a day then they're just annoying after that. But here it's been a different experience and they seem to continue growing every day. I have swollen welts on my arms that are bigger than a US half dollar. They itch uncontrollably. Thankfully there are pharmacies with remedies, and a hospital should things take a turn for the worse, but here's to hoping we can keep Dengue Fever at bay and just deal with annoying welts!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-87461361623000628612018-04-01T18:16:00.000-05:002018-04-02T22:59:07.884-05:00Day 5: Chitwan to Pokhara, Fewa Lake, and taking out street vendor awnings no big deal!Up early trying to steal one last sunrise (and maybe a hopeful glimpse of some wildlife...tigers, bears oh my!). Met some people yesterday who are on a year long world travel adventure (also heading to Pokhara tomorrow) We also learned that helicopter transport is an option, like leaving steps outside of our hotel door, hmmm.<br />
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So the helicopter didn't pan out, but that's ok, because the flight not only wasn't delayed but it left early. I won't lie, I was a wee bit nervous when I saw the size of the plane, only 7 freaking windows! When I got on the plane I was even more nervous, it had absolutely NO overhead bins, this meant all hopes of shoving my bag and attached sneakers in there was shattered. So I crammed them under the seat in front of me and did my best for the very quick 15 minute flight. Much to my surprise the flight was incredibly smooth, way better than the one to Chitwan!<br />
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Arriving in Pokhara the weather was stunning. Bright blue sunning skies. Sadly still a little cloudy so the Himalayas were hiding. I have yet to see them on my stay here in Nepal. Once finally checked into the hotel it was time to start planning adventures for time here in Pokhara, time is limited so you really have to be strategic with things to get the most bang for your buck! Since half of the day was pretty much over it was late for any full day excursions. We planned for an early morning helicopter tour to the Annapurna base camp. Weather permitting we will be the first flight out in the morning. It's a 15-20 minute heli ride to ABC, then 45 minutes enjoying the fact that you're standing on the Himalayas, then another 15-20 mins heli ride back. Trip of a lifetime.<br />
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After getting that all lined up it was off to do some adventuring (and to find some food!). On the way to finding food we did a little street shopping (window shopping) and in the process I managed to take out a street vendors canopy/awning, and nearly impaled myself with the metal pole. I don't know how I didn't see it, but I swear to you I didn't. I was mortified and apologized profusely to the shop owner who merely said "namaste" to me, which made me feel even more like shit. Furthermore when I walked back through later, he said something regarding "look out for the pole". Thanks dude.<br />
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Shopping on the street here in Pokhara is SOOOOO much less intimidating than in Thamel. Thamel is like street shopping in Bangkok. You need to be razor focused, on a mission, and able to be firm. I like to leisurely shop, to browse, to look at things randomly, and to not be harassed. Also it helps to have a Nepali with you who can haggle prices in Nepali so you don't get charged foreigner prices (which are like 3x the Nepali price!) So what's popular here, it appears that tea, spices, felt made items, cashmere goods (bought a nice scarf to hopefully prepare me for tomorrow since we pretty much have summer clothes with us), and Yak items (bought two blankets that I'm super stoked for because lemmmmme tell you about yak, its soft af!) I've decided I love yak. Had some yak cheese with breakfast this morning and it was tasty! Not that I've found a cheese I don't love.<br />
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After doing a little shopping, finding a restaurant for some lunch, and relaxing a bit, it was off to adventure. Aka, find the lake. Water activities. I'm told we're kayaking. I prefer activities where I can be a little more sloth like but I'll be a good sport haha! We ended up with a boat. With questionable floatation capabilities, in fact it started taking on water (granted not a lot but enough, considering I know Nepal has crocodiles now) mid round the lake tour. At any rate this was not a motorized boat, the motor was in fact our paddles. And as it turns out this was exhausting in the sun! You can rent various types of boats, and a driver is complimentary with the fee if you choose. I didn't know this until we were in the middle of the lake. At any rate at the same point one of the bigger boats that holds about 20 people and is powered by 2 of the hired drivers (catamaran/pontoon style) literally ran me over. First one side ran up on me and I started yelling (because I had zero intentions of swimming in that water) then quickly the boat basically started to eat me up. The people on their boat started yelling to the driver too. Thankfully there was no swimming done. They said there were no man eating creatures in the lake and that crocodiles don't eat humans, but I've seen what the mosquitos here do to me so I'm not willing to chance it.<br />
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After surviving the lake paddling it was time to cool off, there's only one proper way to do that...gelato of course!<br />
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It wasn't bad, certainly not Italian Gelato but good none the less!<br />
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Dinner was at the Krazy Gecko which is a super hippie restaurant that sits on the opposite side of the lake and has some unique seating arrangements along the water. The vibe is fun, the food variety is eclectic, and the mood is super chill. Plus they have a swing right on the water, any place with a swing is an instant win in my book!<br />
The cab driver who we acquired may or may not have consumed a large amount of Quaaludes before driving us, but we made it alive.<br />
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Here is my Quik video for the day :)<br />
I hope you're enjoying the trip to Nepal so far...I know I am! Fingers crossed the Heli ride to ABC goes off without a hitch, total bucket list item for sure! I've never been in a helicopter before, I've also never set foot on the Himalayas...here's to hoping after tomorrow morning I won't be able to say either of those things!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-47511398181183236672018-03-31T19:21:00.000-05:002018-03-31T19:21:39.935-05:00Day 4: Chitwan National Park Jeep Safari and River Boat Sunset CruiseUp early to catch the Jeep safari into the Chitwan National Park. A quick coffee (making sure not to consume too much liquid because I was told it was four hours in the bush with no toilet. Yikes!) Sunrise was stunning this morning, granted I missed actual sunrise, but what I did catch was beautiful!<br />
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To get to the jeep tour you take a small wooden boat across the river and board the jeep. The jeep safari was amazing. I was hoping to see big cats, wild elephants and basically all of the crazy shit you see on discovery. While I didn't see that, I did see an endless amount of rhinos, which is a gift because they are on the endangered species list. I was able to see many mamas with babies too, which is nice for that very reason, hopefully reproduction and their existence in a nature preserve will ultimately protect them from poachers and extinction. One can only hope.<br />
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At one point during the jeep safari we were attacked by horse flies, I'm not talking a couple of horse flies, I'm talking like the movie birds but with horse flies. I had to put one of the seat blankets over my head and wear it like a burka. We all ended up jumping out of the jeep while the guide took the cover off of it to hopefully give air and an escape for the flies, it helped only moderately.<br />
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After a couple of hours of amazing nature sightings we pulled off to a water source and the guide set up a breakfast buffet on the hood of the jeep, it was really lovely. Thankfully the horse flies stayed away just long enough to eat!<br />
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After breakfast in the jungle it was off to more exploring. Right before exiting the jungle we were able to have an up close and personal encounter with a mama rhino and her baby crossing the road to get to a water source, it was really nice.<br />
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We returned back to the hotel for a short rest before taking off on the sunset river cruise. I wasn't sure what to expect from this, but it was so peaceful and stunning. I also learned that the waters were infested with crocodiles, something I didn't previously know. Not that I intended on swimming in said waters, but I certainly had no intentions of getting in now. I also learned that a certain species of these crocs with a long snout are extremely endangered and Nepal has a breeding program where they have reintroduced 1000 of them into the National Park, only 85 survived. Without this program though, there would be none. The guide indicated that he wouldn't be surprised if we all came back next year there would be none.<br />
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<br />I was eaten alive by some creature on the river, mosquito? Here's to hoping I don't get malaria or some other mosquito carried illness!<br />
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The river cruise took us to a point where the rivers meet, also the perfect spot for catching the sunset. It was beautiful! Our guide was great about helping catch some good photos too (he insisted on "holding the sun", "kissing the sun", etc, it was cute).<br />
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From the sunset picnic spot we took vehicles back to the hotel (he indicated taking the wooden boats back upstream would be 3 hours, and dangerous as it would be dark and that's when tigers can be out. I want to see a tiger, but not in the dark!<br />
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We got back to the hotel and went down to where they were having a candle lit bbq dinner cooked by the water, we were able to see a hippo no more than 30 feet away right in front of the hotel on the very ground we walked on to board the boat just a little earlier!<br />
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Here is my Quik video of the day, I couldn't add all of my photos and videos for today because I took too many (it cuts you off at 200!)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYahik1AHee012IeyrUcMuW5y9tqjZHnS-D2Bz5B1pFseIzrs9if8Ezru8dWq99dwioPcB_ne6xLwRVmB-xw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Today was a truly amazing day filled with once in a lifetime experiences that I will never ever forget! Seeing animals on the endangered species list, roaming free in the wild, isn't something that you always get to do.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-85259465411774552882018-03-30T19:04:00.001-05:002018-03-30T19:04:11.121-05:00Day 3: Traveling to Bharatpur, yes that's poop on the floor<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Leading up to today I was warned about flying domestic, told
about how flights are always delayed, and to anticipate hours of delays. I was
optimistic however, and perhaps naïve. Needless to say I thought maybe my
positive attitude had paid off because when we got to the airport and checked
in, the flight was “on time”. Even all the way up to what would be boarding
things looked like they would be going off without a hitch, all other flights
on the board listed a delay, some hours long, but my flight seemed good to go.
Until 11:40 (10 mins before scheduled departure) when they typed the dreaded
words… “Delay”<br />
Thankfully the delay listed was only about 25 minutes (but that would soon
prove way too good to be true!)<br />
<br />
Flying domestic is quite the experience in Nepal. When you go through security
(I should have put that word in air quotes) you put your bag on the belt, I’m
pretty sure they don’t give a shit what you have in it, I had small liquids and
a razor, nail clippers, tweezers, I don’t even know what else. They didn’t
care. So you gather your bag and there is a separate line for men and women.
You enter into a tiny closet space with a security guard and she pats you down,
we’re talking a good solid second base, maybe pushing third. After that you’re
into the “terminal”. I use the term “terminal” very loosely. See the video
below.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx9RlYQNtlF94b-DPsEk-Mk3YepUi6_OdvkXcrMZZICQJvUb0N82F28MpCPWbzUizCaws_6f6_AO0kD5VlOig' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While waiting there was no shortage of entertainment. At one
point my friend tapped me and looked to the left saying “is that poop?!”. In
fact it was, shit, on the floor. Mind you there are no animals in there to have
made this mess…only humans. There were some small children running around who
had probably been waiting hours, but really? Shit on the floor? And right at
another woman’s unsuspecting feet? Please don’t let her step in it, furthermore
please don’t let her then be on my tiny flight!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBJRKPi8Ma-fG1wJtJz8TRn5ooqxK21SfcL_znyJpidtPEJBe5BvvaChDIH5pnp7DEtmnRIHIllrQrLRd6Ju_8Jj_J_Lkr2KN_6FUjAQYvlEHAf7-Z8Fop78CaTmI9P8RK9Ooa7bNW5cr/s1600/IMG_8818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBJRKPi8Ma-fG1wJtJz8TRn5ooqxK21SfcL_znyJpidtPEJBe5BvvaChDIH5pnp7DEtmnRIHIllrQrLRd6Ju_8Jj_J_Lkr2KN_6FUjAQYvlEHAf7-Z8Fop78CaTmI9P8RK9Ooa7bNW5cr/s320/IMG_8818.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Saying the plane was tiny was an understatement. Prop plane.
No more than 10 rows probably. Thankfully it was only a 20 minute flight
because I almost barfed. That thing felt like a roller coaster in the sky.
Flying over the mountains with sudden drops, it was definitely an experience!
If you plan to fly to the more remote areas in Nepal, bring Dramamine, ginger,
or some kind of motion sickness device. I failed here. I also probably should
have taken a couple of shots or smoked some weed before getting on this plane.
Or a Xanax. Something. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Arriving in Bharatpur was also much different than most of
my flying experiences. You get off of the door ladder to the airplane and walk
across the tarmac to a little cement shelter that states clearly on it “baggage
claim”. It’s filled with people also waiting for people and bags. There’s some
sort of system for collecting bags but I’m not sure what it is. I didn’t check
a bag, thankfully, so I didn’t have to deal with it. The driver was there to
pick us up to take us to Taj (an hour drive on what I was told is bumpy dirt
roads)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtXwu9i4f-Vl3NeENTHsfk4TRCSOlVI1yL9hZgeUs_8dAnnSWqGXpGQfAD-Yi7TTFO2Ph4WgmZIA2aXWIuy-EwJpNOwNMX-9Yalt02DbnYOzuNS_vOM4Kc0Q_nsLNjPS-U6n08ba17Cw5/s1600/IMG_4459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtXwu9i4f-Vl3NeENTHsfk4TRCSOlVI1yL9hZgeUs_8dAnnSWqGXpGQfAD-Yi7TTFO2Ph4WgmZIA2aXWIuy-EwJpNOwNMX-9Yalt02DbnYOzuNS_vOM4Kc0Q_nsLNjPS-U6n08ba17Cw5/s320/IMG_4459.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The drive started off ok, on a semi paved road, not too
bumpy, motion sickness to a minimum which was good because I was still
recovering from the flight. That quickly changed though and the paved road disappeared
and turned into a dirt/stone road that was insanely bumpy. I was being thrown
around the car and quickly getting car sick. I tried to close my eyes to sleep
but that was hopeless because of how bumpy it was!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally after an hour or so we pulled into the Taj. It’s majestic.
It’s right in the nature reserve so hopefully there will be lots of wild animal
sightings. Sadly there were elephant sightings on the drive in, but they were
chained, so elephants that they use for safari tours, something I’m adamantly
against. I know that the Taj offers this service but it’s not something I’m
willing to do. Jeep safari yes, boat ride, yes, but supporting the use of
elephants like that, no, they are wild animals and deserve to be free.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we pulled up to the Taj entrance we were greeted by a
traditional Nepali song, people waving, and fresh cold towels (which definitely
were welcomed). We were given some drinks (and they had me try Raksi, which
they described as wine, but wine it is not, it’s like fire water, and I’m
pretty sure it would take my nail polish off!).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQvLIv30h11FyJRYAEI4BzSIFaGRV2P4HHhS3RSHLoD3Lh9wJ2gIb5daB-6nd77YTaKGhjgvC_F5uvK7kxEP9646PONbCyI17eFjWseMcdo2-WUCvRSM2SpS1zcCJIl3LK-WE0iuDiCvg/s1600/IMG_4259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQvLIv30h11FyJRYAEI4BzSIFaGRV2P4HHhS3RSHLoD3Lh9wJ2gIb5daB-6nd77YTaKGhjgvC_F5uvK7kxEP9646PONbCyI17eFjWseMcdo2-WUCvRSM2SpS1zcCJIl3LK-WE0iuDiCvg/s320/IMG_4259.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf3AhrbO1CSzkgCD_XgvlGykSdF0-Y6v1Z1yAMSBghk8gczkCLYdoC-1OC73TTRuqC6sRQUzzrlQAzgDR5SpzWz4jiCZUdfpnVnGFRJWREWMgD4DjEzzLkZQAUwAHpUnoMnx9jbhz3IdB/s1600/IMG_2736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf3AhrbO1CSzkgCD_XgvlGykSdF0-Y6v1Z1yAMSBghk8gczkCLYdoC-1OC73TTRuqC6sRQUzzrlQAzgDR5SpzWz4jiCZUdfpnVnGFRJWREWMgD4DjEzzLkZQAUwAHpUnoMnx9jbhz3IdB/s320/IMG_2736.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Almost immediately after getting into the hotel a storm
rolled in, it was crazy! The power went off like 6 times, it looked like a
tornado and sandstorm outside all in one. Parts of peoples roofs were blowing
off. We had schedule the boat safari for today but quickly canceled when things
turned so ominous. No way in hell do I want to be in a little tippy wooden
canoe in that kind of weather!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After riding out the storm for a while it was time for
dinner, a traditional meal, followed by a traditional Tharu village
dance/performance. It was really beautiful and involved a lot of sticks and
coordination</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Off to bed early, have an early morning for a jeep safari,
fingers crossed that there’s lots of animal sightings!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Per usual here is the Quik video of the day!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxfLDfCBRVFN0gXMpOtG9PAyH1NlbBmGpuILmfZnxgNLUcrPdpVJ5d96AJOuKi0z3vvdKvHG_FtTt2I2ADWGw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-47432001531190184612018-03-29T09:51:00.000-05:002018-03-29T09:51:04.079-05:00Day 2: Dying Easter Eggs, Traditional Nepalese Cuisine, and ThamelThis morning started off super fun by dying Easter eggs with my friends kiddos. They can't get that kind of thing in Nepal so I brought over all kinds of Easter goodies, including a couple of egg dying kits for them! I haven't dyed eggs in years and the kits were way fancier than anything we ever used as kids, but still super fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7b3kHysj7zrfTGahtFdr9dgeKqLDybCdwgIosRYGi7wXQD_agVa3qm-LMAdhZukrHDVZxXXlW1DAnwXV4XA6y5WCpqOcol9JsUo3ywV1mTtQ3e9dCAp8u1Cve4McEzbF5mXaWga6M9hl/s1600/IMG_7372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7b3kHysj7zrfTGahtFdr9dgeKqLDybCdwgIosRYGi7wXQD_agVa3qm-LMAdhZukrHDVZxXXlW1DAnwXV4XA6y5WCpqOcol9JsUo3ywV1mTtQ3e9dCAp8u1Cve4McEzbF5mXaWga6M9hl/s320/IMG_7372.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After the eggs it was off to lunch for traditional Nepalese food. I have been eating this style cuisine (or similar) for many years so I was excited to try it and see similarities and differences. The flavors were amazing and the spice level was great!<br />
We started with some "bites" then had a set plate that had a nice sampling of many different dishes. One of the "bites" was described to me as "deer" it came out looking like maybe jerky, with a few fattier pieces?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yYAYWpKA2Zw_QObYyB08CIPa5QsSxrF4LPo1eiAT_xxFlxcgspiLCIRB5lc8_3UjI1dLKUhnifc9uFnfEqiqs-hOprYE7JIVIS1Rl0nOLMOc0zykjGc4iZAkBe7Pz-36g7VxxnFweNMz/s1600/fbee5df0-b80a-4fe3-bb2e-0d331b5817ce.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yYAYWpKA2Zw_QObYyB08CIPa5QsSxrF4LPo1eiAT_xxFlxcgspiLCIRB5lc8_3UjI1dLKUhnifc9uFnfEqiqs-hOprYE7JIVIS1Rl0nOLMOc0zykjGc4iZAkBe7Pz-36g7VxxnFweNMz/s320/fbee5df0-b80a-4fe3-bb2e-0d331b5817ce.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
It was quickly discovered that my friends Nepali translation was perhaps not accurate, and that the animal wasn't in fact a deer. When I saw the picture of what it was that I ate I quickly realized that I ate something resembling a ram/big horn sheep (they called it "blue sheep"). It wasn't bad, probably not something that I would crave though either.<br />
<br />
With a full belly (like Thanksgiving dinner on the verge of a nap full) it was off to Thamel. Thamel is described as being sort of the hippie part of KTM. You can buy all kind of traditional Nepalese souvenirs in this area. Some of the streets are only for pedestrians (which is nice because navigating roads with cars and motorbikes is super dangerous...walk with purpose...and still plan to get hit by something. Today I was hit by a scooter mirror while it was driving by). There are many shops selling excursions, outerwear (North Face seemed to be a popular brand, not sure if it's real or knock off), hand made crafts, and if you fancy it you can buy weed and hash there.<br />
It's definitely a vibrant area!<br />
After navigating the streets of Thamel and window shopping it was time to stop off at the Garden of Dreams for a cup of tea (I'm loving this afternoon tea!) The Garden of Dreams gets you off of the streets and out of the dust/pollution and out of the chaos/noise if you need a break. There is an entrance fee (as with all things, foreigners pay more than Nepalese people)<br />
<br />
Adventure continues early in the AM with a flight out to Chitwan, I'm told domestic flights in Nepal are an adventure as you can always expect delays...of hours. And the airport has NOTHING, and the restroom in the airport is nasty (I'm told). I was specifically told to use the restroom on the plane before getting off so I didn't have to use the airport one. Here's to hoping there isn't an extended stay in the airport waiting for a flight to take off!<br />
<br />
<u>Tips/Things to know:</u><br />
<ul>
<li>In Nepal, foreigners are charged more for everything. EVERYTHING. Sometimes triple the cost. For example my friend and I have domestic flights, mine is 3x the price of hers. This is just common practice in Nepal, so don't get butt hurt about it. I'm just here to give you a heads up because I wasn't aware before I set foot into the country.</li>
<li>Bring hand sanitizer with you (there is a lot of dirt/dust/pollution)</li>
<li>Bring a mask. Everyone wears one, there's a reason. The dust can be really bad.</li>
</ul>
<br />
And as usual, here is the day...in video!<br />
<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-16251587992031055292018-03-28T19:19:00.000-05:002018-03-28T19:19:57.738-05:00Day 1: Getting to Nepal and Durbar SquareSo getting to KTM isn't horrible, but it was exhausting! I left at midnight from Tokyo, took the red eye to Bangkok where I had about a 6 hour layover before finishing the final leg of my trip on to KTM (another 2.5 hour flight). The last bit of the flight was technically 3.5 hours because when we reached KTM (at 15,000 feet) we then proceeded to do loops for an hour. What I didn't know is that KTM has only one runway at their airport, as you can imagine that causes some traffic on the ground with planes departing and in the air with planes attempting to land.<br /><br />What I also didn't know is that a week ago (in what seemed like a serious case of pilot error due to leaked communications between the pilot and the air traffic control tower) a plane crashed coming in to KTM and the majority of the passengers died. I'm glad I didn't know this, because I would have needed a xanax, and some alcohol.<br /><br />I'm told that usually when you fly in to KTM you can see beautiful views of the Himalayas. Sadly the weather was kind of shit, so way too overcast to see anything. I'm hoping to catch a peek before I leave!<div>
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If you are flying in to KTM, medicate. I didn't. I'm still feeling motion sick as I type this. The looping as we waited above the Himalayas was intense, lots of sudden dips and sharp turns. I've never felt sick on a plane but had we not landed when we did I probably had about 5 more minutes of that shenanigans in me before I would have puked. Lucky for me I get to do it again because in a couple of days I hop a plan to a more remote part of Nepal!<br /><br />When you exit the airport in Nepal, have an arrange form of transportation, or else you will be bombarded with "taxi taxi taxi". It might be a little overwhelming especially when you're tired. TONS of people standing out there.<br /><br />As for the Visa. I didn't get it before I left because it was a hassle with the Embassy in Tokyo. I had actually made two attempts but their office was closed both times so I just risked it and went with the Visa on Arrival method. It was simple. I imagine it's slow if many planes come in at once and get it backed up but honestly only one plane can land at a time so rush your happy ass off of your flight and get into that line! I suggest for that leg of the flight sitting as close to the front as possible. You will have to be bussed from the plane to the terminal door (like 20 feet) but then you can walk really fast into the Visa area. I brought my form all filled out and done, so I could skip the paper/kiosk step and go right into the line. You have to pay for your visa before you can get into line to get the visa. Once paid (they accept credit card and almost all foreign currency) you get into line with your papers and wait for a person at the counter who will stick it into your passport (and probably stare you down, or maybe I was just the lucky one!) Visa processing guy is also the guy who takes your immigration form. They didn't hand these out on my flight so be sure to grab them when you walk into the Visa area, they are in little wooden racks on the left side when you enter. You can either apply online or do the pdf (I didn't see the online option when I did mine so I just printed the PDF, it worked fine. I also brought a copy of my passport and had the picture done)<br /><a href="https://nepal.visahq.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a> is the link for online and PDF Nepal Visa (For US Citizens)</div>
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After you get your visa you then walk to bag claim. Before you can go into bag claim you have to go through a metal detector. So put your stuff into your carry on bag, send it through the belt, and walk through and you're there. There is only one small monitor that tells you which belt your luggage will be on. Bag claim is a cluster fuck and people are pushed up onto the belt everywhere, with the luggage carts, you may have to shove your way in to retrieve your bag!</div>
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After dropping bags at the hotel it was time to do some exploring. Durbar Square (royal square) is an area that was greatly impacted by the earthquake. The damage is all over and there are many temples and buildings being restored by various countries because Nepal doesn't have the funds to do it. There are 3 Durbar Squares in Nepal/KTM area, all three are UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can see a lot of historical buildings, and if you're lucky you might get a peek at the Kumari (living goddess). A concept I was amazed to learn about. A Kumari is picked when she is approximately 4 years old and reigns until puberty. She is visually "perfect", the selection process is very intense, and when chosen she goes to live in the Kumari Ghar (in the city center) not with her family, does not go to school (she is home schooled) and continues this job until puberty. I am told that many men who have married former Kumaris have died young, Nepalis believe because of her divine power. I unfortunately didn't get to see the Kumari while I was there.</div>
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<br /><u>Tips thus far: </u><br /><ul>
<li>You have to be careful drinking the water, even bottled, as some is more trusted than others.</li>
<li>Be mindful that air pollution can be pretty bad, it was bad today because of wind and construction blowing a lot of dust around, many people wear masks</li>
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Here is a quick video collaboration of my pics from the day! More to come! I'll try to blog daily on my adventures in Nepal!</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-11948235180790104912018-03-04T17:15:00.002-06:002018-03-04T17:15:56.433-06:00Exploring the Fuji area of Japan (Chureito Pagoda, Ice Caves, and Aokigahara Forest)Saturday morning I woke up and decided I needed a little adventure in my life! I have had the Chureito Pagoda pinned for a while as a "must see" place so this was the lucky winner for adventure time! Train time vs drive time was pretty close and after a debacle with getting lost in the tunnels of Tokyo the previous day, I decided to reduce my stress and take the train!<div>
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The Chureito Pagoda is approximately 2 hours from Yokota Air Base via train. If you're taking the train the stop for the Pagoda is Shimoyoshida. I enjoy train adventures because it allows you to see some beautiful places, riding in to Shimoyoshida I passed through some beautiful mountainous terrain. At one point we were riding along with some of the most stunning shots of Mt Fuji. Times like this I'm constantly reminded of how lucky I am, the beauty of nature, and just how small we are in this big beautiful world! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">taken from the train, while moving. Speechless</td></tr>
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Shimoyoshida train station is TINY! I mean seriously small. I'm pretty sure that the only reason people get on/off there is to see the shrines/Chureito Pagoda. When you exit the station there is a map showing you the walking directions to the Pagoda. It's about a 5-10 minute walk. The shrines and pagoda are on a mountain, so you're climbing. As with most things in Japan there are tons of tiny little stairs, half stairs as I call them! I read somewhere online that there are 397 stairs to the pagoda, but I didn't bother counting! Part of the way you can walk an incline ramp instead of the stairs (I recommend this for sure!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Never saw any animal...sadly!</td></tr>
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If you have time continue on beyond the Pagoda up the mountain, there is a waterfall up there. I didn't actually know until I came back down the mountain and didn't have it in me to do those stairs again! I'll go back and do the waterfall when it's warmer! <div>
When you get to the Chureito Pagoda it will likely be crowded, it's picturesque and where you can get that shot of Mt Fuji (assuming she can be seen) with the Pagoda (the one you have likely seen on the internet)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chureito Pagoda and Mt Fuji from the "observation deck"</td></tr>
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When you get your shot of the Pagoda and Fuji, continue up the mountain, more stairs, and you'll find an even more stunning view of Mt Fuji that is unobstructed by trees (and people)! It has a rest area with picnic tables so it's a great spot to stop for lunch if you bring it! The pictures below were all taken at the spot I'm talking about.</div>
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The weather and view in the Fuji area can change pretty quickly. When I got there it was super clear with 100% views of Fuji, by the time I left a couple of hours later Fuji was almost completely covered in clouds. You just never know.</div>
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From here it was off to find Aokigahara. I've wanted to go here for a long time and never made it. I met a friend at the Chureito Pagoda so we drove to the Aokigahara (I know there are bus stops within Aokigahara but I don't know of train transport)</div>
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Aokigahara is known as the suicide forest in the foothills of Mt Fuji. You can read a lot about it online, there's a really shitty movie about it out there that you can watch, but I highly suggest that you go and see it for yourself. Not to make light of suicide but because this forest is so much more than that. There are beautiful trails within the forest and several caves (Ice, Bat, and Wind) that were formed from lava. We stopped at the Ice Cave (it was very interesting to see and something that I definitely recommend if you're in the area).</div>
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If you're driving and trying to find Aokigahara (to walk into the forest) I highly recommend using Fugaku Fuketsu Lava Cave as the destination. Putting in "aokigahara" will send you on a wild goose chase if you're using both Google Maps and Apple Maps. Waze did a good job getting us where we needed to be. The wind cave was closed by the time we got there, but there is a very clear entrance into the forest (with a camera on the parking lot, some of the efforts they make to monitor and prevent people from entering the forest and harming themselves) It's said that there are also motivational signs in the forest reminding people of their worth to discourage suicide. I didn't see any on the path that I was on, but the forest is huge (13.5 square miles) and I was on one path and didn't get to go far because it was almost dusk, also because the path was completely ice covered and I didn't have spikes. The forest is beautiful, something that you should definitely go and experience. I plan to return during nicer weather, when the ice has melted, as there is a path that leads to a lake (it was approx. an hour walk from where we were and just way too close to dark) and let's be honest. I don't believe or not believe in ghosts and spirits but I certainly don't want to be in the suicide forest in the dark, without a flashlight.<br />They also say that your cellphone can lose service in there because of the mineral deposits in the ground, but some people say that it's because of other things. Believe what you may. I didn't go deep enough into the forest to ever lose service, it did go down to one bar but then bounced back up to full service.</div>
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And if curiosity is killing you, no I didn't see any bones, bodies, tents, etc. I did see a memorial set up with flowers, beer cans, and mochi, a gruesome reminder of how real suicide is, and that it impacts so many people. </div>
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Japan has so much beauty, sometimes things get so tainted by a post, a book, a movie, someones negative experience that jades their viewpoint...whenever you're traveling or in life in general, experience things with fresh eyes.</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-48126415883664233762018-02-24T18:13:00.000-06:002018-02-24T18:13:05.401-06:00Seeing the Snow Monkeys in Nagano (Jigokudani Yaen-Koen)<br />
2/25/18<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Find what you love, and never stop doing it!</td></tr>
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Yesterday I did something that I've wanted to do for a REALLY long time! I've seen photos and lusted over this adventure. Why it took me so long I have no idea, but I'm so glad that I cashed in on life'ing with this one!<br />
Seeing the snow monkeys in Nagano at the natural hot spring was something that I'll never forget. I highly recommend it for anyone who is in Japan (fun fact you don't have to go in the winter, they're open year round, the monkeys are always there (free range, not caged or contained). I would even venture to say that it may be better to visit during the "off" season because as you can imagine this place is riddled with tourists, which becomes annoying. My annoyance increased because some people literally have zero respect for animals, their habitat, and personal space. More often than not tourists would get uncomfortably close to the monkeys, babies, mamas with babies, in an attempt to score a good pic. Surely in this day and age we all have good enough technology to enable the zoom feature? Heck if you just sat on a rock for more than a minute the chances were pretty high that a youthful little monkey would come running around you, playing with it's little monkey friend. This happened to me a few times. I actually thought at one point that I was going to end up with wrestling monkeys on my lap!<br />
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It's about a mile from the parking lot to the top where the monkeys are. The trail is packed snow and ice. I wore trail running shoes and was slipping. Until I bought crampons at the info booth before you really start to climb/hike. It's about 1300 yen to purchase them and in my opinion worth every penny!<br />
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Cost to get into monkey park is 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for kids. Like all things (except the Shinkansen) Japan, affordable.<br />
<br />The park opens at 9. I imagine it would be MUCH better to arrive right when it opens before the tour buses get there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sign me up for the grooming train!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little guy was about a foot from my leg!</td></tr>
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<u>Getting there:</u><br />
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<li>Train. The Shinkansen has trains that get you to Nagano (Liyama is actually the closest station to monkey park). But there is no train stop at monkey park so you would have to do a combo of Train/Uber/Lyft to get the rest of the way. The Shin is very expensive one way is approx. $80 from Tokyo.<br />Travel time from Yokota: approx. 4.5 hours</li>
<li>Driving. This to me is the best option if you have this choice (and don't mind driving, I like napping, so I didn't go this route but if I had it to do again I would drive myself) Cost (tolls) $35 each way. The park opens at 9am I highly suggest getting there then if you drive!<br />Travel time from Yokota: 2 hours 55 mins</li>
<li>Sponsored trip. I did this from Yokota AFB and it was the most affordable/convenient option, but it had it's cons. Cost was $60 (this included admission ticket)<br />Travel time from Yokota: freaking forever. JK I think it took 4.5 hours each way, only because the bus stopped 2-3 times each way, on the way back we got stuck in a traffic jam. The bus can only travel for so long before they have to give the driver a break. Driving on your own would be WAY quicker, and you can stop less/more if you want.<br />The other con is that we got to the park after 1pm, well into the day, and the tourist rush. SO many people were already there.</li>
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<u>Tips/Tricks/Fun Info:</u><br /><ul>
<li>The park has a live cam so you can watch the park/main pool whenever you want, check it out <a href="http://www.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/livecam2/video_en.php" target="_blank">HERE</a></li>
<li>Don't bring food, loose items, or plastic into the park, anything that might interest the monkeys. I saw so many monkeys chewing on plastic it was horrible.</li>
<li>Use your damn zoom, give the monkeys some space! </li>
<li>Buy the crampons (or bring your own Yaktracks etc)</li>
<li>Enjoy the walk through the woods getting to monkey park. This was so peaceful I loved it, on the way back it was almost empty and I found this really peaceful and enjoyable</li>
<li>When you come back down from the park, at the first set of restrooms there is a shoe washing station (with a brush) to scrub the monkey shit out of your shoes. You'll be thankful it's there. Monkey shit stinks, and cakes into your shoes/crampons!</li>
<li>If you've been to Bali, these monkeys are less "aggressive" (for lack of a better word) than the ones there. I didn't see a single monkey jump on a person or try to take something from them. Just stupid humans trying to touch monkeys</li>
<li>Bring a pack, and layers. The temp changed drastically when I was there. Hiking up I moved at a good pace so I was warm (I was also wearing a wool hat, 2 jackets (my shell and then my down mid layer...I sound so outdoorsy, I actually made that shit up I don't know if it's really a mid layer, it's warm, I wear it under my shell and over other things, so mid.), and that's about it. I carried with me a wrap scarf and gloves (which I should have worn later on because I'm pretty sure I got frost bite (being dramatic but still...) but I wanted all of the pictures and no matter what companies say about their gloves, you can't take good pics with gloves on, even when they have that little technology finger thing.<br />I used my trusty @AndersonSupplyCo bag, I take it everywhere :) You can get one too, <a href="http://www.andersonsupplyco.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a> tell Trisha I sent you :) She makes them!</li>
<li>Nagano is very famous for their fruits. If you go to monkey park early and have time, go to a fruit/fruit picking place on the way home. Seasonal of course. Right now it's apples.</li>
<li>If you're coming in from other military bases in Japan/Asia to do this trip you might want to go through Yokota/Yokosuka ITT as the easiest way to do it. I know if you go through Yokota, you can stay at the Kanto Lodge on base, you can make reservations <a href="https://yokotafss.com/kanto-lodge/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Yokota ITT posts their trip schedule for 2 months online and they are very responsive to emails sent. Check them out <a href="https://yokotafss.com/itt/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Another option is staying at the New Sanno, you can make reservations <a href="http://www.thenewsanno.com/accommodation/availability/" target="_blank">HERE</a> and either driving to Nagano or doing the Shin/car route. If you stay at the New Sanno and want to use ITT from Yokota or Yokosuka you should note that it's not very close, and will take some time to get to the base.</li>
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I hope this helps anyone wanting to go see the snow monkeys. It truly was an amazing trip that I'm so thankful I was able to experience!</div>
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Here is my Quik video that I made with all of my pics and videos, enjoy! It surely made me smile watching it and reliving the day!</div>
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Follow me on my travels on my Instagram, most things get posted to my story @Fairytalewishesunicorndreams <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fairytalewishesunicorndreams/" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-89926712487952465452018-02-14T18:22:00.000-06:002018-02-14T18:22:27.690-06:00Never stop adventuring! Up next...Nepal!2/15/18<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL1qPARHuhyphenhyphenUe7dBc3e6tozKEAv0soVeIAssxNvE8_5CrCC8fqMOdsHboGwiqylOkmcbU3ch5iR_OLk7dfgyEVC0ON3-3Zlxk1yqiWhKzh6HM3ouYqSPhqoghfsbPfbqzOQG4HIbU3UeOB/s1600/Nepal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL1qPARHuhyphenhyphenUe7dBc3e6tozKEAv0soVeIAssxNvE8_5CrCC8fqMOdsHboGwiqylOkmcbU3ch5iR_OLk7dfgyEVC0ON3-3Zlxk1yqiWhKzh6HM3ouYqSPhqoghfsbPfbqzOQG4HIbU3UeOB/s320/Nepal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image taken from Google)</td></tr>
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Once you find your passion you should absolutely NEVER EVER stop chasing it! NEVER. For no one. And with that being said, I finally have booked a trip that should have happened MANY years ago but (thanks airline assholes) didn't...so now it absolutely will be...Nepal here I come!<br />
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Probably about 10 years ago I booked a flight (I was living in the US then) it had a less than 24 hour layover in India, I did my research and if in transit with less than 24 hours you don't need a visa for India. I searched several sites and the embassy. Because I didn't want issues. Travel day arrived and I went to the airport my bags packed ready to go to Nepal and go on the adventure of a lifetime. The airline wouldn't let me board because I didn't have a visa for India. I explained several times even showed them online where it said in transit no visa, nothing, they still required me to have a visa despite the fact that I was there less than 24 hours and in transit. I even spoke to a supervisor and got nowhere. At this point I was in tears. Yes me, the person who doesn't cry. I literally had to walk out of the airport and leave, without ever getting on my plane. I went home so pissed off and fired of emails to the airline, found phone numbers, waited on hold for hours and finally connected with someone. When I got a human on the phone the profuse apologies started coming through. They realized the mistake, <i>their </i>mistake, the impact it had had on me, and continued to apologize. They refunded me the money for my ticket (I obviously was going to fight for this it was a lot of money), they deposited an insane amount of frequent flyer miles into my account (that I have yet to use because I'll honestly never fly that airline again). They even offered to put me on another flight (it was a week later). It just didn't work with my schedule and at that point it just seemed like a big enough sign that this trip at this point in time, wasn't meant to be. I'm kind of big on taking hints from the Universe. I can be a dumb ass sometimes, but I try to listen hard when the Universe gives me a nudge. So that was it. I took my refund, mended my bruised wounds of disappointment and carried on with life. Nepal went back on the travel bucket list.<br />
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Fast forward 10 years. Here I am trying to plan spring break. I had been really been thinking hard about Vietnam. A series of life events then just kind of made me make a turn and take the plunge to Nepal and nothing feels more right! This is the time. This is what needs to happen now.<br /><br />I can't wait to take it all in. I can close my eyes and picture myself there. The smells the sights. All of it. I know that the (slightly longer than) week trip will fly by but I also know that this is a trip of a lifetime and I won't take a second of it for granted!<br />
<br />And yes you better believe there will be blogs and copious amounts of photos to document this once in a lifetime trip that is FINALLY going to happen! When I return there will be a podcast too! Be sure to follow that! My podcast is A Glittery Affair and can be found on all social media @aglitteryaffair, the facebook page is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/A-Glittery-Affair-1729654923724976/" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
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Nama-holyshitImgoingtoNepal-stayLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-69411808319039651762018-02-11T17:30:00.000-06:002018-02-11T17:30:08.405-06:00Travel Must Haves!2/7/18<br />
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I've been meaning to write this post for a really long time. I've had it drafted in various forms, notes on post-its, memos in my phone, reminders set. I'll be honest, things just got away from me and I slacked! I always have people asking me for recommendations or seeing things on my Instagram story and asking me about them, so I decided to compile a list of my FAVORITES, my must haves!<br />
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I try to travel carry on only, so these are all items that I have found either essential, or helpful in one way or another! I'll list them in no particular order!<br />
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**Ebates. First and foremost whenever you're shopping online you'd be foolish not to use this! It's free money for some shopping you're going to do anyways! Sites offer various percentages back on your shopping trip. The sites change their percentages and sometimes offer bonuses so check back often! Just to give you a little idea, I've gotten $656 (don't judge I like to shop!) back from Ebates this year! Seriously, deposited into my Paypal for shopping/buying things I was intending to buy anyways, they also will give you existing promo codes for the sites you're browsing! WIN!<br />
You can get a check mailed or get it deposited into your paypal account. You can also opt to use it to shop (rather than getting it deposited, with this you get 20% more I believe, I don't do this so I don't know the exact number)<br />
Sign up for Ebates <a href="https://www.ebates.com/r/SNELLL9?eeid=28187" target="_blank">HERE</a>**<br />
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1. Osprey Fairview 55 Pack<br />
Available <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=takeyouinmyba-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B06W55HCZ6&asins=B06W55HCZ6&linkId=c620517f318d4343f27bfaf0d187c203&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=false&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff%22%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMH8PfkfG6ZPxSknppq4HN2nYcTfzkD3X72Mv2MxyXlSPTolh1V1QcXGKZt5FTNy3CD6HWn0EptgZaLt-qcovpUZc3Ck5bewHmCmCXOtOgY3hkgGJhgj_PbwQikX7zjSoAaSqH412_U0Hw/s1600/IMG_2331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMH8PfkfG6ZPxSknppq4HN2nYcTfzkD3X72Mv2MxyXlSPTolh1V1QcXGKZt5FTNy3CD6HWn0EptgZaLt-qcovpUZc3Ck5bewHmCmCXOtOgY3hkgGJhgj_PbwQikX7zjSoAaSqH412_U0Hw/s320/IMG_2331.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I have the packs detached</td></tr>
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I've gone through a million packs and various devices for travel. This is my favorite for a number of reasons. 1. You can stuff the hell out of it. 2. It opens fully, zips completely open, rather than just zipping open like a normal pack where you then have to dig for your things in the black hole of the bottom and 3. it has a zip off small pack that you can use for exploring cities where you travel to! 4. I also like that this pack is designed and fit to a woman's body/structure, it's not a mens bag that will be uncomfortable on your hips.<br />
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2. Lululemon On The Fly Pant<br />
Found <a href="https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-pants/On-The-Fly-Pant/_/prod8431171?catId=uswwearit5&cc=17311&page=1&pagesize=16&qtyCode=1&skuId=3768010&sz=10&szCode=10" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPUuPJ-xVlBKarWugcKvBVzuRHm_pN6xYIhAdW7OSSe6ho4cz0uVIuG2jIRVJCa72hCHehBQoS3dG3UqThfgP7mXQsvfrx3y9NXX9vFVdeBLmd7x9rU-72XRDcvLpE29lRlSdBjIOFDWq/s1600/IMG_4043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPUuPJ-xVlBKarWugcKvBVzuRHm_pN6xYIhAdW7OSSe6ho4cz0uVIuG2jIRVJCa72hCHehBQoS3dG3UqThfgP7mXQsvfrx3y9NXX9vFVdeBLmd7x9rU-72XRDcvLpE29lRlSdBjIOFDWq/s320/IMG_4043.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pants surviving swimming/trekking in rapids in Bali!</td></tr>
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Are they overpriced like most things Lululemon, yes, are they worth every single penny, YES! I have them in several colors and to be honest I'll probably buy more. I had only one color, black, when I went to Bali and I wore the shit out of them! I wore them when I went on that canyon/river trek and they not only survived, they didn't rip or get damaged. They can be dressed up and are a perfect travel and life pant! I seriously love them, and comfy OMG, let's be honest, your girl loves her some sweats, and these feel like an amazing pair of sweats, but look like you're dressed to slay.<br />
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3. eBags packing cubes<br />
Available <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=takeyouinmyba-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B005LXPSGM&asins=B005LXPSGM&linkId=fda09566545e941d31fae3f4653cd042&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=false&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff%22%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
I honestly should be a spokes person for these things I'm not kidding! I tell EVERYONE about them! They are that good! I have many sets, the 3 piece set is the BEST!<br />
These are perfect for carry on travel because you can stuff the shit out of them, filling way more than if you were just packing in a suit case, you can then pack them into your pack or carry on bag and things are organized in one place. Another reason they are great is because if you are checking a bag, and your bag gets opened, this prevents your things from being a complete yard sale at the hands of TSA or some other airport authority!<br />
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4. Dollar Shave Club One Wipe Charlies<br />
Buy them <a href="http://shaved.by/hUTVi" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
I'm slightly (ok I'm totally) obsessed with wipes. If you want to be clean these are amazing. If you're traveling to a dodgy location, your body will thank you for having these on hand! Dollar Shave Club are my favorite booty wipes. They have big packs and individual ones. The individual ones are nice for a purse and travel, but in general I tend to buy the big packs more.<br />
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5. Chacos<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect for ALL THE THINGS!</td></tr>
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You can buy them directly from Chacos but honestly I ALWAYS buy mine via shoes.com (but go through ebates first!!) Shoes always offers at least a 20% off coupon code!<br />I live in these when temps get tolerable. LIVE IN THEM! I don't care what people think of them, they're the most comfy and if you get the ones with vibram soles (you can make custom ones on Chacos website and add that to any pair) they're amazing for traction/no slip! I hiked all through Bali in mine! Put a carabiner on your backpack and you can attach them to the outside too and wear your heavier shoes when traveling!<br />
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6. Anderson Supply Co Multi sport pack<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbUjHjVquK9vJiAQOe0I88iJyn1gwXOJ7XFOJNaFPiTZLIjZbwbEmBqe4NNZWsdIGAJ7gV1EqSwQz4-5F9dyKm5_VIqXTVUfQKYIhy-xhyR-KS0tMTb-BG-BpFKbCeW5dO0Ml287EAjs1/s1600/IMG_1065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbUjHjVquK9vJiAQOe0I88iJyn1gwXOJ7XFOJNaFPiTZLIjZbwbEmBqe4NNZWsdIGAJ7gV1EqSwQz4-5F9dyKm5_VIqXTVUfQKYIhy-xhyR-KS0tMTb-BG-BpFKbCeW5dO0Ml287EAjs1/s320/IMG_1065.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is mine in a Mikan farm outside of Tokyo</td></tr>
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You can order your custom pack <a href="http://www.andersonsupplyco.com/custom-20-backpack-info/" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
This is not only made in the USA but it's made by a badass lady boss! I love the packs that she makes, they're all custom, of the highest quality, and it's by far my favorite day pack! I bring this for day use while traveling! I either lay it flat within my other pack or I roll it up and attach it to the bottom of my osprey (where a sleeping roll would go) works like a dream!<br />
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7. Lush Shampoo Bar<br />These can be bought in store or <a href="https://www.lushusa.com/hair/shampoo-bars/" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
Honestly my shower kit NEVER goes without one. Seanik is my favorite, it smells amazing.<br />They are super convenient, and I won't lie, when I was in Bali this was a shampoo bar and a body wash bar for me, a good old all in one! It's convenient, you can also buy the tin to hold the shampoo bar (Yes you need it!) and it stores nicely within your shower kit! No need for messy bottles or dealing with airport security and liquids!<br />
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8. Doc Spartan Armpit Armor<br />
You can buy it <a href="https://docspartan.com/products/doc-spartan-armpit-armor-all-natural-deodorant" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />I've been on a natural deodorant kick lately, trying to not put chemicals into my body that I don't need to. I've found most of them do absolutely nothing as far as anti perspirant purposes are concerned and well let's be honest, I end up smelling like subway at the end of the day. I don't have time for that! That was until I found this one! This has been a dream! I love it, the lemongrass scent is amazing and by far my favorite, I also have the lavender which is nice but not nearly as nice as the lemongrass! I can wear this all day (through workouts) and still not smell or have sweaty pits! Win!<br />
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9. Bagnet<br />You can buy it <a href="https://www.bagnetcompany.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
Guys you probably have little to NO interest in this, ladies, it's a must. For travel you may say no, but I say yes! I have one on my purse and it's been a lifesaver! I've even debated putting one on my Anderson pack (think bathrooms that are missing the hook on the door).<br />This little device has a super powerful magnet that allows you to hook your bag or purse onto metal, preventing it from touching the ground!<br />
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10. Bose noise canceling headphones<br />There are many choices for noise canceling, I've tried a few, for me the over ear Bose are primo!<br />
You can buy them any number of places but Amazon is probably your best bet (don't forget to use Ebates, Amazon sometimes has cash back offers on there!)<br />
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11. eBags pack it flat shower kit<br />You can purchase it <a href="https://www.ebags.com/product/ebags/pack-it-flat-toiletry-kit/54638" target="_blank">HERE</a> (but use ebates first!)<br />Also, eBags ALWAYS has coupon codes, just do a quick google search! On the day of writing/posting this there was a 20% off one!<br />This shower kit is amazing, it holds way more than you think, and lays flat, so it's a dream when doing carry on only, or backpacking! It also hangs when you get to your destination! I have had this for years and I wouldn't trade it for anything!<br />
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12. Muji Passport Wallet<br />You can buy it <a href="https://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?Sec=18&Sub=73&PID=9478&qclr=4549738743644" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />This is slightly different than the one I have (I bought mine a few years ago at the store), mine doesn't have binder rings in it<br />I can't say enough positive about this thing. I keep my Global Entry card in here, currency, a PEN (how many times have you been left looking around for a pen when the flight attendants come around with those stupid customs and immigration forms?!), my APEC card, etc. It's slim, doesn't take up much space, but stores all of my things perfectly<br />
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13. Muji travel pillow<br />You can buy it <a href="http://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?Sec=18&Sub=76&PID=7532&qclr=4549337082267" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />This is THE VERY BEST travel pillow I have ever used. I've bought probably 10 over the years in an attempt to not nap on my neighbor and they all suck. Not this one! It's soft, comfy, and you can snap it onto your bag/pack when you're not using it! I love this thing!<br />
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14. Mogics Donut Power Converter<br />You can buy it <a href="http://www.mogics.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />I backed this thing on Kickstarter, it arrived, and it sat in the back of a closet and I never even opened it let alone used it. I'm kicking myself for that because it's the best thing ever! I took it to Bali on a whim, didn't even bother to look at the outlets before I left, good thing I had it because I needed an international converter, bam, this thing to the rescue! All of my devices plugged into this little guy, and it rolls/packs up super portable! It will be going everywhere with me!<br /><br />I'm sure that over time this list will evolve and grow, but as of now this is my list of must haves for traveling! I hope that it's helpful to anyone setting out on a trip or adventure! I'm looking forward to lots of adventures in 2018!<br /><br />
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-68711568195599908902018-01-16T14:06:00.001-06:002018-01-16T14:06:43.325-06:00Getting a Visa for China (Tokyo)12/17/18<br />
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<br />I will start this by saying that I am writing from the perspective of someone who has access to a Consulate within a close-ish distance, if you don't, this becomes more difficult.<br />
I'll also say that this is a giant pain in the ass, but it will save you money by doing it yourself vs going through a travel agency, and it's totally possible to do on your own, just prepare yourself for a bit of a headache (and well, dealing with a communist country!).<br />
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I prepared, I had all of my documents, looked over the list of requirements several times on the website, I had it all. So I thought. Just go into it knowing that you probably won't and you'll probably have to change it all. Despite having literally everything, I had to re do the application when I got there, went through all kinds of interrogation from the ladies working at the office, they needed copies of my work orders (if you're military or working for the military bring this with you, it's not listed on the website but they will want it), copies of specific pages from my passport, you name it.<br />
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What you need (for tourists you are filling out the L type visa, Americans they will give you a 10 year multiple entry when you get to the office):<br />
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<ul>
<li>Completed application (the one I got from the website they didn't end up liking so I had to fill out another one at the office</li>
<li>A photo (I had one they didn't like it though so I had to take another one when I got there, this office had a photo booth so for 800 yen you could take one right there)</li>
<li>An invitation letter (you need this, so make sure you have a hook up in China or that your Airbnb host is willing to write you one). Must have your travel dates, host address and phone number, must be physically signed by them, also must have your passport number on it</li>
<li>Airline tickets (seems backwards since you don't have the Visa yet but you MUST have your tickets, the dates must match the dates in the invitation letter</li>
<li>I also had a photo copy of the person's passport and work visa who wrote the invitation letter (they wanted that, and checked it multiple times)</li>
<li>If you're military or work for the military they want a copy of your orders</li>
<li>In addition to keeping your passport while they process your Visa they also want a photo copy of it (picture page) so bring that (if not this office had a photo copier for 10 yen per page)</li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/visas/hrsq/" target="_blank">Here</a> is the website with the guidelines that I followed and where I got the application for the type L visa, but again, they did not accept this form when I brought it to the office, maybe it depends on the person?</div>
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The fees indicated on the above website are not accurate. When it was all said and done, I was quoted 20,400 yen for my 10 year multiple entry visa (not express processing), not the $140 indicated on the website. Normal processing is 4 days, the day you bring in your paperwork counts as 1 day. I dropped mine off yesterday so it will be available for pick up on Friday.</div>
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In Tokyo if you look at Google maps there are two different places that come up. Where you need to go for the China Visa Application (and pick up when it's done) is the Visa Processing Center, not the actual Consulate. They are not next to each other or in the same building. They are open from 9am-4pm weekdays an are located at the following address:</div>
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Visa Processing Center: 4<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Chome-1-17 Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo 105-0001</span></div>
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The closest train stop is Kamiyacho (google and hyperdia will bring you to Yotsuya, this is not even close, I made this mistake and walked 30 mins before getting a cab for another 10 mins)<br />The Visa Processing Center is in a big building that has a Tully's Coffee on the ground floor, Visa Processing is on the 8th floor of that building.<br /><br />I went into this sort of blind and unprepared so I hope that this helps someone seeking a Visa in China. It's not impossible to do, just have some patience, and a lot of yen with you for photos, photo copies, and prepare to re do the entire thing when you get there! </div>
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The office does accept Visa and Mastercard for payment when you go pick your visa up.</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-44101565050300553032018-01-05T17:12:00.004-06:002018-01-05T17:12:54.917-06:00Bali Itinerary: My Favorite Things1/6/18<br />
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I had a pretty packed itinerary, and if you choose to use the driver/company that I used they are more than willing to provide you with an itinerary. I customized mine because there were specific things that I wanted to see, but you can go into things blind and have a totally kick ass time.<br />
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Buuuuut. There are a few places that I would say, absolutely DO NOT skip when you come to Bali. This was my Bali dream team. The elite, the all stars. The ones that stood out above all others. I hope this helps with vacation planning of your own!<br />
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Also, they are NOT in any particular order!<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Monkey Forest:</b> This gives you the opportunity to interact with monkeys in their natural habitat (they ARE NOT confined in any manner, nor are they drugged)</li>
<li><b>Holy Spring Temple: </b>Go with a driver/guide so you know how to do the prayers, and which 2 fountains to skip (2 are for death/funerals ONLY)</li>
<li><b>Hidden Canyon</b>: Hidden Canyon of Sukawati (Beji Guwang), NOT for small children, people afraid of water, those not adventurous, or those who have limited mobility. Also be mindful of going during rainy season. It was closed the day before I went because the waters were too high/dangerous, when I went the current was VERY strong.</li>
<li><b>Tanah Lot Temple</b>: Probably best at sunset, I went after Hidden Canyon, I was drenched, it was not sunset, but it was still beautiful. Temple on the water/cliffs</li>
<li><b>Sekumpul & Fiji Waterfall Trek</b>: Probably my favorite falls from Bali (and I went to quite a few), WAY less populated because it is a bit of a trek. Huge stunning falls, they try to use scare tactics to make you hire the local guide. In all honesty you probably don't need it, I did hire one and he ended up taking amazing pics, so well worth it, and supporting local economy.</li>
<li><b>Besakih Temple</b>: Largest temple in Bali. Basically on Agung. Ghost town when I went late December. Huge, amazing views. Local guide takes you around. People try to sell you stuff constantly. It's a beautiful temple to experience though.</li>
<li><b>Goa Lawah (Bat Cave Temple)</b>: Literally a cave filled with bats that is a temple, bizarre, but also super neat to see/experience. Bats don't fly out they stay within the cave, but you can smell and hear them, and the bugs are pretty bad in there so use repellent before you go in or else you'll leave with bites.</li>
<li><b>Uluwatu Temple</b>: Perhaps my favorite temple. On a nice day you can spend a lot of time here, they have stunning cliff walks, on part of it walking through the jungle/forest part it's riddled with monkeys. This place is gorgeous.</li>
<li><b>Lempuyang Temple</b>: Don't just stop at the temples where all of the tourists are, GO ALL THE WAY UP the mountain! You exit out the right side of the top large temple and start trekking up the road. 1700+ steps (2 hours approx) later you're there. It's said that you shouldn't do this with a heavy heart or you won't be afforded the stunning views. You also shouldn't use foul language or speak negatively about the pilgrimage for the same reasons. Views of Agung on one side and the sea on the other from the top. Monkeys along the top part of the trek and at the temple at the very top of the mountain. People along the way up the mountain wishing you well.</li>
<li><b>Tukad Cepung Waterfall</b>: Smaller, less tourists than Kanto Lampo (I actually don't recommend that one), off the beaten path, and really quite stunning. Water isn't deep so you can't really swim there if that's what you're looking for</li>
<li><b>Mt Batur Sunrise Trek</b>: You start super early in the morning, most pick ups from villas/Airbnb's are around 2am. Hiking generally starts around 3:30/4am. Approx 1.5/2 hours to get to the top. You do need to have a local guide for this, can't even enter the Mountain area without one so either your driver or one of the touristy trip booking places can set you up (I went through my driver). First 1.5 miles is pretty easy on packed dirt, from 1.5mile mark to the top is pretty challenging. Worth every second when you get to the top. Perfect views of Agung and Batur Lake.<br /><br />Scroll back through my previous blog posts to see more details (including pictures) about each of these locations! Or search the label "Bali" on my blog for quicker results!<br /><br />I hope this is helpful for anyone planning a trip!</li>
</ul>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-81761001718799297972017-12-31T23:43:00.000-06:002017-12-31T23:43:12.902-06:00Bali Day 16: It's Not Goodbye It's See You Later, New Years Eve at 10,000 Feet, and Recovering From a Travel Hangover12/31/17<br />
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I woke up this morning, feeling not like the other mornings in Bali. Like someone throw me a Xanax and quick! An intense morose feeling had crept into my body and I was trying to balance that while also appreciating the last moments that I had on this precious island.<br />
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I thoroughly enjoyed my last delicious (cooked/prepared for me) breakfast. Have I mentioned that fruit?! I surely will not forget that fruit!<br />
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I enjoyed a conversation with Ogy talking about his wedding, my stay here and how it was so wonderful because of him, his family, the villa, and wishing him well on his upcoming wedding.<br />
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Sadly Made couldn't take me to the airport to drop me off, his in laws became ill and he had to tend to them, he sent me a message late in the evening letting me know, so I had a new person transporting me. Perhaps for the better. I'm not certain that my heart could take the sadness of saying goodbye to my sweet friend. I think the Universe knows how to take care of you. My last moments with Made were trekking the volcano, laughing and sharing that moment together, enjoying breakfast on the top of it, and joking about it and our adventures over 2+ weeks on the ride home. I treasure those last memories rather than sad goodbye ones that could have come from today.<br />
I did make sure to send him a message to again thank him profusely for being an amazing friend (he lost "driver" status a LONG time ago) and adventure buddy, reminding him that my trip to Bali wouldn't have been what it was without him.<br />
If I could have done it without a language barrier/confusion I would have told him he's pretty damn famous through the blog/my instagram stories and everyone basically loves him more than me :)<br />
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Vacation hangover is such a real thing, and I'm already super aware that it's happening to me and I haven't even left Bali yet as I'm sitting at the airport typing this. I know with time that it will pass, but I also need to remind myself that I love Japan, that I'm super lucky to have the opportunity to live and work there (despite it being balls ass cold there in Tokyo at the present moment), and that just because I'm boarding a plane leaving Bali now, does not mean my book is finished, so many chapters left to write, adventures to be had, and amazing people to impact my life. It's exciting to think about!<br />
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So apparently you can't take black sand in your carry on through Bali airport. Fun fact. Or maybe I was just the lucky winner of the selective screening lotto. Either way, I got mine confiscated and won't have that little souvenir coming home with me. They did indicate that if I had put it in a checked bag (I traveled carry on only) then I could keep it. Not sure how that changes my black sand, but it does.<br />
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I started this post while in Bali at the airport and I'm finishing it now back at my place in Japan. I love Japan and I'm truly lucky to live and work here, but give me some time to decompress from what truly was a magical trip!<br />
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In the process of traveling home I crossed two different date lines. Flying from From Bali to Singapore, and Singapore to Japan...so ultimately I got to celebrate New Years like none other. Go big or go home...or go big while going home!<br />
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Today's pics are super brief but include a mix of Bali and Japan...<br />I won't be posting daily anymore, but stay tuned, some big things in the mix. I do have some Bali recap posts coming up as well as a full Bali itinerary for anyone planning a trip and not sure of where to go/what to do, I'll include "My Favorite Things". Hope it's helpful!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-58512209359503532932017-12-30T05:42:00.000-06:002017-12-30T05:42:26.201-06:00Bali Day 15: Half Month Mark, Last Full Day in Bali, Bartering Like a Boss, and a Message to the Ladies12/30/17<br />
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I don't know how this happened. I remember the first day in Bali like it was yesterday. I remember thinking how I had SO many days to be here. And now it's like I blinked and it's over. I have so many wonderful memories imprinted on my heart and soul, I'm leaving here a different person, yet still, I simply don't know how my time here is over. My last full day in Bali.<br />
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I went into today really consciously focusing on all of the things that are important to me here, the things that I will miss so much, making sure to take time to appreciate and acknowledge them. The amazing breakfast that Ogy prepares every day with the perfectly cut fruit. The visits from Olek when he sneaks in (and Ogy gets made at him because he dirties the floor but secretly I love his visits and his little playful personality), The offerings that get left at the villa door and all over Bali, the smell from the incense, the friendly "hellos" from people walking by that are combined with a big smile, every little bit of beauty that I walk by daily on my way into downtown Ubud and the new little gems that I discover with each walk, my friend Made and the way he laughs and then reluctantly agrees to my crazy ideas, I could go on forever, and maybe when I get back and recover from my vacation hangover I will. The cliffs notes version is I came, I saw, I soaked in Bali, and I am all the better for it.<br />
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I walked into town today on a mission. Elephant pants for a friend and her kiddo, more Rupiah from the ATM, and snack food. Snack food is always a priority, especially when boarding a plane that serves extra shitty meals. I've honestly been super impressed with most overseas flights/airlines and their meals (compared to the dog food that American carriers serve, if they serve anything at all) Singapore Airlines food is barf. Total barf. So snack food is in order. Thankfully I have a leftover RX Bar in my backpack that has been hanging with me for at least a month (because I've had it this entire time here, and for a couple of weeks before leaving, and still it's condition is better than Singapore Airlines food!). Good airline food, Asiana, shit is delicious and you can order from a menu when you book your flight. I ate my pretty little face off flying to Thailand, pad Thai and mango sticky rice. Back on track, walking into town to get the essentials. Went straight to the ATM to get some cash money. Can't barter your way to the good deals without it! Was hoping to score some good deals on the elephant pants, and I did. My bartering skills were on point. Fun fact I actually really hate bartering and kind of suck at it, but for some reason it was easy for me here because I really wanted nothing, and could easily walk away. After walking through the entire art market I ended up with a few extra things, but <i>still </i>did not leave with a giant dream catcher. Had they not had feathers all over them it probably would have been mine. The inner hippie in me kind of loved it, and kind of decided that I need one, but it's not going home with me this time!<br />
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I decided to do lunch at a different place. It's not in the main downtown area but somewhere along the walk back. Cafe Made's won me over, it was cute, small, empty, and had great ambiance. I ordered a salad and some summer rolls (shrimp) both came with toasted cashews, which truly were delicious. I also had a fresh mango juice and an iced cafe latte, the entire meal was amazing. I'd go back in a heartbeat!<br />
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While walking back from downtown Ubud after lunch I had an unfortunate thing happen to me. I share it only as a reminder. Sadly this isn't the first time something like this has happened in my life but it is certainly the first time anything of this nature has happened here in Bali, I think that's what makes it sort of harder to process. The people have been so caring and nice and peaceful, it maybe made me put my guard down more than I normally would.<br />
I was walking down a windy part of a hill that leads back (eventually) to the villa. Cars and scooters come close to you as there is no sidewalk. As I was walking down a man on a scooter pulled up next to me and eventually stopped. I didn't understand what he was saying but I assumed he was asking if I needed a taxi (as that gets asked no less than a million times a day). I politely said no thank you, smiled, he smiled, and he drove off, I continued walking down the hill. I didn't think anything of it and didn't pay attention to where he went. Apparently he pulled off because it flattens out then you start up another hill with curves, I was doing the uphill part and coming around a curve when I feel a hand grab my ass almost knocking me off of the road, same man with a dirty ass grin on his face as he looked back and continued to scoot by/off. I didn't have enough time to process it in the time that it happened and him literally doing a drive by of it, if I had I probably would have punched the guy. I'm not sure what Indonesian law is like but you could have potentially seen me starring on locked up abroad. I spent the rest of the walk home reminding myself of the positive people in Bali the amazing experiences, and refusing to let this one person and this one situation taint a super amazing 15 days that I've had here. One event can really shake you if you let it, or you can focus on the positive, keep your power, and remember that one person is not a reflection of the whole. I choose to remember Bali by the wonderful and amazing souls who have marked my life for the better. I remember Bali by my friend Made who has literally trekked all over this damn island and laughed with me throughout it. I share this event with you though because there are no less than a million people hustling taxi's and other such things. It's not to say that they are bad people but you're at the mercy of a stranger when you get on their scooter so just be safe and be aware.<br />
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This is actually the video that I was making when he first pulled up to me. I remember being super pissed that this asshole pulled up and ruined my shot, but you can actually see his creepy ass in it at the very end before the video cuts out...<br />
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Still love the shit out of Bali...for the record!<br />
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I came back to the villa, decompressed, and spent the afternoon in the pool (not packing!). It was lovely!<br /><br />I also submerged myself in my new book that I bought at a cute little bookshop in town, Eleanor & Park, so far so good!<br />
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Here's my short and sweet final full day in Bali pics/videos.<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-1626042674885304372017-12-29T02:08:00.000-06:002017-12-29T02:08:06.342-06:00Bali Day 14: Sunrise Hike on Mt Batur12/29/17<br />
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The alarm went off so damn early today, but in all honesty, my body woke me up first. 1:30am is what it was set for, but my internal alarm woke me up promptly at 1:20am. I went to bed way later than I intended, for a variety of reasons, which resulted in a few hours of sleep at best. Made was there promptly at 2am for our scheduled pick up, just as chipper as always.<br />
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There was a winding drive to get there, I remembered this from before when I went to the observation point to take pictures of Mt Batur (what had initially put the bug in my ear about wanting to do this trek), and just when it was starting to make me car sick, we arrived at the meeting point. You are required to have a mountain guide for this trek, there's no way around it, you can't get into the mountain area without one. That of course comes with a fee. Honestly the fee didn't bother me since the experience is what I was going for and there is no price tag for that. The restaurant meeting point served a light breakfast (banana pancake and coffee or tea. I chose no liquids because there are no toilets on the mountain other than "public toilet") Wise choice since Made used the public toilet 3 times on the mountain and me obviously none.<br />
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From the restaurant they drive you to the base of the mountain to then meet the guide (the actual person who will walk with you up the mountain). It should also be noted that if there are more people than just yourself booked you will be joined together. This turned out to not be beneficial for me as the two females who also booked were insanely slow (didn't actually end up climbing to the summit they stopped at the half way point and ended up waiting for me to come back down).<br />
Our mountain guides name was Wayan (although she isn't the first born child in her family she is the first girl, I'm not sure if this makes a difference, or I could have heard her name completely wrong!)<br />
The two women joined with us turned out to be insanely slow so Made and I just kind of took off on our own and left (guide and slow people). We waited the first time at a meeting point but not after that point. Wayan later found us at the top.<br />
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The first mile and a half spoiled me. I kept saying to Made "oh this isn't bad at all" it was packed dirt, rarely would you lose your footing, it inclined at a steady and consistent pace, nothing drastic. I remember thinking that I definitely could have worn my Chacos without issue, heck Made climbed the entire thing in Chuck Taylors! Then you hit the 1.5 mile mark. And hell broke loose, the ground texture changed entirely, I quickly realized I would need to employ my Mt Fuji/mountain goat skills. That did not change for the rest of the climb. To the summit. It was at this point too that I became so soaked in sweat, probably because of the intense increase in cardio, that I looked like I had gone swimming. You could wring my clothing out, the clothing that I was left wearing, as I had already stripped down to the last remaining layer.<br />
At one point I almost called mercy, or at least an extended break. Made is always praising me for being so strong. The cardio portion of this nearly killed me.<br />
Along the way a motorbike passed me. Literally the same trail I was hiking along.<br />
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You could see NOTHING climbing up. NOTHING. Occasionally you could look out and see the outline of a mountain (Agung) and city lights. But you could see nothing as far as the trail. Wayan had given us all small flashlights at the start but they were not very useful, providing about the same light as an iPhone flashlight. Still better than nothing, and better than the flashlight that definitely didn't bring!<br />
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At the top the weather completely cooperated. I won't lie, I channeled my 2 weeks of living pretty spiritually/religiously and offered a (relatively) complaint free hike where I would appreciate the gifts in front of me, in exchange for, well, said gifts (preferably being not the torrential downpours of the previous early morning hours mmmmmkayyyy thanks!) And with each step that it didn't pour down rain, I said a little thank you, took a look around, and reminded myself of this beauty and how damn lucky I was to be experiencing it. I keep my promises too!<br />
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There wasn't much in terms of a sunrise when it came time for that at the top because of clouds but really Agung's billowing smoke. Every now and then some colorful specks would shine through, reminding you it was there, and that it didn't matter if you got the most beautiful sunrise in the world, standing on a volcano leaking steam pockets, with Agung in front of you billowing smoke, literally like you're on top of the world, that right there was the gift.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt Agung before it billowed smoke</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt Agung getting angry</td></tr>
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Wayan finally caught up (after about an hour of being on the top and indicated that she would prepare breakfast. At the bottom they told us "banana bread" so I honestly thought it was a slice of bread and a banana. I had no idea what to expect.<br />
When she said breakfast was ready and there was a tray waiting with sandwiches (which I soon discovered were warm) and boiled eggs I said another quick thank you, both to her and to the Universe.<br />
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Also why hasn't this banana sandwich become a <i>thing</i>?! Let me help you make it a thing, because it was amazing. The bananas on the inside were mashed and warm. Stuffed between two pieces of bread. To my knowledge nothing else was in there. So simple but so delicious.<br />
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Soon after the crowds started making their way to the top (Made and I were sort of in the front of the pack, probably 20 or so people ahead of us) the monkeys came out. They seem to know the routine. Humans, food, steal the food, eat the food, repeat. They're very socialized up there. Quite aggressive with the food, although I saw not a single one attempting to bite a human, unlike in Monkey Kingdom.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staring contest...ready, GO!</td></tr>
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Walking along the rim at the top you could feel the heat and see the steam. I tried to explain to Made that this was because we were on a volcano and that this was hot and steam but he wasn't believing me!<br />
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When we started to go down, Wayan led us down a separate way that enabled us to see one of the 3 craters on Batur. We also stopped at a little cut out where steam was coming out. She explained that Balinese people believe that the water is holy (best believe I rubbed a little on my face, she instructed me that I should). Next she brought us to the Holy Cave. This was really neat and something I never would have seen had she not been with us. She indicated that there is a small Hindu temple back in the cave a little ways and that people come to pray there (based on the Balinese calendar). She also indicated that as part of that calendar/prayer they sacrifice and animal to the crater. I asked what kind of animal (not sure why I wanted to know this) and there was a communication breakdown for a minute but Made said that it was usually a chicken (not sure how they'd get anything larger up that mountain.<br />
I'm just so impressed that people climb that mountain so regularly to pray. That's some dedication to your religion. You should go to heaven, rainbow land, happy place, whatever it is just for the hard word you're putting in to get to your place of worship!<br />
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The way down was bad for the same bit that was bad coming up. There was a lot of sliding. I kept trying to take video and would almost land on my ass, or falling over the side of existence.<br />
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The total time it took to get up/down and all of the time spent at the top was 4 hours. The hike was just under 5 miles and honestly it might have been 5 miles, I accidentally stopped my Garmin while taking photos at one point on the trail.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mountain/volcano I climbed in the distance</td></tr>
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I can't think of a better last adventure to round out Bali. This one was a late add on, and I'm so glad that it snuck into the itinerary. Bali going out with a bang. I feel like I blinked my eyes and my dream of a vacation was over before I knew it. Jam packed days, so many amazing memories that have forever changed my life. So many things I'm taking away from Bali with me, carrying in my heart and soul. One thing is certain, I'll never be the same, and for that I'm eternally grateful.<br />
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Enjoy today's video...not much other than the Batur sunrise hike on there because let's be honest, when you cardio for 4 hours, you want to do little else but sleep and eat, or maybe that's just me.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-48649230027977830142017-12-28T04:32:00.000-06:002017-12-28T04:32:16.629-06:00Bali Day 13: Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Pura Kehen Temple, Desa Penglipuran Village, Kanto Lampo Waterfall, and convincing Made to Climb YET ANOTHER Volcano!12/28/17<br />
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Shortly after my delicious breakfast this morning, but before Made arrived to pick me up for adventures, Ogy's mom came in with a basket full of flowers, holy water, incense and other goodies. Mystery solved. She is the sweet person who has been leaving all of the offerings throughout the villa. This was the first time I noticed them inside the villa. She left one poolside, one in front of the steps, one on the kitchen counter, and many outside. These offerings (not just in my villa but everywhere in Bali) are something that I will never forget. The beautiful flowers, the sweet smelling incense, the little woven palm baskets that they all sit in, how they are all swept into a pile at the end of the day.<br />
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The second that I laid eyes on Made this morning I started in on Mt Batur, he tried diversion tactics, he tried flat out "no", he tried refocusing to today's itinerary (waterfalls, a village, and a temple), the man used some of my own tactics I was impressed. But I'm a professional and for the 50 times he told me "no", I persisted harder and kept pressing with "yes" and finally wore the poor guy down. So it's agreed upon. He's picking me up tomorrow morning, 2am, and we are climbing Mt Batur (an active volcano) TOGETHER! I tell him daily that I'm going to miss him, that he's a good sport, that he's been an amazing adventure buddy, that he's appreciated. I hope that none of those things get lost in translation because I truly appreciate this human. This trip wouldn't have been what it is without this sweet soul.<br />
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First adventure of the day was Tukad Cepung, a waterfall! Having not done proper research ahead of time I had no clue what to expect. Even when you do your research in Bali, it's never what you expect! I knew that since I didn't wear a bathing suit that I'd probably end up soaked! That's just how Bali luck tends to work!<br />
The drive up to the waterfall was similar to a few that I've taken with Made before. Agung rearing it's angry head along the way, billowing smoke out of the top. Along the way we passed a truck with a HUGE pig tied in the back. Made informed me that these pigs are not local, they are from Australia, brought over as babies and raised to be massive here. He informed me like pets, but that might have been a communication breakdown, I didn't want to ask too many questions 1. because I really like bacon and 2. because I definitely didn't want to hear about animal slaughter. I have a rule here in Bali; don't ask questions you don't want answers to.<br />
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Tukad Cepung is a beautiful waterfall. Free parking, cheap entry, not too too many stairs down (although they're freaking huge, like double stairs) and when you get to the bottom you water trek for a little bit until you get to an opening that's almost like a cave and the waterfall is there. It wasn't crowded, only a few other people there. The water was clear (a nice change from the water at Hidden Canyon) and had I had a swimsuit and been up for being soaked all day, it would have been perfect for splashing around (not deep enough to swim).<br />
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Next up was Pura Kehen Temple. This was a very pleasant surprise. Not far from Tukad Cepung, cheap entry (included sarong in the fee) and stunning temple/view. Almost no one there when we got there made it even better (sometimes temples can be a little annoying/overwhelming with the photo shoots that are going on with people on the steps leading up to them. It no only makes it impossible to get pictures without people in them but also nearly impossible to walk around large groups of people who clearly lack spacial awareness).<br />
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After Pura Kehen Temple it was off to Desa Penglipuran Village. Made said that whenever there is a competition that this village always wins because it is so clean. It was true, walking through there on the main path you could tell that they took a lot of pride in their community. Each entry way at the same gate/arch entrance. All well cared for and all uniform. Granted since this is a tourist attraction, there's a lot of the tourist junk being sold so it was sad to see that in this "traditional" community. I got swarmed by a group from a remote island in Indonesia (I don't quite know the island because of a language breakdown with Made and I but he finally explained it to me after constantly being asked for pictures by Indonesians and me not knowing why (I'll admit the first few times I was like, uhhhhhh am I getting robbed?! I've lived in Europe, that shit happens!). At any rate, apparently these Indonesians don't see people who basically don't look like them so I'm essentially a unicorn (I always knew it!!) and it starts with throwing their kids at me for a pic, then quickly 6 generations are in there and I feel like a celeb. A really tall one.<br />
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The village was having some kind of festival. I didn't quite understand what Made was saying about the festival other than, because of the festival I wouldn't have to pay an entry fee. Funny how you can hear FREE!<br />
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At the village Made told me that people will stare and/or comment on my tattoos because my white skin and the color makes them very beautiful and something that Balinese people are not used to seeing. Also because Indonesian women do not have tattoos.<br />
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Final stop on the itinerary today was the Kanto Lampo Waterfall. This was probably my least favorite only because it was very busy/crowded and touristy. I like the more off the beaten path places. There were large groups doing the photo shoot thing down on the falls. And if you wanted a shot directly in front of the falls you were getting at least waist deep in the water. Made kept trying to convince me to climb up onto the falls like many people were doing to sit for a picture, but I just didn't have it in my to sit soaked for the car ride home, I wasn't wanting to get sick before Batur tomorrow! I also knew that he didn't want to get wet in his jeans to then have to drive home soaked (to take said picture) either! So we looked from the side, on the stairs, nice and dry! For waterfalls, I've seen way better in Bali, way less crowded. I'd say stick to the ones that require less trekking and thus keep the crowds away!<br />
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Got back to the villa around 4pm and realized that I probably needed to be thinking about bedtime since Made would be there at 2am to pick me up for our volcano trek adventure. Definitely going to be showering and/or quasi dressing and going to bed like that tonight so I can pretty much roll and go! This will be the first day in 2+ weeks of wearing shoes. Legit, shoes. Kind of hate the thought of putting shoes on my feet, but I did read that wearing sandals won't cut it. I bet I could do it in Chacos but then again I think about the Fuji climb and I sure wouldn't have been able to do that in Chacos. So I'll give in and wear shoes. This one time! Kind of wishing I brought my headlamp but also guessing that the guide will have one. Here's to hoping. Otherwise Made and I will have an even bigger adventure ahead of us. A blind climb.<br />
My research said that the sunrise can suck or be non-existent during raining season, but honestly I don't even care. I just want to do it for the experience. Hell I climbed Mt Fuji in gale force winds, rain and hale and didn't get a sunrise either so I'm prepared but will be so appreciative should Mother Nature grace me with one!<br />
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Oh and if you don't hear from me or see posts on my insta, Mt Batur is an active volcano.<br />
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Here is my compilation video from today's pics and videos. Tomorrow is my last adventure with Made and I can't think of a better way to wrap things up. Climbing a volcano. He might think differently but to me it's perfect. We've been adventure buddies from the beginning, constantly stepping it up as the trip progressed, so why not summit a volcano, in the dark. What are you doing on your Friday?<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-34759673608693884622017-12-27T03:49:00.000-06:002017-12-27T03:49:27.203-06:00Bali Day 12: Pedicure, Still Trying to Figure out This Rupiah, Haggling, and That 5.5 Mile Walk!12/27/17<br />
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Woke up for breakfast and guess who is starting to really warm up to me...Olek! In addition to being pretty playful, he decided to sit down under the table at my feet and when Ogie called for him to leave he refused to move!<br />
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No plans for today, which is kind of nice after such a packed and busy first week and a half here in Bali. I had sort of just intended to walk into town, maybe stop at a coffee shop (that never happened) and then get a pedicure and keep walking around and just do whatever.<br />
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I walked into town and stopped at a shop that had beautiful fabrics in the window. There was a sweet older woman in the shop, probably 2 feet shorter than me. Nannook was her name. She was so helpful and obviously wanted me to buy something. I initially wasn't going to buy anything in Bali, but after wearing Sarongs for the majority of the trip I thought maybe a pretty sarong (that I could convert into a scarf) would be a neat thing to take back. Nannook then started showing me the beautiful bed covers (hand woven like the sarongs) that she had as well so I was roped into one of those and from a whopping less than $30 I walked out of her store with both. But not before getting a picture with this sweet woman who also left me with a bit of a prophecy "<i>when</i> you come back to Bali, you come see me again". I had said nothing to her about a return trip. I assured her that I would most certainly come to see her again.<br />
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The pedicure did happen and I will say that it was perhaps the best massage portion of a pedicure that I've ever gotten. The pedicure cost me $4. No lie. Granted the polish was nothing compared to Okinawa pedicures, but the massage was way better. I'll take it! It certainly made my feet look a whole lot better after the abuse they took in Hidden Canyon!<br />
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After the pedicure I kept walking along and decided that I'd go to the market (Art Market) in search of something for my nephew. I was thinking of one of the hand carved wooden toys and perhaps some elephant pants. I only half succeeded in that mission as I couldn't find a good wooden toy. Hopefully the elephant pants will be the correct size and not elephant sort of shorts!<br />
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Lunch landed me back at Oops, thinking I'd get some AC, a decent bathroom and some Wifi. Joke was on me because the power was out, so all of those things were basically dysfunctional.<br />
Bathroom had no lights (that made using it very interesting), no AC or Wifi because of no power, and where they sat me had an infestation of ants that decided to much on me and part of my lunch. I ate fast (what the ants hadn't touched) and got the heck out of there (and back out into the heat/sun).<br />
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By this time it was really heating up and I still had quite the walk back, all I could think of was how badly I just wanted to be in the pool to cool off, so I decided to start the trek back! I had actually remembered to start my Garmin this time and it read 3 miles before I started my journey back to the villa. Wow, way further than I thought (granted that included walking around the market too). Upon return to the villa it hit 5.5 miles. I'm not sure how far I thought the walk into town (and back) was but I definitely didn't think it was in the 5 mile range!<br />
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No sooner than the gate was shut was I in the pool. Spent most of the afternoon there!<br />
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I walked down to Cafe Vespas for an early dinner. I didn't sleep well last night so I plan to go to bed super early tonight. Another full day in the books with Made tomorrow, even if it doesn't include climbing Mt Batur. I'm still going to work on him though. If I can't climb it with him tomorrow I'll try for the next day. I'm persistent so maybe I can wear him down!<br />
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Here's another short collection of my pics/videos from the day! Will have many more from tomorrow I assure you, including Made, I know some of you have grown to love him just as I do!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-50191589611323584422017-12-26T05:20:00.000-06:002017-12-26T17:29:26.586-06:00Bali Day 11: A Balinese FULL Body Massage, Nature, and What I've Google'd Today12/26/17<br />
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Things I’ve googled today: is there arranged marriage in Bali<br />
Which then led to a very intriguing read about polygamy and how in certain areas in Indonesia it exists but usually only in the very poor, and the very rich (like high government officials and religious personnel) kind of makes you raise an eyebrow if it’s ok for the super well to do, but then viewed differently when the very poor do it. A status symbol for the rich men to take many wives. And a survival or barbaric and primal existence for those of a lower class. So interesting.<br />
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I've also googled: How do American's buy property in Bali. Come to find out you can't technically have property in your name in Bali but there are 3 different and common workarounds to getting your dream villa. Yes I seriously need to know how to buy a villa. Like yesterday<br />
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Sapiosexual, and a million other fill in the blank with sexual at the end words that people use on Tinder. Let's be honest I need to know what I'm working with and not find myself caught up in a 5 some cirque de soleil number. Not judging, I'm just not into that kind of 3 ring circus!<br />
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The things I need to know before coffee and breakfast!<br />
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After breakfast I arranged for someone to come to my villa to give me a pool side massage. I wasn't quite sure to expect from this as the price translated to approximately $10 (and that was more expensive than the ones at the spas in downtown, probably because they come to the villa, rather than me going there). The average prices of the ones downtown were around $7, this is for an hour!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">offerings left in front of my villa door</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my neighborhood</td></tr>
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Well to start off with you strip down to underwear (at least I was wearing some!), no bra, just panties. There's no towel or robe or anything, you just stand there naked until you lay down on the bed thing and she puts a sarong thing over you. This sarong is useless and definitely doesn't stay put or cover you for any length of time. For the duration of the massage there were body parts left exposed that normally wouldn't have been left exposed. With a Balinese full body massage every last bit of your modest goes out the window. This woman massaged my butt for what felt like half of the massage. I'm not complaining, it was sore and full of knots from the hike, and well, I like a butt massage! I could see how things were going so when it came time to flip I was slightly paranoid about just <i>how much</i> massaging was going to take place. They definitely are thorough, the massage itself was amazing, and seriously, $10! But I will say, she was all up in my boobs when I flipped from my back, like I said, thorough. So if you aren't prepared for it (like I wasn't per se) now you know. I've definitely never had such a thorough boob massage in my life, even from a dude attempting to cross second base (she kept it appropriate, stayed away from nips, I mean, if there are boundaries when massaging boobs).<br />
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Immediately after I regained my dignity and my clothing, and paid the woman for my amazing (it really actually was once I got over the fact that body parts would be exposed and it would have to be totally fine, and well that this was not the standard massage I was used to, I went to gather my things for a walk into town and noticed the most massive spider in my bedding (the canopy to my bed). I had to gather every ounce of everything that I had to slay the beast. Really this thing was the size of my palm, so it had to be an effective swing, one and done kind of magic. Normally I'm not one for killing animals of any kind, but this had to be done, I can't have that kind of nonsense in my sleeping quarters. When I finally got a shoe and managed to kills it (and scream my head off) I left the remains piled on the floor for Ogie to take care of when he cleaned the villa. I just couldn't handle picking that up (what if it moved?!) I was very thankful when I returned from town and Ogie had cleaned, and said spider remains were LONG GONE!<br />
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Before leaving for town I had an interesting conversation with Ogie about American life. He couldn't understand why Americans work so hard/so much and don't spend more time appreciating parks and nature etc. I don't understand either and I struggled to give him a response or to explain the American way to him.<br />
Work so hard for what? To die having worked hard your entire life and missed living and enjoying life?<br />
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I walked into town and had lunch at Cafe Lotus. I hadn't eaten here yet but noticed the place as it's right next to starbucks, with a beautiful lotus garden separating the two places and a temple directly behind them. It also had a very large crowd the other day which made me think that maybe the food was good. Turns out, it was!<br />
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After lunch I figured it was time to try out one of the many gelato places that have been taunting me for well over a week now. It was a hard choice and despite the dragonfruit looking so damn amazing, I went with old faithful, chocolate and mint chocolate chip mixed together.<br />
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While it's short today was spent taking care of myself, reflecting, and doing some behind the scenes things for some big things to come in 2018. Not quite ready to let the cat out of the bag on it yet, but stay tuned!<br />
Here's the video compilation for the day, enjoy!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5280103548269963840.post-62067181465582732332017-12-25T06:09:00.000-06:002017-12-25T06:09:25.396-06:00Bali Day 10: A Very Bali Christmas12/25/17<br />
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Merry Christmas from Bali!<br />
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A slow and relaxing day in Bali that started off VERY rainy (it's rainy season here so that's to be expected, and this morning it showed no signs of letting up!) When it finally reduced to a drizzle from a downpour, I decided to venture out into downtown Ubud. I keep meaning to turn my Garmin on to calculate the mileage because it's a bit of a walk, but I forget. Either way with the back and forth walk I'm well over 10,000 steps!<br />
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After finally doing the calculations (on my currency converter because yes I still can't figure out Rupiah to save my ass) I discovered that the going rate for a 1 hour massage is approximately $7!! I would have been getting these every single day had I been smart enough to figure it out. So tomorrow I plan to get a massage!<br />
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Stopped again at the real estate place and looked at the options they have posted outside. I've come to the conclusion that I need a sugar daddy...for $1.6 million (US) I can have a whole compound of villas. It's an investment! I also don't want to leave Bali so a gaggle of villas would help make that possible!<br />
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Want to know what else is going to keep me in Bali. The fruit. I stopped at a roadside stand on the walk back to my villa to buy fresh mangoes. I'm used to Okinawa prices, so when she told me the price I said "for one?" nope that was the price for the bag full. I got a massive bag of mangoes for less than $2. NEVER. LEAVING. BALI. A sweet local woman, also purchasing mangoes, helped me to make sure that I got good mangoes in my bag, and also made sure to tell me that it was the same price she was paying, local price. You see, things here in Bali come in two prices almost everywhere you go, domestic and foreign. Foreigners pay way more for things than locals. At the hot spring near Mt Batur there were separate entrances, ticket booths, and springs for foreign and locals. I can only imagine how little they had to pay to get in.<br />
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I came back to the villa and spent the rest of the day lounging in the pool and eating junk food/snacks. I burned over 1000 calories on my hike yesterday so a little binge was well earned!<br />
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Although it is much shorter than previous days videos, my time here is no less treasured or valuable than any other day. My Christmas in Bali, while not traditional in any sense of the word, was filled with love. Thank you for the messages, the Facetime, and to those who have been there with me through some shit in addition to enjoying the rainbows and glitter. I love and appreciate you all. This year has truly been about focusing on what I do have, and not what I do not. Mostly with humans. I am so eternally grateful for the amazing humans in my corner, I owe you my life, some of you probably more than one.<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01346501596668439632noreply@blogger.com0