Everybody Loves A Parade

Parades allow people to publicly express themselves in large gatherings, marches, walks or formal processions.  Every Independence Day in the USA there are parades of military might, heritage floats and demonstrations of national pride.  Across this great nation, people gather from all walks of life to express their love of country.  The process is supported by citizens, immigrants and visitors alike.  Standing shoulder to shoulder, people will witness all the displays, listen to the speeches whether in agreement or not, applaud or demonstrate anti-behavior towards all that may go on.  The visiting tourist may not have a clue about all that they see once they encounter a procession but are often drawn to the sidelines to watch in amazement.  It has been my experience in different countries to follow processions, if only to be nosy and to see what was going on.  I could easily tell from all that I saw what type of parade it was, and whether I should get closer or watch from a safe distance.

Besides witnessing the pomp and pageantry of parades stateside on special holidays, if possible, I like to view parades while on vacation.  I was drawn to large crowds of people in Barbados, Ecuador, Greece, Hawaii, Peru and Philippines, respectively, some marching in protest and others celebrating a national holiday or cultural heritage.  On most occasions, it was not a part of my travel itinerary, but a pleasant diversion and an opportunity to mingle with local residents.  So, I never miss standing on the sidelines to capture the event even though I may not understand all that may take place or the reasons behind the cavalcades.  Some parades can present dangerous situations for outsiders.  Tensions may rise and if caught in the heart of demonstrating protesters, the tourist may find themselves outside of their element.  It is always good to stand away from large crowds just in case you may need a quick getaway.  Find or look for a quick route to escape if things turn ugly.

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In Athens, Greece and Lima, Peru respectively, marchers were protesting against government policy.  Police with riot gear were out in full force to keep the peace.  Placard bearing marchers and the masses were shouting slogans as they filed pass government buildings.  I moved along with the train of people for several blocks just to watch the developments as they unfolded.  In both cases, the protests were peacefully carried out although the gravity of the situation was not underestimated by the police but keenly observed.  It was obvious they were ready, and capable of handling any imminent danger.

In Quito, Ecuador and Oahu, Hawaii, the respective processions demonstrated their cultural heritage.  Ethnic groups, dressed in fancy colorful duds paraded down the streets dancing to drumbeats, clapping and stomping.  Floats carrying musical bands, costumed characters, and people waving to the crowds were fun to watch.  Both parades were more festive and celebratory.  It was easy to blend in, enjoy the fun, and to mingle with the sea of people that lined the streets as the participants moved slowly along.  The gaiety from the revelers was contagious, did not present a stressful environment but a relaxing atmosphere.  Still, as a visitor, I was careful, observant and had an exit strategy should a disruptive incident like a fight arise.

In Bridgetown, Barbados and Sagada, Philippines, correspondingly, their parade emphasis was on a national anniversary, much like Independence Day here.  In Barbados, the parade is formal and excitedly anticipated by citizens.  It is well planned, and the main drills are performed at a cricket oval or a horse racetrack (depending on the weather) where residents can go to view in comfort.  Different arms of the public and civil service march pass to the beat of the national police band in salute of the various dignitaries, after which a street parade follows.  Residents follow the procession for miles along the parade route.  Separately, the day I arrived in Sagada; the marchers were made up of some adults but mostly children.  They were dressed in uniform and marched to the music of the school band.  The expressions on everyone’s face was one of pride as they twirled batons and pompoms.  They were celebrating an anniversary and had walked to the town square where they were on display.  Their demonstration was formal and clearly a moment of local pride.  Attendees, most likely proud parents, lined the streets, cheered for the children as they went by.

Community Peeps, everybody loves a parade if only to watch others stand for their cause, celebrate heritage or represent their country’s national honor.  What has been your experience?  If you have encountered a good or bad incident while attending a parade, at home or abroad, please share it with me here.  Write it in the comment box below.

Readers, as usual, I invite you to click follow to receive timely updates, select like to show your love and support.  Share this post on your social media site.  Write your comment in the box below.  Your interest, time and attention are always appreciated.  Thank you for reading.

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Bangkok Surprises And Lessons

In retrospect, I consider my trip to Thailand over two decades ago still hilarious and memorable.   One day in particular, my friend and I experienced surprise after surprise while exploring Bangkok.   It was bright and sunny, great for an adventure, so we believed, and the day did not disappoint.  We filled our stomachs with a sumptuous breakfast and talked about what we were expecting to see and do.  Back then, my itinerary planning skills were practically non-existent and many of my activities were done on the fly, that is, impulsively.

The morning we left our hotel, we decided to take a tuk-tuk ride to the Emperor’s Palace.  Tuk-tuks are modified makeshift motorcycles attached to a covered cart that carries up to four persons seated on the inside.  They are used for easy transport in and around the city, often zipping in and out between cars and buses.  The fare depends on the distance, but often negotiable.  We settled on a fee before leaving the hotel and were eagerly expecting to be dropped off outside the palace doors.

To our amazement, not long into the journey the driver abruptly pulled to the side, stopped, and insisted on payment for petrol.  When we resisted, he refused to go any further and ordered us to disembark the tuk-tuk.   That was not the arrangement.  We were livid but remained calm.  We were in a bad situation.  Neither my friend nor I spoke Thai.  We had no clue where we were, how far from the palace we were, or how to get there.  Whipping out our city map and studying it for a while we eventually decided to walk the street in search of assistance.  Lesson learned – plan ahead, have clear directions and only use reputable drivers recommended by hotel.

We managed to connect with another tuk-tuk driver who knew exactly where we wanted to go and took us there without further ado.  We paid the driver and he went on his way.  At the palace gates my friend and I purchased our tickets and proceeded to enter when we were stopped.  Politely, I was told that my attire was not suitable and if I wanted to enter, I would have to cover myself.  When I asked “why?”  I was told these exact words, “should the Emperor come out onto the balcony, he should not see me wandering around the gardens indecently clad.” I was wearing a pair of shorts to the knee, spaghetti strap tee-shirt and Birkenstock sandals (the kind without a strap around the heel).  The staffer took me to a room where I could rent a blouse, sarong, and shoes for the time I would be spending at the palace.  I was assured the items given to me were laundered daily after each use.

Well, I put on the shirt, sarong, shoes and was allowed onto the palatial grounds.  The buildings, architecture, and gardens were absolutely beautiful.  My impromptu get-up was not a camera moment that I am proud of, but I was not the only soul who had to re-dress in order to enter the palace.  I was dressed to suit the weather but not to strut around the royal grounds.  Actually, the rental is a brisk business for unprepared, unsuspecting tourists.  By the time you realize you should have dressed more appropriately it’s too late to turn away.  So, the only option left is to rent the recycled garments.  Lesson learned – dress suitably especially when visiting certain religious/civil/public places of interest. 

After the palace incident, we decided to hire a guide.  He took us on tour to view several temples and buddhas:  The Sleeping Buddha, Jade Buddha and a few others I do not recall their names now.  At first, we were enchanted, impressed by what we saw and heard.  At one of the temples, our guide instructed us that in order to show respect, we had to remove our shoes before entering.  We willingly obeyed and neatly placed our shoes along with the many others at the door.   My friend and I were still wearing our sandals.  However, our guide wore sturdy cowboy boots.  He was knowledgeable and had a solid command of the English language.  After completing the tour, we returned to where we had left our shoes and slipped them on but were aghast to find the cowboy boots missing.  We helped the guide search but to no avail.  They were gone.

After we left the compound, we came upon a sign partially hidden near the entrance stating, “Do not leave shoes unattended.”  The theft quickly brought our tour to an abrupt end.  We paid and gave our guide a generous tip to assist in getting a new pair of shoes.  As my friend and I walked away, we felt sorry that he had lost his American-styled cowboy boots on account of taking us on tour that day.  No one wanted our sandals 😊.  Lesson learned – never leave your possessions unattended in a strange place.

To end the day on a high note we chose to treat ourselves to a Thai meal.  As we walked to the restaurant, we met a young girl cooking and selling her treats on the street.  Against my friend’s advice, I purchased eight of the hot fried balls she deftly dropped into a paper bag.  I questioned her about it as we waited for them to cook.  In her halting English, she told me it was a flour batter.  Eating the first ball, I recognized the taste instantly.  The flour was not regular wheat flour but cassava flour (yucca).  It was slightly sweet and tasty.  I encouraged my friend to try it and she too fell in love with the fried dough. Lesson learned – don’t be afraid to try something new, you just might like it.

Community Peeps, first, we were thrown out of our tuk-tuk, then we had to wear different clothes, we lost shoes, and lastly, we tried street food which was not recommended.  Well, Bangkok sure surprised us and taught us valuable lessons too, don’t you think? Have you ever had such a day whilst on vacation?  Share your experience, whether at home or aboard with me here.  Write it in the comment box below.

Readers, as usual, I invite you to click follow to receive timely updates, select like to show your love and support.  Share this post on your social media site.  Write your comments in the box below.  Your interest, time and attention are always appreciated.  Thank you for reading.

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Everest Or For Ever Rest

Never thought I’d see the day where headlines announce overcrowding of the slopes on Mount Everest.  Not in droves, but recent news reports have highlighted an increase in the number of mountain climbers who have undertaken the task to complete the arduous climb.  Some do it or forever rest where they have fallen.  Sherpas who are professional guides help to carry equipment to the top.  They lead climbers, hikers, celebrities and groups up the dangerous mountain terrain to an altitude where only planes fly, and at the peril of their own lives.

I take my hat off to all those who have reached Everest’s zenith or are in the throes of planning the hike up some other treacherous mountain.  Truly, it is not for the faint of heart.  Everest is the tallest mountain on earth, the peak scaling 29,029 feet.  Before even reaching the summit, the climb up causes the body to gasp for air.  Oxygen is thinner at the 26,000 feet elevation and beyond, otherwise called the “death zone.”  Some effects the climber may experience there include exhaustion, delirium, incoherence, and moments of insanity, all due to the inability to breathe in enough oxygen.

Mount Everest has proven to be a perilous nature challenge, but lately, more and more people are taking up the dare.  Optimum fitness levels and pertinent climbing skills help to achieve the goal of reaching the pinnacle.  However, some persons have not been so fortunate.  According to an article in Business Insider, 11 people have died just this spring alone from trying to reach the crest.  Overall, it is recorded that the steep mountain has claimed the lives of 306 people to date.  As if the tough climb was not enough to drain the experienced climber, they bypass frozen dead bodies, now a part of the landscape, which must present a mental conflict as they trudge slowly upward.  Besides the real dangers the assent poses, hikers say the 20 minute limit spent on the peak is worth every bit of trouble before descending to base camp.

What is causing this sudden surge in interest with respects to Everest?  Have the situation become easier or more navigable than in prior years?  I don’t think so.  The dangers certainly are the same.  Plus, thin air, avalanches pose the most serious threat to climbers.  In 2018, an avalanche took the lives of 16 Sherpas.    So, what pushes the hiker to go all the way to the apex?  Could it be to enjoy the view (which I am told is out of this world), to claim bragging rights, to take photos, to be a part of an elite group of mountaineers?  Whatever the reason, losing life or limb is a hard price to pay for 20 minutes of goal satisfaction.

Everest may be the only place on earth that my itinerary plans would recommend, turning back, until better circumstances, better fitness, and better overall conditions could be met.  I believe in accepting limits and preserving life in order to try again another day.  The thought of forging ahead at the risk of your own life, just because you may have considerable expedition expense loss, wasted time and talent, or because you say to yourself, “I’ve come too far to turn back” may not be prudent thinking.  Another day, another attempt, another opportunity may present itself if you are determined to one day achieve the goal.

The closest I will ever come to Everest is when I visit Nepal, which I hope to do some day.  It would be amazing to rise to the heights, but I can still remember my experience when I climbed Table Mountain in South Africa.  That mountain would be considered a hill to the likes of the mighty Everest.  Even though, it does not hold many of the risks found on Everest, it proved to be a strain to me physically and mentally.  The venture took me twice the time to complete.  My legs felt like stumps, at times my heart felt like it would burst inside my chest, and the residue of salt squeezed out through my pores from sweat were caked on my face by the time I reached the top.  I looked a frightful sight but the view at the crown was fantastic and worth the effort.

Although climbing the South African peak did not pose a danger or threat to my life, they were many times on the trail I felt like giving up.  The battle to continue was as much a mental one as it was physical.  I achieved the personal goal, gained bragging rights, took awesome photos and relaxed before descending via the cable car.  My experience on Table Mountain pales in comparison to what the Sherpas and professional climbers do on Everest.  Yet, my attitude to such an undertaking is if at first you don’t succeed, try again.  Do not risk your life unnecessarily.  Live to try again.

Community Peeps, mountain climbers and hiking enthusiasts, what has been your experience on climbs?  What challenge or difficulties did you face?  Please share your experience in the comment box below.

Readers, as usual, I invite you to click follow to receive timely updates, select like to show your love and support.  Share this post on your social media site.  Write your comments in the box below.  Your interest, time and attention are always appreciated.  Thank you for reading.

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Because You Follow

Besides itinerary planning, there are a few other reasons why I started this travel website and blog.  One of the main reasons why I continue to share from week to week is because YOU follow.  Last week I reached 1000+ followers and I want to thank all of you for that.  When I achieved the millennial status, it gave me fresh wind beneath my wings.  This milestone is significant and exciting to me.  It’s exhilarating to know that everyone of you are interested in reading what I have to say.  Of course, I do not take it lightly, and am truly humbled by the fact that my community is growing.  Like brushing my teeth, combing my hair and dressing for work, I take pride in what I want to share with you, am careful to be positive and encouraging (at least I hope I am), and being honest and genuine in sharing my views.  You are the reason for my continued presence online and I hope to always deliver on promises, experiences, thoughts, tips and relevant travel related information.

Community Peeps and readers, you have stuck with me, offered your comments, clicked liked, shared on your social media pages and followed.  You didn’t have to do any of this, and so, your interaction with me via this portal is greatly appreciated.  Obviously, I cannot thank you enough, and it is at times such as these when words fail me.  Suffice it then to know that it is all because of you why this website and blog continues to exists.  I hope that you will always enjoy reading, be impressed to like, boldly comment on subject matter, and willingly share on your social media pages too.

I am grateful and want to thank you from the bottom of my heart.

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Uptick in Female Solo Travel

Solo travel among women has risen dramatically according to an article in Forbes.  Is it a cause for concern?  Probably not.  Though the article primarily addresses the top 20 places women are traveling to, one cannot help but ponder the issue of personal safety as women go it alone on their bespoke adventure trails.  To give this issue more depth another recent article reported the kidnapping of an American women while on a safari in Uganda and highlighted the dangers women or solo travelers face.

Traveling alone should be approached with sobriety and thoughtful planning.  Though some dangers are avoidable, there are those that are simply premeditated.  Let me explain.  Every solo journey, I am acutely aware of my surroundings, people and activities.  My behavior adapts to suit the environment I am in.  My guard is heightened, watchful and I approach everything with caution.  For example, while on vacation in Fez, Morocco, as I was walking on the street, my eyes locked with a man on the opposite side of the road.  In my usual manner, I smiled and carried on walking.  He smiled too.  It wasn’t long before I realized he was trying to engage my attention by smiling whenever I looked in his direction.  If I walked faster, he kept pace, and if I slowed, he did the same.  I was concerned but not overly frightened because we were on a busy street.  I decided to go to the recreational plaza near to the riad where I was staying and sure enough, he followed me there.  I sat in the square where mothers with their children and older men gather to socialize.  He lingered too.  I kept a watchful eye on him.  He kept on looking at me.  I sat at an angle where I could see him and waited until he became distracted to make my move.  I ran to the riad as fast as I could to elude him.  I didn’t look back.  Whether he was trying to be friendly, wanted to harm me or some other sinister act, I was not sticking around to find out.   Knowing what to do in suspicious circumstances may help to pre-empt any mishaps or disasters.  However, even with adopting the utmost care in itinerary planning, stuff happens, like the guy following me and the kidnapping case in Uganda (even though the gravity of the latter is much more serious than the former).

Solo travel has been my modus operandi for many years.  I love the freedom it gives me, and I have good and bad memories of such times at home and abroad.  It is imperative that one pay close attention to all that is going on and not become too immersed in the events or happenings around them.  Keeping your wits about you is paramount to being safe.   So, what can women do to safeguard themselves in questionable or dangerous places?  Try these simple tips when you vacation alone:

1. Do not take any questionable risks. Read travel advisories before you embark on your trip.
2. Always leave a daily plan with your close friends and family.
3. Use social media to keep everyone in the loop on your whereabouts. Take lots of photos and post daily commentaries of your activities to your chat sites, forums or media page.
4. Do not deviate from your planned daily itinerary. If for some reason a change must be made, alert others of the change immediately.
5. Do not attract attention to yourself by being obnoxious, rude, or flashy.
6. Wear loose fitting clothing that does not hug the body or draw attention to your curves. While this may not be a reason to precipitate an attack, it is a sensible approach to eliminate any unbalanced desires to do so.
7. Stay close to your guide, large groups or within crowded areas.
8. Complete your sightseeing activities within time frames that have the most pedestrian traffic.
9. Avoid walking or traveling lonesome roads. Stay in well lit areas if out at night.
10. Know where you are going and what to expect when you get there. Be vigilant and observant of your surroundings at all times.

Community Peeps, especially my female counterparts, enough cannot be said about adopting safe travel practices whilst on vacation.  Have you or any of your loved ones encountered a situation that was a cause for concern, or because of the safety measures you used you were able to avoid a danger?  Share about the encounter in the comment box provided below.  Equally, your thoughts or tips would be appreciated too.

Readers, as usual, I invite you to click follow to receive timely updates, select like to show your love and support.  Share this post on your social media site.  Write your comments in the box below.  Your interest, time and attention are always appreciated.  Thank you for reading.

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