Service And Love

Every Memorial Day we focus on remembering those who have died in the service.  They are the men and women who fought valiantly on the battlefield to protect the freedom we hold dear, and the liberties we enjoy every day.  This time, like no other, it has been more poignant to me.   Maybe it is because there has been so much pain, suffering, and loss for the past year, that recently hearing the saddest story recounted of a fallen soldier, even though I did not know him, caused tears to well up in my eyes and roll down my cheeks.  This loss occurred some years ago but it is still being felt by loved ones and close friends, as it was related by a personal friend, who choked up as he told of their last encounter before deployment.  The mere lad, then 19 years old, would serve and ultimately die for his adopted country before reaching his 20^th birthday.  

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13

I am also reminded of another person who gave His life willingly for mine. He knew there was no possibility of escaping the threat of death or of returning to His home without injury.  He had to die.   Driven by love, He selflessly laid down His life, and paid the price for all humanity.  He was young too, 33 ½ years old.  What amazing love and saving grace.  Because of love, He gave His life for mine.  

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16

Community Peeps, what pastime do you enjoy on Memorial Day?  Do you enjoy the parade, outdoors, bar-be-cue, cook-out, a day at the beach or park? Whatever you choose to do, remember the fallen – gone too soon. In my past travels, I have found unique ways to pay my respect. I have visited places like: Pearl Harbor, Vietnam, Arlington National Cemetery, statues, and other significant sites that honor their memory. If you have a unique way of showing your respect, tell us how by sharing in the 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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Itinerary Planning Is For Everyone

Yesterday I learned of the passing of I. M. Pei, a world renowned architect.  His more notable works include the Louvre pyramid in Paris, and the John F. Kennedy Library in Massachusetts.   The sad news announcement brought back memories of my encounter of working with him, not directly, but indirectly.   21 years ago, I had the pleasure of organizing and working on a conference that featured him as the keynote speaker.  I can still recall the excitement among my colleagues at the asset management company where I worked in New York City.  Little did I know then that my itinerary planning skills were being honed to cater to the rich and famous, and which I would also use to render service to others many years later.

In the financial boutique, the finance planners were some of the brightest and best in their field.  The small group was wealthy, educated and tight-knit.  They were hand-picked by the company’s owner and were backed by a prominent Asian tire company.  In retrospect, the planning of the conference taught me the nuts and bolts of itinerary planning.  No stone was left upturned and no expense spared to ensure the conference was spectacular, auspicious and impressive.

The event was held in Paris and a few of the top brass flew to the event on board the supersonic jet – Concorde.   Booking those tickets were also an exciting to-do.  Obviously, this notable transportation had to be booked months in advance and cost thousands of dollars.  Before the conference, some colleagues flew to Indonesia for custom made dress fittings for the event.  The gift tokens, including the specially crafted wooden pens in bamboo cases, rice paper note-pads, name tags, and other fine touches helped to make the event extra special.  Many hours of paying attention to every detail, meeting with managers, consulting with business partners, briefing and debriefing the CEO on the organizational progress was stressful at times.

However, working with the office of I. M. Pei was professional and cordial.  No major or unrealistic demands were made on his behalf.  Even though I did not attend the event, from all accounts, the function went off without a hitch.  I take this opportunity to offer condolences to the Pei family.

Community Peeps, organizing and planning travel itineraries is for everyone, whether it is a large, small, executive or individual account,.   Still, this particular event was one I could hardly forget.  Remembering how my itinerary planning skills were developed over the years and by what means is humbling.  Paying attention to every detail then helped to perfect my craft, but now, serves to ensure plans meet my customer’s satisfaction today.  Do you have a special skill you use to benefit others even though at the time you only considered it a part of your 9 – 5 job?  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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Better Safe Than Sorry

Eleven days to Christmas and the prediction this year is it will be another busy travel holiday, actually one of the busiest we have seen in a long while.  We just had Thanksgiving and that travel volume prediction was spot on.  If you are traveling during this busy season to some faraway place or even close to home, I would be remiss if I did not inform you of the importance on adopting safety practices whilst on holiday. These tips will help to put safety on your radar if it is not a priority.

First, print or email a copy of your custom-tailored itinerary to those closest to you.  Family and friends should know what your daily plans are and the places you will visit.  Even if you change plans, be sure to update this plan intermittently and keep your loved ones well informed.  In this age of technology, it is not a hard thing to do.  Send them pictures, video footage and messages of people you meet and the places you go as regularly as possible.

If you are traveling solo or in a group to a foreign country and uncertain about your transport, especially if you must take it on the fly, nonchalantly carry your smart phone in your hand, snap photos of the taxi’s license plate and driver when he is stowing away your luggage or not looking directly at you.  Align with a friend to send them pics as soon as possible as back-up information. This suggestion may sound sinister but could turn out to be a valuable action that will ensure your safety.

Beware of children and adults who pan-handle.  They often work in groups to pick-pocket and rob the unsuspecting visitor of their hard-earned cash.  Pay attention to your surroundings and do not carry to many bags.  Visible signs of luxury will make you an easy target.  Men should not put their wallets in their back pockets and ladies should not carry their purse swinging loosely from their shoulder.  These are all easy marks for sticky fingers.   Avoid close contact with unknown groups of people.  Especially if you must ask for a pass to move ahead.  Find an alternate route.  If your way is blocked and you must cut through the middle be conscious of the slightest contact.  Check your person immediately to make sure your valuables are still intact.

Another safety measure to follow is a familiar one – don’t drink and drive.  Even in a strange country it is not cool to party hearty and then get behind the wheel intoxicated. Arrange with your hotel for a pick-up from the party you will be attending.  Then you can relax and have all the fun you want.  If in a group, make sure you know who the designated driver is.  Doing this may save your life and the lives of others.

Community Peeps, these are all simple things you can do and still have a safe and enjoyable vacation during yuletide.  There are many horror stories of vacations gone wrong simply because safety habits were not a part of the plan or were not enforced.  Have you learned a hard lesson because you did not carry out safety precautions?  Or, do you know someone who was affected by the lack of safe behaviors?  Please share some of your safe practices with my community.  Write in the comment box below.

To one and all, it is my sincerest wish and desire that all of you will be safe and well as you traverse to your various destinations for Christmas.

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.  Thanks for reading.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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Arrested

No, no, no.  Not with handcuffs and reading me the Miranda rights but arrested by natural beauty.

A few times in my travels at home and abroad, I have been blessed to see sights that caused me to stop, dead in my tracks.  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and sometimes, it is too wonderful to express in words or to fleeting to capture in a photo.  The kind of beauty I am talking about, you never get tired watching.  One could spend hours metaphorically speaking, soaking it up, drinking it in and absorbing as much of it as possible.  Obviously, what may be shock and awe for me may not register the same way for you.  It is all relative and subjective.  Still, I want to share my moments of arresting beauty with you.

First time I saw Jacaranda trees, I was walking early one morning in Pretoria, South Africa.  The trees were in full bloom and they lined both sides of the streets with their branches intertwining at the tops.  The purple flowers on the trees and the fallen petals on both sides of the street presented a beautiful sight, as if flower girls in a bridal party had strewn them along the path for the oncoming bride.  You can probably tell how deeply impressed I was for me to take photos of purple petaled trees.  The picturesquely beautiful scene was fresh and pretty but not lasting.  Throughout the day, the falling petals wilted in the heat and were crushed by traffic, but that moment was forever etched in my mind.

Pretoria, South Africa – Jacaranda & Dinosaurs (Traveltineraries)

Pretoria, South Africa – Jacaranda tree tops (Traveltineraries)

Pretoria, South Africa – Blooming Jacaranda Trees (Traveltineraries)

Pretoria, South Africa – Jacaranda Tree-lined Street (Traveltineraries)

Pretoria, South Africa – Jacaranda Trees (Traveltineraries)

Pretoria, South Africa – Jacaranda hillside (Traveltineraries)

Another arresting moment happened on American soil.  The Grand Canyon is not called grand for nothing. Wide open, deep crevasses, cover hundreds of miles, as far as the eye can see.  The jagged surfaces that make up the earth’s crust of the canyon lands expose colored layers of soil and rock like a rainbow.  Below the mighty Colorado River snakes its way through the gorge.  As the sun’s rays reflect on the winding river it glints like shards of glass or sparkling jewels.  The scenery is mesmerizing and awe-provoking.  From every vantage point, the views are arresting and mind boggling.  Questions of how, when, where flood the thoughts whilst gazing on the beauty of the Canyon.  In times like these, one can only agree with the inspired words of David in Psalm 19:1:

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork.”

The next arrest I will tell you about took place in the desert.  Unbelievable?  Yes, there is beauty even in a desert place.  When I visited Morocco, I journeyed into the Merzouga and Sahara Deserts.  The experience was phenomenal.  Don’t take my word for it.  Plan a trip of your own to either one or both locations.  I can help you with an itinerary, click on Itinerary Request and Payment Form page to get started.  The arid lands hold a beauty all its own.  Clay-colored houses blend in with the landscape of shifting sands. The high and low dunes, like rolling waves spread out into the distance.  The buildings in the communities look like they jump right out of the Bible.  Many film crews use the area because of its natural beauty and ancient Biblical likeness to make films (take a peak at the list in the photos).  Life is simple and different but packed with natural wonders which I hope you catch a glimpse in the slideshow here.

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Community Peeps, I could go on and on telling of other arresting moments, the where, the when, and the how, but time and space would not permit.  I know, you thought by the title that I had another encounter with the law and had been led away bound in chains (a bit too dramatic?) 😂.  God forbid.  Let’s hope that never happens.  What places have caused you to stop and take it all in?  Where on earth would you say you were arrested?  I would like to hear of it.  Share 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.  Thanks for reading.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

BARBADOS!

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Thanksgiving Drama

Stuffed to the brim yesterday and hungover today.  Not from alcohol, but from the food, entertainment and drama.  Thanksgiving Day is one of my favorite holidays of the year, the other Christmas in Barbados.  As in last year’s blog, I shared our family traditions and how we express our thankfulness – Staycation Plans.  Today, I want to highlight some of the stressors that are part and parcel of making Thanksgiving Day an unforgettable experience.

Usually I sit down to eat the sumptuous meal with family and friends just after noon.  I adopted this habit many years ago.  It gives my guests who spend the entire day the chance to consume the meal, with opportunity for seconds, thirds, and desserts.  Plus, I would not have to worry about storage for the leftovers.  I still recall my very first Thanksgiving meal.  My host and I prepared the food all day long and didn’t sit down to eat until 7:00 p.m. that night.  In my humble opinion, that was way too late to be eating such a heavy meal, but I graciously obliged my host and tried to do justice to the meal that was served to me.  From that time, I promised myself I would never serve meals to my guests that late and I have kept my promise.

Over the years, I have found that while the day is wildly anticipated, many anxieties are experienced before, during and after the actual day.  Is it all worth it?  Many a host will tell you, “yes, it is.”  You can be the judge after reading of some of the pressures that help to put a strain on the day.

Travel can be one of the contentious points that causes anxiety on Thanksgiving Day, whether by car, bus, train or plane.  Arriving or departing, your visitor’s safety is paramount.  This year was touted to be one of the heaviest travel days, and from all indicators, that prediction was a bulls-eye.  Thanksgiving-eve and Day, cars flowed in every direction like red and white blood cells flowing up and down a vein. More people hit the open road to join family and friends than in previous years.  A contributing factor are low gas prices.

Weather conditions too can greatly factor in.  Because of the tendency to have an early snowfall, (as we had last week) possible flight cancellations may occur.  Over bookings and other unanticipated anomalies may cause delays in departures/arrivals.  Whichever travel option used, the tension of dealing with congestion, delays, or cancellations may greatly impact the start of your holiday celebration and or may derail your plans altogether.

Family dynamics may present some uneasiness when considering or looking over your

invitation list.  You can choose friends, but you cannot choose family members.  That said, there may be wariness in extending invitations to break bread especially when you know some members don’t get along.  Even though the day is all about thankfulness, some personalities are not always willing to put their differences aside and may cause some tension which will overshadow the day.  This possibility is cause for concern if you are trying to accommodate everyone, not wanting to choose one over the other.

Food preparation can be another big stressor too.  Choosing mouth-watering foods that everyone will love and enjoy can turn out to be exasperating, especially when most of your invited guests are foreigners, and it is hard to please everyone.  Do you serve the regular Thanksgiving Day cuisine, or do you serve that of another culture?  Which culture takes preference?  Without a doubt, the one agreed upon food that will grace the

table will be the bird.  If it is eaten, liked or disliked, you can rest assured that turkey (whole bird or breast) with stuffing will take center stage.  The other fixings may be hard to choose, and indeed, may bring an added weight that may not be worth the time or effort.

Entertainment is another medium through which tension can manifest itself.  Routing for one favorite football team or another, is not necessarily the issue.  If that were the case, then you would be happy to know that all persons in the house are fans of the game.  However, football may not be the favorite pastime of your invited guests.  So, how do you deal with the blaring TV in one room, a gregarious group in an adjacent room, and still others or lone figures huddled in other areas of the house trying to have different conversations?  Running around trying to be the perfect host, making sure everyone is happy, and enjoying themselves may bring on moments of unwanted worry and anxiousness.

At the end of the day, you are eager to see the backs of your guests and their tail lights pulling away from your driveway.  You breathe a sigh of relief and are thankful that you survived yet again.  The food was eaten, everyone said they enjoyed themselves and had a great time.  The strain and tensions of the day melt away as your weary head touches the pillow.  Before you drift off into sleep you find yourself thinking on new and improved plans for next year’s Thanksgiving.

Community Peeps, how was your Thanksgiving Day?  Do you have some Thanksgiving drama of our own to share?  What has been your experience as host, or attending a family/friend’s home for the meal?  Spill the beans on your experiences, past or recent.  Waiting to hear from you.

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.  Thanks for reading.

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Déjà Vu

Last week I promised to update you on my 2019 travel plans but that will have to wait until another time.  After yesterday’s ordeal, risking life and limb to get home, the idea of becoming a snow-bird has become more enchanting to me.  Leaving the cold northeast at the first sight of snow for the tropics is much more appealing than dealing with unforgiving wintry weather conditions.   Therefore my upcoming trip in a few short weeks to Barbados can’t come soon enough, and I’m out of here!

I left Long Island in New York just after 1:00 p.m. to take a two hour ride to my home upstate New York.  The first snow fall had begun.  Traffic flowed with an occasional bottleneck here and there.   Sometimes you make choices and in hindsight you wonder why you did.  Well, last night was one such night.  I could have chosen the wide-lane thoroughfare the I-684.  Instead, I chose the winding, narrow, mountainous road the Taconic Parkway.

I made my decision and there was no turning back.  As I traveled further and further away from the city limits into the suburbs, the snow piles on the road was more evident.  Many times, traffic slowed to a crawl.  Still my chariot was performing without any hindrance.  The first time I saw a car in front of me spinning out of control, wheels turning where the driver didn’t want it to go, was my wake up call.  I started to pray.  Yes, I prayed for that driver, myself and all the spin-outs I would later see along the way.

I immediately slowed down and proceeded cautiously.  This would become the routine for the rest of the night.  The snow was falling fast and furious and it seemed my wipers could not keep up.  Suddenly, the wiper blades stopped swishing back and forth.  I could not see the road.  I cried out to Jesus for help.  I pulled over to the side and removed the frozen snow stuck to the blades and windshield.  This would happen three more times at places on the road where stopping was dangerous.  Several times my car fish-tailed as I crept uphill, sometimes barely missing another vehicle, and blocking the path of others.  The feeling of losing control of the vehicle is terrifying.  I prayed even harder asking God to help me proceed without hurting anyone or myself.  Patience and calmness were the two emotions that came to the fore as I drove.  But for God’s mercy and grace, I made it through the treacherous Taconic Parkway and on to another route traveling westbound.  This highway has much wider lanes, but no sooner than I got on did I realize the travel situation was no better.  This highway is used by many truckers and so big rigs ply their trade up and down the corridors of the I-84.

Sandwich between two truckers, my reasoning being, they will make the tracks I need (a mini-ploughing) to follow in, when history almost repeated itself.  About 11 or 12 years ago, while coming home from work, there was a heavy snowfall, some of the biggest snowflakes I have ever seen.  So much so, they covered my car’s windshield and I often had to stop and clear it to continue.  The snow quickly accumulated grinding traffic to a halt.  The highway became impassable.  Every vehicle came to a standstill.  There we waited with engines running to keep warm.  We waited for the ploughs to come and remove the snow but to no avail.

That night turned into day and by the time the police came along to check on the situation, I had run out of gas, was shivering under blankets, frightened that I would not make it home.  Then I wondered last night if history would repeat itself.

Déjà vu?  It certainly was, at least in part.  Here I was stalled for hours in the same location as many years ago before the trucker in front of me moved a few yards.  I prayed often asking God to allow everyone to reach their final destinations.   Even though there were many scary moments, I quickly realized there are many things you can do to help yourself in the event you run into a tempest.

1. Pray
2. Be always prepared. I had my blanket, water, flashlight, scraper and a full tank of gas.
3. Drive with caution. Whether you have a big ride or small humpty, the humpty often passes the big ride in the ditch.
4. Occasionally stop to clear accumulated snow from the car’s wiper blades, wheel wells, front and back windshield, and headlights.
5. Do not panic. If you feel the car sliding gently try to maneuver out of the slide.
6. Turn hazard lights on immediately if you have difficulty driving or feel as though you are losing control.
7. Keep your eyes on the road and call for help if needed.
8. Make sure your smart phone is fully charged.
9. Pray

Well, I arrived home safely.  Just after midnight I pulled up to my driveway covered in snow.  More than a foot for sure.  It took me all of 11 hours to cover a two hour distance.  Now, do you wonder why I like to jet off to warmer climes at this time of the year?  I have no more tolerance for Old Man Winter, but rather need temps of 75^◦ Fahrenheit or higher just to keep my sanity.  I thanked God for bringing me home safe and sound.

Community Peeps, what has been your experience dealing with weather conditions whilst traveling on a road trip or otherwise?  What tips would you like to add to those above?  Please share.

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 appreciated.  Thanks for reading.

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Jail Threats Down Under

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex from all reports are having the time of their lives in Australia, the land Down Under.  It was 20 years ago when I first set foot on the continent along with a gal pal.  We were young, naïve, intrepid travelers, whose introduction to the great outback was an eye-opener which to this day I have not forgotten.

My friend and I are travel buddies, and on occasions we team up to go on vacations to countries that appeal to both of us.  This time, we decided to tour Australia and five Asian countries: Hong Kong (before it was returned to China), Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and South Korea.  We flew Cathay Pacific which in my opinion, is still a classy airline today as it was then.  A couple times we were upgraded to first class, which added an element of luxury to our travel that was like adding icing to cake.

In those days, budget and itinerary planning were not set priorities for either of us.  Our main interests were to explore exotic places in the world.  In the month that we traversed Asia, we flew into Hong Kong, the hub-airport for Cathay Pacific, several times to make our connections.  A few of the flights were no more than three or four hours from country to country, but the longest flight-time was to Australia.

The crew on board Cathay Pacific were wonderful.  We were anxious and excited

Sydney Harbour Bridge                Photo by David Dibert on Pexels.com

about visiting Sydney.  It was our first time and we eagerly looked forward to investigating Darling Harbor, examining the much talked about Sydney Opera House, strolling the popular and often star studded Bondi Beach, and many other attractions peculiar to Sydney.  We had no cell phones, laptops, iPads, no technology of any kind to distract us, only the camera with the Fuji reels which you had to switch out once you snapped the quota of pictures, 21 or 28 exposures if I am not mistaken.  The good old days 🤣.

On landing at the Sydney International Airport, after immigration processing, we quickly grabbed our bags and proceeded to walk the long corridor looking for the exit.  A young man, about our age, came along side us striking up a friendly conversation.  When you have nothing to hide you have nothing to fear.  We chatted freely with him.  He asked questions concerning our travels like “where we had been, where we were going, what were we planning to do in Australia,” etc.  He was an undercover police officer.  He asked us to follow him to a room where we were further questioned and asked if we had any food items.  My friend and I said, “No.  We did not.”

That reply was obviously the wrong answer.  Suddenly, the room temperature felt chilly, once smiling faces now looked serious and unfriendly.  We were politely asked to open our bags to be searched.  From every nook and cranny, they pulled out granola bars,

Photo by Tookapic on Pexels.com

package peanuts, pretzels, cocoa puffs, hot chocolate and tea bags, crackers, little bottles of juices, jelly and jam packets.  With our stash spread on the table we were still not perturbed by the display until a female officer came into the room and proceeded to scold us.  She declared, “the reason why Australia does not suffer from some of the major diseases that plague other countries is because they are very strict on the foods that cross their borders.”

Our naïve protest was that we didn’t have any food, these were only snacks, munchies to tie us over on our trips when we had long lay-overs.  We were toting them from place to place until we could get a proper meal.  She responded, “Anything that goes into the mouth is food.”   She threatened to throw us into quarantine and jail.  At this point, the furtive officer who brought us into the room realized we were caught off guard, not malicious in our intent, and that the female officer was over-reacting.  He intervened explaining the mistake was merely our interpretation of what food is.

This explanation seemed to appease her.  She let us go with fair warnings if caught again bringing foods in their country we would be sent packing – to prison.  All the items were confiscated, and we were escorted from the room.  We were left nervous and shaken from the ordeal.  The covert officer was right in his estimation of the situation.  He was able to save our trip and us from lockup.  Our mind-set was junk-food is not food and can never take the place of real nutritious foods like: potatoes, yam, rice, beans, fruits and vegetables.

Our time spent in Sydney turned out to be wonderful, aside from the experience at the airport.  I must convey that I hold no ill feelings regarding what took place.  Every country has laws to be obeyed and enforced.  It just so happened that I ran afoul of the law that day, and she drove the fear of God into our young hearts with threats of jail time to set us straight.  I have not been back to Australia since, but it looks like it is time to revisit Down Under.  Assuredly, I have learned my lesson and would not now be stopped for any food items, not even a crumb.

To this day I cannot tell you how I managed to exit the airport, or recount the memory of the ride to our hotel.  However, we did manage to have a wonderful time exploring the city, visiting the opera house, climbing the Harbour Bridge, visiting the aquarium, digging our toes in the sand at Bondi, riding the local buses and more.  It has been two decades since that incident and I can still recall the details of the conversation in that room like it happened yesterday.

Community Peeps, would you believe on this same tour, a paring knife was taken from my carry-on bag at the Narita International Airport in Japan?  But that’s another story for another day.  You may wonder how in the world do I manage to find myself in these precarious positions.  I ask myself the same questions.  Do you have a similar experience?  What close encounters with the law have you had whilst travelling?  Would you like to share?  Pray do tell!

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 appreciated.  Thanks for reading.

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Itinerary Planner

Blast From the Past

Fall has started, winter is nipping at our heels, and 2019 is merely 10 weeks away.  Put like that, it is just around the corner, not very far off.  I have already started making travel plans.  Yes, it is essential to have a travel plan from now.  To cop the best travel fares, land the best accommodation and secure a spot on your much sought-after adventure activity, now would be the perfect time to start planning.  God willing and life be spared, this year’s remaining travel will be completed, and new missions will occur in 2019.  Stay tuned to hear what those will be.

So, as I wrap up this year’s commitments, see “Coming to A Place Near You” I am reminded of a promise made to you earlier this year to share video footage of my Southeast Asia trip (catch up in the archive blogs May – July below).  This post will fulfill that debt.

When you plan a bespoke itinerary, you always hope to walk away with photos and videos that tell your experience over and over.  But, sometimes that is not the case. Many travelers like me are amateur photographers.  We capture favorite scenes with our point and shoot cameras or smart phones and other tech devices.

Whichever lens used, oftentimes it is hard to control the environment even though center-stage or an incredible vantage point might be yours.  Some of the things you cannot control are: extemporaneous noises, movement, unsteady hands holding the lens, talking neighbors, babies crying, etc.  You may see a bit of some of these issues as you watch.   However, focus on the clips.  You may still be able to vicariously enjoy the scenes as much as I did.

SINGAPORE – Merlion Park (night show of projected light to music)

 

BALI – Tegallalang (rice terraces)

 

PHILIPPINES – PALAWAN (indigenous people playing on rudimentary instruments)

 

KUALA LUMPUR – view from the KL Menara Tower.  (Did you catch a glimpse of the Petronas Towers?)

Recounting the holiday experience and selecting the footage from my collection has taken me down memory lane.  Indeed, a blast from the past.  If you are thinking about taking a break in 2019 and would like a customized itinerary, then look no further.  I am your gal – Itinerary Planner.  Go to the “Itinerary Request page and select the itinerary plan you need.  Submit it with your payment and an itinerary made just for you will be in your mailbox soon after.

Readers and Community Peeps, is there a favorite video you like?  Do you have similar footage?  Compare and share with me.  I want to hear from you.  Your comments are always appreciated.  I look forward to reading your thoughts on the footage.

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.  Thanks for reading.

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Itinerary Planner

Picture Perfect

How far would you go to obtain a perfect photo?  Would you climb atop a rock, stand under a cascading waterfall, perch on the edge of an over-hang or stand precariously inches away from the edge of a sharp drop in height?  From any one of these choices a fatal fall could be the result.  Then certainly you would have gone too far for the perfect shot.

Recently, I read two separate reports of travelers/hikers who accidentally fell over the edge of a waterfall to their death.  Read of incidences here and here.  On both occasions they were swept away by the strong undertow and drowned.  At this point, it is irrelevant to debate the why’s and how’s of the accidents that caused their early demise.  What I really want to highlight are safety measures that could be practiced when we  travel.

Because I have done it and have also seen others take the risk for a “wow” photo,  it behooves me to underscore the need for safety practices when selecting the location which you might think gives the best view or background.  First, look around and assess the immediate surroundings.  A quick scan can tell you whether it is a good idea to proceed with your photo exercise.  It might not always be necessary or top-of-mind to scope out the surroundings for the perfect picture, nevertheless, in the great outdoors, it is imperative that vacationers take note and exhibit due caution and common sense when choosing the best spot or angle for their photo “snap-of-the-year.”

Occasionally, on trips one may see a dare-devil sightseer seeking picturesque spots that could be potentially dangerous.  With just a slip of the foot, a strong gust of wind, a misjudged step on loose gravel, losing your balance, suddenly realizing that you don’t like heights, or feeling the first effects of vertigo are all real possibilities to an accident waiting to happen.  Careless decisions and spur-of-the-moment actions like closing your eyes for the pose could lead to unwanted troubles for the tourist, and put in harm’s way those who may attempt to save them.  Always pose for your shot a safe distance away from the edge and keep your eyes open.  

At Kawasan Falls in Cebu, Philippines, for example, I witnessed swimmers constantly daring to venture pass the cordoned-off area just to bob beneath the forceful, pounding cascade, only to be called back to safety by the life-guard’s piercing whistle blow.  Another danger that could prove treacherous is stepping into the murky shallows without a guide.  Extreme caution should be displayed.  A slip on a mossy rock can be your undoing.  The Grand Canyon in Arizona is another place where I’ve seen visitors push the limits to take their best pictures.  Moreover, enough cannot be said concerning safety protocol and precautions.  Many accidents can be avoided if careful consideration and clear warnings are heeded.  In the end it is not worth losing your life or endangering the lives of others for a photo.

Community Peeps and fellow bloggers, what has been your experience on the subject matter?  Have you ever pushed the limit for a picture perfect?  Please share your thoughts.  It  may help to convince someone to be more cautious.  Do you agree?

As usual, click on follow to receive timely updates, click like to show your love and support, share on your social media sites, and comment in the box below.  It is always a pleasure sharing with you.  Thank you for reading.

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Itinerary Planner