Asia Complete

Hey folks!

I am in Bangkok right now getting myself prepared for the 10 hour flight over to Turkey. I have been putting country badges on my bags, bought 14 books, and bought a sweet SLR camera with 2 lens.

So how was Asia? Here are the Asian countries that I visited in my short time:

Japan, Thailand x3, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia.

Its a mixed blessing leaving these countries behind and heading over to Europe/Africa. I will miss the massages, food, cheap accommodations, and especially the smiles. But I am really looking forward to the history that Europe brings.

Japan was so surreal and probably provided more culture shock than any of the southern countries. The quiet traffic jams, bowing, sushi and clean streets were so special. Shinjuku, Shibuya, Roppongi, and Ahkibara were so neat its hard to find words. Tokyo Disney was such a highlight and so different from other Disney's. Not looking at people in the eyes, forming random lines where they weren't needed, and not talking on the trains are all things I will remember.

Arriving in Bangkok was pretty disappointing. I was expect an exotic mix of culture and flavors. What I felt was dirty, tired, and very secular. Heading south for my scuba certification brought what I needed, peace. The islands in Thailand are only surpassed by the Carribean. You can truly find peace in the ocean here. Green and blue water, cheap food, cheap cliff-side bungalows and great weather shows what Thailand is made of.

Malaysia showed me how Thailand would have been like with a splash of religion. The people are more respectable and pride themselves on living 'good' lives. Beautiful country-side, mountains and beaches are everywhere in Malaysia. What a great stop.

Singapore was a typical clean coast city with strict traffic rules. A must stop for the fast paced westerner that is looking for some solid shopping and indulging.

Indonesia is like Thailand but half the price. How is this possible? The food seemed cleaner, better tasting and more variety. Although the beaches aren't as nice you are rewarded with some great surf. The heat here was sometimes too much with temperatures reaching 40+ degrees.

Northern Thailand is a world of difference from the South. The food is tastier, the night markets abound, and the ex-pats bring education and service to the vendors. Tribes scatter the mountains and elephants carry you to the top for a cultural explosion.

Laos is slow and relaxing. The towns are small and French influence is everywhere. Cafes and bakeries give you a taste of Europe. The French flock here on 2 week vacations seeing the once conquered country. Inner tube down the Mekong River, trek through the mountains, or relax in a cafe, Laos is a mottled mix of diversity.

Cambodia has suffered too much. War, Invasion, and Famine are merely a couple decades behind them, yet they seem to cherish their second chance. The once might Khmer Empire has left so much history behind in this country. The massive ruins of Ankor are truly as spectacular as the Rocky Mountains. A must see.

Bangkok for a third time doesn't seem nearly as bad. Its actually fun paying 7 baht for a bus ride. Khao San Road is not nearly as dirty as I remember it. The back roads have been paved, swept and made more inviting. Even the hotels seem to be modernizing. Somehow the road has maintained a sliver of intrigue, even with the backpackers pouring through this gateway.

Good day folks,

D.