In case you didn’t know, today is Buddha’s birthday. Of course, it’s not always May 17 because his birthday follows the lunar calendar. Many countries in Southeast Asia celebrate this day as a national holiday.
I’m really not sure what one is supposed to do to celebrate Buddha’s birthday, but I figure this photo is appropriate.
Buddha’s head with a bodhi tree growing around it at Wat Phra Mahthat in Ayutthaya, Thailand.
It’s always nice to walk into the local liquor store and browse the shelves of big bottle beers, especially when there are some limited-edition brews. Of course, since I rarely drink at home anymore, these beers tend to sit in my fridge for quite a long time.
A couple weeks ago I picked up a bottle of Elysian Brewing’s 12 Beers of the Apocalypse series–a one-time release. It was Peste Chocolate Chili Ale, and it was surprisingly good and much darker than one would expect from a...
It’s important to stay safe while traveling, but sometimes minor health problems can have a greater negative impact on a trip.
I came across an interesting article on natural remedies for some travel ailments. I’ve certainly encountered a few of these–mostly of the sleep deprivation/jet lag and stomach bug variety. The article also covers anxiety, motion sickness, sunburn, and insect bites. Nothing I really worry about since I bring insect repellent and sunscreen and have no pr...
Because it’s Mother’s Day, I think this picture from Thailand belongs here, even though I can’t explain it. I figure my mom will at least get a laugh out of it.
My mother has encouraged my travels (and other endeavors), even if she doesn’t quite understand why I make my travel choices. It’s an appropriate time to thank her for all the encouragement.
Travel poses many obstacles and dangers. Plenty of travelers have been scammed or pick-pocketed in every country. And then there are those of us who encounter colorful characters, some of whom like to handle wild snakes for amusement. All such stories are reminders that we need to be careful wherever we travel.
Then there are dangers that never cross our minds until we read an unbelievable article. Most people are worried about malaria or other such diseases when they go on safari–few ever...
