The Big Trip : Five Months of Travel, Adventure, and Surprises

 

First Day 

I remember the first day of the Big Trip. We had drinks the night before, but I woke up early and full of energy. I was so excited. I’ve been waiting for that day for almost a year. There were days when I wanted to quit my job early and travel early. But I pushed on, I waited for the right day to start the Big Trip. 

How Did Travel Change Me?

love life. love who you truly are. love your dreams.
Pai, Thailand

At least once in your life, do something for YOU. Not what other people think is best for you, nor what society thinks is right. Do what your heart desires. I assure you the rewards are invaluable and it will make life more worth living. 

How did travel change me? 

Happy Kids of Muang Ngoi, Laos

When you're a child, anywhere's a playground.

Where else can you find children so happy and playful as these ones? I've always thought that children these days are always in front of a computer, a laptop, or even an I-pad. But in Muang Ngoi, Laos, in a village called  Bana, we found these wonderful children.

I Found Paradise in Nong Khiaw, Laos

beautiful view of the Nam Ou River

After an hour of waiting and being confused by Laos' public transportation, three hours of hot and bumpy ride, we made it to Nong Khiaw (Northern Laos). This quiet little town with the Nam Ou river at the middle, is a good and wonderful break from the touristy North Thailand and Luang Prabang. The kind of place and travel I like, and love even.

Travel Love : Lessons and Realizations from the Big Trip

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Nepal

Almost three months of traveling in six countries. Some were short stays,others were long. But all these countries have offered me so many adventures and unique experiences. But more than anything, the Big Trip had taught me so many important lessons and realizations that somehow changed and bettered my views of how I want to live my life, how I look at the world, race, faith, and religion, and made me realize how amazing the Creator is.

A Beautiful Ending in Vietnam

Sunset, Mui Ne, Vietnam

Five days in Vietnam with a Nepal hangover – reminiscing about those great mountains, amazing landscapes, warm people, and great friends I made throughout the whole journey. Five days of thinking about going home – anticipating and getting anxious over what’s going to be my life next year. 

And then there was that taxi ride, after two transfers to go to the sleeper bus from Hanoi to Hue. Confused, I asked you “Are you also going to Hue?” 

Post-BigTrip : A Big Thank You and Updates

Sand Dunes, Mui Ne, Vietnam 

The best 77 days of my life so far. :)

Who could have thought that someone who got lost so many times before in life, or at least she thought she did, could have fulfilled her dreams of traveling? Of having the best and most memorable three months of her life? 

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek : Days 6 and 7 'Breathtaking Mountains'

nearing the Annapurna Base Camp