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Beautiful Guilin – Fubo Hill, Reed Flute Cave & Elephant Trunk Hill

Posted on June 3, 2014 | Leave a comment

Another long weekend, this time due to Dragon Boat Festival and we had booked a long weekend to Guilin.  On Friday afternoon we picked the kids up a little early from school and then set off for the airport.   In true China fashion, we had a delay, but it was only 30 minutes.  We landed in Guilin at 7.15 and a driver from the hotel we had booked (the Sheraton) met us ready to take us to hotel.  We had a late dinner in the cafe and then settled in for the night.

The Sheraton is a nice hotel on the river and there is spectacular scenery all around this beautiful city.  On Saturday morning our guide, Lily met us to start our days adventures.  Just like our guides in Beijing and Xi’an, Lily was knowledgeable, flexible and attentive.  She had arranged a nice minivan for our transportation and we had a good driver to go with that!  We started the morning by visiting Fubo Hill which is a large local park set around a large rock hill.

Fubo Hill Park - a peacock!

Fubo Hill Park – a peacock!

Isabelle and Oliver trying to pull the sword out!

Isabelle and Oliver trying to pull the sword out!

Oliver (and Army General) by the entrance to Fubo Hill Park.

Oliver (and Army General) by the entrance to Fubo Hill Park.

Oliver & Isabelle by the "Huge Bell"

Oliver & Isabelle by the “Huge Bell”

The "Huge Bell" information

The “Huge Bell” information

Owen, Kids and our guide, Lily by the Thousand Men Pot

Owen, Kids and our guide, Lily by the Thousand Men Pot

The Thousand Men Pot

The Thousand Men Pot

Inside of the huge stone hill are caves, with stone carvings, statues and walkways.

Inside of the huge stone hill are caves, with stone carvings, statues and walkways.

Some of the ancient stone carvings

Some of the ancient stone carvings

Information about the stone carvings

Information about the stone carvings

Oliver by a Buddha

Oliver by a Buddha

The back of Fubo Hill Park opens onto water. There are caves everywhere!

The back of Fubo Hill Park opens onto water. There are caves everywhere!

The Sword Testing Stone

The Sword Testing Stone

Details about the Sword Testing Stone and the Thousand Buddha Rock

Details about the Sword Testing Stone and the Thousand Buddha Rock

All of us by the lovely gardens at the public park - Fubo Hill

All of us by the lovely gardens at the public park – Fubo Hill

After spending a few hours at Fubo Hill Park, we then set off for Reed Flute Cave, which is absolutely stunning.

The cave received its name in the Tang Dynasty (618-907) for the numerous reeds growing outside the cave.  Back then, the local children liked to carve the reeds into flutes and even today, children can be seen around the cave’s entrance offering to sell the reed flutes that they make to visitors.  What makes Reed Flute Cave so marvelous are the stalactites, stalagmites, and columns that can be found inside the cave and the very creative and effective lighting for tourists.  The formations were created over thousands of years by dripping water.  A very small amount of calcium carbonate located in the water adheres to the stone with each drop.  When the drop hits the floor of the cave it also leaves a small calcium carbonate deposit that will eventually become a stalagmite.  These formations sometimes meet and become a column.  They grow on average of one millimeter per year.  The formations can be quite astounding and the ones found in Reed Flute Cave are particularly beautiful.

Reed Flute Cave

Reed Flute Cave

The beautiful lighting against the fabulous stalagmites and stalactites.

The beautiful lighting against the fabulous stalagmites and stalactites.

While walking through the cave, you can use your imagination to feel like you are being transported to different environments.  Some sections seem like a forest of crystal trees, while others seem like underground mountain ranges and even cities.  The strange formations can sometimes seem unworldly.  Many of the formations have taken on recognizable shapes of mythological creatures, or natural images.  There is one formation that even looks like Santa Claus with his sack on his back.  Due to the darkness of the cave, it is quite difficult to get a photograph that can express the same feeling as actually being there.

This one looks like mosquito nets hanging down!

This one looks like mosquito nets hanging down!

 

The kids loved the cave - it is huge and quite breathtaking.

The kids loved the cave – it is huge and quite breathtaking.

We spent ages looking at the different formations - everyone's imagination interprets them in different ways.

We spent ages looking at the different formations – everyone’s imagination interprets them in different ways.

A giant ice cream sundae!

A giant ice cream sundae!

The lighting really makes an impact when you are walking around.

The lighting really makes an impact when you are walking around.

More formations

More formations

The cave is over 240 meters in length and it takes visitors approximately one hour to walk through the entire cave. The cave’s route is U-shaped and the exit and entrance are very near each other. There are over 70 ancient stone inscriptions that can be found in the cave. They are travelogues and poems writing by Tang Dynasty literati who visited the cave and found it so beautiful that they wanted to leave their thoughts behind for future generations of visitors.  It is a magical place with so much to see.  Every 20 minutes there is a video projection in the main great cavern space.  It fast forwards through millions of years of history around the Cave and finishes with a ballet projection.  It is all beautifully done.

The ballet show.

The ballet show.

Stunning lights.

Stunning lights.

Simply Beautiful

Simply Beautiful

Outside the Reed Flute Cave, walking through the grounds by the river and lakes.

Outside the Reed Flute Cave, walking through the grounds by the river and lakes.

The view from the other side (outside Reed Flute Cave).

The view from the other side (outside Reed Flute Cave).

After the Reed Flute Cave we went on to Elephant Trunk Hill.  On the top of Elephant Trunk Hill sits a pagoda named Puxian Pagoda.  It is 14-meter-high, and was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).  The pagoda looks like the hilt of a sword sticking out of the back of the elephant.  There is a ancient legend that in times long ago, the Emperor of Heaven set out to conquer Earth commanding his troops from the back of the elephant.  The elephant worked so hard to provide transportation for the Emperor of Heaven, that it became seriously ill.  The local farmers nursed it back to health.  The elephant being extremely grateful, decided to desert the emperor and stay on earth to help the farmers plow their fields during a time of famine.  The Emperor of Heaven was so angry, that he thrust his sword into the elephant’s back and turned the elephant into the rocky hill.  The pagoda erected on top of the hill stands for the hilt of the sword.  Now this kindly elephant can forever stay with the friendly people of Guilin, guarding the city and welcoming guests from all over the world to this beautiful city.

Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill

Kids by Elephant Trunk Hill

Kids by Elephant Trunk Hill

Hugging the elephants

Hugging the elephants

Lots of elephants by Elephant Trunk Hill!

Lots of elephants by Elephant Trunk Hill!

The cormorants who put on quite the fishing show!

The cormorants who put on quite the fishing show!

Back to the hotel pool for swimming in the afternoon. It is the rainy season so we had to sit out for 20 mins but the kids were laughing about it.  We did dinner in the hotel (club lounge) as we were in a bit of a hurry to do the night river boat tour.  It was a beautiful evening to walk from our hotel to the local wharf where there were at least 8 boats waiting to take people out for an hour.  Lily had met us at the hotel to walk with us.  There was a motorbike show outside the front of our hotel with some Evil Knieval type stunts going on!!!

This boat trip was quite the treat as all along the way there were entertainers for us: musicians, dancers, actors and actresses.  All the trees were beautifully lit along the whole journey which took about 1 hour.

The late afternoon view of the sun and moon pagodas. The Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas is situated in Shanhu (Shan Lake). The word sun and moon in Chinese character written together mean brightness. Some say it symbolises the future of Guilin is bright. The Sun Pagoda is constructed with copper, it has 9 floors and reaches a height of 41 metres. The Moon Pagoda's is made of marble; it has 7 floors and measures 35 meters high. The two pagodas are connected via a tunnel at the bottom of the lake.

The late afternoon view of the sun and moon pagodas. The Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas is situated in Shanhu (Shan Lake). The word sun and moon in Chinese character written together mean brightness. Some say it symbolises the future of Guilin is bright.
The Sun Pagoda is constructed with copper, it has 9 floors and reaches a height of 41 metres. The Moon Pagoda’s is made of marble; it has 7 floors and measures 35 meters high. The two pagodas are connected via a tunnel at the bottom of the lake.

The Sun and Moon Pagoda's just lit at the start of sunset. Our boat was just about to set off.

The Sun and Moon Pagoda’s just lit at the start of sunset. Our boat was just about to set off.

Beautiful scenery all around

Beautiful scenery all around

Another view from the boat.

Another view from the boat.

Entertainment along the river banks during our night boat ride.

Entertainment along the river banks during our night boat ride.

More entertainment

More entertainment

We passed under many bridges. Many are modeled after famous bridges around the world!

We passed under many bridges. Many are modeled after famous bridges around the world!

I really liked the detail of the Chinese scripture on this bridge. Look closely under the arch and you can see how much detail is there.

I really liked the detail of the Chinese scripture on this bridge. Look closely under the arch and you can see how much detail is there.

Beautifully lit trees along the embankment

Beautifully lit trees along the embankment

One of the attractions here is the cormorant fishing show.  The birds dive down and catch the fish and then the fishermen massage the birds necks to get the fish out.  Isabelle and Oliver did not like this as they thought the birds were getting strangled!!

A cormorant about to dive down for a fish.

A cormorant about to dive down for a fish.

The fisherman massaging the neck to get the fish out.

The fisherman massaging the neck to get the fish out.

Artefacts along the river banks.

Artefacts along the river banks.

Wonderful night lights.

Wonderful night lights.

Managed to capture the moon in this one too!!

Managed to capture the moon in this one too!!

Detail of the pagoda

Detail of the pagoda

After the boat ride, it was a short walk back to the hotel but via the Waterfall hotel because at every day at 8.30pm for 10 minutes the hotel has a waterfall of water from their roof plus synchronised fountain display to music.  We stayed to watch and then headed back for a good night sleep after such a busy day!

The waterfall at the Waterfall Hotel.

The waterfall at the Waterfall Hotel.

 

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Long Weekend in Tokyo, Japan

Posted on May 5, 2014 | Leave a comment

Thursday was a terrible travel day.  We had got up early to get our 9.15am flight. When we got to the departure gate we saw that the flight was delayed, with no reason or estimated departure time.  After waiting for 90 minutes at this gate, a gate change was announced (the opposite end of the airport!) so we hurried over with the assumption that we would be boarding.  However, it was another case of “hurry up and wait” with no announcements and no information.  It was incredibly frustrating to not know if we were going to be delayed another 30 minutes or 6 hours!  I knew we were in for a longer wait when they started serving lunch at the boarding area…..
We eventually made it on to the plane at 1.30 and even this was drama driven.  As we had had an equipment change, they were assigning new seats and hand writing on the new seat numbers.  I could not read the numbers on our boarding cards, and was getting pushed from behind to move onto the bus.  The gate agent shouted 32A to me and so I assumed that we would all be sitting in the same row. However, when we actually got on the plane, I discovered that Oliver’s seat assignment was 71H and Isabelle’s was 34C!  I sat us all down together and then refused to move.  It worked because they then had to move everyone else around us!!  We then sat on the tarmac for another 90 minutes before finally taking off.
We landed in Tokyo at 6.30pm (a whole day wasted!) and I was immediately struck by the air – I could actually see clear blue sky.  We found the Narita Express train station easily and then boarded very clean and comfortable train for the hour ride to Tokyo down town.  When we arrived at Tokyo Station, it was a little confusing as the station is HUGE and there are many different lines and many different exits.  I had stopped to check my phone for the details on which exit to head for when a local asked if I needed help.  When I told her which exit I was looking for, she said, “follow me and I will take you there”.  I was amazed – this was so helpful and not what I was used after 2 years in China!  Our friends Earoel and Graham met us at the exit to walk us to the hotel we were all staying at (they had already been in Tokyo for 4 days).  The Marriott Courtyard at Tokyo Station is in a great central location and proved to be a great base for the 4 days that we spent in Tokyo.

We quickly checked in, dumped our bags and then immediately headed out for dinner.  We walked a couple of blocks to a restaurant called Charcoal which was a Japanese BBQ.  The tables had small grills in them where you cook your own food.  We ordered a selection of meats and seafood and then had fun cooking it all.  The kids enjoyed this and managed to act as Chef’s for us all!  We were joined by a couple of colleagues from the Japanese office of my company which proved a good chance to learn a little more about Japanese customs as well as learn the words for; please, thank you and hello.  It is always good to know those words in any language!!

After this lovely dinner, we walked back to the hotel, it was a lovely evening and I hoped that the weather would be as nice for the entire weekend (it was!)  After settling the kids into bed – out like lights, we then planned the following day.  We had decided to brave the queues/lines and visit Disney!  We figured that it was a school day and not a holiday in Japan so it should be less busy (ha, ha, ha, ha!!)
We rushed through breakfast so we could get on the train to Disney (15 minutes away from Tokyo Station).  We arrived about an hour after opening time and it was already packed!!  The day had dawned with clear blue skies and the sun was already beating down.  Although I had thought to bring sunscreen and had covered us all, the kids did not have sunglasses so our first stop was to the Disney store to buy sunglasses for Isabelle and a baseball cap for Oliver.  These were obviously hits with the kids as they then wore them for the entire trip!  We then saw our first show – the Disney orchestra playing some well known songs from the movies.

Woo hoo - Disney, here we come!

Woo hoo – Disney, here we come!

Japanese Orchestra playing well known Disney tunes by the entrance.

Japanese Orchestra playing well known Disney tunes by the entrance.

"What shall we do first, Mum?"

“What shall we do first, Mum?”

The Disney Magic Castle

The Disney Magic Castle

Earoel and kids by the Castle

Earoel and kids by the Castle

Steamboat ride around the Peter Pan lake

Steamboat ride around the Peter Pan lake

We met Winnie the Pooh and Tigger

We met Winnie the Pooh and Tigger

Splash Mountain is behind the kids.

Splash Mountain is behind the kids.

The Indians from Peter Pan

The Indians from Peter Pan

Lovely scenery!

Lovely scenery!

More scenes from the Steam Boat

More scenes from the Steam Boat

Getting a hug from Smee!

Getting a hug from Smee!

Making a wish!

Making a wish!

Graham had not been to Disney before and wanted to “experience the experience”.  Isabelle and Oliver had been to Disney in Florida (September 2011) and their memories were of 10 minutes of queuing (timed it perfectly for FL!!) even for the very popular rides back then.  We could not believe our luck at how many rides we got to go on.  Tokyo was another story – the wait times were already at 120+ minutes and once we had done a fast pass for Thunder Mountain we were then told that we could not apply for another fast pass until 1.30pm. Both kids wanted to go on Splash Mountain, so we headed over there to find that the wait time was 140 minutes – cue Mummy as Fast Pass!  Earoel and Graham were happy to take the kids on some other rides while I waited in line at Splash Mountain.  This was an incredibly boring 90 minutes for me!!!  However, knowing that they kids got to go on the Cars ride and the Carousel so it kept them happy, made me happy.  Splash Mountain did not disappoint and we all got wet!

Our Splash Mountain photo!

Our Splash Mountain photo!

Getting a hug from a character from Pinnochio

Getting a hug from a character from Pinnochio

After this it was time for lunch.  Kids had picked a burger place in Toon Town and so we walked over to that area of the park only to be told that it was shut!  So, back to Tomorrowland for Burgers there!  While we were eating, we noticed that the queue time for the Rocket Ship ride was only 25 minutes, so we jumped in line for that.

Kids trying "old fashioned" telephones!

Kids trying “old fashioned” telephones!

Jumping in for a ride!

Jumping in for a ride!

Fun Fountains

Fun Fountains

The Disney Easter Parade

The Disney Easter Parade

More Easter Carnival floats

More Easter Carnival floats

The whole park was themed for Easter

The whole park was themed for Easter

Even the entrance!

Even the entrance!

I was a little bit disappointed to see that all the Disney Princess characters were Westerners, but when I did a little research after, I learned that the Asian culture actually want to have photos taken with the Disney characters as they look in the movies and not the Asian version.
We went back to Toontown for a couple more rides and then, as it was now getting later in the day, decided to head back to the hotel before dinner.

It was a quick change time at the hotel before going to Andy’s Seafood restaurant for dinner.  An old colleague from my days working in America is COO of the Japanese office and he had arranged this dinner at his favourite place in Tokyo.  It did not disappoint!  It was a large, lively table.  We started the meal with crab and we were served the biggest legs and claws I had ever seen – yummy delicious. The ladies at the table were making local cocktails (???) with freshly squeezed grapefruit (aka – do it yourself at the table!).  Isabelle had an alcohol free version and loved it.  Oliver made fast friends with another colleague over his camera and was busy taking lots of photos of us all.

I love taking my kids out and getting compliments on them.  We had practised the correct way to introduce themselves (handshake, eye contact, clear articulation!) and I was thrilled when EVERYBODY at the table commented on the confidence and firm handshake of both Isabelle and Oliver! (Proud Mum moment!)
Andy’s was a fabulous meal – great company, great food and great drinks.  It was lovely to catch up with Tim (from my Atlanta days).  Wish I had more time to discover Japan through his eyes!!  This was a late night for the kids as we didn’t leave the restaurant until 9.30 (tried to make myself feel better by telling myself that it was only 8.30pm Shanghai time!!)  However, they had been so well behaved and so engaged that it did not seem to matter!  We all crashed fairly quickly after getting back to the hotel room!  It is definitely a fact that a whole day at Disney followed by a dinner out is guaranteed for immediate sleep…..
We did not set the alarm for Saturday morning as we had a fluid agenda.  Just as well, as no-one woke up until 9.00!!  We headed down for breakfast and decided on our itinerary for the day – off to Tokyo Tower, followed by Hibiya Park.
Tokyo Tower used to be the tallest tower in Tokyo (until the completion of the Skytower in 2013).

About to experience Tokyo Tower

About to experience Tokyo Tower

At the bottom of the Tokyo Tower. with some friends!

At the bottom of the Tokyo Tower. with some friends!

Some beautiful displays around the Tower

Some beautiful displays around the Tower

Inside and waiting to ride up to the top!

Inside and waiting to ride up to the top!

A view from the Top.

A view from the Top.

Quite close to Mount Fiji. The kids wanted to climb this in the afternoon!! We will have to save that for another visit :-)

Quite close to Mount Fuji. The kids wanted to climb this in the afternoon!! We will have to save that for another visit 🙂

While we were waiting for the upper level elevators, we saw this board where people could post good luck messages.

Good luck wishes "Ema"

Good luck wishes “Ema”

The explanation!

The explanation!

More views across the City.

More views across the City.

Kids at the top!

Kids at the top!

There were glass floors at certain areas. Bit scary to stand on and look down!

There were glass floors at certain areas. Bit scary to stand on and look down!

A view through the glass to the ground!

A view through the glass to the ground!

The afternoon was a lovely walk around Hibiya Park.  I was amazed that in a city of 34 million people, we bumped into the only people that I know in Tokyo – sometimes it is a small world!!

We went to a Tempura restaurant in the evening and had a fantastic meal.  We had walked down the busy main street (equivalent to Times Square) and saw the bright lights that light up the City at night.

Japanese Tempura!

Japanese Tempura!

Great meal, great company!

Great meal, great company!

The bright night lights of Tokyo city

The bright night lights of Tokyo city

On Sunday we decided to do a Red Bus City Tour in the morning, prior to our trip back to the airport in the afternoon.  The weather was clear blue skies and very sunny, but it was a bit breezy on the open top and we were all a little chilly when the bus picked up speed.  This was great way to see much of Tokyo and listen to the commentator tell us about the history, culture and interesting facts.

On top of the bus.

On top of the bus.

Ready to go……..

Ready to go……..

This was the original Japanese Opera Theatre.

This was the original Japanese Opera Theatre.

I also got a great view of the Tokyo Tower where we had been the day before!

I also got a great view of the Tokyo Tower where we had been the day before!

After the city tour, we enjoyed a lazy lunch and then headed back to the Metro to get the train back to the airport.  Again, I must comment on the kindness of Japanese strangers.  I was completely lost once we had our tickets (the Tokyo Station is HUGE!), but not only did someone stop to see if we were ok, but they also walked us to our platform (which was out of their way as they were on their way out!!)  No delays for the return journey.  We flew Japan Airlines for the first time.  This was a good experience – excellent plane food and the kids got to watch the new Lego Movie!

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Xi’an Terracotta Warrior Army (秦陵兵马俑), City Wall and Muslim Market

Posted on April 13, 2014 | 3 comments

We got off the sleeper train from Beijing at 8:00am ready for another action packed day and were met by our guide, Lily.  She immediately asked if we wanted to freshen up before starting our day, but we knew that it was going to be a packed agenda and wanted to get going.  It was a 45 minute journey in a very comfortable vehicle to the Terracotta Army site and we were well stocked with plenty of water to keep us hydrated.

Lily was extremely knowledgeable about Xi’an, China history in general and especially about the Warriors.  As we were pulling into the Museum, she was telling us the story about how they were discovered (by a farmer called Mr Yang in 1974) and said that he was often at the shop to meet people and answer questions and have photos taken. It was our lucky day as he was just walking into the shop at the same time as us so we all had our photo with him and he signed our book!

All of us meeting Mr Yang who discovered the Warriors. We got his autograph too! What an honour.

All of us meeting Mr Yang who discovered the Warriors. We got his autograph too! What an honour.

Lily told us a funny story about Mr Yang meeting President Clinton.  He was being taught some basic English to say and was told to say “how are you?”, with which Clinton would respond “fine, thank you, and you?”  and then Mr Yang should say “me too”.  However, when he met the President he actually said “who are you?”  Clinton then said “I am the husband of Hilary Clinton” and Mr Yang responded “me too”.  Definitely lost in translation!!

The entrance to the Terracotta Warrior Museum.

The entrance to the Terracotta Warrior Museum.

There are beautiful gardens all round the pits.

There are beautiful gardens all round the pits.

Experiencing the very moving Warriors was all the more special as Lily was telling us stories about each section and how they are working on uncovering more, the preservation techniques and the history associated with them.  The detail on each Warrior is outstanding and hard to believe that they are over 2200 years old.

The first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, wanted to be protected in his afterlife and therefore had his army recreated in Terracotta to be buried with him.  To date, over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses have been discovered in 3 main pits.  The figures vary in height according to their roles and the tallest are the Generals.  Other terracotta non-military figures were also found in other pits and they include officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians.

In addition to the warriors, an entire necropolis built for the emperor also has been found surrounding the first emperor’s tomb mound which is located at the foot of Mount Li and built in a pyramid shape.   It was designed to be a scaled down version of his imperial palace and includes offices, halls, stables and other buildings.  This is all surrounded by rammed earth walls with different gateway entrances.

The terracotta army figures were manufactured in workshops by government laborers and local craftsmen using materials originated on Mount Li, and some historical documents estimate as many as 700,000 people working on these. Heads, arms, legs, and torsos were all created separately and then assembled – an early production assembly line!  Historians believe that there were 8 basic face moulds which were then made unique with additions of clay and sculpting.  Each worker signed the piece that they worked on.  Once complete, they were placed in military formation around the tomb.  They vary in height, uniform, and hairstyle in accordance with rank and most of them originally held real weapons such as spears, swords, or crossbows. Evidence shows that they were also painted with bright paint – pink, red, blue, green, white, black and brown.  Unfortunately, once the terracotta warriors are uncovered the vivid paint curls and flakes off or fades rapidly – within 15 minutes of exposure.  Lily told us that they know there are many more figures to excavate, but are waiting for the right technology to do that AND preserve the colour.  And, they haven’t even started on the actual tomb of the Emperor yet!

Pit 1 is HUGE. Approximately 6,000 Warriors in this building.

Pit 1 is HUGE. Approximately 6,000 Warriors in this building.

Tight squeeze to get all of us plus some Warriors in 1 photo!

Tight squeeze to get all of us plus some Warriors in 1 photo!

Although I had seen pictures of the Warriors, it does not prepare you for the scale and magnitude.

Although I had seen pictures of the Warriors, it does not prepare you for the scale and magnitude.

Sara, Oliver, Owen and Isabelle by the Warriors

Sara, Oliver, Owen and Isabelle by the Warriors

Warriors

Warriors

Broken Warriors waiting to be fixed.

Broken Warriors waiting to be fixed.

The slow and delicate process of excavation….

The slow and delicate process of excavation….

Restored and repaired Warriors

Restored and repaired Warriors

More Warriors and us!

More Warriors and us!

Information about the pigments and colours.

Some of the original vivid pigments and colours.

Waiting to be assembled

Waiting to be assembled

More colour examples

More colour examples

Some of the horses

Some of the horses

We all got to pose with some very good replicas!!

We all got to pose with some very good replicas!!

To keep Isabelle and Oliver occupied while us adults were in awe of what we were seeing, Lily kept them fed with Oreo Cookies and other treats!  After seeing the pits, we moved into the museum area.

Information

Information about Pit 3

The kneeling archer. Even the soles of his shoes are incredibly detailed.

The kneeling archer. Even the soles of his shoes are incredibly detailed.

Each exhibit had information next to it.

Each exhibit had information next to it.

The back of the kneeling archer. Some of the colour has been preserved and you can also see the detail on the shoes.

The back of the kneeling archer. Some of the colour has been preserved and you can also see the detail on the shoes.

A Cavalryman with his horse.

A Cavalryman with his horse.

Information about the Cavalryman and Horse.

Information about the Cavalryman and Horse.

A Chrome plated weapon. This technology was not "re-invented" until the 20th century!!

A Chrome plated weapon. This technology was not “re-invented” until the 20th century!!

Technology from 2200 years ago!!

Technology from 2200 years ago!!

Leaving the Terracotta Warrior Museum and on to Xi'an.

Leaving the Terracotta Warrior Museum and on to Xi’an.

After spending several hours at the Museum, we left to have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Lily was very conscious of Oliver’s nut allergy when ordering all the dishes and was very insistent with the restaurant staff that everything should be nut free.  The meal was fantastic (she had asked what food we preferred, but of course we all said local!!)  More history and local knowledge was shared with us over this meal.  After lunch we went to visit the City wall and the Muslim shopping area.

When Zhu Yuanzhang, the first Emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), captured Huizhou, a hermit named Zhu Sheng admonished him that he should ‘built high walls, store abundant food supplies and take time to be an Emperor,’ so that he could fortify the city and unify the other states. After the establishment of the Ming dynasty, Zhu Yuanzhang followed his advice and began to enlarge the wall built initially during the old Tang Dynasty (618 – 907), creating the modern Xian City Wall. It’s the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world.  Source: TravelChinaGuide.

The wall is almost 14km long, with a deep moat surrounding it.  Every 120 meters there is a rampant, 98 in total, that houses a sentry building.  The only way for an enemy to enter the city was by attacking the gates in the wall, so the ancient Chinese built complex structures within the wall!  The City Wall in Xi’an includes four gates and they are; Changle (meaning eternal joy) in the east, Anding (harmony peace) in the west, Yongning (eternal peace) in the south and Anyuan (forever harmony) in the north. The south gate, Yongning, is the most beautifully decorated one. It is very near to the Bell Tower at the center of the city.  Watch towers are  located on each of the four corners of the wall.  The one at the southwestern corner is round, but the other three are square-shaped.

On top of the City Wall at Xi'an

On top of the City Wall at Xi’an

Isabelle & Oliver on the top of the City Wall, and looking through to the City.

Isabelle & Oliver on the top of the City Wall, and looking through to the City.

More intricate and fascinating architecture. This was an important building, and you can tell because of the animals on the roof edges.

More intricate and fascinating architecture on a Watch Tower. This was an important building, and you can tell because of the animals on the roof edges.

Xi'an City Walls important buildings

Xi’an City Walls important buildings

Hanging out over the City Gates.

Hanging out over the City Gates.

More detailed architecture.

More detailed architecture.

Looking across the gate to administrative buildings on the other side.

Looking across the gate to administrative buildings on the other side.

The view across the City (and moat below) was very good. Wish it had been a clearer day!!

The view across the City (and moat below) was very good. Wish it had been a clearer day!!

Underneath a huge bell.

Underneath a huge bell.

The Bell Tower

The Drum Tower

The Drum Tower got its name from the huge drum located within the building.  At the beginning of each day, at dawn, a bell was struck – in the Bell Tower.  At the end of each day, the drum was beat at sunset to indicate the end of the day – in the Drum Tower.  On the first floor of this tower is a hall that houses many large drums, decorated with intrinsic and beautiful Chinese writing, which symbolizes good fortune.

Many of the tour guides offer bicycle riding along the top of the City Wall. I think this is an excellent way to see it all!

Many of the tour guides offer bicycle riding along the top of the City Wall. I think this is an excellent way to see it all!

After we had visited the City Wall, Lily took us to Muslim Quarter, which includes Muslim Street.  The street is about 500 meters in length from south to north and you reach it under the archway under the Drum Tower. This street is paved with dark colored stone with lots of green trees lining the street.  The buildings on both sides of the street are modeled on the styles of both the Ming (1368-1644) and the Qing Dynasties (1644-1911).  Some of the buildings are restaurants, while others are stores selling lots of tourist souvenirs, but here there is one thing in common: the owners are all Muslims.  This is a big tourist attraction in Xi’an! Xi’an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road 1,000 years ago in the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-9 AD).  A number of merchants and overseas students from the Arabic countries and Persia went to Xi’an for business and studying since the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-9 AD); they settled down on the present Muslim Street, and they were called the Hui people by the locals.  One generation after another, the descendants of the Hui ethnic people now number over 60,000.

Muslim Street

Muslim Street

The street is lined with street food vendors.

The street is lined with street food vendors.

We did not try anything here, although i wanted to!

We did not try anything here, although i wanted to!

Lily was a great tour guide.  We had heard lots of stories about tourists being taken to certain shops and vendors and pushed into buying something, but Lily did not do this.  At the end of the day, she returned us back to the train station and even wanted to come and wait with us until the train time (which we declined as we thought we could do that by ourselves!)  The whole day was a brilliant experience with a lovely lady who ensured that EVERYTHING ran smoothly with no unexpected surprises or additional fees.  Like Jeff the day before in Beijing, Lily is also proud of the history and culture of China and this comes through when she is explaining and discussing it.  This made a huge difference to me – being able to hear from a local all the things that you would never read in a guide book.  She answered all our questions with patience and detail.  It could not have been a better day!

Sharing a meal with a local!

Sharing a meal with a local!

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The Great Wall at Mutianyu, 长城/万里长城

Posted on April 12, 2014 | Leave a comment

After a good night sleep in the hotel, we were up early to to do the hour’s ride to the Great Wall (ChongQing in Chinese).  It was a fairly easy drive, and only the last 20 minutes were busy.  Lots of mini-buses, coaches and vans taking crowds of tourists to this popular part of the Wall.  We were lucky with the weather as the smog levels were relatively low and it was not raining!  Jeff went off to buy our tickets for the ride up/ride down part of the day.  He told us that Michelle Obama and her 2 children had been there within the previous 2 weeks which now made this part of the Great Wall even more popular.  The American public will be pleased to know that their taxes paid for this busy attraction to be completely closed for their visit!  There were street vendors all over the place selling souvenirs, fruit and vegetables.

The busy street vendors. We bought some dried pineapple here - best ever!

The busy street vendors. We bought some dried pineapple here – best ever!

The plan was to take a chair lift up to the Great Wall and then do the toboggan ride back down after.

Isabelle & Oliver by the entrance to the Chair Lift ride.

Isabelle & Oliver by the entrance to the Chair Lift ride.

The Great Wall at Mutianyu

The Great Wall at Mutianyu

Ashley & Oliver riding up on the Chair Lift.

Ashley & Oliver riding up on the Chair Lift.

Ashley, Harley, Kim. Owen. Isabelle, Sara & Oliver on the Great Wall.

Ashley, Harley, Kim. Owen. Isabelle, Sara & Oliver on the Great Wall.

Another one checked off my Bucket List! Oliver took this photo of me on the wonky steps on the Great Wall.

Another one checked off my Bucket List! Oliver took this photo of me on the wonky steps on the Great Wall.

And, here is how the wonky steps look from the bottom.....

And, here is how the wonky steps look from the bottom…..

This was an amazing experience.  I did not imagine that I would make it to the Great Wall.  It just shows that if you put items on your Bucket List to achieve (even if you think they are wild and out there, hopes and dreams) you can complete them.  Now, if I can just find a way to complete 77 – take off and land on an aircraft carrier in the ocean…….

We spent several hours walking parts of the wall and listening to Jeff give us some history and facts.  The architecture is quite spectacular.  All the more because it has survived for thousands of years, is so extensive and has some quite brilliant engineering.  For example, archeological surveys have determined that the Wall is over 8,850km (5,500 miles) long; it was started 800BC but was mostly built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644); there are approximately 25,000 watch towers; it has been estimated that up to a million people died building the Wall over the period of time of construction.

Fire was used to signal to other watch towers, so when the guards/soldiers wanted to eat or stay warm, they had to light fires in chimneys like this one. It would have been incredibly smokey in here!

Fire was used to signal to other watch towers, so when the guards/soldiers wanted to eat or stay warm, they had to light fires in chimneys like this one. It would have been incredibly smokey in here as there is no outlet for the smoke!

The Great Wall has holes like this to line up bow and arrows to fire at approaching enemies.

The Great Wall has holes like this to line up bow and arrows to fire at approaching enemies.

There are cannons at intervals - pointing at the North (Mongolia) ready to fire!

There are cannons at intervals – pointing at the North (Mongolia) ready to fire!  Oliver is in the line of fire here!!

We were lucky with the weather. It was actually a warm sunny day. Smog was relatively low - even so, you can see the haze.

We were lucky with the weather. It was actually a warm sunny day. Smog was relatively low – even so, you can see the haze.

Absolutely amazing.

Absolutely amazing.

All of us with another view…..

All of us with another view…..

Oliver & Isabelle by one of the windows in a watch tower.

Oliver & Isabelle by one of the windows in a watch tower.

Jeff took a photo of all of us at the top of a Watch Tower.

Jeff took a photo of all of us at the top of a Watch Tower.

I was quite surprised at how many steps there were.  When I thought of the Great Wall, I had imagined it quite smooth on the top.  It is definitely a work out to see this marvelous piece of engineering and building.  After all the exercise walking along, we were ready for a thrill ride back down to the village.

We had to wait in line for about 45 minutes as this is a popular way to return to base!  But, it was definitely worth the wait…….

Kim and Sara ready in our toboggans.

Kim and Sara ready in our toboggans.

Oliver rode with Ashley.

Oliver rode with Ashley.

Harley and Isabelle riding down.

Harley and Isabelle riding down.

Once we were all safely at the bottom, it was time for a very late lunch.  Jeff took us to another great local restaurant and we stuffed our faces with more delicious local food.  Our original plan had been to see the Summer Palace after this, but we had spent so much time on the Great Wall, that we ran out of time.  So, Jeff took us to the train station so that we could continue on with the next leg of our journey.  On to the sleeper train for 1 more night, this time traveling to Xi’an.

 

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Beijing – Ti’an’anmen Square, Forbidden City & Rickshaws

Posted on April 11, 2014 | 2 comments

Our Beijing adventure started on Thursday April 10th. We had booked an action packed weekend through Catherine Lu Tours (highly recommended). The kids came home from school, we rushed through dinner and packing and then set off for the train station to catch the sleeper train from Shanghai to Beijing. It had all started well, the traffic was not so bad and we made it to the Hongqiao Travel Hub with plenty of time to spare. However, when we asked where our train was, the reply was “at Shanghai Station”!!  Owen made a couple of frantic calls to Catherine, I made a couple of calls to my lovely assistant and we immediately called Fu to return back to pick us up and take us to the right station!
This was a stressful journey as the time was ticking down and we were not sure if we would make the train or not.  I did not know that Shanghai actually has several (ie, more than 5) major train stations!  It was obviously not clear on our tickets either as it was all in Mandarin which none of us can read.
We did make the train – 4 minutes before departure time we were sitting in our cabin and catching our breath.  We had run all the way through the station and down the platform and were all panting.  Once on the train, we saw that the cabin’s were set up with 4 beds (fluffy duvet and narrow pillows on each bed) bunkbed style. The kids were on top, Owen and I had a bottom bunk each. In the cabin next door were Kim, Ashley and Harley.  We had paid for the extra bed so that they would not have a stranger sharing the last bunk!  There was room underneath the beds to stow our luggage and a small table inbetween. We quickly organized the kids into their pj’s, cleaned their teeth and settled them into their beds. The kids thought it was all cool!  The toilet’s (one of my favourite subjects!) were not as bad as I was expecting and there was a choice between western and squat so all of us were especially happy about that.
The kids soon fell asleep lulled by the gentle motion of the train.  It had the same effect on me and so I organized my duvet, got in my pj’s and prepared for sleep. It was quite a hard mattress and the pillow was not very soft.  I had seen some of the locals carrying their own pillows and I now discovered why.  I did sleep, but not particularly well.  However, the kids had a blissful full nights sleep!
We woke up in the morning with about 1 hour to go until arrival in Beijing, so got ourselves ready and packed everything away.
When we got off the train, our guide Jeff was waiting for us and eager to get going. We had to delay him for a few moments as we had seen a MacDonalds and all of us were hungry and adults needed coffee!  I think that Jeff might have been a bit depressed at this point, thinking “these westerners only eating western food!!”  We all felt perked up and raring to go after food and cafeine.  Jeff asked about lunch and we all said, “local, of course” and I am sure he felt much better about being our guide for the day!

Owen, Oliver, Isabelle, Sara, Harley, Kim & Ashley at Ti'ananmen Square outside the Forbidden City.

Owen, Oliver, Isabelle, Sara, Harley, Kim & Ashley at Ti’ananmen Square outside the Forbidden City.

We had a lovely van to transport us around – spacious and comfortable for all 7 of us.  Jeff took us straight to the hotel (Marriott Apartments at Imperial Palace) so that we could check in and leave our luggage.  Immediately after we were on our way to Ti’an’anmen Square and the Forbidden City as our first stop.
Jeff was entertaining, knowledgeable and full of energy. He really made a difference to our time in Beijing as he was flexible with our schedule (tight to start with) and conscious of all our needs (including ensuring that Oliver’s nut allergy was covered).  Jeff also knew all the good photo stops so throughout our visit he was stopping us to take pictures of all of us.
Tianamen Square was quite the sight to see. The 25th Anniversary of the protests are this year and Jeff was pointing out where the tanks and Chinese Army had been.  I had expected some reluctance to discuss this episode in Chinese history, but Jeff was very matter of fact about it and did not try to gloss over or distort the events.  Security was tight around the Square and into the Forbidden City – we all had to pass bags through X-Ray and walk through metal detectors, but the line moved quickly and we were in the Forbidden Palace grounds within 10 -15 minutes.  We entered through the Meridian Gate (午门; Wǔ Mén).  In ancient times, this gate was reserved for the Emporer.  The Emporer’s Army would enter through the West Gate, while mere mortals had to use the East Gate.  Once through Meridian Gate, we immediately enter an enormous courtyard.  The Golden Stream (金水; Jīn Shuǐ – shaped to resemble a Tartar bow and spanned by five marble bridges) runs through this area.  The other side of the courtyard is the Gate of  Supreme Harmony (太和门; Tàihé Mén). This courtyard could hold an imperial audience of 100,000 people.

One of the lions guarding the Forbidden City

One of the lions guarding the Forbidden City

The detail on the buildings is beautiful

The detail on the buildings is beautiful

Standing by 1 of the main entrances into the Forbidden City. The red doors are huge and very thick.

Standing by 1 of the main entrances into the Forbidden City. The red doors are huge and very thick.

A Red Door

A Red Door

Isabelle and Oliver on the bridge in front of the Supreme Harmony Hall.

Isabelle and Oliver on the bridge over the Golden Stream in front of the Supreme Harmony Hall

All of us by one of the many stone Lions guarding the Palace.

All of us by one of the many stone Lions guarding the Palace.

The Hall of Supreme Harmony

The Hall of Supreme Harmony

The Forbidden City was built between 1406 and 1420 by over 1 million workers.  There are 980 buildings over 180 acres.  It was the home of the Imperial Palace for the Ming and Qing Dynastys.  After being the home of 24 emperors – 14 of the Ming dynasty and 10 of the Qing dynasty – the Forbidden City ceased being the political centre of China in 1912 with the abdication of Puyi, the last Emperor of China. In 1933 the Japanese invasion of China meant that many of the precious relics were evacuated to Taiwan.  They can be seen today in the National Palace Museum in Taipei.  However, there were still many beautiful and ancient artifacts to see in the many buildings within the Forbidden City Walls.

The building names within the Forbidden City, are interesting!  Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Middle Harmony, Hall of Preserving Harmony, Hall for Ancestral Worship, Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union, Palace of Earthly Tranquility, Complete Palace of Peace and Longevity, Pavilion of Cheerful Melodies, Hall of Mental Cultivation, and the Palace of Gathered Elegance.  Each of these buildings have many symbols to identify the significance and importance:

  • Yellow is the color of the Emperor.  Therefore, almost all of the roofs in the Forbidden City have yellow glazed tiles. There are 2 exceptions to this – the library at the Pavilion of Literary Profundity had black tiles because black was associated with water (fire-prevention) and the Crown Prince’s residences have green tiles because green was associated with wood (growth).
  • The main halls of the Outer and Inner courts are all arranged in groups of three – the shape of the Qian triagram which represents Heaven.  The residences of the Inner Court are arranged in groups of 6 (Kun triagram) which represent the Earth.
  • The sloping ridges of building roofs are decorated with a line of statutuettes, starting with a man riding a phoenix, followed by an imperial dragon.  The number of statuettes represents the status of the building – a minor building might have 3 or 5.  The Hall of Supreme Harmony has 10, the only building in China to be permitted this in Imperial times. As a result, its 10th statuette, called a “Hangshi“, or “ranked tenth” is also unique in the Forbidden City.
The 10 Statuettes on the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

The 10 Statuettes on the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

The Forbidden City.

The Forbidden City.

Harley, Isabelle, Oliver and Ashley.

Harley, Isabelle, Oliver and Ashley.

The detail on the buildings is exquisite

The detail on the buildings is exquisite

All of us with the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the background.

All of us with the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the background.

Inside the Hall of Supreme Harmony is the Dragon Throne.  This is where the Emporer would sit before his trembling, nervous court!  The entire court would have to touch their heads to the floor 9 times in his presence.  This is called kowtowing!

The history of the urns.

The history of the urns.

Huge copper and iron urns - for both water storage and fire.

Huge copper and iron urns – for both water storage and fire.

I was grateful for these reminders of the artifacts we were looking at!

I was grateful for these reminders of the artifacts we were looking at!

Inspiration from Native Indians??

Inspiration from Native Indians??

Owen wanted one of these!

Owen wanted one of these!

Back scratchers! Owen wanted one of these too!

Back scratchers! Owen wanted one of these too!

The Clock Exhibition Hall is in the Hall for Ancestral Worship and is filled with amazing elaborate timepieces. Many of the examples were gifts to Emperors from Kings and rulers around the world.

The Clock Exhibition Hall is in the Hall for Ancestral Worship and is filled with amazing elaborate timepieces. Many of the examples were gifts to Emperors from Kings and rulers around the world.

So many beautiful works of art.

So many beautiful works of art.

The Face of the last Emperor - Puyi.

The Face of the last Emperor – Puyi.

A centurys old teapot.

A centurys old teapot.

Owen and I loved the carving on this.

Owen and I loved the carving on this.

So much detail everywhere. This is the domed ceiling in one of the halls.

So much detail everywhere. This is the domed ceiling in one of the halls.

Harley, Oliver and Ashley.

Harley, Oliver and Ashley.

The Imperial Garden

The Imperial Garden

After this history filled morning, it was time for lunch.  Jeff took us to a great local restaurant.  He ordered a great selection of food for us to eat.  We all enjoyed everything.

Our lunch restaurant

Our lunch restaurant

Best Tofu I have ever eaten!

Best Tofu I have ever eaten!

After lunch it was time to go visit the Hutongs via a Rickshaw ride.

In the past, Beijing was composed of hundreds of courtyards around the Forbidden City and these lanes stretched out in all directions, inter-connecting with one another across the city. Hutong is a Mongolian word meaning water well.  They were originally formed in the Yuan Dynasty and grew rapidly during the Ming and Qing dynasties.  In the Yuan Dynasty, Mongolians attached great importance to water, so almost every community in the city was designed around a well, which provided the daily water for the locals. Until now, one can still find dry wells in Hutongs.   In the Yuan Dynasty, there were about 29 Hutongs, while in the Ming Dynasty (1368 –1644), this number increased to 1,070.  In the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), it grew to 2,076.  It is said that by 1949 there were as many as 3,250.  Unfortunately, during the Cultural Revolution, much of this was demolished for “new development” – housing and buildings and in 2003, only 1,500 were left, and now no more than 1,000 remain.  Today, protecting what is left is now a priority.

The lanes have their own layout and structure, and when viewed from the air the combination of the lanes and courtyards resemble a chessboard with delicate gardens, fine rockeries and ancient ruins this makes them a wonder in the world. Because of the cross interlacement of the lanes every house connects to the other, making it easy for local people to keep in touch with their neighbors. Therefore, once one enters any of the lanes, one can feel the deep and warm relationships among people, which is rarely found in this modern world.

Jeff & Kim ready for our Rickshaw tour around the Hutongs.

Jeff & Kim ready for our Rickshaw tour around the Hutongs.

Isabelle & Harley sharing a Rickshaw

Isabelle & Harley sharing a Rickshaw

Owen & Ashley

Owen & Ashley

Me and Oliver ready to go!

Me and Oliver ready to go!

A great view of the Drum and Bell Towers that are the outer edges of the Forbidden City.

A great view of the Drum and Bell Towers that are the outer edges of the Forbidden City.

A rickshaw!

A rickshaw!

So many symbols in China. The four blue posts signify the level of the family living here. The color is also significant and indicates different professions (military, government, retail, etc)

So many symbols in China. The four blue posts signify the level of the family living here. The color is also significant and indicates different professions (military, government, retail, etc)

We stopped at some of the stores in the Hutongs and saw this display of food - these are 1000 year old eggs!!

We stopped at some of the stores in the Hutongs and saw this display of food – these are 100 year old eggs!!

Fantastic selection of spices

Fantastic selection of spices

Lots of souvenirs to buy in the little shops

Lots of souvenirs to buy in the little shops

Ashley & Oliver by a Hutong that is designated for demolition.

Ashley & Oliver by a Hutong that is designated for demolition.

When we had checked into the hotel at the beginning of the day, the kids had seen the swimming pool on the 8th floor.  I am glad that they knew it was there as the promise of swimming later in the day kept them going through all the site-seeing! Ashley and Harley were keen to go with Isabelle and Oliver and it was a race to see who would be ready to go first!  Kim and Owen took this opportunity to nap while I “supervised” from the side of the pool!  An hour of so of swimming recharged the batteries ready for dinner…..

Isabelle taking a flying leap into the pool.

Isabelle taking a flying leap into the pool.

Ashley throwing Oliver!

Ashley throwing Oliver!

A large leap from all 4 - huge splash!

A large leap from all 4 – huge splash!

I had asked a few local colleagues that live in Beiing for recommendations on a good Peking Duck restaurant and the reply was unanimous – “Da Dong Duck”.  So, the 7 of us were excited to eat Peking Duck in Peking at Da Dong Duck!!  Jeff had recommended that we order 2 ducks and then a selection of vegetable side dishes so that is exactly what we did.  What a delicious meal!  The Duck was beautifully carved and there was plenty of perfect crispy skin for everyone. The traditional accompaniments is spring onion (scallion), finely chopped garlic, plus sugar! Sugar and crispy duck skin is a wonderful taste explosion!
We all had multiple duck pancakes. All of the vegetable dishes were yummy too – we had each picked 1 that we liked the look of in the menu (thank goodness for pictures!)  By desert time, the kids wanted a Chocolate Bomb.  This arrived at the table with what looked like a big sparkler sticking out.  The server lit this and when it had burned down, the chocolate “bomb” had opened to reveal lots of packets of chocolate sweets inside.

Da Dong Duck Restaurant

Da Dong Duck Restaurant

The Duck getting expertly carved.

The Duck getting expertly carved.

The arrival of the Chocolate Bomb dessert.

The arrival of the Chocolate Bomb dessert.

After the "bomb" had exploded!!

After the “bomb” had exploded!!

A very busy day, with another one ahead of us.  It was an early night for all of us!

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Thailand Part 3 – Koh Samui

Posted on February 9, 2014 | Leave a comment

Chinese New Year holidays were upon us and we were off to Koh Samui, Thailand to escape the fireworks, cold weather and air pollution.

In true fashion, I had left it quite late to book this trip at one of the busiest travel times in China.  So, we ended up returning to Thailand – Koh Samui this time, and taking the kids out of school 2.5 days early.   So on Monday January 27th we set off for Shanghai airport to enjoy 12 days in the warmth, sunshine and clean air of Thailand.  We flew into Bangkok to connect with our flight to Koh Samui island and were totally amazed to bump into Sheila O’Neill who was checking in for a girlie getaway!  We only know 9 people in Bangkok, so to see one of them at that particular time was funny!  We had a quick catch up before we left for our different flights.

We were picked up at the airport by a lovely man driving a very luxurious, spacious van.  A good omen for a great holiday!  A short 15 minute drive from the airport and we arrived at our Villa at Kanda Residences at the north end of Chaweng Beach.  Owen had researched many places for us to stay and had picked a fantastic villa for us.  A 3 bedroom place with a private pool very close to the beach, in a facility that had a good restaurant and a couple more communal pools, plus a private beach.

We quickly unpacked and then all collapsed into our beds.  The last 3 or 4 months have been incredibly busy, stressful and tiring for me.  The last quarter of our year is always busy with major sales cycles coming to a close, a major customer event, plus planning for 2014.  I felt like I had not had a chance to take a breath and enjoy life or my family.  The year had also started in a crazy fashion with our sales kick off, year end reviews, bonus calculations and settling down organization changes.  I was exhausted!  I spent the first couple of days frantically closing HR and bonus issues before I finally was able to relax and completely switch off.  This is a rare time of year where China shuts down and I knew that I could decompress because everyone else would be off too.  So, for the first time in a year, I did not feel under pressure to check email or follow up on anything – it was bliss.

Oliver relaxing in the pool at our villa. "This is the life, Mum!"

Oliver relaxing in the pool at our villa. “This is the life, Mum!”

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday I slept late, worked a little and chilled by the pool.  The kids loved our pool and were perfectly happy to be entertaining themselves with endless hours of swimming and games.  Owen was exhausted from his trip to the UK and slept and read alot too.  We found a Tesco and stocked up on supplies so that we could enjoy our paradise cocoon.  I did not realize how stressed I had been as I could actually feel it lifting as the days went by.  I was sleeping better and enjoying the simple pleasure of being with my family with no itinerary and no agenda.

We booked the resort Spa experts to come to our villa and pamper us all.  The kids experienced their first massage (a “baby” massage – but didn’t tell them that is what it was called!)  We all had our treatments in the Sala by the pool.  They both loved their experience!  Owen had a lovely foot massage while I had a relaxing body massage.  How wonderful to experience that while chilling in the warm weather.

Isabelle and Oliver getting totally spoiled with massages in our villa!

Isabelle and Oliver getting totally spoiled with massages in our villa!

We went into Chaweng Beach a couple of times.  We spent a couple of hours wandering around the market stalls.  We bought a couple of bedside lights for the kids – made out of coconut and shaped into animals.  Isabelle’s is like an elephant and Oliver’s is shaped like a buffalo.  Oliver also got a lovely pair of Foakley sunglasses (that is Fake Oakley!)  We explored the wonderful beach by the villa.  It is very private (there was no-one else there when we were there) and a mix of interesting rock pools and small pebbles.  It is not a beach for swimming because of all the rocks.  But, it is a children’s paradise for finding things!

Rockpool exploration at Kanda residences

Rockpool exploration at Kanda residences

By the steps on the way down to the beach. The kids are holding onto the shower (made out of bamboo!)

By the steps on the way down to the beach. The kids are holding onto the shower (made out of bamboo!)

Oliver found a coconut and Isabelle found a sand dollar.

Oliver found a coconut and Isabelle found a sand dollar.

It was so disappointing to see so much rubbish washed up on the beach. This sandal had obviously been in the water for a while, judging by the shellfish that had attached itself. This was one example of nature merging with man made mess.

It was so disappointing to see so much rubbish washed up on the beach. This sandal had obviously been in the water for a while, judging by the shellfish that had attached itself. This was one example of nature merging with man made mess.

The deserted beach. This is the Kanda Residence Villas nestled into the hills. A beautiful place to recharge!

The deserted beach. This is the Kanda Residence Villas nestled into the hills. A beautiful place to recharge!

Daddy with his little explorers. The buckets came back full of shells, rocks and other interesting "stuff"

Daddy with his little explorers. The buckets came back full of shells, rocks and other interesting “stuff”

Isabelle as Queen of the Castle on the rocks.

Isabelle as Queen of the Castle on the rocks.

Oliver as King of the Castle on the rocks

Oliver as King of the Castle on the rocks

Owen pretending to eat a dead crab that he found in the rock pools.

Owen pretending to eat a dead crab that he found in the rock pools.

We poured over the island information brochures and told Isabelle and Oliver that they could pick 1 thing each that they wanted to do.  Isabelle chose Quad Biking (separate post) and Oliver chose Coco Splash – a water park (separate post), Owen and I chose a private boat charter (separate post).  We booked the boat charter for Saturday February 1st, the water park for Monday 3rd and Quad biking on Wednesday 5th.  This was a perfect combination of planned activities and then days with nothing to do except relax, swim, eat, drink, read and play.

Family in the infinity edge pool at Kanda Residences.

Family in the lower children’s pool at Kanda Residences.

The infinity edge pool at Kanda residences is wonderful. The views from here are lovely.

The infinity edge pool at Kanda residences is wonderful. The views from here are lovely.

"Hey Guys"

“Hey Guys”

Owen horsing around with the kids!

Owen horsing around with the kids!

Our first meal out was to the Spirit House Restaurant.  We had asked our resort concierge for some recommendations for some good Thai food.  Owen and I both love this cuisine and were eager to eat authentically.  We had a lovely meal in a lovely location (but not sure how authentic it was, especially after our Quad Biking day!!).

Isabelle and Oliver at the Spirit House Restaurant.

Isabelle and Oliver at the Spirit House Restaurant.

Cuddle time between courses!

Cuddle time between courses!

One of the offerings at the Spirit House restaurant.

One of the offerings at the Spirit House restaurant.

Oliver & Isabelle by a wall sculpture in the Spirit House Restaurant

Oliver & Isabelle by a wall sculpture in the Spirit House Restaurant

Offerings to the Gods all over the place!

Offerings to the Gods all over the place!

We bought some Chinese lanterns from a beach vendor and let them off by our pool.

Isabelle and Oliver watching Daddy make sure that the Chinese Lantern is full before letting go.

Isabelle and Oliver watching Daddy make sure that the Chinese Lantern is full before letting go.

Up, up and away. The white light to the right is the Moon. This is very soon after the "New Year".

Up, up and away. The white light to the right is the Moon. This is very soon after the “New Year”.

A lovely meal out was at Tree Tops in the Anantara Lawana resort.  The tables are set on raised stages in the trees.  It is a molecular cuisine which particularly pleased Owen as this is what he is studying at the moment!  I had ordered a lychee martini cocktail that was made at the table and then served over dry ice – the kids thought this was really cool as my drink was surrounded in smoke!!  Owen’s cocktail was also made at the table but was not as visually stunning as mine.  A unique feature of our meal here was a Salt Guru/Sommelier.  She brought over a selection of different salts and then gave Owen and I a couple to try with our main meal.  It was a very nice meal.

A "smoking" Lychee Martini!

A “smoking” Lychee Martini!

Our Tree Tops "welcome" drink

Our Tree Tops “welcome” drink

Non-alcoholic version for the kids!

Non-alcoholic version for the kids!

We ate at Eat Sense after our day at Coco Splash.  This was a lovely beach side restaurant with some wonderful Thai food.  It was very busy the night we were there and I was glad that we had placed our order before a massive group of Chinese people arrived.  I had to laugh at the table next to us – it was a table of 12 and ALL of them were on their smart phones.  One of their group was obviously upset by this and made them all hand them over to him.  He wrapped them all up in a napkin and put it under the table!  Then, all of a sudden, the conversation started to flow, laughing and animated for the rest of their meal.  I guess some things are universal and you don’t need to speak Mandarin to understand that whole interaction!  I was pleased to see this – we have a “no technology” rule when we are eating too!

The Wet Bar at Akaryn Samui Resort and Spa was upscale Pizza night for us all.  82 different pizza’s on the menu and we were spoilt for choice.  This was another fantastic beach side table in another lovely resort.  Our table was right by the ocean waves crashing on the sand – so soothing and relaxing to eat with the music of Mother Nature playing behind us.

Pizza by the beach

Pizza by the beach

After one particular hard afternoon of shopping, we realized that it was getting late.  As we walked down the main strip, we were debating about getting a taxi, when Owen saw Red Snapper restaurant across the road.  We did a quick Trip Advisor look up and saw that it was rated high so headed in for our dinner!  Owen and I both had yummy flank steak followed by limoncello spheres for dessert.  This restaurant had some very colorful lights behind the bar.

Our Red Snapper dinner

Our Red Snapper dinner

Lemoncello Spheres that burst in your mouth! Owen is going to attempt to recreate these at home.

Limoncello Spheres that burst in your mouth! Owen is going to attempt to recreate these at home.

The lit up bottles at the bar in Red Snapper restaurant.

The lit up bottles at the bar in Red Snapper restaurant.

Our last night in Koh Samui and we ate at Coco Rock.  This restaurant is located in the Coral Bay resort very close to Kanda.  It was a beautiful location and the evening light was fantastic for some good photos.  The menu had a combination of Thai cuisine and International favorites.  Owen and I both chose Thai options – Phad Thai for Owen and Massan Chicken curry for me – yummy!  Owen finished off with Tiramisu, Isabelle had ice cream.  Oliver and I were too stuffed for dessert!

On the beach by Coco Rock restaurant.

On the beach by Coco Rock restaurant.

Beautiful light for photos.

Beautiful light for photos.

Me and my girl in our matching vacation dresses bought the day before in a local Koh Samui shop.

Me and my girl in our matching vacation dresses bought the day before in a local Koh Samui shop.

After our wonderful day on the boat, we decided to eat at the restaurant in Kanda (Rockpool Restaurant).  They had some interesting evening entertainment serenading us to help celebrate the Lunar New Year.  Owen and I were not sure how many of the group were ladies or if they were all part of the famous Thailand lady boys that often entertain tourists.  Either way, it was a pretty average performance!!

Entertain at Rockpool Restaurant.

Entertain at Rockpool Restaurant.

Isabelle and Oliver liked sitting up at the big bar table overlooking the ocean at Rockpool restaurant.  Owen took this cool shot of the wind capturing her hair!

I like this photo of the wind in Isabelle's hair.

I like this photo of the wind in Isabelle’s hair.

Even though we were in a private villa, we still had some of the amenities of a hotel/resort.  When we returned from dinner on Lunar/Chinese New Year, we each had a fortune cookie and a delightful little colorful purse with a shiny new coin in it.  A very nice touch from the resort!

New Year gifts

New Year gifts

Thailand is a beautiful Country.  The food is delicious, the people are welcoming and friendly, the air and the ocean are clean (relatively!!) and the pace of life is relaxed.  We all enjoyed a very relaxing holiday here and will definitely try to return to visit another area of this wonderful part of the world.

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A Diamond Day out

Posted on February 1, 2014 | 1 comment

Owen and I have fond memories of  a private charter boat tour in St Thomas (many years ago now and before kids!)  When we saw the reviews for a similar experience in Koh Samui, we knew we would have to try it again, but with the kids this time!

Our day started at 9.30 with a taxi pick up from our villa.  Oliver called this the BEST TAXI ever as it was a super large van with disco lights in the ceiling and captain chairs all round.  This was the start of our superb experience.  Scott welcomed us on the dock and walked us down to the “Diamond” Catamaran – a 32 foot luxury boat.  It had plenty of space for sitting, walking and lazing.  There was a dinghy on the back, plus paddle board and a really cool Blade Fish, which is a James Bond like gadget that you hold on to and it propels you wherever you want to go.  This was great for tired legs and VERY FUN.

The Diamond.

The Diamond.

Everyone on board and ready to go! Captain Bernie and Nojo are our hosts for the day.

Everyone on board and ready to go! Captain Bernie and Nojo are our hosts for the day.

Aye, Aye Cap'n

Aye, Aye Cap’n

Aye, aye, Cap'n

Aye, aye, Cap’n

After a safety briefing, Scott left us in the capable hands of Captain Bernie and first mate Nojo.  These 2 made our day outstanding.  Captain Bernie immediately saw that I liked to take photos and he picked my camera up many times to take photos of us all because we were all too busy having fun or in the water!!  We left the dock and headed out across the ocean to another Thai island for snorkelling and messing about in the ocean.  This took about 45 minutes at top speed, during which both kids got to drive the boat, which they thought was the best thing!

Captain Oliver in charge!

Captain Oliver in charge!

Captain Isabelle's turn.

Captain Isabelle’s turn.

We are in good hands with these 2 at the wheel!!

Nothing to do but relax and enjoy the kids being in charge, for once!

Nothing to do but relax and enjoy the kids being in charge, for once!

We all had lots of fun on the boat – Captain Bernie even managed to get photos of Owen and I messing around!!

Messing around part 1.

Messing around part 1.

"Shall I push him over board?"

“Shall I push him over board?”

Going…. going, but holding on!

Going…. going, but holding on!

Oh - how we laughed!!

Oh – how we laughed!!

Aah - he knows I didn't mean it!!

Aah – he knows I didn’t mean it!!

Kids relaxing on the bean bags at the front of the boat. These were soooo comfortable.

Kids relaxing on the bean bags at the front of the boat. These were soooo comfortable.

A lovely family shot. A very enjoyable day on this fabulous boat.

A lovely family shot. A very enjoyable day on this fabulous boat.

It was lovely to get photos of Owen and I too!

It was lovely to get photos of Owen and I too!

Once we arrived at the bay, it was time to drop anchor and play for a bit!  We all went snorkelling and this was the only disappointment of the day.  As this area had been billed as the best in Thailand my expectations were high, however the visibility was poor and I did not see much.  There had been some storms the previous week and this apparently had clouded the ocean.  The kids still had fun with the Blade Fish and just swimming around.  Nojo was excellent as he also got in the water to keep an extra sets of hands and eyes on our 2!  We all had a go on the paddle board – Oliver was the only one who managed to stand up long enough to go anywhere.  As soon as I stood up long enough to try to put the paddle in, I lost my footing and fell in – over and over again.

All 4 of us snorkeling.

All 4 of us snorkeling.

Isabelle standing up on the Paddle Board. Did not last long!!

Isabelle standing up on the Paddle Board. Did not last long!!

Oliver doing very well on the Paddle Board and even managing to paddle!!

Oliver doing very well on the Paddle Board and even managing to paddle!!

At least this looks like Owen is a pro! Seconds after this, he fell off!!

At least this looks like Owen is a pro! Seconds after this, he fell off!!

So much fun for all of us in the Ocean!

So much fun for all of us in the Ocean!

Isabelle trying out the Blade Fish. She loved this and thought it was the coolest way to get around in the water!

Isabelle trying out the Blade Fish. She loved this and thought it was the coolest way to get around in the water!

Isabelle and Oliver paddle boarding together!

Isabelle and Oliver paddle boarding together!

Nojo got the Dinghy down and took us over to the sand bar that separated 2 islands.  This was really cool as you could see 2 separate currents meeting at this point.  The currents were quite strong and when I was snorkelling I did not realize how far I had drifted away.  It felt like a long swim back…….  I also felt tiny pin pricks on my arms and legs when I was in the water.  Captain Bernie said they were tiny (almost invisible) jellyfish, but Nojo (the local) said that it was actually plankton having a nibble!

Off to the Sandbar with Nojo navigating.

Off to the Sandbar with Nojo navigating.

The sandbar were the 2 currents meet. This was taken from the boat in the bay, where we had dropped anchor and had been snorkeling, swimming and paddle boarding.

The sandbar where the 2 currents meet. This was taken from the boat in the bay, where we had dropped anchor and had been snorkeling, swimming and paddle boarding.

Nojo taking Isabelle and Oliver out…...

Nojo taking Isabelle and Oliver out……

Having a leisurely morning spent in this way, we returned back to the boat to find Captain Bernie serving lunch.  It was delicious – cold cuts, salad, fresh fruit – simple but so welcome after our morning activity.  There were plenty of drinks on board, Owen and I had a couple of glasses of Champagne too!

Ice cold Champagne to wash down a delicious meal. "Cheers"

Ice cold Champagne to wash down a delicious meal. “Cheers”

After lunch, Captain Bernie gave the kids some bread to through to the fish and hundreds of them came up to eat!  Now, where were they when I was snorkeling!!

Isabelle and Oliver feeding the fish!

Isabelle and Oliver feeding the fish!

There were 100's of them!

There were 100’s of them!

Captain Bernie was outstanding – nothing was too much trouble and he made sure that we did exactly what we wanted.  He was very entertaining (movie director before this career change!) and had some interesting stories to tell.  He was genuinely interested in us all and in ensuring that everyone was having a good time.  Nojo was brilliant too – very hands on with the kids and helping them on and off the boat (what felt like a thousand times!) and then holding the paddle board steady for them.  He let them both have a go at rowing the dinghy and was always smiling.

The boat was so luxurious with beds and bean bags on the front to laze on, a top deck where the Captain area was plus more sitting areas here, a well stocked galley and large dining area at the back.  There were snacks galore – cookies, sweets and fruit.  Isabelle and Oliver both helped themselves multiple times throughout the day!  They were particularly caring about our “no-nut” menu (for Oliver) and we could relax about that.

Isabelle and Oliver both fell asleep on the ride back to the dock – gently rocked by the boats motion and exhausted from so much water activity.  The squeals of delight from both of them during the day made it so much more special for me.

Afternoon nap time for Oliver.

Afternoon nap time for Oliver.

And for Isabelle!

And for Isabelle!

We even participated in a boat rescue on the way back to the dock!  We saw a stranded couple in a boat looking gloomily at a engine in pieces!  Captain Bernie threw them a rope and we towed them close enough to the nearest harbor for them to be able to get local help!

Watching the wake was so relaxing. Stress? What Stress? This is definitely the way to get rid of stress and totally relax!

Watching the wake was so relaxing. Stress? What Stress? This is definitely the way to get rid of stress and totally relax!

Colourful local Thai fishing boats. They drop 1 anchor (so as not to disturb the coral too much) and then tie themselves together. Trying to be green! I was appalled at the amount of trash on all the beaches that gets washed up. Both Captain Bernie and Nojo said that it was a cultural thing for the locals to throw stuff overboard, but there has been a lot of education to try to prevent it in the next generation.

Colourful local Thai fishing boats. They drop 1 anchor (so as not to disturb the coral too much) and then tie themselves together. Trying to be green! I was appalled at the amount of trash on all the beaches that gets washed up. Both Captain Bernie and Nojo said that it was a cultural thing for the locals to throw stuff overboard, but there has been a lot of education to try to prevent it in the next generation.

The wonderful coastline on our way back.

The wonderful coastline on our way back.

It is wonderful here.

It is wonderful here.

We will all be talking about this day for some years to come as there were some seriously cool memories made yesterday by Scott and his excellent team.   We came home tired but elated.

End of a wonderful day. Captain Bernie was a superstar!

End of a wonderful day. Captain Bernie was a superstar!

We all had fun with Nojo.

We all had fun with Nojo.

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Snorkeling, Surfing and Swimming

Posted on September 22, 2013 | Leave a comment

While in Beautiful Bali we packed so many activities in to our week there.  Another first for the children was snorkeling.

Kadek drove us to a great beach where there were many water sports available.  We decided to start with snorkeling and then see what else the kids would be up for!  We got suited up with life jackets, masks and snorkels.  My first time snorkeling is a very vivid memory of quick, panic short breaths breathing through the tube.  I found it difficult to remember that I could actually keep my face in the water (something I was not keen on when I was younger) and still breathe.  The ability to see so many wonderful fish is what kept me going back then and now I love it!  Even considering getting dive qualified once the kids are old enough to do it with me and Owen.

So, out onto the boat – just the 4 of us with the captain.  We had to go very slowly over the shallow water which was filled with fishermen!  Once we past them, we sped up and 5 minutes later we arrived at a lovely spot, attached to the buoy and then over the side we went.

We are not that far from land, despite the view from here! Isabelle and Oliver loved it!

We are not that far from land, despite the view from here! Isabelle and Oliver loved it!

Following a little apprehension about jumping off the side of the boat into the ocean, the kids were soon bobbing about on the ocean.  It took a little more persuasion to mask up and look down, but once they got the hang of it, they both loved it!  We saw a couple of fish that looked like fish from “Finding Nemo” and both children took great delight in pointing these out to us!  They loved the fish that swam slightly higher, the optical illusion of light in the water made it seem like we could touch them.  It was not the best snorkeling that Owen and I have done, but it was a good first for Isabelle and Oliver.

Chilling on the boat after the ocean swim and snorkel!

Chilling on the boat after the ocean swim and snorkel!

Lovely shot of Owen and Isabelle xx

Lovely shot of Owen and Isabelle xx

It was a lovely few hours trying something new again!  Once back at the beach we enjoyed a leisurely time watching the fishermen and other water sport activity.

The kids loved the surf at the beach by our villa.  They spent many hours wave jumping and getting knocked over by the huge waves!

Pure joy on these faces!

Pure joy on these faces!

 

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Beautiful Bali

Posted on September 2, 2013 | Leave a comment

Owen and the kids returned from UK on August 9th (just in time to celebrate Isabelle’s birthday!), then on August 13th we all flew from Shanghai to Bali for a week of family relaxation before the new school year starts.

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Owen had found us a beautiful villa on the beach with its own pool and it was paradise.  Because of the flight times, we decided to fly in 1 day early and stay at a hotel near the airport.  We checked into Baliwood Property to find a lovely 2 bedroom hotel room.  It had a great pool that the kids enjoyed for the morning before it was time to pack up and wait for our driver to take us to Villa Nova at Seminyak.

Kadek arrived on time and was a very entertaining driver.  He is very proud of his Country, heritage, traditions and culture and was very eager to share all of that with us.  It was fascinating listening to him – a wonderful story telling style with lots of facts and view points.  1 hour later we arrived at the villa =  paradise.

Welcome to Villa Nova, Seminyak, Bali

Welcome to Villa Nova, Seminyak, Bali

This is the view of our beautiful villa from the pool.

This is the view of our beautiful villa from the pool.

The villa had 4 koi fish ponds, a lovely outdoor dining and sitting area, a pool and a private walkway to the beach.  It had an open-plan layout, 3 en-suite bedrooms and a very modern kitchen.  Best of all, it came with Kadek (our driver) and a wonderful married couple called Ketut and Nyoman who looked after the property and cooked for us.  It was truly a treat to be looked after so well.

Isabelle and Oliver enjoying the pool.

Isabelle and Oliver enjoying the pool.

How lovely to laze in the cabana, hear the ocean waves crashing on the beach, read a book or play on iPads!!

How lovely to laze in the cabana, hear the ocean waves crashing on the beach, read a book or play on iPads!!

It was so relaxing to fall asleep listening to the waves rolling in every night.  Our beach was a surfers paradise so the ocean was loud enough!  It was therapeutic to laze on the cabana, read, watch the kids play in the pool and just let the day float by.

Deserted beach at sunset. Spectacular colours - the photo does not do it justice!

Deserted beach at sunset. Spectacular colours – the photo does not do it justice!

Playing in the waves.

Playing in the waves.

How our garden was lit up at night.

How our garden was lit up at night.

The sunsets in Bali were wonderful

The sunsets in Bali were wonderful

Just one of the stone carvings by one of the fish ponds. The children enjoyed feeding them every day.

Just one of the stone
carvings by one of the fish ponds. The children enjoyed feeding them every day.  Check out the lizard on the cheek!

Me and my gorgeous girl with local flowers in our hair.

Me and my gorgeous girl with local flowers in our hair.

We decided to alternate days at the pool/beach with full activity days.  I have already written about our White Water Rafting and Elephant Safari (Bucket List Day) and the Tree Top Adventures.  Another day was to Ubud to the many villages that specialise in wood carving, silver work, stone work and painting.  These traditions get handed down through generations.  One gallery we visited had 15 family members all doing amazing art work in many different mediums.  We were so fortunate to have Kadek, such a knowledgeable local, giving us a running commentary as we were driving through this beautiful, amazing Island.  They are a very spiritual culture, there are shrines and temples everywhere.  Every day, offerings are made to the spirits and Gods in the form of flowers that are specially grown along side rice and other crops.  These are presented in woven baskets.

One of the hundreds of offerings that we saw around Bali.

One of the hundreds of offerings that we saw around Bali.

Our visit coincided with Bali Independence festival and there were many flags along the roadside displaying the red and white of Bali colours.  There are many festivals in Bali – in fact, Kadek joked that business and schools were shut more than they were open because of all the festivals!  Bali is the largest and most popular Island in Indonesia and tourism is the main form of economy.  It is classed as a third world environment and in talking with Kadek, this came through in many discussions.  For example, Kadek’s wife has to shop every day because not only do they not have a refrigerator, but there is not one in their village.  Cock fighting is a popular form of passing the time and a social event for whole villages.  Many times we were diverted because roads were closed due to cremation events.  These are expensive for Balinese families, but follow a very traditional process.  Carved animals and elaborate structures are lovingly created by family members and the entire village.  There is a long and loud procession through the streets before the final ceremonial burning.  If a family cannot afford to perform this ceremony, they will bury their loved ones, but dig them up later when they can afford to do it.

The Balinese believe that special spirits associated with the Earth live in some of the larger trees on the Island.  They will protect these spirits by wrapping the trees in a black and white cloth.  We saw these cloths wrapped around some of the shrines too.

This large tree is wrapped in the black and white cloth to protect the Gods and Spirits that live within.

This large tree is wrapped in the black and white cloth to protect the Gods and Spirits that live within.

This local lady is bringing an offering to this shrine. You can see that this is also protected with the black and white cloth.

This local lady is bringing an offering to this shrine. You can see that this is also protected with the black and white cloth.

Colourful flags to keep the birds away from the rice fields.

Colourful flags to keep the birds away from the rice fields.

Locals harvesting the rice.

Locals harvesting the rice.

As the climate is so temperate there is no set time for planting or reaping.  The rice fields are a wonderful site throughout the Island.

A wonderful view of the rice fields.

A wonderful view of the rice fields.

More rice fields

More rice fields

This gallery has 15 family members working in it. We bought some artwork here! Wonderful, talented family.

This gallery has 15 family members working in it. We bought some artwork here! Wonderful, talented family.

Our day to Ubud included a visit to a Jewellery gallery.  They make all the silver (and a little gold) on the premises.

This exquisite piece is made from silver by the talented artists in this village.

This exquisite piece is made from silver by the talented artists in this village.

Oliver and Isabelle at the Silver shop. The gallery is surrounded by fish ponds and they had great fun looking at all the different fish.

Oliver and Isabelle at the Silver shop. The gallery is surrounded by fish ponds and they had great fun looking at all the different fish.

Kadek took us to a lovely restaurant on this day trip out.  One of the highlights was a pizza oven shaped like a turtle.

The turtle pizza oven.

The turtle pizza oven.

Oliver posing by some artwork in the restaurant.

Oliver posing by some artwork in the restaurant.

Me and my little chicks at lunch. We ate on the upper level and had a fantastic view across the fields.

Me and my little chicks at lunch. We ate on the upper level and had a fantastic view across the fields.

Our last stop on this day was to a wood carving gallery.  This place had a bird that was a perfect mimic.  He was “chatting” away to the kids and even copied Owen’s laugh!

Looking down from the upper level of the restaurant to a pool.

Looking down from the upper level of the restaurant to a pool.

After we completed the Tree Top Adventure we went to the Floating Temple.  The lake that the Temple floats on is in the belly of a Volcanic mountain.  This made for some great photos as we were so high in the mountains and the clouds were so low.

The lake that the Floating Temple is on.

The lake that the Floating Temple is on.  The clouds are so low here and it is much cooler than everywhere else we visited on the Island.

The Floating Temple

The Floating Temple

This photo shows a mosque in the middle of the Temple towers.

This photo shows a mosque in the middle of the Temple towers.

The top of the driveway into the Botanical Gardens where we did the Tree Top Adventure. The mountains behind this statue are a fabulous back drop.

The top of the driveway into the Botanical Gardens where we did the Tree Top Adventure. The mountains behind this statue are a fabulous back drop.

The bottom of the driveway to the Botanical Gardens. Look at the flags to celebrate Independence Day.

The bottom of the driveway to the Botanical Gardens. Look at the flags to celebrate Independence Day.

Isabelle by one of the displays floating by the Temple.

Isabelle by one of the displays floating by the Temple.

The roof of the temple is made from palm tree husks/silks. There are very few on each palm tree so it takes a long time and huge effort to make this.

The roof of the temple is made from palm tree husks/silks. There are very few on each palm tree so it takes a long time and huge effort to make this.

Amazing structure

Amazing structure

A huge tree on the walk down to the Temple. Again, it is covered in the black and white cloth to keep spirits in.

A huge tree on the walk down to the Temple. Again, it is covered in the black and white cloth to keep spirits in.

Most of the Temples in Bali have an inner and outer area. We could walk around the outer area, but were not allowed inside. Here we are on the steps.

Most of the Temples in Bali have an inner and outer area. We could walk around the outer area, but were not allowed inside. Here we are on the steps.

Isabelle and Oliver posing on the steps.

Isabelle and Oliver posing on the steps.

There are lovely gardens surrounding the Temple with many animal statues.  Isabelle and Oliver loved posing with all these:

Riding the giant goldfish!

Riding the giant goldfish!

Roaring with the Tiger

Roaring with the Tiger

Getting eaten by the bear

Getting eaten by the bear

Flying with the Eagle

Flying with the Eagle

With Dad on the lizard

With Dad on the lizard

By the deer

By the deer

Owen and I have always said that the world is too large and that there is so much to see, that we would not go back to anywhere that we have previously visited.  However, we loved Bali so much, that we have had to revise our thoughts!  The people are so friendly and welcoming – always smiling.  The land is a mix of mountains, fields, rivers, jungle, beaches, villages and tourist cities.  This was a fantastic week away and we will be returning soon.

Beautiful Temples all over the Island.

Beautiful Temples all over the Island.

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Treetop Adventures in Bali

Posted on August 25, 2013 | 3 comments

The Treetop Adventure Park in the Botanical Gardens in Bali gave us several hours of thrills and excitement.  There are 7 adventure circuits within the trees from between 2 – 20 meters high.  In total there are 72 challenges including Suspended Bridges, Spider Nets, Tarzan Jumps, Flying-Fox, Flying Swings, and many more fun challenges.  All of the circuit platforms are held in place using an innovative compression system to protect trees from any damage and all of the cables are protected from cutting into the trees.

Once we arrived, we were kitted up in the safety harnesses with pulley and carabiners.  We then completed the training circuit where all of us learned how to  work the safety harness (1 of the 2 carabiners must always be attached to the guide wires) and how to work the pulleys for the flying fox zip lines.

The different circuit levels for ages 4 - 74!

The different circuit levels for ages 4 – 74!

The 4 of us having fun on the wires in the treetops!

The 4 of us having fun on the wires in the treetops!

We started on the Squirrel Yellow Circuit and Isabelle was straight up and taking the lead.  She was so confident and having so much fun doing it!  She was a little scared at some points but managed to keep going.  Oliver, who always wants to do everything that Isabelle does, kept up with us all on everything!

Isabelle high in the trees!

Isabelle high in the trees!

Oliver climbing like a monkey!

Oliver climbing like a monkey!

Smiling in the tunnels!

Smiling in the tunnels!

Owen on the Flying Fox Zip Line

Owen on the Flying Fox Zip Line

Me getting confident on the Flying Fox Zip line - look, no hands!!

Me getting confident on the Flying Fox Zip line – look, no hands!!

Once we had finished the Yellow Circuit, we went on to do the Green and Orange Circuits.  My heart was thumping on the Orange Circuit, and I was not sure that I was going to be able to finish……  (I used to be such a dare devil, but the older I get, the more I do not like heights).  However, seeing that Isabelle and Oliver had both finished this round, I could not let them see me wimp out!

Super nervous on this one. Owen had to talk me through it! I was so happy to finish this circuit!

Super nervous on this one. Owen had to talk me through it! I was so happy to finish this circuit!

Walking high and confident!

Walking high and confident!

Isabelle loving 1 of the Flying Fox Zip Wires

Isabelle loving 1 of the Flying Fox Zip Wires

Oliver on 1 of the Flying Fox Zip Wires

Oliver on 1 of the Flying Fox Zip Wires

After we had completed the 3 circuits that the kids could do, they wanted to start all over again!  So, we went round again, but this time Oliver went first.

Owen and Isabelle on round 2!

Owen and Isabelle on round 2!

Oliver in the lead!

Oliver in the lead!

So much fun!

So much fun!

Wheeee - we love Bali!!!!

Wheeee – we love Bali!!!!

 

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