INDIAN BROMANCE

There’s something different about Indian men. I’m not talking about their intense gazes, which I expected; something else caught my attention. It took me a while to figure it out. Once I’d got past their unabashed curiosity, social confidence and friendly hospitality, I realised Indian men are super affectionate…towards each other.

Young and old alike hold hands like high school sweethearts. They fondly pat each other’s rotund bellies. They wrap arms around each other’s shoulders as they go for a gentle chinwag ‘n’ stroll. They straddle motorcycles together – passengers unfazed about holding their mates by the hips or wrapping their arms around the driver’s waist in a big bear hug. They shake hands and don’t let go until the conversation’s over. It’s delightful – so intimate and loving, yet completely casual, too.

I suddenly felt saddened that this display of brotherly love was completely foreign to me. If men behaved like this back home in Oz, they’d generally be paid out for being “gay”; not that being gay’s a bad thing, it just shouldn’t be the only reason men feel comfortable showing affection towards each other. In Western cultures, a 3-second hug, jovial slap on the back or fist pump are generally the limit between mates – a brisk handshake will suffice between strangers or male colleagues. It often takes copious amounts of alcohol for Aussie blokes start displaying a bit of man-love. Even then they seem to get this wild urge to play-tackle each other, as though they need to make their hugs seem manlier. It takes courage to be a “touchy-feely” guy in many countries – but not in India.

That’s one of the reasons I love this country so much. The most intimate parts of people’s lives and emotions are on display 24/7 – not tucked behind closed doors or in a deep part of their brain shrouded in embarrassment or fear. They value connection between brothers – expressions of friendly fondness and familial-like love. It’s welcoming. It makes one feel as though they belong and are a valued member of the community.

Now, if only men and women could show they same level of affection in India. While hugs between female and male friends aren’t completely taboo in more modern, populated areas, Ben and I certainly felt the need to limit our usual public displays of affection (don’t stress, I’m only talking about the legal kind!). While a man falling asleep nestled in his mate’s neck would go unnoticed in India, a couple doing the same thing could cause discomfort to onlookers. It’s a funny thing. Perhaps Australians and Indians can teach each other something about showing the love.

REVIEW: THE BEACH HOUSE RESORT

How would you describe it? Rejuvenating, comforting, supportive, healthy and happy.

Who’d love it? Anyone who needs some personal time to relax and improve their health (mental and physical). Many of the guests I met had experienced some kind of trauma. They came to The Beach House to feel good again. Others wanted to get their eating habits back on track and develop a healthier relationship with food.

How were the rooms? Exactly what the doctor (and patient) ordered. They’re newly renovated, so the decor is bright and fresh, helping to create a calming and revitalising atmosphere. The bathrooms were spacious. The bed was deliciously soft. I had a mountain of cuddly pillows to choose from. Seriously speedy Wi-Fi and Pay TV were also available. I couldn’t have asked for more.

How was the food? It’s hard to judge, as I was on a detox diet, haha! Healthy ingredients aren’t always the most palatable. But, I must admit, the fruit juices were absolute heaven, delivering a serious flavour punch. The vegetable broths reminded me how food tastes without chemicals and additives – probably a good thing!

What was the vibe like? Calm and content. It’s easy to achieve a sense of inner peace here. The staff were gentle in nature, offering sweet smiles when guests needed a boost. We were all mildly comatose due to our low-cal meals, daily yoga classes, meditation sessions by the beach, and blissful massages.

How was the service? Delightful. No request was too inconvenient. Help was always given swiftly and kindly. The staff were very compassionate. Hungry guests can be moody ones. The staff never let a snappy comment dint their positive demeanour. The only slight challenge was the sheer number of staff – there were so many doctors and personnel, communication between them (and the guests) wasn’t always 100% seamless. Having said that, it was wonderful to know every support resource I could possibly need was ready to help me through my detox.

What were the highlights? The experience as a whole – it was delivered with professionalism, careful consideration and attention to detail. Having signed up for the juice cleanse / detox retreat, I was supported with an incredible amount of resources and guided through my journey in the best, most holistic way possible. I felt as thought it wasn’t just about eliminating a few toxins and kilos of fat from my body. The process was committed to improving my physical, psychological and physiological health to support my total well-being. After staying at The Beach House, I knew I’d made many positive changes, from the inside out.

What’s different about the place? When you come to The Beach House, you stay at The Beach House. There’s no escaping this little hideaway, which is brilliant. It meant I could totally focus on what I was there to do, away from any stress and distractions. The team kept me busy for five days with daily one-on-one yoga classes, a variety of massages, educational talks about health, a library of reading material, walks on the beach, meditation in the ocean-front huts, regular colonics and the best Wi-Fi I’d accessed in India. I was never bored. The Beach House is also unique because it personalises programs to suit individual guests. Before arriving, I had to fill out a detailed questionnaire which had an impact on my meals, hypnotherapy sessions, nutrition talks and beyond. I really felt like my stay was made just for me and, for this reason, it made an immensely positive impact on my life.

How would you rate the overall experience? 8.5 out of 10 sun salutations.

Resort Details:
Sernabatim Beach Road, Colva, Salcette, Goa, India
Tel: 0832 669 7733
www.thebeachhousegoa.com

SIMPLE ROOFTOP WORKOUT FOR HAPPY TRAVELLERS

I’m often asked what I miss most about home. Strangely enough, it’s the thing I resented most before I left home – routine. But, after four straight months of living out of a suitcase and travelling between cities, I’m craving structure. Why? Because it’s so much easier to foster a healthy lifestyle when you’re surroundings and schedule are stable.

Finding time and a safe space to exercise can be a serious challenge for travellers, especially in crowded cities (hitting the pavement in Mumbai while thousands of curious locals watch on isn’t an attractive option!). After a while, not getting your heart rate up can leave you feeling lethargic and downright miserable.

A few weeks ago, I found myself in that exact physical and mental space; unfit and unmotivated. So, I recruited my hyper-energetic husband and favourite workout apps to help me get my mojo back. Here’s how I maintain my basic fitness and inject a whole lot of positive energy into my travel life. I hope these tips help you feel happy and healthy, too!

#1. Find a secluded rooftop

Whenever I move into a new hotel, I ask the staff if I can use their open-air rooftop for my workouts. At sunrise and sunset, there’s no place I’d rather be. Hotel rooftops tend to have spectacular views of a city, especially if they’re located in the heart of the action. This means you can enjoy a private workout with an inspiring outlook and take awesome pics when you’re done.

#2. Get a skipping rope

Skipping is one of the best forms of exercise for travellers. Not only is it one of the most efficient cardio sports, burning a lot of calories in a short amount of time, it also improves your balance and tones your legs, arms and core. Plus, the equipment needed is uber portable – perfect for those of us with a little wanderlust. My hubby made me a skipping rope out of some spare chord we had in our Land Rover. If you’re not into DIY, you can buy one off eBAY for around $5.

#3. Download the right Apps

Two FREE apps have been my lifeline to health and well-being while travelling. The first is the internationally acclaimed 7-Minute Workout app. Not a day goes by when I can’t spend seven minutes on my own health. As long as I have a wall and step nearby, I have no excuses not to do a 7-Minute Workout. If I can’t access a rooftop, the exercises can be performed in my hotel room (using the bed for step ups and tricep dips).

I also love this app because it talks me through the whole circuit like a PT and forces me to keep up an energetic pace with its countdowns. When I started using this app, my posture and technique were pretty off. But, after watching the demo videos, I was able to go about things the right way and get the most out of my workouts.

My second favourite fitness app is Simply Yoga. I usually opt for the 20-minute workout but there are lots of options depending on how much time you can spare. Like the 7-Minute Workout, this app teaches you how to correct your posture and technique with video tutorials. It also helps you time your poses so your body reaps the maximum benefits from your yoga session.

#4. Workout!

For me, 100-200 jumps with a skipping rope, one round of the 7-Minute Workout plus and a 20-minute yoga session are enough to keep me feeling happy and healthy. I can handle 30 minutes of exercise a day. If you’re a fit freak of nature like my husband, tackle 2-3 sets of the 7-Minute Workout (see video below) along with the skipping and yoga. This will take around 45 minutes and leave you feeling truly spent.

LESSONS IN HAPPINESS FROM BHUTAN

If there’s such a thing as utopia, it exists in Bhutan. You’d be hard-pressed to find a place more pure of heart. Indeed, Bhutan grabbed the world’s attention when it chose measure its success against Gross National Happiness rather than material development. But, what does Gross National Happiness mean exactly? Is there more to Bhutan’s bliss than a government paradigm?

This pocket-sized country, nestled quietly amongst the clouds, is shrouded in mystery. To better understand Bhutan and what makes it tick, Ben and I decided to spend a week exploring its dramatic landscape and quaint towns. During that time, we interviewed a monk in a monastery, a nun on a mountaintop, royalty in hotel, an NGO Program Director at a festival, and our wonderful tour guide whilst on the road.

We discovered the Bhutanese had a lot to teach the world about contentment and how individuals, communities and nations can embed happiness into every fibre of their being. Here are some of the lessons we learnt during our stay…

#1: START WITH THE RIGHT FOUNDATION

The Bhutanese have it right. From the moment little ones can walk ‘n’ talk, they are taught about happiness and how to bring it into their own lives. In fact, schools include happiness lessons in their curriculum! Lesson #1: focus on developing admirable human qualities.

When you meet a Bhutanese person, you instinctively sense they’re a good egg. They come across as friendly, patient, compassionate, disciplined, humble, genuine and ultra respectful – qualities which are instilled in them throughout their entire lives. Motivated by their devout Buddhist beliefs, they’re pure of heart, mind and intention. It brings them joy, inner peace and a whole lot of good karma.

#2: PUT YOUR PRIORITIES ON A PEDESTAL

The Bhutanese ensure their core values (Buddhist and beyond) are front and centre in their lives. In many other parts of the world, it’s a case of “out of sight, out of mind”. People lead work-oriented lives until December comes around when they remember to spend time with loved ones, help members of the community, touch base with their spirituality, and re-evaluate their goals. By January, all is practically forgotten and back to work they go. Their day-to-day lifestyles don’t don’t reflect what’s truly important to them. As a result, they feel stressed, dissatisfied, lost and down in the dumps way too often.

For the Bhutanese, Buddhism is thickly woven throughout every aspect of their lives. From prayer flags atop razor sharp mountains to homes lathered in mystical designs, religious iconography makes itself known at every turn serving as a constant reminder of people’s core values, goals and priorities. It’s almost impossible to “go off track” and lose sight of what’s important. Rituals play an equally significant role in Bhutanese life. Meditation and seeking guidance from deities or monks are regular practices, helping people make focused decisions which are inline with their desired trajectory.

Lesson #2: whatever your source of bliss (family, philanthropy, religion, sport, business, academia, art and beyond), it should be championed by your lifestyle. Don’t let it take a back seat while you get distracted by stress and humdrum routines. Create daily rituals which preserve and inspire your dreams. Set up visual queues, which keep your priorities top of mind. Live and breathe your core values. Build your happy place.

#3: DO YOUR BEST TO HELP THE REST

The Bhutanese are one of the most compassionate, community-oriented races on earth. They’re acutely aware of suffering and actively help those facing hardship. Even a poor farmer with little to give will offer what he can to those in need. So it seems, brightening someone’s day offers the ultimate compensation – the “feel good factor”.

Beyond helping the distressed, the Bhutanese also avoid causing pain…even when it comes to animals. The only form of legal “hunting” is fishing, which is approved on a catch and release basis. All living creatures roam free without the fear of being killed for food, fun or fear. This anecdote about my guide demonstrates just how caring the Bhutanese can be…

One night, Ben and I were being attacked by some particularly aggressive mosquitoes. We started swatting them with our hands, hoping to terminate the little tykes. All the while, our guide sat calmly and did nothing. When we asked him why, he said he couldn’t intentionally kill a living creature as it would bring about bad karma. Plus, he didn’t mind sharing his blood with the mozzies, as they needed it to survive. Needless to say, we felt pretty guilty after that.

To sum things up, the Bhutanese believe every action inspires an equal reaction. When you act selfishly or cause harm to others, it’ll leave a bad taste in your mouth and come back to bite you. If you’re compassionate and generous, you can rest easy and trust that help will find you when you need it. Lesson #3: Helping others breeds happiness, inner peace and a sense of security.

#4 KEEP IT SIMPLE

From they day they’re born, the Bhutanese learn to find happiness in the simple life. Kids play with blades of grass, sticks or worn out rubber tires. If these things break or go missing, no worries. They’re free and easy to replace. Western children, who tend to prefer the latest techno-gadgets, are much more susceptible to stress, anger, envy and other negative emotions. What if my Playsation is older than yours? What if my iPad won’t connect to the internet? What if my iPhone smashes and my parents have to spend hundreds of dollars on a new one? Lesson #4: get back to basics and avoid unnecessary stress.

During my time at Tiger’s Nest Monastery, I had the opportunity to speak with a monk. He said it was a difficult path to take as a young boy because he didn’t have access to certain luxuries (e.g. TV) like other children. But, as time went on, his contentment surpassed his peers’, as they’s acquired the stresses of family, work, city and contemporary life. The monk, on the other hand, spent his days meditating and studying Buddhism in the company of nature. His life was simple, yet completely fulfilling.

I’m not saying the path of a devout Buddhist monk or nun is the only way to find happiness. The principle of omitting unnecessary stresses from your life and taking time to enjoy simple pleasures has merit. For me, baking a cake, reading a book and chatting to my mum bring me more smiles than my inbox. Yet, the latter gets a lot more of my time. It makes absolutely no sense.

#5 BE PATIENT & GOVERN FOR THE GOOD OF ALL

It’s hard to imagine a government which genuinely champions equality amongst its people, makes decisions for the good of all, and protects the environment. But, Bhutan’s leaders seem to be doing exactly that, achieving Gross National happiness along the way.

What’s they key to their success? They take things one step at a time. Acting in haste to keep up with the rest of the world is not Bhutan’s style. Until the 1960’s it had no roads, automobiles, telephone, postal system or electricity. Limited access to TV and the internet wasn’t enabled until 1999, once people had been taught how to manage the pros and cons of this technology (dinner in front of the telly with everyone absorbed in mobile phones doesn’t constitute family time in Bhutan).

This cautious country has been so patient with its decisions, it’s managed to skip the horrors of the Industrial Revolution and jump straight to the 21st century. With a strong focus on sustainability, it’s become the only “carbon sink” in the world; Bhutan actually creates more energy than it uses! Unlike most of Asia, its towns are in spit spot condition. Litter is scarce, electrical wires are hidden, buildings look immaculate, pollution is undetectable and operations run smoothly. Taking time to observe the experiences of other countries, Bhutan has been able to get things right for the good of its people and the environment.

While signs of democracy are steadily weaving their way into Bhutan, this transition isn’t being rushed either (Bhutan had its first general election in 2008). To ensure the divide between rich and poor doesn’t spiral out of control, the government is balancing the scales with an egalitarian approach. This can be seen in Bhutan’s management of tourism. It cost Ben and me $2500 as a couple to tour the country for a week. The majority of this tariff was absorbed by the government and distributed throughout the community (focusing on areas in need, e.g. regional housing development). This means, the entire country benefits from tourism, not just the operators.

Even the Royal Family is working hard support less affluent communities. Due to the small population of Bhutan (approx. 700,000), it’s able to keep its finger on the pulse and recognise those who are underprivileged. Heading a number of charities which ensure people’s basic needs are met (especially in remote communities), the royals (and NGOs) are careful not to go overboard. Their perspective? If the people are happy as they are, why try to change them and and inject dissatisfaction into their lives (i.e. a desire for more)?

Lesson #5: Think before you act; take your time considering the outcomes; and, make a decision which supports the well-being of all parties involved – there’s always a way. This will inspire loyalty, trust, unity and contentment amongst the community. This philosophy rings true when it comes to leading countries, families, interest groups and beyond.

CONCLUSION

After visiting Bhutan, I was in two minds. One one hand, I felt deeply saddened by the experience. It made me realise how much suffering, negativity, discord and inequality was being nurtured by other countries. Crossing the border from Bhutan straight into India was a shock to the system! On the flip side, Bhutan was proof that purity still existed in the world. I was surprised and delighted by this unassuming country, which genuinely felt like the happiest place on earth. Bhutan has so much to teach the world, I hope it marches to the beat of its own drum for many years to come.

SAD DAY 2 // WILD CAMBODIA

Every now and then, I come across a woman who inspires me to be the change I want to see in the world. A few days ago, I met a British lass who did just that. Her name was Emma (she’s second from the left in the below pic). 

With her sun-bleached hair, freckly skin and salt-of-the-earth smile, it was obvious this English Rose wasn’t afraid of a little hard yakka in the great outdoors. Emma was a woman after my own Australian heart. Dedicating her time and talents to a wildlife sanctuary in regional Cambodia, she’d kindly invited us to get our hands dirty and shadow her for the afternoon.

After a quick exchange of hellos ‘n’ hugs, we jumped in the Colonel and followed Emma’s scooter to the sanctuary. During the dusty trip, I started thinking about the cool creatures I was going to meet – species I’d never encountered before. I was “ants in my pants” excited and couldn’t wait to feed the elephants, cuddle baby bears and challenge my fear of monkeys.

But, as we parked our vehicles and started chatting to Emma about her work, the sanctuary took on a different vibe. It sounded like its residents experienced challenging living standards, which Emma was working hard to improve. I must admit, the modest set up made the zoos back home look like palaces.

The sanctuary also stimulated conversations about the treatment (and trading) of Cambodian wildlife on a broader scale. I was compelled to do a little research, so I could understand the situation better. But first, the elephants needed their daily fix of fruit, attention and affection.

As Emma handed the leathery giants whole banana trees, we saw their unique personalities come through – the female did a coy tap dance as she gently chomped away on her snack while the male asserted his strength, confidence and dominance. Their natural tendencies came out to play, as neither elephant had been trained.

The experience made me think about the countless tourists I’d seen riding elephants throughout Thailand and Cambodia. A decade or so ago, I was one of those tourists. My mum and I enjoyed a girls’ getaway in Phuket and, like many others, we thought elephant rides were a must-try local experience. We were thrilled to give it a go – it was the stuff of dreams. I couldn’t wait to get back to my friends and tell them all about it.

After visiting the sanctuary in Cambodia and researching things a bit more, I realised how wrong we were. Our actions supported the unnatural and, possibly, cruel treatment of elephants. It’s now impossible for me to ignore the chains around their ankles and lack of shade above their heads, as they wait to be fitted with weighty saddles. There’s something really unsettling about the image. I’d also read that many operators deprived their elephants of sleep and food to “break” and train them. There was no way I’d be participating in an elephant ride again.

Next, Emma took us to meet the hornbills. I’d never been a fan of birds. I was convinced they hated human affection and would “beak me to bits” if I ever got too close. The hornbills at the sanctuary certainly taught me a lesson. They were like energetic puppy dogs with feathers. The female kept nuzzling my hand and dropping her paw paw in front of me – the bird wanted to play fetch?! The same piece of fruit went back and forth about a dozen times before I tore myself away. I didn’t want to get too attached.

Next, it was time to meet the resident gibbon. Emma had a soft spot for him and it wasn’t hard to see why. The expression in his glassy eyes was enough to break anyone’s heart. He seemed to crave human attention, putting his hand through the cage so he could hold Emma’s fingers. He didn’t want her to leave.

I’d read some eye-opening articles about the illegal trade of monkeys in Cambodia. The intense poverty in this country is undeniable, with 20% of Cambodians living below the poverty line. As such, some view the local wildlife as a resource to be used for commercial benefit. Traders have been known to pack their vehicles with over a hundred monkeys, often putting them on ice. That way, if they died while being exported, the meat would stay fresh. It’s hard to comprehend.

Next, we wandered over to the bear enclosure, which housed two cubs. They were possibly the cutest things I’d ever seen! As they rolled around on their backs, juggling mangoes between oversized paws, we were able to tickle them behind the ears. I had to hold myself back from picking one up and smothering it in cuddles. It was hard to believe poachers used these glorious creatures for bait, tying sharp metal rings around their necks and making them cry out in pain so their mothers would come to the rescue. Bear fur was big business.

So it seemed, all of the creatures at this sanctuary were vulnerable to mistreatment or worse. They (or their parts) were in high-demand, especially throughout China and Vietnam. Hunting down rare delicacies, animal “remedies”, tourism opportunities and exotic accessories sounded like a lucrative game.

If only there was an obvious way to put a stop to it all – I’m not sure education and sustainable commercial avenues are enough. While it’s heart-warming to meet people like Emma who are fighting for the health and safety of the animals, it seems like bigger picture issue is a relentless battle. I guess all I can do is tuck into more research, promote awareness of the hard facts and figure out how I can help.

 

HAPPY DAY 14 // THE TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

The clock struck four, when Ben’s phone told us it was time to get our butts out of bed. Today was a special day, so I wasn’t in my usual pre-breakfast zombie-like state. Despite the fact that it was closer to my bedtime than my usual waking time, I felt energised. The infamous Angkor Wat was waiting for us.

After a quick tuk-tuk ride and the usual ticketing booth formalities, we commenced the walk towards that enchanting, world-renowned silhouette, our anticipation building with each step. The deep beat of jungle drums drifted through the air, setting the mood perfectly. The impressive crowd of tourists was in a quiet trance-like state, waiting for the stage lights to switch on and the star attraction to make itself known. For now, Angkor Wat was sitting in the shadows, lit only by a thin lip of burnt orange and fuschia. And so we waited…

As we ensconced ourselves in the dewy grass and sat back with our sugar-loaded coffees, the sun slowly came out to play. The glassy dam between us and the Mother of all Temples captured her reflection in all of its glory. As Angkor Wat rose from her slumber, it seemed like she’d brought a mirror to her face just to make sure everything was in order before we snapped away like crazed paparazzi.

After the big moment had come and gone, it was time to enter the gates of Angkor Wat and take a closer look. She was more magnificent than I’d imagined – like a long-limbed lady covered in ornate henna tattoos. Her walls and corridors stretched far and wide, every inch of them covered in curious engravings, stunning motifs and precious sculptures.

The wave of tourists quickly dissipated, as people wandered off in different directions and got lost amongst the endless network of hallways and doorways. The architectural symmetry was simply genius, messing with my head like a giant mirrored maze. Every way I looked and turned, there was a stunning, rustic frame staring back at me. It was a photographer’s paradise.

Soon it was time to move on to Bayon, the next temple in our tour. We went on the hunt for our tuk-tuk driver, which proved to be a serious challenge. The carpark looked like it was hosting a tuk-tuk rally. At this point, we realised we should have photographed our driver and his vehicle before wandering off.

Eventually we heard our voices being called in the distance – once lost, we’d been found. After a short drive, our team of three was delivered to the doorstep of Bayon, which captured our attention immediately. Decorated with 126 mammoth faces, it’s thought to be a narcissistic shrine to King Jayavarman VII, the mastermind behind the Temples of Angkor. Witnessing the majesty of his vision, I couldn’t help but think he had the right to be pleased with himself.

Next, it was time to tackle the popular Temple of Ta Prohm. A perfect union between divine ruins and mother nature, it was nothing short of spectacular. The roots of the silk-cotton trees had grown through the temple walls like veins keeping a heart alive. I could see why Tomb Raider had been filmed here. The atmosphere was truly magical. I found myself being transported back to the 12th Century, when Ta Prohm had housed hundreds of dancers, high priests, gold, pearls, silks and beyond. It sounded like a dream.

Over the course of the next couple of hours we went on to view a few more historic sites. They were all dwarfed by Angkor Wat and its cool cousins. As my husband put it, “It’s hard to get excited by foreplay after sex.” Having said that, watching the sun rise over Angkor Wat proved to be a memorable, must-see moment. In hindsight, we should have bought a three-day pass, so we could better appreciate the lesser known attractions and work our way up to the main event.

To complete our once-in-a-lifetime experience of Angkor Wat, we decided to see the grounds from a different perspective – “gibbon view”. I’d been craving an adrenalin rush for a while and Flight of the Gibbon sounded right up my alley. Guiding us through a series of sky-high zip lines, tree houses and bridge walks, it certainly got my heart pumping. I’m usually good with heights, but when our tiny 150m-high platform started swaying in the wind, I quickly conjured up an escape plan. Surely jumping towards the nearest branch and holding on for dear life would save me?

After three hours of flying between the trees, our group finally had the swing of things. I was racing across the barely-there bridges and dangling from the wires like a pro-gibbon – no sweat. I could see why Flight of the Gibbon was killing it on Trip Advisor. The experience was the right kind of challenging and certainly thrilling, offering a change of pace to the temple tours. And, by the end of the day, I was all “templed out”.

HAPPY DAY 9 // BANGKOK BY BICYCLE

Today was simply epic – a definite “best day” for 2015. Strangely enough, it was dedicated to sampling Bangkok’s local transport. It saw Ben and me dodge the traffic in a tuk-tuk; navigate the streets of central Bangkok by bicycle, foot and ferry; and then hitch a knuckle-biting a ride on a motorcycle taxi. But these experiences were only part of the fun. I will never forget the things I saw along the way…and the way they made me feel: captivated, delighted, thrilled, curious, happy. Perfect.

At the heart of everything was the Follow Me Bicycle Tour. It was a feast for all of our senses, an energy boost for our weary bodies, and a taste of Bangkok life for our hungry imaginations. My hubby, Ben Southall, took some beautiful photos throughout the tour, which really captured the experience. So, jump on your bike and let us take you on the journey…

Upon arriving at Follow Me Bike Tours‘ home base, Ben and I were encouraged to try the Siam Boran Tour, a popular choice amongst Bangkok first timers. The 22km, 4.5 hour journey promised to reveal the old-world city to us and provide more photo opportunities than we could poke a Nikon at. We were sold.

Our intimate group of five sprang into gear and got its rusty legs peddling. We wandered through the charming backstreets of Sathorn like kids in a giant maze. Around every corner we encountered a boldly coloured character wall, each more enchanting than the last. Busy Thais with untold stories caught our eye as we zoomed past, giving us a mere moment to feel the embers of intrigue before something in the distance stole our attention.

It wasn’t long before we arrived at our first temple. We enjoyed the calm after the storm of the previous tour group (which was much bigger). There was nothing to do except explore the temple in happy silence and appreciate its ornate, narrative-rich walls.

Our next stop was China Town, which didn’t originally make it on to our “must see” list. We figured it’d be like any other China Town around the world. How wrong we were. It was China Town on steroids – huge and loaded with energy. The traffic (pedestrian and otherwise) moved an inch a minute. But, it was awesome. There was so much to take in, the hustle and bustle didn’t affect my stress levels. From the freaky foods, curious smells and vibrant colours, to the intense street negotiations and utter disorder, it was a multi-layered experience like no other. We had to make it back someday.

Next, it was time to turn the energy down a notch and park our bikes at another majestic temple. Our guide, Matthew, taught us how to open lotus flowers like pros. We then offered them as gifts to Buddha, along with a silent prayer for good luck. Ben got excited when it came time to ring the giant bell, which reverberated its song through our entire bodies. There was a beautiful spiritual mystery about this place.

Our next stop was the highly anticipated flower market, Pak Khlong Talat. Bags of petals where packed sky high, creating a rainbow mountain range down the street. I couldn’t believe nature had given birth to such intensely beautiful colours: sunshine yellow, rose madder red, velvety fuschia. But the sweet aromas that danced through the air said they were real.

After a speedy ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River, we were ready to make the journey back to Follow Me Bike Tour’s home base. This meant navigating the backstreets again, which were just as entertaining as the major sites we’d visited.

At one point, we crossed paths with the most comical police officer we’d ever seen. His “siren” sounded like something out of a kid’s toy truck and his mode of transport was… questionable (see image below). Ben almost wet himself with laughter. After exchanging a friendly wave with the cheerful police office, we moved on.

Throughout our bicycle tour, we encountered many Thai children who were eager to cheer us along. It seems like the first thing they’re taught to do is say “Hi!” to strangers (the complete opposite to what they learn in Western cultures). Babies too young to walk, waved enthusiastically at us and it was heart-warming. We felt like local celebrities or family friends.

Finally, we reached Follow Me Bike Tours and it was time to head back to the Shangri-La. Unfortunately, it was peak hour. The only way home was to jump on the back of a motorcycle taxi. The experience was genuinely one of the scariest things I’ve ever done. I would’ve felt safer if I’d been blind folded. As we weaved through the traffic, I’m convinced there was a millimetre between me and death. Yet, oddly, it was one of the highlights of my day. Such a thrill! Who knows what tomorrow will bring?

HAPPY DAY 9 // WANDERING THE STREETS OF BANGKOK

I loved today. The past 24 hours have seen me hop from one hotel to another, and explore the high-energy streets of Bangkok in between. I believe there’s no better way to see this city than by foot. There’s so much going on, any other mode of transport moves too quickly to take the layers, stories and thrills in.

Before hitting the pavement and having all of my senses assaulted, I enjoyed a quick “holiday from my holiday”. Staying at Sathorn Grace was a welcome change from camping in Colonel Mustard. The rooftop pool was heaven – I bathed, baked and let my brain drift amongst the digital pages of a Grisham novel. It was my perfect escape.

Next, it was time to get lost in the urban jungle. I was free to roam the streets of Sathorn at my leisure and take pictures along the way. The chaos, grit and grime were mesmerising and strangely beautiful. I think I’d be happy living here for many years. My mind would thrive amongst the relentless stimulus. From the endless street food strips to the people living on the street, there’s so much to try and understand. It’s bloody fascinating!

Once the afternoon arrived, it was time to catch up with two beautiful strangers: Richard and Dennis. These design gurus founded the custom motorcycle brand “Half Caste Creations”. Needless to say, their bikes have made it on to my inspiration board. Fingers crossed that Law of Attraction stuff works. I need one of these babies in my life! If Steve Jobs had gone into motorcycles, he’d have put Richard and Dennis on his design team. The 90-minute, 10km journey to meet them was totally worthy the angst.

Finally, it was time live in the lap of luxury at the Shangri-La Hotel. Yeeeeooooow! The moment I walked under its crystal chandeliers, past the perfectly dressed staff, through to the regal reception desk, I knew my time here was going to be memorable. The staff welcomed Ben and me with traditional Thai wreaths. They were meticulously handcrafted so we could put them on our pillows and let the gentle aromas help us drift off to sleep. And, now it’s time to put them to the test. Somehow, I think I’m going to find my perfect pillow!

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Getting Pampered, Poked and Prodded in Thailand

I can confidently say I’ve never been to a tourist destination where holiday goers seem more relaxed than in Thailand. Beyond the idyllic settings and laid-back local attitude, the comparative affordability of everything seems to help people truly unwind. In Thailand, you can be completely self-indulgent with money and time – the two things we seem to stress about most – and not feel guilty about it.

So what does that mean? It’s time to treat yourself to a few decadent experiences simply because they’ll make you look and feel great. Here are my top three picks for those wanting to get the most out of their time and money in Thailand.

DENTAL WORK

A few months ago, Ben ignored that little voice inside his head that said, “Don’t do it!” and attempted to open a bottle with his teeth. Needless to say, it resulted in a chipped incisor and newly acquired hobo grin (which was actually kind of cute). So, the plan was to repair the damage (a new crown was needed), fix a couple of fillings and get Ben’s teeth whitened using Zoom technology in Thailand. The entire package set us back around $1000 AUD – it would have been triple the cost back home in Australia.

It you’re thinking about jumping on the medical tourism bandwagon and getting some dental work done in Thailand, we highly recommend it. Based on the advice of friends, we chose to go under the drill at Phuket Dental Signature. This clinic is the size of a small hospital and it’s so crisp white, you almost need sunglasses inside. The staff were friendly, super-skilled and easy to communicate with. We also found great comfort in the free Wi-Fi and air-con, which are both highly sought after in tourist riddled, piping hot Patong.

You can see the results of Ben’s dental work in the photo below. He’s looking pretty darn fine if I don’t say so myself!

DETOXING THE MIND & BODY

After a weekend of debauchery at the Full Moon Party, visiting a detox resort sounded like a good idea. We hit up The Sanctuary, which was perfectly placed just around the corner from “party central” in a quiet little hideaway. After a 10-minute boat ride, we wandered up the private beach and immediately knew we were somewhere special. This was where the real hippies were hanging out and their lean yoga bodies, ornate tattoos, technicolour fashion and wild haircuts were all proudly on display. It was another world – one we couldn’t wait to sample.

With only a day to enjoy The Sanctuary, Ben and I picked three different experiences from the extensive menu on offer: yoga, spa treatments and…colonics. Yes, colonics. The yoga session was a shock to the system and we quickly felt the full force of the Full Moon Party. Having said that, it was also the best yoga class we’d ever been to – the instructor’s voice was incredibly soothing putting us in a meditative state.

Next came the spa treatments. Ben opted for a full body massage to repair his muscles after a weekend of dance raves. I chose the full body scrub to cleanse the stubborn dirt and grime of long-term travel. Both offered a complete sensory experience. The smell of the spice-infused body scrub actually made my mouth water and the effect on my skin was brilliantly intense. I remember feeling ice cold and red hot at the same time. Ben and I both felt as though we’d been given new life after our treatments.

Lastly, we tackled the self-administered colonics. We were both feeling nervous and vulnerable as we walked into the ‘demo chamber’. After a quick tutorial, Ben and I were put into separate cubicles, which happened to be situated side by side (how romantic). We’ve reached a new level of intimacy in our relationship and heard things we can’t un-hear (despite the elevator music playing in the background). While we both left the session feeling “lighter” and less bloated, we agreed it was one of grossest things we’d ever done. Each to their own. Enough said.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to sample most of The Sanctuary’s signature offerings. They are renowned for their detox programs, which sound somewhat life changing. Not only are they designed to eliminate toxins from your body and help you discover newfound energy, they can also challenge your emotional connection with food. These programs can be supported by a number of mind-body-spirit sessions from the obvious (yoga, Pilates and meditation) to the unusual (Taoist abdominal massage, Reiki, NLP and “Shake Therapy”). If we’d had more time up our sleeves, we definitely would have given them a go.

GETTING PAMPERED TO A PULP

The idea of spending a whole day in a beauty spa sounds ludicrous anywhere in the world – except Thailand. If you hit up one of the many urban sanctuaries which line the city streets, you can practically afford to walk in and do everything one the menu, including: manis/pedis, eyelash extensions, massages, hair treatments, the weird feet-nibbling fish thing, facials and beyond. A full day will set you back anywhere between $100-$300AUD in the cheaper spas depending on your choice of treatments. Don’t feel shy about haggling or asking for a discounted package cost.

There are some important things to keep in mind before you jump into the first spa you lay eyes on. Remember, you get what you pay for. Our first massage came from a bargain beauty salon on a main road in Patong. There was no music, the air-con was broken and their traditional Thai massage was more like a back tickle. But it was ok for $12 AUD.

We tried the same thing at Pier 42 and had a completely different experience. From the rustic charm of the rooms and soothing forest music, to the intriguing scents of the oils and masterful massage techniques of the staff, it was pure heaven. Again, it was well worth the price. So, decide what level of luxury you’re after, do your research online and at your hotel reception desk, and match your expectations with your budget.

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HAPPY DAY 8 // WAT ARUN AND THE RECLINING BUDDHA

Today didn’t start well. I woke up in Bangkok feeling down for no particular reason. How could there be a reason? I’m living a dream life! I should be nothing but happy, right?

I guess we all have our bad days, and the only thing I could do to pick myself up was…something. Anything! As long as I kept my brain engaged and distracted, I’d feel somewhere between ok and great. And, by the end of today, I was feeling pretty great.

FOCUSING ON THE POSITIVE…

Having compiled a lengthy to-explore-and-experience list for Bangkok, it was time to tick something off. I decided to go with Wat Arun and the Reclining Buddah, as it sounded nothing short of spectacular and it was likely to put a smile on my face.

Indeed it did. I’ve never seen a more ornate, beautifully crafted series of temples. There had to be at least a dozen spires, covered from base to tip with bedazzling mosaics, shells and shiny things.

The complex was like a giant maze – the kind you want to get lost in. It felt good to be free, inspired and in awe around such majesty. I was successfully engaged and distracted for nearly two hours.

Soon it was time to go on the hunt for some dinner. Bangkok’s most notorious Road, Khaosan, was calling. This megawatt hub of energy was exactly what I needed. There was so much to look at and take in, all I could do was smile and enjoy the experience.

There were carts with fried scorpions and tarantulas, hundreds of “same same” clothing stalls, a mix of top-end and ridiculously cheap restaurants, break dancers and beyond.

I’m pleased to say I was so lost in the moment, I forgot to take photos (except for the one above). But, not to worry, I will undoubtedly be back again!

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