This holiday has got to be the busiest ever. 3 destinations in 2 months. Almost back-to-back trips. Ask and you shall receive; I think I got more than I asked for! Nevertheless, I had my travel bug satisfied, for sure.
First being the Mt K.expedition, which was really one kick-ass trip. My kind of thing I would say and I'm looking forward to the next. Nepal is currently top on my list of must-go-trekking destinations. Everyday I stare at my trekking boots, jacket and backpack and I can't stop fantasizing. Hopefully it will become a reality in 2011.
Then to Cambodia. I finally got to lead a team, which I did not manage to do last June. Led by 2 working adults whose timing was just absolutely wonky. It was a journey of simple faith and grace. Everyday things just fell in place, without much fretting and at the end of it all, we are convinced that obedience is all that is needed to see God's purposes and plans come to fruition. I am glad I took up the challenge of leading this team even though I know my schedule would be jam-packed.
It was good to be able to see the little ones again. I remember most of them but not all of them remember me from a year ago and there were some new faces. Nonetheless, they took to us well and within minutes of our arrival, many of us connected with the kids. Also catching up with our Cambodian friends and to know that they are still so steadfast really warms my heart. They have been significant in connecting us to the kids and land.
Top: Little Joshua; Bottom: Issac
They have an unspoken brotherly affection. Not related by blood but very much close.
Below: Bow and Hock.
A year on and they are still best of friends. Some ties really can never be broken.
To wrap up my last week of official break, I headed for Taiwan again. This time with my aunt who wanted a getaway after 2 years of no travelling, having to care for my gramps. As much as I was reluctant since I just went in June, I gave in as I know it would be a good break for her. Visited more or less the same places but had a few new additions that I didn't manage to see the last time.
Overall, it was a nice change as I stayed in lavish hotels with hot spring facilities, jacuzzi bath-tubs and super comfortable beds that allowed me to catch up some much awaited sleep. Good aunt-niece time though our travelling style and preferences are very much different. At times I was rather short and impatient as I never did free-and-easy with her before and she has sooooo many demands! But we survived.
@ our 1st night hotel stay (Sweet Me Hot Spring Resort).
The hot spring bath just in our bathroom. I went to the public one leaving my aunt to savor the privacy and luxury of having the whole 'spring' to herself.
At Taroko Gorge
The whole-day rain was a dampener. As such the view of Sun Moon Lake was totally marred! A waste considering we travelled for almost 4 hours through windy mountainous roads. Bleah.
At the Taipei International Flora Exhibition.
Think the Rainbow Collection was the best of all. I am no flower enthusiast!
My prized possessions! I returned to Raohe Night Market with a vengence this time. Bought 3 1000-piece puzzles coz the last time I didn't buy! No regrets this time.
All good things must come to an end. And so this is the brief of Grace's 2010 Travel Tales. What will 2011 entail? Let's wait and see. Ciaoz.
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