Southeast Asia Trip - Day 20

This is the final day of my Southeast Asia Trip - or, should I say, "DAYS"?  The reason for this query has affected me every time I've ever been on a trip to the west side of the International Date Line and today was no exception.  In anticipation of the very long "days" head, I managed to sleep until 0745 (!) and then spent some time reading and doing puzzles.  I even caught up on Duolingo exercises before going to breakfast (pancakes, eggs, sausage, croissants, cereal, beans) at the Hyatt Regency restaurant (0815).  Back in my room, I relaxed, read, packed and worked on eBird entries.  Overall, it was a very relaxed morning and I made no attempts to go anywhere or do anything outside my room.  Meanwhile, outside, the temps were again in the 80s and it was very humid.  I finally departed my room at 1400 and weighed my two bags with a handy scale located in the hotel lobby.  The results were 14 kg (16 kg actual) & 5.8 kg (same at airport).  After checking with the Viking Cruise ladies, I found out that nearly everyone else had already departed for Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok).  Thinking I could chance a bit longer delay before going over there, I stowed my bags and purchased a lunch (goat cheese, tomato & lettuce baguette sandwich, Fanta) from a food station in the lobby (1415).  About 15 minutes later, I was ready to depart the Hyatt Regency (via hotel shuttle bus).  Even though we were within walking distance of the International Terminal, the roads were very busy and it took a bit of maneuvering to deliver me to the correct ticket area.  Fortunately, I had very quick lines for check-in, although the EVA Airways kiosk "survey" was quite confusing.  From there, I quickly made it through the bag drop and Security lines.  Along the way, I was able to choose a better seat (swapped middle for aisle) - I was quite happy about that.  Overall, 1430-1500 seemed like the perfect time to arrive!  On the gate side of Security, I found my waiting area quickly (not much walking) and stayed there (Terminal G) until about 1610.  When it opened, I moved to the authorized lower gate area until boarding time (1645).  When the door was opened to passengers for EVA Airways B777-300ER, I got on quickly (Group 2).  This was fortunate because the baggage bins filled up quickly - it was a full flight and it seemed that almost everyone had done some shopping while in Bangkok.  Probably because of this, we were still at the gate by takeoff time.  During this time, I realized we had a totally different entertainment system and I had to really search for things I wanted.  This was my second time trying to leave on time from Bangkok and I concluded that it might be a place that is used to delays.  We finally pushed back at 1735 but didn't get airborne until 1755 local (40 minutes late).  Meanwhile, I realized that I was again surround by lots of sick people.  I passed the time by watching movies and using the free WiFi.  Went the flight attendants appeared with meal selections, I asked for chicken - somehow, though, I ended up getting Japanese fish, rice, shrimp salad and fruit salad.  For the first time in the entire trip, I concluded that the food wasn't safely edible and only ate about half of my meal.  I was consoled by a Taiwanese beer and, later, some hot tea.  The entire flight was over three hours and things looked good for our arrival in Taipei.  Before we could land, though, we had to hold for about 20 minutes.  Due to all the delays (Gate, Takeoff, Landing), my two hour layover shrank to one.  I started wondering if my checked bag would get onboard the new flight in time…  Ultimately, we landed in Taiwan at 2250 local time.  After getting off the aircraft, there was LOTS of walking, more security and then even MORE walking before I arrived at the gate for my next flight (2315).  Boarding had already started but the announcements mentioned “patience” so I assumed there was some kind of delay.  Eventually (2335), we started boarding and I lucked out with an empty seat to my right.  EVA Airways B777-300ER pushed back at 0010 of Taiwan’s November 7 and we took off at 0030 local time (more than 30 minutes late).  The flight attendants did their park to make things better by bringing around drinks almost immediately (I had some OJ).  Again, people all around me were coughing loudly.  Like I've done on almost all my flights, I passed the time by watching movies, reviewing social media and reading a book.  Our first "official" meal was pretty substantial (kasubi, rice, mixed veggies, kimchi?, fruit salad, cold slaw, roll, blonde brownie, red wine).  After finishing that, I spent a while trying to get comfortable for sleeping (the crew turned the lights out).  Eventually, I dozed for a few hours (off & on).  Meanwhile, our flight route took us close to the Japanese Mainland.  Before long, we crossed the IDL and I started repeating my day.  Sadly, I was mostly awake by that point and watched the moving map as our aircraft flew near the Aleutian Islands.  Soon after that, we were served a second meal (“chicken” pasta with broccoli, cheese & crackers, roll, fruit salad, beer).  The food tasted better and I was satisfied.  For the rest of the flight, I watched movies and played games on the entertainment system.  We started our descent into Los Angeles just after 1900 (Pacific Time) and landed at LAX at 1925.  With the huge size of the airport, it then took more than 15 minutes to reach the gate and a further 10 to started the unloading process.  Like I'd seen in Taipei, it was a LONG walk to the Customs and Border Patrol checkpoint.  After that, though, I had a quick pass through with my Global Entry and arrived at the baggage claim area by 2005.  Fortunately, I didn't have too long of a wait on my checked bag.  With that retrieved, my next project was locating the hotel shittle for the Cambria Hotel in El Segundo.  Starting out, I exited on the wrong level for Hotel Shuttles.  With help from some hotel staff, I figured that out and went to higher level - even then, though, I needed more help to find the shuttle waiting area.  Meanwhile, I was unsuccessful in reaching the Hotel Shuttle with the number I’d been given by the hotel. Eventually, I called the front desk and they told me they couldn’t reach the shuttle company either.  The best they could do was to suggest “try them with text”.  I took their advice but had no luck.  Suddenly, I saw a shuttle with the actual hotel name on it (VERY lucky) and a driver who was calling out “last call”.  Feeling a bit relieved, I got onboard at 2030 and rode around on the shuttle while it made additional stops for pickups and drop offs at the other LAX Terminals.  As I'd seen on the first night of my trip, there was LOTS of traffic around LAX.  The next phase of the shuttle bus ride was making stops at other hotels.  In the end, I arrived at the Cambria Hotel by 2055.  After all that, though, I was the only passenger that needed to check in and the processes went quickly - I was at my room by 0910.  Feeling out of sorts and completely exhausted, I spent the rest of the evening organizing and repacking (moved stuff from car to/from my room).  Somehow, I was able to stall bedtime until 2230 - I hope that gets me back on US time again soon...  To sum up, this cruise adventure was definitely quite memorable, with many amazing images, thoughts, smells and sounds to recall when I want to think about it again.  I've got a new appreciation for several countries that I'd previously only read about and a deeper affection for the people who live in the formerly war torn areas of the Planet Earth.  Their open hearted forgiveness and drive to make their world better was very inspirational too - hopefully, I can take some of what I've learned and apply it to my own life and living environment.  Speaking of that, Nomad Life resumes in the morning!

Southeast Asia Trip - Day 19

Sadly, today was my final full day of Southeast Asia Adventures.  Hoping to stay ahead of the busy itinerary we had ahead of us, I woke up (with alarm) at 0515 and did some reading, puzzles and Duolingo.  After that, I finished packing, put my bag outside my Park Hyatt Siem Reap room (0545) and got myself ready.  Downstairs, I checked out with the Front Desk (no bill) and went to breakfast (French Toast, pancakes, bacon, beans, noodles) at hotel restaurant (0600).  Next, I completed my bag check and boarded the motor coach (0620).  Our group departed the hotel for the last time at 0630.  Despite the early hour, there were still plenty of busy streets.  On the way to the airport, we passed the Royal Independence Gardens and a Royal Residence.  We also saw several busy markets.  The weather started cloudy (it had rained overnight) but was clearing - the morning air was actually kind of pleasant.  Reth pointed out several thatched roof buildings, farmers riding and walking to work, cows everywhere, mist on the mountainsides.  On my own, I was fascinated by the "plow motors" being used to build makeshift Tuk Tuks...  We made our way to the Siem Reap Airport (arrived at 0730) and joined a huge line at the Thai Airways check in counter.  As usual (due to the pushy Boomers), I was at the end of all the Viking group.  As I had on the way to Cambodia, I checked one bag for my Thailand leg.  After passing through Immigration (clear by 0835), I ended up waiting in the gate area until about 0930.  Once onboard the aircraft, I found I was seated in an area with two exit rows.  While the flight attendants briefed us for actions in an emergency, it became clear that there might have been five languages in play among the many other people near me.  I spent part of the flight hoping we didn't actually have to communicate.  Also, the flight attendants kept having to constantly tell some passengers to move to their assigned seats.  Thai Airways 589 was quite a crowded aircraft so I was pleased when they began taxiing (0955) and almost immediately got clearance for takeoff (1000).  As we'd seen on the first day of my Viking Venus Extension, the Thai Airways crew was able to serve an inflight meal (ham & cheese sandwich on soft bun, young coconut custard bun, tea) within about 30 minutes - wow!  I did some reading enroute and was almost surprised when we landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) by 1045.  Having done a Viking Post Cruise Extension before, I knew this last day could end up being a lot of “hurry up and wait.”  Fortunately, though, knew how to avoid this scenario and started immediately after I was allowed to deplane.  With strict entry rules (“you cut the line - end of the line for you!”), I walked as fast as I could to enter the Immigration queue.  I was helped my one of the staff nearby, who diverted me to a "special needs" (old, wheelchair, etc.) line.  Along the way, I watched how the Thai authorities behaved differences differently when speaking with Anglo and SE Asian people at the checkpoint.  Needless to say, I was very pleased to have made it through all the processes by 1115.  Even better, i quickly got my checked bag and found the Viking Reps.  Since I was first to arrive (and they remembered me from the ticket/passport SNAFU on November 2), I sweet talked my way into leaving for the hotel without waiting for everyone one else.  After outmaneuvering the “handlers” from the cruise line, I walked to the hotel through a series of tunnels and was at the Hyatt Regency hotel at 1135.  No one else was there, obviously, so I got the undivided attention from the on-site Viking rep, who gave me maps for the local train system.  At the same time, I retrieved my stored bag and was in my room by 1200.  Before departing for a Bangkok adventure, I spent time organizing my belongings (getting ready for EVA Air bag weight limitations).  In the end, I felt pretty good about my handling of the "Post Cruise Extension Procedures" - it took a bit of extra walking and (if I’m honest) stubborn behavior but I made it off the aircraft from Cambodia, checked into my (airport) hotel and was headed (by train) into downtown Bangkok before the rest of my group had even left the Terminal.  I finally departed hotel at 1300 and, after entering the tunnel complex again, found the Airport Train station ticket machine.  Unfortunately, I then discovered that it took Thai Baht cash only.  Even worse, when I tried to change money (in the tunnel between hotel and airport), they asked for my passport, which I'd left in my room.  In the next 30 minutes, I walked back and forth (encountering people from the Siem Reap Bus 1 group on the way) and finally was able to change $20.  Back at the train ticket machine, I managed to get a little black token (for 35 Baht) but then couldn’t figure out how to use it - there were no slots for the token.  Wonderfully, a nice Thai lady told me that there was an RFID chip in it and it could be tapped on the e-scanner for the fancy entry gate.  As a result of this assistance, I managed to reach the platform just as a train arrived.  However, there was then a five minute delay while a full security check was conducted (everyone onboard had to get off the train and everyone else had to wait to get on).  We finally started rolling by 1345!  I was on an elevated train and used it to reach the Makkasan Station (which the Viking Rep had told me was the place to get off).  I next had to walk (outside) to the Phetchaburi Subway Station (located next to Mormon Temple) and use cash for another token (30 Baht).  Since the temps were already in the 80s and it was very humid (as usual), I was sweating by the time I started down into the Bangkok Subway system and boarded Train 1. This train took me to Sanam Chai Station (arrived at 1445), which is located right below the most beautiful Buddhist temple I’ve ever seen: Wat Pho.  I'd thought it was closed due to the death of the King's mother but, when I'd wandered around for a little while, I found a way into the complex (after buying a ticket for 300 Baht).  The place was full of amazing buildings, including the four main monumental towers that loomed overhead., Overall, it was a maze of spectacular buildings.  Unlike the places I'd visited in Cambodia and Vietnam, almost everything was original and in the place where past kings had placed them.  It's amazing what a lack of looting will do for the ambiance...  Along the way, I found a HUGE reclining Buddha and encountered saw other Viking Venus passengers.  All I can say after visiting is that the Thai people know how to put on a show - the architecture and artwork were stunning!  Had I stopped there, the “Jim Excursion” would have been enough. Afterwards, though, I walked towards the river (I'd considering crossing it by boat).  Feeling hungry, I stopped for drink and early dinner at Amarosa (Arun Residence by the River), which was a riverfront residence with multiple floors, each with a view of Wat Arun.  At 1550, I ordered Thai fettuccini with Italian sausage (very rich) and two Singha beers.  While there, I watched boats of all kinds in the river.  I got some "sticker shock" when the bill for my meal arrived - it cost 955 Baht (around $30 but the service fee comprised almost $10).  As a consolation prize, I got a photo from the top of the building and then departed (1645).  I'd seen ice cream at “Before Sunset” (downstairs in the same building) so got some of that about five minutes later.  Next, I walked down lots of alleyways and stopped at several piers for views of the river.  I got to see some beautiful images of the sun setting behind Wat Arun (on the other side of the Chao Phraya River).  During this time, I was still considering getting on a boat but never did use one.  Instead, I wandered endlessly through a humungous Flower Market I found.  Along the way, I found myself navigating with a compass and following back roads. In a few places, I was surrounded by school kids in uniform.  Fortunately (for later actions), I noticed that there were MANY entrances to Sanam Chai subway station, the one I needed to retrace my steps on the train.  Instead of entering, though, I walked towards Grand Palace.  I was already tired, hot (80s) and sweaty so was relieved to find a city park that (somehow) had some cool breezes.  For a little while, I watched lots of local citizens doing sports and socializing in this pleasant slice of nature surrounded by the urban sprawl.  By that point, I knew it was time to go back to the hotel.  On the way to the Subway entrance, I noticed the many sparkling jewels on buildings within the Grand Palace complex - wow!  At the Panam Chai Station (1755), I used my Visa to access the subway (instead of token/cash) and boarded Train 2.  We didn't depart immediately and more people joined me - the car got completely packed by the time we reached Phetchaburi Subway Station.  To get out, I had to squeeze by dozens of young people who were glued to their mobile phones.  Somehow, though, everyone let me pass with no fuss or comment.  In fact, it was mostly silent for the entire "commute" I was doing.  Next, I changed from the Subway to the Airport Train.  I bought another token (35 Baht cash) and made my way through huge lines (everywhere) until I found myself in neat and orderly queues.  Most of us got on for a special train - it had to reverse direction on the track and then waited until it was completely full.  We were packed like sardines!  A bit disconcerting, I was surrounded by sick people (at least some wearing masks).  It was interesting to (again) watch the school kids.  I was VERY relieved as the Airport Train started clearning out at the halfway mark and even happier when we arrived at Airport stop (1900).  My train rides all afternoon were quite eye opening - SO MANY people behaving in an orderly, polite and efficient manner - very glad I got to witness that. A quick walk through the tunnels provided me with access to the Hyatt Regency lobby.  I’m definitely glad I ventured out for six hours (7+ miles of walking)!  I visited the Viking Cruise ladies and gave them a summary of "lessons learned", my Bangkok itinerary and said "thank you".  They were very appreciative (one said “you should work here with us”) and gave me a Singha Soda Water - that was very refreshing.  As I was departing, they recommended I check out the garden on the second floor so I could launch a flower in the moat.  When I took them up on the idea, I found more people from my Siem Reap Bus 1 group.  Fortunately, this allowed me to say my farewells.  Back in my room again (2030), I finished organizing for final packing and even had time for reading and watching videos.  I went to bed just after midnight.  My afternoon in the capital of Thailand (that probably would never have happened if I just followed the group) allowed me to reach the kind of “Travel Zen” that results when I’m on one of my solo travel missions. In the perfect scenario, I look around and realize I’m completely surrounded by locals who are going about their daily routines as though I’m not there.  Kind of like a fly on the wall. I’ve seen so many little kids playing games, old men talking on street corners, groups of young people smiling & laughing as they head out for dinner, shopkeepers chatting about their wares, patient train passengers surfing social media in perfect silence, couples looking longingly towards the setting sun as it crowns the monuments of the city.  I’ll never forget these images - very glad I’ve gotten to see a slice of life in this vibrant and interesting part of the world!

Southeast Asia Trip - Day 16

My farewell to Viking Venus was scheduled for 0300 this morning (ugh) so I could catch a bus to Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok). Despite setting my alarm for 0230, I was awake at 0140.  Since I didn't trust myself to go back to sleep, I read and worked on puzzles and Duolingo exercises.  With 30 minutes to go, I got out of bed and double checked that I had everything.  I assembled with the rest of the Angkor Wat Extension passengers in The Atrium at 0245.  Unfortunately, the only “breakfast” available was chocolate and a package of nuts from my stateroom mini bar (I'd also grabbed a few of the drinks, since I'd never taken any for the whole cruise and the "first ones are free").  Soon, we began the long process of getting off the ship, walking through the extensive "immigration" hall, collecting our luggage, triaging bags (I sent one to airport, to accompany me to Siem Reap, and one to a Bangkok Hotel, where I will be arriving on November 5).  Around me, some passengers were very stressed out and bitching all the way through the process - I tried to distance myself from them.  It was a bit sad to say farewell to Viking Venus, my home for two weeks... By 0310, though, I was on the bus and was immediately asked a series of questions by the onboard Viking Reps about the Cambodian Visa.  By this point, I'd received so much guidance (all of it contradictory) that I basically ignored the people talking about completing it online.  My rationale: I'd have to turn on my mobile service just to do anything and there was "Visa on Arrival" anyway...  We departed the Port at 0320 and, almost immediately, got stuck at a train crossing.  Once we got out of Laem Chabang, though, there was no traffic on the Expressway.  I wanted to sleep but it was quickly evident that we did NOT have a good bus driver - added to that, the rough road made dozing difficult.  Instead, I tried to figure out where we were and where we were headed - unfortunately, the ubiquitous Thai script was too much for my sleep deprived brain...  Surprise, though: I saw my first church in Thailand - it's cross was lit up near Suvarnabhumi Airport  when we arrived at at 0450.  After retrieving my bag from the bus holding area, I walked (along with everyone else) through the terminal.  By this time, the extremely early departure seemed to be a very good idea because we weren’t at the Thai Airlines check-in until 0500.  Unfortunately, the gate agent told me she couldn’t issue me a ticket because my name was incorrect in their system.  I'll admit that I panicked a bit because all the Viking Reps had disappeared - I even went searching but couldn’t find them.  When I returned to the Thai Airlines counter (I'd accidentally left something there), there was a Viking Rep waiting on me.  Whew!  Even then, though, it took quite a while to resolve the issue and we eventually had to go to the Airline's headquarters inside the airport.  After an hour of resolving the reservation/passport mix-up, I was finally able to enter the Immigration queue at 0615.  With the additional security screenings, getting snacks (drink, Haribo gummy bears) to satisfy my increasing hunger and walking to reach the gate, I barely made it onboard my Thai Airways aircraft (A320) at 0730.  I found myself sitting next to some Brits who told me they visit Siem Reap every year.  We finally finally departed Bangkok at 0815 - it was quite a relief to find myself rolling down the runway!  With only an hour before arrival in Cambodia, I was very surprised when the flight attendants managed to complete a full meal service of a chicken Caesar wrap, fruit (dragon fruit, papaya, apple and hot tea - amazing job!  We (me and 59 other passengers from Viking Venus) were actually in our descent to Siem Reap by 0855 and landed a short time later.  The taxi to the gate took a bit longer - fortunately, I was near the front of the aircraft and made good time to the Immigration area (0915).  At first, I was given priority for the line after I showed my entry QR Code from the online website.  However, I soon learned (once again) that the process recommended by Viking was incorrect.  Like a zombie (because of lack of sleep), I backtracked to another line so I could get a Visa on Arrival.  After everything that had happened, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this process was rather easy.  It seemed to be all about paying cash ($30 US).  Even better, the main line hadn’t gotten very long yet and I was soon talking to the original immigration official and through the queue.  Next, I collected my checked bag and headed to Customs (nothing to declare).  As a result, I found the Viking group very early (0950) and was assigned "Bus #1" when I couldn't recall the number of our bus at 0300.  This ended up being a lucky break because the guide chose me for his group.  The seats onboard the motor coach were luxurious - they almost looked like "Captain's Chairs"!  During this time (for the second or third time recently), I accidentally moved the wireless button from airplane mode to "on".  I hope I don't get charged by AT&T (I later learned that I wasn't).  Once we had all our passengers, we got to meet our Guide, Reth ("Red"), a local man who told us he grew up on the grounds of Angkor Wat.  Our driver's name was Mr. Long.  We left the airport at 1000 and it soon became clear that our guide was wonderful - he had good language skills and good stories and was extremely personable.  He told us a lot of  history (hard to digest with so little sleep).  One important comment I did like, though, was that we will be with him for the rest of the trip (I'm not sure, but I think there are two other buses).  Reth told us he was adjusting the printed itinerary to improve the next few days of visiting Siem Reap.  The first major change was that we made a stop at “Angkor Wat Enterprise” to get our temple passes (1050).  Each passenger had to pose for a photo that would be added to their ticket (required to access the grounds).  While waiting for the rest of our group, I noticed an Angkor Wat passport book and decided to get one (my first souvenir of the entire trip).  We departed at 1110 and next visited the Angkor National Museum.  After arriving at 1125, we watched a historical movie, visited the room of 1000 Buddhas, learned more about the history of the Khmer Empire, were shown engineering schematics (and a model) related to the building of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.  We also got to see lots of examples of clothing (or lack thereof) of the ancient peoples.  Meanwhile, it started raining.  We departed the museum at 1250 and arrived at Park Hyatt Siem Reap (our home for the next few days) within 15 minutes.  The hotel staff provided a gauntlet of umbrellas, which kept us mostly dry, and did much bowing.  Before I realized it, we were sitting down to lunch in the hotel restaurant.  It was a set menu, with a strawberry flavored aperitif, Grilled Chicken with Mango Salad & Khmer Dressing, River Fish Amok, Jasmine Rice and Steamed Rice Bun (dessert), washed down by some local beer.  The food tasted so good!  Next (1355), I checked into my room and was blown away by the five-star opulence.  By 1405, I was peacefully napping - I didn't wake up again until 1730. Only then did I start to feel “normal” again after the strange morning schedule. Before we needed to meet up for dinner (!), I spent some time unpacking my bag.  At 1830, I joined the other Viking Venus Extension passengers in the hotel lobby.  I thought I knew most of them but then recognized a new (to me) couple - the turned out to be from Viking Orion (Pre-Cruise Extension).  They raved about how great the tour of Siem Reap had been and that buoyed my spirits.  At 1840, the Bus 1 group got into the motor coach with Mr. Long and we headed towards our dinner venue.  The streets were very busy due to the upcoming Water Festival, but we reached "Korko 1979" by 1850.  Our meal, with a "Western Set Menu”, was Garden Vegetable Salad with Italian Sauce, Potato Cream Soup, Grilled (Amok?) Fish with White Cream Sauce and Crème Brûlée.  Again, everything was amazing!  We stayed at the restaurant until 1955 (by then it had started raining again) and then drove back to the hotel.  More traffic made the driving a little longer but we still arrived within 30 minutes.  Almost everyone else called it a night afterwards but I (after my nap earlier) was ready to do some more exploring. I started by looking at all the hotel amenities (pools, etc.).  It continued raining but I didn't want to miss out on additional experiences.  So, at 2030, I borrowed umbrella from the hotel staff and walked down to the river.  It took about 10 minutes to reach the water and the area was much busier than it had been near the Hyatt.  I spent time exploring shops, vendor tents, boats that were assembled for this week’s Water Festival and the vibrant night life of the local people.  At one point, a guy on a scooter started trying to set me up with some local girls (I ignored him).  After the brief break I’d had in Thailand, it felt very nice to be back in Cambodia - I’ve truly grown to love the culture and people here.  It was hard to choose to stop exploring but I forced myself to walk back towards the hotel.  After this brief excursion, I was in my room again at 2100 - by then, I felt pretty ready for "regular" bedtime.  I did some more unpacking and had fun with blogging, puzzles and audiobooks.  Bedtime was at 2300.  Tomorrow, I’ll be visiting one of the World’s “Grand-daddy Bucket List Items”: Angkor Wat!

Southeast Asia Trip - Day 15

Excursion in Thailand!  My cruise aboard Viking Venus us coming to an end - today will be my last tour from the ship...  Overnight, I'd only slept in short spurts (probably because I was VERY hydrated).  I was awake by 0530 (no alarm) and spent time reading, doing puzzles and completing Duolingo exercises.  At 0730, I went to breakfast (beans, eggs, sausage, potatoes) at the World Cafe.  During this time, I learned about a shuttle that was going to nearby Pattaya - unfortunately, there will be no time to use it before we depart the ship in the (early) morning.  Viking Venus docked at Laem Chabang, the final port of our voyage, by 0700 this morning.  One (final) point of annoyance for passengers took place around the time we arrived - the Captain decided to do a hull inspection in the harbor (prior to departing for Australian and New Zealand waters) and this restricted access to the ship for the rest of the day (until 1800).  The ship was actually going to go back out to see while we were on the excursion!  Sort of shaking my head on this one because there is so little flexibility left on the last day...  We also learned that many of the points of interest that might normally be included on a tour were closed due to a recent Royal death.  Oh well - those are the things no one can predict.  At that point, I felt grateful that I'd been on my tour and made my way to the departure area.  Once off Viking Venus, I had to walk through a huge terminal building to locate my bus. I arrived at the bus for my excursion, “Panoramic Bangkok”, at 0815 and we departed about 15 minutes later.  Our guide called himself “Steve” and gave everyone fish pendants ("for group cohesion").  Our driver (“Wan”) looked like he could be my Thai friend's (Bob W’s) brother!  In the initial states of departing the Port, we learned some phrases in the Thai language: “sowati” (hello) and “harpoon” (thank you).  The bad news at this point was that we still had a roughly 2.5 hour drive to Bangkok.  I tried to pass the time with scenery watching - it was interesting (like we'd seen in Hong Kong) to see the drivers on the left side of road.  Meanwhile, Steve told us about the Thai perspective of the "Thailand versus Cambodia conflict" - he claimed that it was all about natural resources in the Gulf of Thailand.  He mentioned local fauna (e.g., crab monkeys can swim!) and lots of cows, walking in ditches.  I saw SO MANY birds.  Surprisingly, since Thailand seemed so modern in every way, the road quality was not good.  Steve also talked about the origin of the Bangkok name. At 0945, we were given a 10 minute bathroom break (the bus stopped at a rest area along the Expressway) and, shortly after that, we passed the city's (huge) airport.  We arrived in the downtown area at 1120, with Steve noting the many Muslim landmarks describing their part in the community.  All during the drive, we'd been seeing flags at half staff and this initiated Steve's final discussion before the bus stopped anywhere.  Thailand was currently in a mourning period because of the recent death of the King’s mother.  As a result, much of the cultural, religious and historic locations I encountered today were only seen from the window of our bus.  Examples include: Railway Station, Wat Traimat (Golden Buddha inside, funeral taking place), interesting skyscrapers, Chinatown markets, the Chan Phraya River, Wat Phra Kaew (houses an Emerald Buddha), the Grand Palace (closed for mourning), City Wall (small sections) and the Democracy Monument.  It was tough to get photos because bus didn’t stop.  We finally (1145) got to stop at Wat Ratchanatdaram (Royal Temple) and spent time walking the grounds.  Steve talked happily away but I was able to get to a badly needed bathroom break.  When I rejoined our Bus 6 group, Steve led us through a blessing (overseen by a Buddhist Monk) of flower offerings for the King’s Mother - this ceremony was quite moving.  We next visited an Amulet Market and climbed the Iron Tower (67 steps) for a city view.  Throughout this time period, I was constantly surrounded by pushy Boomers (ugh).  When I got free from them, I bought a strawberry smoothie from a vendor on the temple grounds (I also got some Baht, the local currency, as change).  The drink was good but I barely made it to the bus just before the deadline (1215).  Our next stop (1230) was at the Royal Princess Hotel, where our tour allowed us time for an included lunch at the Princess Cafe.  Unfortunately, the full Thai food experience that I hoped to have was marred by a mad free-for-all in the “lines” when every Viking Venus bus (and some from Viking Orion) arrived at the same time.  There were (apparently) selections of American and Thai food but one had to correctly choose the appropriate line and hope that pushy Boomers weren't making their way in the other direction.  I was not successful,  Instead, I tried a local beer called "Chang Classic" (meh) and managed to find a table by myself,  In the end, I was glad to get a bit of Thai noodles for my meal.  One of the hardest parts of the whole experience was the extreme noise and complaining people.  After finishing my "meal", I killed time by walking around in the hotel and sitting in a quiet chair away from the other passengers. Following out departure from the lunch venue (1345), our sightseeing itinerary continued with the following activities: driving the Royal Way, checking out an Italian Marble Palace and a stop at Wat Benchamabophet (made of leftover marble from that Palace).  While at the latter location (1355), we got to get up close to a Golden Buddha, marveled at intricate art work, learned about “rain drums” and took a tour of a “Hall of Buddhas” (many different poses).  After Steve had stopped talking to our group, I walked the grounds and found more statues.  During this window, the rain started again so I returned to the bus early (1430) and we departed about 10 minutes later.  Our tour of Bangkok was finished with a stop at a Gem Store - these commercial rackets featured at almost every port on the cruise but the nearly 450 grandmas on the trip with me approved.   We stayed the shop until 1530 and then boarded our buses.  We made our way back to the Expressway and began driving south. At 1710, we got another 10 minute bathroom break at a rest area and then resumed our 2+ hour trip back to the Port.  After arriving at the Laem Chabang Port (1800), we encountered a HUGE line to board (grrrrr) - Viking Venus, apparently, was not fully ready for passengers...  Due to some lucky breaks in choosing lines, I managed to get back on the ship by 1815.  Once n my room again, I did laundry, weighed bags (with scale procured by Felix), completed an onboard experience survey (paper), submitted an excursion survey (online) and finished packing.  My last required admin tasks were to thank (and tip) my stewards and visit the Wintergarden to pick up passport.  Fortunately, this last task wasn't too bad because the rest of the passengers had been more proactive than I had.  At 1945, I went to dinner (pizza, pasta, veggies) at the World Cafe.  I stayed in the area until 2030, saying some farewells, and then went back to my stateroom.  There was just enough time left for me to complete the last two steps of my disembarkation procedures: bag labeling and leaving them outside my room.  Fortunately, I was able to turn out my lights just when I'd planned (2100) - hoping I'll get some genuine rest.   It’s been a wonderful vacation so far but it’s not over.  I’m ready for the next destination, Angkor Wat, and have a 0200 wake-up to depart the ship!

Southeast Asia Trip - Day 14

With only a few hours at the pier this morning, the passengers on Viking Venus had very limited time for excursions - fortunately, I had signed up for a tour to fill the time!  I slept better overnight and was awake (feeling rested) just after 0600.  There was time to complete puzzles, do some reading and fill out the Thailand Online Arrival Card (the latter was not easy but I managed to complete it).  At 0715, I headed down to Guest Services to ask questions about my Angkor Wat extension.  This revealed that the documentation I'd received about a 0245 meeting on November 2 (for departing Viking Venus) was accurate - dang...  I then got other questions about the Extension (visa, baggage, itinerary, etc.) answered.  Along the way, I found out that there were 59 people going with me on the trip (back) to Cambodia.  Next (0745), I went to breakfast (beans, baguette sandwich, fruit, cereal, pastries) at the World Cafe.  I was finished eating by 0810 and then headed to the gangway area so I could board the bus for my tour. We departed at 0830 - our “Sihanoukville Discovery” guide's name was Vichethur (“Jet”).  Sadly, I noticed that my tour included the annoying Boomer Shopping Ladies again...  Like a trip I took earlier on the cruise (Yen Duc, Vietnam), this excursion gave me a glimpse of the life of local Cambodians as they went about their daily lives.  It only took about 10 minutes to leave the Port and we arrived at a small fishing village by 0855.  In that area, we encountered a bustling seafood market, precarious nests of household wiring and food processing operations.  The residents of the village were clearly very poor and, for the first time, I noticed a significant of pollution.   On the other hand, the children smiled and waved, while the adults bowed and were quite friendly.  We had to hide out from a passing rain shower in a busy warehouse - they made ice, fish paste and other crafts.  Overall, it was good to experience this part of Cambodian life.  We departed on the bus at 0935 and made our way to the next stop of the tour.  Along the way, we stopped for a bathroom break at a gas station, which Jet told was was much “cleaner than the Pagoda Happy Room”.  By 1000, we had resumed our drive and soon arrived at Wat Krom Pagoda, a local place of worship that featured several instances of the Noble Wheel, a sleeping Buddha, ornate architecture, family stupas, Buddhist Monks eating their midday meal (we even got to see the local people bringing their food offer wings).  Other important sights included: a huge Stupa built in honor of the “disappeared” victims of the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields and a dancing performance by local ladies (they added an interpretation of the hand movements).  Our guide provided lots of information about life of the monks and the meaning of the many religious (Hindu, Buddhist and Animist) symbols (e.g., "spirit houses").  At one point, I spent time quietly watching the behavior of the monks and the local people who were bringing their food to the temple for the upcoming mid-day meal.  There were dogs all over the complex - Jet told us that Cambodians don't send pets to shelters and, instead, just donate them to the monks (who have to care for them).  Speaking of pets, I've noticed that there haven't been a lot of varieties of dogs or cats - they almost all look the same to me...  Before the stop was over, I was flabbergasted to hear some ridiculous (and, frankly, insulting) Boomer questions about reincarnation.  Despite this minor reminder of the USA, I was quite pleased with the temple visit.  We departed Wat Krom at 1045 and drove towards the waterfront.  On the way, I was (again) struck by the ubiquitous coughing passenger on the bus - how am I not sick?  We passed monkeys at various places on the road - they were very sociable and the local people seemed to be feeding them.  At 1050, we arrived at the famous Independence Beach, where Jackie Kennedy Onassis made a goodwill visit in 1967.  Unfortunately, the water was rough and polluted so I eschewed going in for a swim.  Instead, I sat on a bench and enjoyed a local (Angkor) beer.  It’s been so hot (high 80s) and humid (80%) that the sea breeze was very welcome.  I also explored the coast a bit and located the hotel, which was located to the west of the main beach.  The waves were big enough that they occasionally covered the walking path - I ended up returning by a different (and drier) route.  Along the way, I did some birding and checked out the Infinity Pool (it looked very inviting).  We departed for the ship at 1145 and were boarding Viking Venus about 15 minutes later.  In my room again, I spent time completing excursion questionnaires and doing some prep for my upcoming trip to Angkor Wat.  Starting at 1245, I enjoyed lunch (pizza, salad, etc.) at the World Cafe.  The ship was celebrating the approaching end of the cruise by bringing out ALL of their many (delicious) desserts.  There was s huge line for getting some when I checked but I didn't end up getting any.  Since many of the tables were already occupied and I'd taken a table for four, I ended up being joined by two ladies (Linda and Maggie, friends from Macon, GA).  We talked for a while and the conversation was enjoyable.  During this time, Viking Venus departed Cambodia - we are Thailand bound!  Back in my room (1430), I took a nap for about 90 minutes.  Upon waking, I filled out Cambodia travel visa (online) for the Angkor Wat - I hope this will be the last paperwork!  At 1800, I was able to get back to Manfredi's again for dinner (Caprese Salad, Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Parmigiana di Pollo, Chilean Cab-Sav).  I sat at a "shared table" and met couples from Vancouver (BC) and Florida.  Dan from Augusta, GA (who was at the Solo Traveler's Lunch) was there too.  I finished eating at 2000 and then spent some time walking, visiting, etc. before returning to my stateroom again.  Before bed, I watched the Bangkok Port Talk and enjoyed some of the "Beatles Tribute" performance.  The latter activity was actually a part of the Viking Farewell Reception, which I skipped because of the crowds.  I turned out the light at about 2215 while Viking Venus was entering Thai waters.  Excited to visit another country tomorrow!