Marci and Steve Go Back to Europe

The Marci Wrap Up Report So, how would we ultimately rate our SouthEast Asia experience? I know that everyone who reads our blogs thinks that each trip has a different vibe (true) and that our first blog in Europe sounded like our favorite extended trip so far. And while that is probably true (I always have called it the trip of a lifetime) you really can’t compare the three experiences.  Asia was by far the most exotic. It took us in-depth to a part of the world very different than ours. It delved into more history, took us to small villages where life was very basic, had more flights, hotels and short stays than ever before and was a bit less independent than we are used to.  Sure, we would do it a bit different if we had to do it over, but the experience overall was amazing. We didn’t just skim the surface, we truly feel like we got to know the people and places and had great experiences everywhere, even if places were dirty, or we were sweaty.  So, ...

The Answer Many correct or close to correct responses, but only one perfect answer, by my good friend Dave F. Here's the item in question: He is either a very knowledgeable guy ( true), or a great image researcher. He used the actual correct name, which is a “Song Loan”, he knew how it is used, and the country of origin...you get full marks, Dave. Whilst in Vietnam our guide took us to a village along the Mekong, where a musical performance took place for us....here's a shot of the 3 people performing traditional country folk music piece -  It was eerily haunting and reminded both Marci & I of southern US delta blues music... funny, because this was the same type of geography half way around the world. That old guy could really play that old electric guitar.... She sang, the guide sang, a very  interesting and weird 15 minutes. But what keeps the time to the music? No drums....the guitarist, while playing, used the Song Loan to drum out a rhythmic be...

Rants, Raves,  and Reviews  As this 7 week adventure starts to wind down, Marci and I have begun to have our usual  conversations reviewing what we loved about the trip, and what we might have done different. We always approach these chats as if we are going write a travel book with advice for others....which I guess is partially what these blog posts are. Yes, always, Safety Firts...!!  As this trip was the first time ever for us to use help in planning and booking, for the reasons previously disclosed, I am of two minds about this style of travel. We were able, unquestionably, to see more, and cover more ground with the aid of prearranged drivers and guides. As we spent relatively little time in each location, this is a big plus...we probably will not be returning to any of theses spots, and were able to really get a good grasp of the history and sights they all had to offer. I love the mystery and adventure of arriving in a new strange place and havi...