Welcome to Communism.

Here are some photographs of my first day in Hanoi, Vietnam. I saw the preserved corpse of Ho Chi Minh who led North Vietnam and brought Communism to the country. It was awkward and eerie as I layed eyes on the remains of the very being my country fought against. I felt as if my every move was being watched as I was literally being grabbed by soldiers, shoved into a straight line, and told to take my hands out of my pockets. The whole experience was a metaphor for how I feel about this type of government.

When in Laos...

Vang Vieng is a small backpacker town where all inhibition is LOST. Along the river you spend your day in an intertube bar hopping, drinking, playing mud volleyball (must bring this back to the States), and meeting fellow travelers from around world. I understood what makes this place a notorious party haven!

I was launched 20 feet in the air... body felt that impact for days!

Part of this whole traveling experience is trying crazy things I wouldn't normally do. Offering everything from waterslides, rope swings, and zip lines, Vang Vieng is a recipe for an adrenaline rush. Sometimes when we've consumed a little too much firewater we are increasingly tempted to conquer these perilous activities. So, in keeping with my vow for all things daring...I DID.

Rebel

Everywhere I travel around the world I always find children to be the best photo subjects. Their excitement for life is projected through my camera and into my photographs. They differ however from most children at home. Those who live a more sheltered life via smothering parents, tutors, coaches, teachers, and an array of addicting electronic equipment. I'm not saying American children roaming the streets as they please is realistic but can't they at least climb a tree?!

Life in Laos

I disembarked our slowboat along the Mekong River at a quiet fishing village in Laos. I left there with some amazing photographs and an entirely new perception of traditional Laos culture.

Mahouting

Elephants are an integral part of Southeast Asian lifestyle as they provide transportation, labor, and companionship like any other loyal pet. They are amazing creatures and despite their massive size, quite amiable. I rode one through the forest in Laos along the Mekong River. It wasn't some tamed circus ride, but I learned how to properly direct my elephant "Pu Bang" (possible derivative of Pooh Bear?) from a Mahout (trainer). Now I just need to find a backyard big enough to bring one home.....

 

Sawatdeeeee

I got a peek into tribal culture at a group village in Northern Thailand that houses six different native tribes. Kitschy at times, I tried to forget I was being a tourist and not a traveler that day...

The irony...."hold on I have a bad signal!"

Hummmm

Buddhists have pride in their ancient religion and strong tradition. My religious beliefs aside, I appreciate their dedication and sacrifice. I have been fortunate enough to visit monasteries and interact with the charming monks. Doi Suthep is a temple that sits atop a vast mountain in Chiang Mai. Walking the grounds I came across a monk who performed a sacred blessing upon me. He tied a white string around my wrist as I knelt, while drops of blessed water fell upon my head. Definitely an experience I'll always remember.

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