Should you choose to visit Bangkok or Hanoi?
Apr26

Should you choose to visit Bangkok or Hanoi?

Bangkok took a bit of time and multiple visits to grow on us. Our 1st trip was after a month on Koh Samui. I’m not a fan of big cities normally, so I just chalked it up to that. But our second time was definitely different, and we really enjoyed it. Now’ we’re in Vietnam which is a whole different world. So if you’ve ever wondered about visiting Bangkok or Hanoi, here’s my perspective. Noise Thailand has a calmer culture. You...

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Guelmim, Gateway to the Sahara
Jan25

Guelmim, Gateway to the Sahara

We stayed in numerous cities in Morocco, and I’d have to say that Guelmim was probably my favorite place. Essaouira was a close second, but mostly because they have a great beach, and I’m quite partial to beaches. While other areas of Morocco are amazing and definitely unique experiences, I loved Guelmim the most because it was extremely authentic. It isn’t made for tourists, and it hasn’t really bought into...

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A Letter to Morocco
Dec21

A Letter to Morocco

Dear Maroc, I hope it’s okay to call you that. I know it’s only been 2 months, but I feel like we’ve shared enough to be on a more personal basis. May I just start by saying how much you confuse and amaze me?  I’m pretty adept at picking up on cultures and things, and well, every time I think I’ve got you nailed down you laugh a little and surprise me.  Good for you! One thing has really struck me about...

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In the midst of culture clash
Nov30

In the midst of culture clash

In my former working life, one of the things I was well known for in the medical community of Colorado was being a cultural consultant.  I regularly taught and presented at conferences, groups, committees, etc., on issues of multiculturalism in health care.  I try to be very respectful of cultural differences.  When we’re in a new environment, I try very hard to respect the culture of that area, even if I personally find a...

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Two Parties, Two Different Worlds

In the last week we’ve attended 3 birthday parties, 2 of which were for kids. One was a local friend and the other some visitors from America. I’ve always loved that in Spanish, particularly the Mexican form, there are 2 words for “party.” One, fiesta, is your average, run-of-the-mill celebration that will only last probably 2-3 hours and won’t get too crazy or too exciting. The other is pachanga....

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