tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18357426360879534272024-03-05T15:09:33.478-08:00Kristine in the MomentThe musings of a wanderer.....Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-30933619287329704022011-05-27T09:04:00.000-07:002011-05-27T09:04:03.625-07:00Brunch at the Four SeasonsSo as my time in Saudi Arabia is wrapping up, I'm trying to fit in all the things that I have been meaning to do, but have never quite gotten around to doing. Near the top of this list was the infamous brunch at the Four Seasons, and let me tell you it is amazing. I'm pretty sure I ate my weight in food. Yummm!!<br />
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Its not cheap- we spent about 330 SAR a person- that's roughly $85 US. Its held on friday's from 12:30 till 4. We made a reservation, and showed up at 12:30, and the place was completely empty. It started to fill up after 1pm and when we left at 2:30 it was packed. There are several stations including an Italian, Asian, Indian, and my personal favourite Sushi!! Sushi is my most favourite meal, and they had deliciously fresh sashimi. They also had an enormous assortment of seafood, and it was all delicious.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx4H_0oxvdVOLsbQ6aefk9PJjAIcQfYzkW5L62haWCVuADYP3KLUGqgtrqTBh-swF3Mz0RpmVDU5KEy1Le74IRfh0LQwKnCx2qC2xLsrXewOVUH0NtJd3bAq8wrKUfA1Gn1q6t_LBBPxw/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx4H_0oxvdVOLsbQ6aefk9PJjAIcQfYzkW5L62haWCVuADYP3KLUGqgtrqTBh-swF3Mz0RpmVDU5KEy1Le74IRfh0LQwKnCx2qC2xLsrXewOVUH0NtJd3bAq8wrKUfA1Gn1q6t_LBBPxw/s400/DSC_0002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Now, on to the desserts. Two words....chocolate fountain. Several different types of Creme Brule, an ice cream station, crepe station, and a waffle station. There was an entire dessert section that we almost missed, and by the time we found it we were far to full to indulge.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx8yGMi0daolFmaRcfTcF4btXWEahof6k9l_hOMfEvQfE_BIkpSdBI-2zFcxpujzqAnd3rwdKXsTSy5FRt8uJq-NeMrO06lnpYaoDohISGvFcIMygSIrSUj7A-DhGTSlGSpJyppViWJdo/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx8yGMi0daolFmaRcfTcF4btXWEahof6k9l_hOMfEvQfE_BIkpSdBI-2zFcxpujzqAnd3rwdKXsTSy5FRt8uJq-NeMrO06lnpYaoDohISGvFcIMygSIrSUj7A-DhGTSlGSpJyppViWJdo/s400/DSC_0011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> The crowd was a lovely mix of Westerners, and Saudis. Kids had their own section, although many families chose to do as Saudis do and let their kids run wild through the place. I had to restrain myself from wanting to discipline a few of the more energetic ones. All in all, a lovely culinary experience. The one bonus is that women must wear an abaya, which left us free to wear stretch pants underneath, so we could eat till our tummy's content!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-7242242847571420252011-05-21T07:19:00.000-07:002011-05-21T07:19:01.646-07:00The Countdown is on...........So, I have 6 1/2 weeks left, and the time is flying by!! I have tons of things to do, but not really feeling super motivated at the moment. Mumkin (maybe) its the heat, since its now getting above 40C here. I officially will be starting back at my old job July 25th. Am feeling like a need to do a major nursing refresher, as my nursing skills have fallen to the way side here. Pretty sure my VIP ass kissing skills aren't going to come in handy when I return home!! Its been quite some time (possibly the entire time I've been gone) since I had an acutely ill patient. I make a mean servant here, but maybe not the best real-life nurse. Inshallah, it will all come back to me- like riding a bike again!!<br />
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As it gets closer to leaving, the list of things I miss gets longer. Sadly, the many varieties of proper alcohol often repeat on my list. I miss my peeps, my gay boyfriend, and anything resembling getting dressed up in costume and pub crawling. Am so looking forward to being a short trip accross the border from my family. That's really all thats new. Will be booking my flght home later this week. Need to look into shipping my stuff. My roomie is leaving this week, and my closest Kiwi mate in a month. It's Masalama Time!!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-80337728485894354302011-05-07T07:16:00.000-07:002011-05-07T07:16:34.035-07:00Mis-CommunicationWhile charting at a computer the other afternoon, a doctor who I have never seen before sat down next to me. He leaned over, and in a very think accent said what sounded to me like "Do you have painful urination?" I looked at him said "excuse me?" He again repeated the same thing. At first I was thinking this is the strangest pick-up line of all time. I relied with an irritated "What?" He then pulled his pen out and dangled it in my face and said much clearer "Do you have a pen for donation." Wowzers- I started laughing, while passing him my pen and told him what I thought he had said. He looked super mortified, and coudn't get away from me fast enough. No doctor, I do not have painful urination, thank you for asking!!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-61686155266576506552011-05-07T07:10:00.000-07:002011-05-07T07:10:37.652-07:00Bin Who Dat??So the other day I walked into work, and the place was abuzz with gossip, and not the normal run of the mill news. My friends back home were messaging me asking "are you ok?" and "be safe." So I knew something was up. One of my co-workers quickly filled me in that Osama Bin Laden had been killed. My first thoughts were "that guy is still missing?" Cause lets be honest, I see someone who could be his twin on a nearly weekly basis being here. It's all I can do to not speed-dial the CIA hotline with reports of his supposed location. But seriously, this just adds another reason to the ongoing tally of reasons why I should probably get the eff out of the Middle East. <br />
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Not that this isn't amazing news for Americans, or for other Western countries, but it does make those of us here a little more leary about our safety, and gives my friends and family another reason to worry. Unfortunately, being a blond Westerner, you sortof stand out in these parts! So, what has the last week been like? No different than the one before. There was talk that embassy events would be canceled, but this didn't happen. The security to get into our comound is as lax as ever- the last 5 times I've come back my car hasn't been stopped or searched. The VIP entrance to the hospital remians unmaned most hours of the day. Anywho- that's all the news from these parts. I did get to inform 2 co-workers of mine, a Saudi and a Jordanian about the news, and they immedicately switched into talking Arabic in front of me, and told me they were saying a prayer for Bin Laden.Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-33610989090206339782011-04-29T00:24:00.000-07:002011-04-29T00:24:50.495-07:00One Year AnniversarySo today marks my one year mark in Saudi Arabia. What an incredible and equally hard year it has been. In many ways, it feels like I have been gone much longer. A lot has happened, many new people have entered, and left my life. I've traveled far more than I expected to, paid off some debt, and been thrust into the most severe form of culture shock. I've grown as a person, and see the world quite differently than before I left. I'm so thankful to have had this opportunity, but am ready to return to some normalcy. Before heading to Turkey I had decided to re contract for another year. While in Turkey, I realized that there are far too many things and people that I missed, and I yearned to go home. Originally after leaving Saudi I had planned to return to Canada. Years ago I let my BC nursing license lapse, and it will take some paper-work time before I can get it back. For this reason I'll be returning to Seattle, to the close friends that I have there, and am so excited to do so. I have officially given my notice and will be vacating Saudi the beginning of July.<br />
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This was a hard decision as to whether I should stay or go. Financially, the money is decent here, but I work many more hours than I did back home. Rent is free, but the living conditions confining, and aging. I have met some amazing people, and will keep in touch with them long after I leave here. At the same time I have met some extremely manipulative, self destructive people as well. Being here has challenged my morals- Saudi has a way of blending right and wrong into various shades of grey. People are transient freely entering in and out of our lives.<br />
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There are many things I won't miss about Saudi: the constant eye banging when you step out of the apartment, the lack of respect that comes with being a woman in this country, the religious police, prayer times and the call to prayer. I won't miss being talked down to by doctors at work. I won't miss the double standard between Saudi work ethic, and western. I won't miss the check points, and having a machine gun pointed into the car as a 19 year old Saudi dude tries to flirt. <br />
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Things I will miss: the people that have enriched my life, the travel opportunities, and time off to travel. I will miss the lack of responsibility, and social life I have had here.<br />
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Lots of things fall into the hate/love category. I hate the abaya when it is hot outside, or I'm tripping over it going upstairs. I love it when I'm lazy and want to wear PJ's to go grocery shopping. I love that we can have almost any type of food delivered to us. I hate that mostly it will arrive cold, and inevitably the order will be screwed up. I love the embassy and compound parties, but hate the hassle of having to get signed in or have tickets organized to everything.<br />
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At some point things come to an end, and I'm heading towards mine in 9 weeks and counting. I plan on making the next 9 weeks count, since inshallah I'll never find myself back here. North America I'm home ward bound!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-5787568119781755472011-04-28T07:42:00.000-07:002011-04-28T07:42:39.039-07:00Janadriyah FestivalSo every year for about 2 weeks, the Saudi's throw a huge festival on the outskirts of Riyadh. Its country fair meets expo minus the rides and alcohol. Oh, and all the women are covered. Its got a very happy vibe, and the locals will come up and chat with you, ask where you are from, and welcome you to their country. Men will outright stare (as per usual) and try and get the courage to walk past you and say "Hello" or "Welcome" once you have already passed them. The admission is free, but as with most things in like it comes with a price. The price in this case is getting hassled by the Muttawa (aka religious police) who are staking out the front of the joint. Whattodo?? Cover your hair for 30 seconds till you pass them and are out of sight, and then unleash your blond locks on the unsuspecting and intrigued population.<br />
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The festival is very much worth the visit!! It is about the only chance you can get living in Saudi Arabia where you are openly allowed to take photos. This was actually my main reason for going!! The festival is set up along long streets with different food stalls, vendors, and buildings that you can visit. Many of the buildings are related to the Ministries and social programs/ technologies within the Kingdom. We visited the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Justice, and the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment. Mostly everything is in Arabic. The tents/buildings are ornately decorated in true Saudi fashion, with dying flower arrangements adorning every possible surface. We entered the Ministry of Hajj showcasing all things Hajj related and were offered ZamZam water- the holy water from Mecca. Pilgrims bring the water home with them after attending Hajj, and it is believed to have healing powers. Often patients in hospital have jugs of it in their room. That being said I would take a pass on it if someone offers it to you- if has the most peculiar mineral taste to it, and instead of healing properties, it just tasted like what I imagine bathing water tastes like. Saudi bathing water. We took a stroll past the Saudi Human Rights Commission. I have a lot to say about this, but won't at present time.<br />
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We did a little shopping. There are local crafts such as pottery or weaving available for purchase. Mostly we just wandered, and interacted with the locals. We were asked to have our photos taken numerous times. Many, many ladies approached us asking where we were from, and saying how beautiful our hair was. All in all, a really great Saudi experience!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cM0M7WBdZYRwI-X4CLOK8HVu0Pq_w-Jwpzr_p6Ja7g9ReXDJJmkfqN4PtNCazqUVG2A8qVz1l6ld8S5LdL6vx-0K09IkK2lwWQEFocMkdIyDF5UJkRBSRDa0oP6QKfoLFQLjMI0JGew/s1600/DSC_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cM0M7WBdZYRwI-X4CLOK8HVu0Pq_w-Jwpzr_p6Ja7g9ReXDJJmkfqN4PtNCazqUVG2A8qVz1l6ld8S5LdL6vx-0K09IkK2lwWQEFocMkdIyDF5UJkRBSRDa0oP6QKfoLFQLjMI0JGew/s400/DSC_0168.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-81035158160019730452011-04-18T13:36:00.000-07:002011-04-18T13:42:10.740-07:00English as a Second LanguageI would like to preface this blog by once again saying how difficult it is for me to learn a new language. My brain isn't built for it, and often results in a painful experience for me, and anyone involved in teaching me. I totally get how difficult it can be, and how equally hilarious it can be. Before I regale you with stories of my Arabic speaking colleagues, I'll tell you a story from my previous job in Seattle. Picture my Spanish speaking patient who has just started bowel prep for a colonoscopy he is scheduled for and speaks ZERO English. Now picture me with minimal Spanish vocabulary, but knowing how to ask "How much does it cost?" and "in the bathroom." Now picture my brain thinking I am a bilingual genius and compiling these 2 phrase together to ask my patient what I think is "How often are you going poo-poo in the bathroom?" But, is actually phrased as "How much does it cost for you to go poo-poo in the bathroom?' Honestly, I couldn't understand why he appeared to not understand me- until I proudly told my friend how I had used my Spanish, and she almost peed herself and told me what I had actually said. The answer to the question is that it's free to poo-poo in the bathroom sir!<br />
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Anyhoo- moving along to the constant hilarity that is my life in Saudi. I work with many co-workers for whom English is their second language, and honestly some of the things that are verbalized are pure magic. Its like God himself wants me to have a good day when some of this stuff gets said. I realize I am childish- but honestly with all the nonsense in this place its stuff like this that keeps me going!!!<br />
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So picture a staff meeting, and during the question sections an older man I work with who is from Sudan raises his hand to ask where the nursing mail slot is, and instead asks "where the nursing slut is?" Because I am a child, I almost wet myself, and I have to ask- Why was he looking at me when he said it?? I'm just sayin :)<br />
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I work with a Swedish nurse with a thick accent, and every time she asks for the chart she says "shart." This is funny on many levels, none of which she finds funny. She also has a very catchy phrase for diluting her medications- she says she is "saluting" them.<br />
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A Jordanian male nurse called me over to the computer the other day to describe to him an article about exercises he was reading on MSN. He wasn't sure what a 'lunge' was and thought it was the same as a squat- so I showed him what a lunge was. Next on the list was 'chest press' so we talked about what that was.....next on the list was 'keigl exercises.' He asked me to show him what they were....seriously no joke. I made him read the description of how the article said to do them. He turned a million shades of red, and I laughed till tears formed in my eyes. You're welcome for that little gem.<br />
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I work with a Saudi nursing student who worships Michael Jackson, and channels the King of Pop in his clothing choices. He means well, but his constant pick-up and hit-on lines need some work. BIGTIME. The other day he told me "you make my hormone go up and down, up and down." Hmmmm is that what we're calling it nowadays??<br />
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It is important to note that my Arabic patients, and the staff I work with laugh at my attempts at Arabic on a daily basis- am pretty sure I haven't said anything truely offensive....yet. Mostly they just regard my attempts like that of a small child and repeat "Ahhhhhh"Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-59378184385958401872011-04-18T13:15:00.000-07:002011-04-18T13:15:06.422-07:00Last stop: Back to IstanbulAfter spending a little more than a week on the Turkish coast we flew back to Istanbul for one final night before I would fly back to Riyadh. We had saved most of our souvenir shopping for last so we wouldn't have to lug all our treasure with us. We checked into our hotel, and headed off towards the Grand Bazaar, supposedly the largest covered bazaar in the world. It is enormous, and over whelming, and highly hilarious. The constant hassling, and hit-ons by the shop boys is pretty funny!! Almost anything you could ever want is for sale, and at very negotiable prices. My travel partner and I were in the market for Turkish lamps- which are beautifully ornate, and quite specific to the region. There are hundreds of different designs, and sizes to choose from. After much consideration I chose a bright multi-coloured set that should match what few furniture possessions I own!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2zKzH8gDh-W6day6ZqEenexlhDw8McqcutXVJjsMcVuN8XbO-2_CTPUjlylHPZbRSofXiPUVaoFrCb3vNo-6jI5uTvoIq1WJ9fzPMMc8ME5fOuKUTpkt_J9_ZdI8XKLpmDjvx0ahsmE/s1600/DSC_0123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2zKzH8gDh-W6day6ZqEenexlhDw8McqcutXVJjsMcVuN8XbO-2_CTPUjlylHPZbRSofXiPUVaoFrCb3vNo-6jI5uTvoIq1WJ9fzPMMc8ME5fOuKUTpkt_J9_ZdI8XKLpmDjvx0ahsmE/s400/DSC_0123.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>My travel mate and I will say that the most underrated thing on this trip was a tourist monument in Istanbul called the Hippodrome. Granted we didn't really know what the Hippodrome was, but we took extreme pleasure in saying this word every chance we got.....except that when we said the word it was like we were WW wrestlers, and often actually mimed a wresting pose while saying the word. It made asking for directions a little embarrassing, but brought us endless entertainment.....until we actually went to the Hippodrome, and found that it was a tall carved rock structure under construction. It so didn't live up to the expectation that we had- we had after all planned on buying T-shirts that boldly stated "WE SURVIVED THE HIPPODROME!!!" Oh the utter disappointment :)<br />
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All in all Turkey was a blast, and we packed a lot into 16 days. I returned to Riyadh just as tired as when I left, and actually am sort of looking forward to unpacking my suitcase for a minute!! Not sure what my next travel plans will be, or where, but am sure something will be on the horizon!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-63251048577720792072011-04-17T14:41:00.000-07:002011-04-17T14:41:36.712-07:00Turkish Pick-up LinesNo one will ever tell you that Turkish men are smooth- rather they are in your face, follow you down the street, peep in your window forward. Well, maybe not all of them, but at least the one's that approached us. I'd have to reach pretty far back to remember equally cheesy pick-up lines. Istanbul was by far the worst. One must possess the strong ability to tell the numerous suitors to '"screw off" if one hopes to make it out of here alive, or at the very least not pregnant :)<br />
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So it all starts with an innocent "Hello!" or a "my you are beautiful" in the park.....then comes the persistent following as you start to pickup your pace. If you find yourself silly enough to slow down often names are exchanged, and then the most pitiful array of handshake tricks you have seen. Kissing the back of someones hand is seen as a very romantic gesture in these parts, and handshakes last much longer than is comfortable in any normal western society- I'm pretty sure if you are counting in your head "one- one thousand, two- one thousand" than you are getting a hand molestation taking place, and not a simple shake!! We actually started making a list of the creepiest, and funniest lines we encountered on the trip. Here are a few of the gems:<br />
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"I saw you sitting in your hotel yesterday." AKA the stalker, since our room was on the third floor. I'm pretty sure binoculars or a long-lens were involved in this one!!<br />
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"Your scarf matches the colour of your eyes." Me wearing a light aqua scarf with dark green eyes.<br />
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"Have you been to the palace and seen the diamond, cause it is not as beautiful as your eyes!"<br />
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Whilst pointing at us: "You are the best! And you are the best! And all others must die!" Said by a chanting olderish man.<br />
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"Please, do not be like a candle in the wind to me." Not ever sure what this one means!<br />
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My personal favourite: "Excuse me, I'm not dangerous." Well obviously!!!<br />
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"How many camels for your sister?" I replied that I would take no less than 10 for her!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-14576180527254444572011-04-17T06:57:00.000-07:002011-04-17T06:57:56.022-07:00FethiyeWe booked 3 nights in Fethiye- in a nice upscale hotel with an ample supply of hot water!! Fethiye has a beautiful harbour, surrounded my mountains, with breathtaking sunsets. As with everywhere else- it was pre-tourist season, so things were quiet. We booked onto a day cruise of the nearby islands, and spent the day sitting up top of the yacht as weather permitted. The coast is dotted with small island communities. We docked at quiet coves to allow for a swim- my American friend was the only one brave enough to actually get into the chilly waters. We saw dolphins and a sea turtle. It was a lovely day.....until the winds and rain picked up, and I wished I'd brought a portable space heater with us!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTU1TxR_MbYRvhfvViLAZSG557mTuuEL6DVud-LFK7LX8R3vM-Co1PUkRb9-AATv4M0MiuoZj5eDnghwee6fUcMleNrdSV0eVgX3RPlYvsRRKET6OtcM0YsyrKJXvH9jiFCvPzvLpMCUU/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTU1TxR_MbYRvhfvViLAZSG557mTuuEL6DVud-LFK7LX8R3vM-Co1PUkRb9-AATv4M0MiuoZj5eDnghwee6fUcMleNrdSV0eVgX3RPlYvsRRKET6OtcM0YsyrKJXvH9jiFCvPzvLpMCUU/s400/DSC_0001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>One of the big draws to booking the hotel we did was that they had an outdoor jacuzzi. After spending 3 nights without hot water in Kas we were both looking forward to a nice soak coupled with a bottle of wine. To our surprise and amazement we were informed that the jacuzzi was "out of season, and was too cold to be used." We of course became confused as to how it was out of season- as it was cold outside- isn't that the point?? Apparently, jacuzzi's are meant to be cold- according to Turkish standards. Soooo disappointing :(<br />
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Our last day in Fethiye we arranged to rent a car. Mind you I haven't driven a stick shift in over a year, but it was just like riding a bike!! We headed off towards some Lycian tombs overlooking the city, then headed to the ruins of Tlos about 45min from Fethiye. These ruins are in excellent condition, but are surrounded by farmer's fields, and cows and goats are let out to feed amongst the ruins. From Tlos we drove back towards Fethiye and stopped off at Kaya Koya- a large ghost town that was deserted in the 1920's. Its actually quite eerie, and pretty much deserted. We met some Asian girls who were freaked out as a crazy man had been following them. Fortunately, we didn't run into said crazy man!!! From the ghost town we headed to Oludeniz Beach otherwise known as the "Blue Lagoon" and sunned ourselves, and watched the many para sailors flying overhead. We dropped the car back off without incidence!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5S8E7ksr3EJ2B32qKDFrHYft_pscXyaQ8QuxWThF0AnuawshA_sxF-rYe2K6exu_OwMtkVy9cXTDmsN2lu9IFyBCaEv6UaVyKuOj2JhGkYdmoU3b7WhzSu0qChKWTpfSR3oeArKN0N8/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5S8E7ksr3EJ2B32qKDFrHYft_pscXyaQ8QuxWThF0AnuawshA_sxF-rYe2K6exu_OwMtkVy9cXTDmsN2lu9IFyBCaEv6UaVyKuOj2JhGkYdmoU3b7WhzSu0qChKWTpfSR3oeArKN0N8/s400/DSC_0020.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lycian Tomb overlooking Fethiye</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUTJyw0T3qBu5mlASPRMC69r91RbTOCzC2D9KPqOvk2Srm_JUmwI78AS5uHyY-p1omF7aMSbBlvxmCvmqwni-e6TDflRHV_76m86OnVTSXfQh411-UMkIwjtffyB4FFnlYLLxLqmSi7o/s1600/DSC_0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUTJyw0T3qBu5mlASPRMC69r91RbTOCzC2D9KPqOvk2Srm_JUmwI78AS5uHyY-p1omF7aMSbBlvxmCvmqwni-e6TDflRHV_76m86OnVTSXfQh411-UMkIwjtffyB4FFnlYLLxLqmSi7o/s400/DSC_0051.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Theatre ruins at Tlos</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_lGCpEwX52Qh1MvKAj6z5lIAILLOxfjUcAUzHxgSgv-3L0_Kfue4n1irrnJABUUl7cCXvUNNhRsAPXv7kSSb5H7p_kC-FjHs5Bfp3lCqNiqqwkJK4q3fCZbQ5TRGuY94Nff4h8n9Mu8/s1600/DSC_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_lGCpEwX52Qh1MvKAj6z5lIAILLOxfjUcAUzHxgSgv-3L0_Kfue4n1irrnJABUUl7cCXvUNNhRsAPXv7kSSb5H7p_kC-FjHs5Bfp3lCqNiqqwkJK4q3fCZbQ5TRGuY94Nff4h8n9Mu8/s400/DSC_0090.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kaya Koya Ghost Town</td></tr>
</tbody></table>One evening while wandering the walkway along the waterfront we came across a second hand book store with a large variety of English books. Amongst them I came across a book written by a gentleman named Iceberg Slim with the title of the book being "Pimp." What a find!!! It is highly offensive, and not for the weak of heart, but provided us with more laughs imaginable. We spent the rest of our trip talking in 1940's gangster/ pimp/ jive lingo!!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-52819994791767553822011-04-15T18:05:00.000-07:002011-04-16T17:13:23.060-07:00Kas with a Day Trip to the Greek Island of MeisWe took the bus to Kas (pronounced Kash), and walked from the dolmas (bus station) to the budget hotel we had booked for 3 nights. By budget I mean, no hot water in the early morning, no TV, no phone ect. Kas was a very touristy town, however; we were there before the tourist season started so things were a little slow to say the least. Many of the places recommended in our Lonely Planet were in fact not open for the season yet, and choosing a decent restaurant was a little daunting. Luckily for us most of the shops were open, and the town houses many, many, jewelry stores, all specializing in sterling silver. I bought a nice pair of silver earrings, 2 rings, and a beautiful set of Turkish towels.<br />
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We took the ferry 30 minutes across the water to the Greek island of Meis for part of the day. The town of Meis is quite small, so we ate a delicious Greek lunch, and walked up the hills overlooking the town before taking the ferry back to Kas.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvQb1Hk2QPMFWIHpcFY6jXu4t2fVIteAvuXpXb1AJvOusxjhnMf5151j__oE-9RlXgZu3yORlj_IXYaRxEExJbTDvRVXtbziqCl6mlCfo1Y2oxfFaE8wRQESxjciNLya4JF3hZpyJvhI/s1600/DSC_0074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvQb1Hk2QPMFWIHpcFY6jXu4t2fVIteAvuXpXb1AJvOusxjhnMf5151j__oE-9RlXgZu3yORlj_IXYaRxEExJbTDvRVXtbziqCl6mlCfo1Y2oxfFaE8wRQESxjciNLya4JF3hZpyJvhI/s400/DSC_0074.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHvOMInvKayiPbHGilctP7Dt5Y20XGhc4__RfkbgDwt9RRIcDbSL3XXslY2xwXxB-ZdktGOyBVMZYpubUbLQ6CM1fgIY3sTTY-qzT4ReYI2RuenahY8J_ypmyDjSV3-9hZtf_gb_AWoU/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHvOMInvKayiPbHGilctP7Dt5Y20XGhc4__RfkbgDwt9RRIcDbSL3XXslY2xwXxB-ZdktGOyBVMZYpubUbLQ6CM1fgIY3sTTY-qzT4ReYI2RuenahY8J_ypmyDjSV3-9hZtf_gb_AWoU/s400/DSC_0126.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>We did a full-day kayaking trip to the island of Kekova which used to be an ancient city until it crumbled in 1AD after several huge earthquakes hit the region. The ruins are visible on the hillside, and it is also possible to kayak over them. We docked for lunch in a quiet bay, and our kayak guide decided to dive off the safety boat, and cracked his head open on the rocks. I got to use some of my nursing skills and bandage him up!! Kayaking on the way back got a little hairy- the wind started to pick up and the waves got much higher than I was comfortable with. I was very thankful when we finally reached shore!!<br />
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From Kas we took the bus further down the coast to the larger city of Fethiye.Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-84261258741258219332011-04-15T17:09:00.000-07:002011-04-15T17:09:13.893-07:00AntalyaWe arrived early in the morning after taking the night bus, and hired a taxi to take us to our hotel that cost close to the price of our bus tickets. Not so cool. Taxi's in Turkey are ridiculously over-priced!! We also didn't score on the weather while in Antalya- it rained off and on for our 2 nights there :( We spent our time in Antalya mostly walking the streets, shopping and eating in cafes. The waterfront is beautiful with the mountains in the background.<br />
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We toured the local Antalya Museum which houses statues of Greek gods. Mostly we just wandered the streets. Our favourite part of Antalya was a delicious dinner we ate at a restaurant called "Vanilla." If in Antalya make sure you go to dinner here the food is delicious!! On a super creepy note, while eating dinner here some men in an apartment across from the restaurant started taking photos of us and the restaurant owner had to contact the buildings manager to report them. Super duper creepy!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjClBcq96YLUyOVK6KFHFFVspV9ug6n8SnC4QA4O9-YsCu2DJJWCppcm0bN0NyjQ5pXMTxVDjUovm-ktwoosSn6AAQQn1mtJtLQPor6ESLeWb6M4bKrxyIl7WfK1g26poK2vxV-oIjRhk/s1600/DSC_1008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjClBcq96YLUyOVK6KFHFFVspV9ug6n8SnC4QA4O9-YsCu2DJJWCppcm0bN0NyjQ5pXMTxVDjUovm-ktwoosSn6AAQQn1mtJtLQPor6ESLeWb6M4bKrxyIl7WfK1g26poK2vxV-oIjRhk/s400/DSC_1008.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>One of the nights we spent in Antalya we stumbled upon a local pub with a live band- they were great, but we didn't understand a word of what they were singing as it was all in Turkish!! From Antalya we took the bus 4 hours to the town of Kas.Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-85976653559160006222011-04-15T16:43:00.000-07:002011-04-15T16:43:19.768-07:00CappadociaWe arrived in Cappadocia and had booked 2 nights in a cave hotel. If you ever find yourself in this area I would highly recommend staying at Traveler's Cave Hotel- its super cute, and they had the best breakfasts we had in Turkey!! The Cappadocia area very much resembles the cartoon The Flintstone's with houses and hotels built out of caves, and phallic rock formations dotting the horizon. It feels like stepping back into the stone age....literally!! We did a fair bit of hiking in the area- which was beautiful, especially at sunset when the colours of the rock change.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNIIXX_Nz-xva9tt8SR7gwLvdJHl1aPgVMKHlzRn0wVzCiOcG8ioAT3s62RpG3UEq7tOIdQC8MygEwsVm07G9vCEMQOq9vkgSW0QqYLIvnmbezkGZDMJxjHUDO65vSyJ2ZpujNEia5kFo/s1600/DSC_0660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNIIXX_Nz-xva9tt8SR7gwLvdJHl1aPgVMKHlzRn0wVzCiOcG8ioAT3s62RpG3UEq7tOIdQC8MygEwsVm07G9vCEMQOq9vkgSW0QqYLIvnmbezkGZDMJxjHUDO65vSyJ2ZpujNEia5kFo/s400/DSC_0660.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEhu8CJl9UXIfVTABqDglSbhBHL48VYQ92pugtV2bIyMW4aWs8jfZh_zspwVaayA4cnQPXNW2JCCOOI7mJGrfojaBe01BS1UU2AK0RdfsjBuIUAljo_8_KpnkvpQ2JmMx_sOGqWbU6gM/s1600/DSC_0586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEhu8CJl9UXIfVTABqDglSbhBHL48VYQ92pugtV2bIyMW4aWs8jfZh_zspwVaayA4cnQPXNW2JCCOOI7mJGrfojaBe01BS1UU2AK0RdfsjBuIUAljo_8_KpnkvpQ2JmMx_sOGqWbU6gM/s400/DSC_0586.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>One of the mornings we got picked up at 6am to go Hot Air Ballooning. I've gotta say this was something I was very concerned about, what with my intense fear of flying. It turned out to be amazing, and really not nearly as scary as I had anticipated!! This was an incredible experience. The basket of the balloon was much larger than I had expected- we had about 20 people in it. There must have been some 40+ balloons in the air with us. It was beautiful to watch the sun rising while we were up. We spent just over an hour in the air. I would highly, highly recommend this!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWNIm6QKq1aeae-9IEC2MjbvTeP9zIo5pHL_i4Yf-IefOSxrHhjTvoiWI9RqgksnnrT8b8cNJju3BtK6wXlgzjbAHti60zwdxpak-z20qs79MxDIMYk20KQhZJ-QoBYubEC_GrHLIUMM/s1600/DSC_0765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWNIm6QKq1aeae-9IEC2MjbvTeP9zIo5pHL_i4Yf-IefOSxrHhjTvoiWI9RqgksnnrT8b8cNJju3BtK6wXlgzjbAHti60zwdxpak-z20qs79MxDIMYk20KQhZJ-QoBYubEC_GrHLIUMM/s400/DSC_0765.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>There are a number of underground cities in the area, the largest of which is called Derinkuyu which goes 8 floors below the ground. It is pretty cool, damp, and claustrophobic. The area is also home to hundreds of cave churches and monasteries. My favourite church was located in Goreme at the Open Air Museum there called the Dark Church. The church (as its name reveals) is dark, and so the paintings here are very well preserved, despite that they are were vandalized when Islam came to the region (the eyes or heads of many of the images have been scratched out).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKGSO8g66sazPAqCAowx14N47DN4Mr8IsVQ7YiTSI-eqHOIuSM25cD6FQR_SsUxf4EuQlFJuJjX_cVbBd8lRrEqPLauNr2gKQozLU8R5xyYxlRT3Mbcqwsu3JYlY2sWCLxx6GDvWu3JY/s1600/DSC_0949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKGSO8g66sazPAqCAowx14N47DN4Mr8IsVQ7YiTSI-eqHOIuSM25cD6FQR_SsUxf4EuQlFJuJjX_cVbBd8lRrEqPLauNr2gKQozLU8R5xyYxlRT3Mbcqwsu3JYlY2sWCLxx6GDvWu3JY/s400/DSC_0949.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1Q65mKLVPpufgm7wgSwDXwgxoRsHP90GCDVW8EcqmoG48OqSD0wTOIc0hWrMfcn8vbOkEABco4_dRGyL7BaUeAvMZp-o_BRrqqzauR4Q1W_70cP-_68NG_ibUI-IN3DSh49Z2L27b2g/s1600/DSC_0954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1Q65mKLVPpufgm7wgSwDXwgxoRsHP90GCDVW8EcqmoG48OqSD0wTOIc0hWrMfcn8vbOkEABco4_dRGyL7BaUeAvMZp-o_BRrqqzauR4Q1W_70cP-_68NG_ibUI-IN3DSh49Z2L27b2g/s400/DSC_0954.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>On our third night in Cappadocia we took the overnight bus to Antalya. Overnight buses always seem like a good idea at the time- you save the money of a hotel room because you're traveling. In reality, they are miserably uncomfortable, and you never, ever get any sleep. Which is pretty much how we rolled into Antalya after our 10hr bus ride!! Remind me to think twice before booking my next night bus!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-10485841540809779072011-04-15T15:33:00.000-07:002011-04-15T15:33:27.046-07:00InstanbulSo I spent the last week of March, and first 10 days of April touring around Turkey. It was lovely! My flight from Riyadh to Istanbul was delayed on account of a sandstorm.....yep you read that right. Visibility was crap, and the airport was covered in sand. People were wearing masks, and I was blowing sand out of my nose for the next day. Fortunately, the sand cleared enough for my flight to leave, and I was on my way. Unfortunately, for some unbeknown reason Canadians face the highest visa fees in Turkey $60US compared to the $20US Americans have to pay :(<br />
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My friend from Seattle had flown in the day before, so I met her at our hotel. Istanbul looks very much like a fairytale with the many round roofed mosques with minarets that dot the skyline. Honestly, it feels a little magical! We stayed in the Sultanahmet Area which is within walking distance of all the main tourist attractions. We toured the Aya Sofia a Byzantine church that was later conquered and converted to a mosque.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVX0yO_os9cLxK93qGFFa8iGkzwhVZ2yvZL7eZtTaZZ3GVdHFR4iwaP5TkdOBdlTAFQIsdXqCZwGYMNAjcmCtuEl6XMIpcItsbQpaVbpa5SSJmzSWr4FqjBSros3KoPd1LzYtTYN3lzOU/s1600/DSC_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVX0yO_os9cLxK93qGFFa8iGkzwhVZ2yvZL7eZtTaZZ3GVdHFR4iwaP5TkdOBdlTAFQIsdXqCZwGYMNAjcmCtuEl6XMIpcItsbQpaVbpa5SSJmzSWr4FqjBSros3KoPd1LzYtTYN3lzOU/s400/DSC_0377.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>We toured Topkapi Palace from the 1400's which served as the center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 4 centuries. It is a huge complex, and you could easily spend several hours here!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ799ybwG_STomFr1fIGOtsFgv-0SuW0Kl8SMzfomuiFTq1Z-djdRb1QQXpNtKu7vYoPNm3_dKSue4X_jW6b5icgeahyphenhyphengciQPCab1VpUC1f07Uj473mjafff6XR6M-BiACywZfmA3pXvw/s1600/DSC_0335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ799ybwG_STomFr1fIGOtsFgv-0SuW0Kl8SMzfomuiFTq1Z-djdRb1QQXpNtKu7vYoPNm3_dKSue4X_jW6b5icgeahyphenhyphengciQPCab1VpUC1f07Uj473mjafff6XR6M-BiACywZfmA3pXvw/s400/DSC_0335.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcy2CPQtg_zz8vjs94KGYjnYfFewEt_Jij9iIZw7DhOEUsgrX7wuq5FgUeEHoWNoSxbSBe1_RtPnh0vOasNqZZMOSWQUpofsTfObm0Xq1QH7d4xznQCDgrhonsNyPhqmi3UeUjklT2sw/s1600/DSC_0349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcy2CPQtg_zz8vjs94KGYjnYfFewEt_Jij9iIZw7DhOEUsgrX7wuq5FgUeEHoWNoSxbSBe1_RtPnh0vOasNqZZMOSWQUpofsTfObm0Xq1QH7d4xznQCDgrhonsNyPhqmi3UeUjklT2sw/s400/DSC_0349.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>We visited the Sultanahment Camii (Blue Mosque), the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, and the Basilica Cistern or "Sunken Palace" which used to be part of the city's water supply.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3CoVW5qzEf-fJCYTlR4wLl8l1JEciVzoNiIDkpkWKYiBr8mTz7FaOSrK5F5kQoCBUBBi1bHKdcqlORqFZlQKoBCXm3Uhi1Mjm2T3GrkjkPdPdpjhnFtKK0DqsK7QXN1-D40d9mMfmYU/s1600/DSC_0445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3CoVW5qzEf-fJCYTlR4wLl8l1JEciVzoNiIDkpkWKYiBr8mTz7FaOSrK5F5kQoCBUBBi1bHKdcqlORqFZlQKoBCXm3Uhi1Mjm2T3GrkjkPdPdpjhnFtKK0DqsK7QXN1-D40d9mMfmYU/s400/DSC_0445.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>We ate delicious Turkish meze, drank to our hearts content and sampled the many different Turkish sweets. We even ate dinner one evening watching a Whirling Dervishes performance.<br />
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From Istanbul we flew to Cappadocia where the real adventure began!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-57658460793738340712011-03-24T11:17:00.000-07:002011-03-24T11:17:46.055-07:00TurkeyTomorrow I am heading to Turkey to meet a friend of mine from Seattle, for 16 glorious days of vacation. Yes, another vacation. More dreaded flying. My life is pretty ruff. So will have lots more to share in a few weeks, and probably a couple thousand more photos!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-49838756478967319932011-03-24T11:15:00.000-07:002011-03-24T11:15:54.307-07:00Things I Heart about IndiaOh where to start? There are soooo many things I loved. I am a huge fan of the Indian head nod from side to side that is used to convey "I don't know," "yes," "maybe," and any number of other meanings. I practised this while there, and have now got it down pat. I am an even huger fan of combining the Indian head nod while raising both my shoulders and saying "What to do?"<br />
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I especially love being asked "What is your good name?" It is so formal and delightful, and honestly this phrase isn't used enough in the rest of the world!<br />
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Two words- sweater vests. They were huge, and very in season when we were there. All different colours, some with glitter. Have never seen so many men on scooters wearing sweater vests. I almost bought my Dad one as a souvenir, but knew it was unlikely that he would ever wear it. He doesn't have mad fashion sense like those Indian men do.<br />
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The wide acceptance of really any religion. There are thousands of Hindu gods that are worshipped, Muslims, Christians and many other religions practiced in India.<br />
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The awesome T-shirt I got my brother that says "Pure Punjabi." Possibly the best souvenir ever!<br />
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And lastly, the people. We met so many lovely people. Everyone was super friendly, and surprisingly I didn't feel like everyone was trying to rip me off. India.......until we meet again- cause I know we will!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKRwuE-qsg4B2PuWg3-Cx9XlumNMwV0ABCafKOIYlIty58jPIUUtRrk6kkfcxo4DlVJU3cfg_dMBPDU4d0NhxkuqeMF4aLokNZ9yRP0LrnIvlqoo2fvXu7YT2IyUcd3IlU4HSnSH27Y8/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKRwuE-qsg4B2PuWg3-Cx9XlumNMwV0ABCafKOIYlIty58jPIUUtRrk6kkfcxo4DlVJU3cfg_dMBPDU4d0NhxkuqeMF4aLokNZ9yRP0LrnIvlqoo2fvXu7YT2IyUcd3IlU4HSnSH27Y8/s400/DSC_0094.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-18000956893824423702011-03-24T10:16:00.000-07:002011-03-24T10:16:21.048-07:00Jaipur- The Pink CityFrom Agra we traveled to Jaipur, stopping on route to the deserted Moghal village of Fatehpur Sikri. This village was built in the later 1500's, but was only occupied for 14 years related to inadequate water supply. The complex is huge, entirely made out of red sandstone that is so ornately carved that on first inspection you believe it must be made out of wood. The complex houses both a mosque and a Hindu temple, as well as a huge courtyard where the Emperor's harem used to perform.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CxGkyJFZnhdIWlzBbXeRroGYLPEqrAzZWmnpiwhAPhmaqxYIEQsD37gdRiAw7-BWE3B4wpKdHnKiMYhAUa2ll99vbnKFB1q2-BvR67utXD8PyFHI931ze06aAqQqHPtTjqvIeAg68TI/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CxGkyJFZnhdIWlzBbXeRroGYLPEqrAzZWmnpiwhAPhmaqxYIEQsD37gdRiAw7-BWE3B4wpKdHnKiMYhAUa2ll99vbnKFB1q2-BvR67utXD8PyFHI931ze06aAqQqHPtTjqvIeAg68TI/s400/DSC_0058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>From here we drove another 5 hours to Jaipur, crossing into Rajasthan. Rajasthan is more brightly coloured, and also more Muslim. Unfortunately for me, Jaipur was the location where my "Delhi belly" kicked into full gear, and I spent the remainder of our trip sick- it took days before the antibiotics started to make a difference :(<br />
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In Jaipur we toured the Amber Fort- which is a massive fort that is situated in the hills, surrounded by a wall that is basically a smaller version of the Great Wall of China. The only fashionable way to get to the top of the fort was to do as all the other tourists do, and get in line for an elephant ride. I have never been on an elephant, and truth be told I'm not really a fan of getting on any animal that risks me breaking my neck. Why I thought this scenario was a good idea still baffles me, but I eagerly climbed onto that elephants back, and was equally as eager to get off!!! After what seemed like the longest elephant ride of my life we reached the top. The Amber Fort is huge- you could spend hours here taking photos- we were on a more rigid timetable though as my "Delhi belly" really was calling the shots. Our guide gave us more historical information than I could absorb, so I just did the Indian head nod from side to side to convey my understanding. If there was a pop quiz I'm pretty sure I would've flunked!!<br />
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In Jaipur we got another round of shady massages- you'd have thought we'd have learnt our lesson!! Took photos of the Water Palace and the Wind Palace. It is a beautiful city that I would love to return to- all the buildings are a pink hue, and super photogenic!! After 2 short nights in Jaipur we were back on the road bound for Delhi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUkr9nh45lLG4LUN3aDjSn1zfumxqNn2R-yYbT8s07d4y_BsSVrM1_ED5ZGZNN3DFmYbXt3NLoW6H0WNO4MDkEMdoeTstLyPTFhDYJ-IyqY8_pl-KPwgzsTJZE-uZ8PSoH_a3tpGShZc/s1600/DSC_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUkr9nh45lLG4LUN3aDjSn1zfumxqNn2R-yYbT8s07d4y_BsSVrM1_ED5ZGZNN3DFmYbXt3NLoW6H0WNO4MDkEMdoeTstLyPTFhDYJ-IyqY8_pl-KPwgzsTJZE-uZ8PSoH_a3tpGShZc/s400/DSC_0214.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Water Palace</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Wind Palace Jaipur</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-43077245088756049922011-03-23T10:56:00.000-07:002011-03-23T10:56:31.543-07:00Agra- The Land of the Taj MahalThe drive from Delhi to Agra was chaotic and congested. 2 lane roads became 4 and 5 lanes, and took us almost 5 hours. Every time we stopped alone the way we were accosted by beggars, children, hawkers, and men with monkeys- to be honest the monkey's scared the crap out of me (can you imagine getting bit by one of them?) So gross.<br />
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We got a great sleep our 1st night there, and woke up early to get in line to see the Taj. The complex doesn't open until sunrise, and we were there at the foggy time of year when often the Taj isn't visible in the morning due to the fog. We decided to take our chances and they paid off!! It was a chilly, but sunny morning, and I was actually surprised that there weren't as many people as I thought. The Taj is breathtaking, and amazing in that it was built almost 400 years ago, and still stands strong.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our 1st view of the Taj</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The light hitting the stone work on the Taj</td></tr>
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Our tour guide/ photographer filled us in on the history of the Taj- which is too long to recount here (and isn't that what wikipedia is for anyways?) We sent about 2 hours there taking the obligatory tourist photos, people watching, and just wandering. We visited the emperor and empresses tombs- where signs are prominently displayed requesting tourists NOT to take photos, which mostly went ignored (however; not by us, as our tour guide might have had a stroke!!)<br />
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From the Taj we visited Agra Fort which only 20% is actually tourable- the rest is occupied by the Indian military and off limits. The complex is enormous, surrounded by well manicured lawns and gardens. The Moghal emperor Shah Jahan was put under house arrest here, and spent his dying days looking down the river at the Taj which he build in memory of his deceased wife. There are so many distant beautiful views of the Taj from Agra Fort!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZdS_2D1MknI-YFAGs4QtaifzjrH3S7KdvDIDgM8EYBXiuREcNgLmZ44a1WPylwqA2i6LlWj5zgmOSz7CWC8Qni_6kUZO1idjLpNOkDbyDmReF9UFHM5u7326xOiAgFIN9pB2ZFL9hX8/s1600/DSC_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZdS_2D1MknI-YFAGs4QtaifzjrH3S7KdvDIDgM8EYBXiuREcNgLmZ44a1WPylwqA2i6LlWj5zgmOSz7CWC8Qni_6kUZO1idjLpNOkDbyDmReF9UFHM5u7326xOiAgFIN9pB2ZFL9hX8/s400/DSC_0202.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Taj from Agra Fort</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Agra is known for its local cottage industries. The Indian government regulates all handicrafts in the area- with set prices. Many industries in the area were forced out due to pollution of the Taj. We toured local carpet makers and a place specializing in inlay ed stone furniture similar to the ornate stonework that decorates the outside of the Taj.<br />
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Our last night in Agra was spent across the Yanuma river in a garden looking at the Taj while the sun set. It was beautiful, minus the constant pestering of children requesting money so we could take their picture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62J0XObiLbGgu46tOMJ8KuCT-XnlcTF-7iHpWO-AGzvzri7f93-UKFoJTVSo-_WKqDzKVp_rV0ID0no_6a5y8febbMpi_uS77CCd-m87udxJ5LrVkuo3n4PPIOia3oBbi4CE5lbM2lqw/s1600/DSC_0259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62J0XObiLbGgu46tOMJ8KuCT-XnlcTF-7iHpWO-AGzvzri7f93-UKFoJTVSo-_WKqDzKVp_rV0ID0no_6a5y8febbMpi_uS77CCd-m87udxJ5LrVkuo3n4PPIOia3oBbi4CE5lbM2lqw/s400/DSC_0259.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Taj at sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2u4n7yMeTmoWWTXzP7MKGACeiDgMdh8WxZ27UHJqabHivDx68GBrtE_zevxcZK0Vwgb79ayG2iqvFsBxFf7FjeY6BGbL0I04uL_hf9L-lgvnibGoEKwVDlpxVqi4jQWmTDUcAbQJdi2Y/s1600/DSC_0228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2u4n7yMeTmoWWTXzP7MKGACeiDgMdh8WxZ27UHJqabHivDx68GBrtE_zevxcZK0Vwgb79ayG2iqvFsBxFf7FjeY6BGbL0I04uL_hf9L-lgvnibGoEKwVDlpxVqi4jQWmTDUcAbQJdi2Y/s400/DSC_0228.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-92033728290584813392011-03-22T02:15:00.000-07:002011-03-23T05:14:26.433-07:00Delhi- The Ultimate Gong ShowArriving in Delhi is like being thrown into a spin-cycle, where you're not sure which way is up. You are constantly distracted by the mayhem taking place around you. There are literally people everywhere, doing any number of entertaining things. More cars, rickshaws, scooters, cows, monkeys, buses are jammed into the roadways than seems possible. Anything you could possibly need is for sale at road side stands. The poverty is alarming, and shocking, but not really out of proportion with other countries I have traveled, just on a more populated scale. <br />
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We arrived in Delhi at night, grabbed a cab and were on our way to our hotel- or so we thought. Our driver spoke just enough English to tell us that he didn't speak English, didn't know where our hotel was, and demanded the hotel's number- which of course we didn't have. By some stroke of luck, and with the help of our crappy Lonely Planet map of Delhi- we eventually made it to our hotel. After checking in we commandeered the closest tuk tuk driver, and headed towards Connaught Place the closest shopping area. Navigating local transportation is one of my favourite things about traveling! I love bickering about the price, and you get such a different feel for a city.<br />
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Safety was never an issue for us. I actually never felt unsafe the entire time we were in India. In India the average Indian man is 5'2" and maybe 100lbs soaking wet. Not super intimidating. Now granted if a group of 10 of em swarmed us we might have had a problem, but this never happened. We were also very fortunate to never have anything stolen. My travel luck has definitely improved from my earlier travel years!!!<br />
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The morning of our 2nd day in Delhi we met up with the tour that we had arranged to take is to Agra and Jaipur. Our tour guide, and driver took us to one of the main markets in Delhi. We walked to market, and drew a lot of attention, as it appeared that the vast majority of people in this market where men- men who liked blond hair. After having our photo take by multiple creepy dudes cell phones we toured Jamma Masjid the grand mosque of Delhi- which is the largest mosque in India. Oddly, we weren't asked to cover our hair, but women are forced to wear this ridiculous polka-dot get up. Amazing fashion, but whatever- I just do what I'm told!! After climbing one of the mosque minarets and taking smoggy Delhi skyline photos we jumped back into the car and headed to Agra. Our visit coincided with massive protests in Delhi- authorities were expecting 200, 000 people to be coming to the city, and our tour guide was anxious to get us out of the city before this started.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Market mayhem in Delhi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWu4Ae0jZ2XQx1ZSvERRgmzJUWrDU-12gXx5ntj-a-1Om6SwEkzptmm1NJ3bA27zwNjqE12AHnEJU0TlKhhUU1tiEzvtmzyK-sJ2DjSFaQR97m4yTCJQWF191SZiFQdpCAPk10dn6wMz0/s1600/DSC_0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWu4Ae0jZ2XQx1ZSvERRgmzJUWrDU-12gXx5ntj-a-1Om6SwEkzptmm1NJ3bA27zwNjqE12AHnEJU0TlKhhUU1tiEzvtmzyK-sJ2DjSFaQR97m4yTCJQWF191SZiFQdpCAPk10dn6wMz0/s400/DSC_0952.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delhi- Grand Mosque Fashion week :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdo5I23yo6MQ1bp7R_VQmz8FTQUouClnHU_6X_mBZzpio3iO_bdqdt7ZeIXpBsjiyDS8goaEo__UBBDOKOfKXdyxA3Jd49hn1uysXV6IrVNP5AcQmBPeA9NvR6IKzps3cixAcS6H2rqk/s1600/DSC_0982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdo5I23yo6MQ1bp7R_VQmz8FTQUouClnHU_6X_mBZzpio3iO_bdqdt7ZeIXpBsjiyDS8goaEo__UBBDOKOfKXdyxA3Jd49hn1uysXV6IrVNP5AcQmBPeA9NvR6IKzps3cixAcS6H2rqk/s400/DSC_0982.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views from the Grand Mosque</td></tr>
</tbody></table> We had a 5 day tour of Northern India booked, and after the tour we were dropped back off in Delhi for a last night before flying back to Riyadh aka Rehab :(Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-14191082409671278822011-03-22T01:34:00.000-07:002011-03-22T01:34:54.175-07:00Goa IndiaIn February, I went to India with my closest Saudi mate to help her ring in her 30th birthday in style. We flew from Riyadh to Mumbai, and then on to Goa. This was both of our 1st trips to India. India is an interesting country, because people either love it or hate it. We had been warned numerous times that "you have to just let India happen- there is no way of planning for it." Fortunately, I fall into the camp that loves India. I loved the chaos, it was like a constant shit show, where you literally didn't know what was going to happen next. In one word it was AMAZING.<br />
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That being said, Goa area really didn't feel like being in India. It was like a playground for British retirees. We had booked into a 3 star resort which was more than adequate, and quite cheap. We were the youngest ladies in the joint by give or take 20-30 years. I was actually concerned that my nursing skills might be called into practice, as this group was a medical emergency in the making. Luckily, being the only single ladies within a 3 mile radius, we received exceptional service from the pool boys, and restaurant crew. They were tripping over themselves to help us, and their eager attempts at Indian flirtation where extremely self-esteem boosting!!<br />
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We stayed 5 days in Goa, and I could have stayed a full 2 weeks. I had forgotten what it was like to take a vacation and do literally nothing!! We lounged at the pool in the afternoons. Got a sketchy massage by an Indian woman. Not as shady as our Sri Lankan massage, but still strange compared to western standards. Apparently having one's breasts massaged is considered normal- when they say 'full-body' massage they ain't kidding!!<br />
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We spent a day touring Anjuna Market- the largest market in the area. It was full of spices, clothes, and tons of Indian souvenirs. We spent a couple afternoons at the beach in Baga- fending of the million hawkers, that had us targeted as easy sales. I must admit, I am an easy target in India. Just give me puppy-dog eyes, and I'll probably buy whatever shit it is your selling- for about 5X the price it should be. We made a day trip to old Goa, and toured some of the old ruins, and Catholic churches in the area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlFpQZqA9VPTj0nBC6aH66R9IRJOC-ht28bJz_W2fhnXifQlnrTstlSqSHiM9ONQI9EFG7V632xsze24t0Bh1My6Pg810499JLVvG6r6Ysc2lhHUV60yFQWDaOiLqfpOWRWYD_VPKd3w/s1600/DSC_0783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlFpQZqA9VPTj0nBC6aH66R9IRJOC-ht28bJz_W2fhnXifQlnrTstlSqSHiM9ONQI9EFG7V632xsze24t0Bh1My6Pg810499JLVvG6r6Ysc2lhHUV60yFQWDaOiLqfpOWRWYD_VPKd3w/s400/DSC_0783.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anjuna Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK52hOxIWLkzerDccJGgPKW6S2b5ClF2l9OFQibkA7117TSBVgCiByfA91Y7_88TzETrRwmJi3xTs1tlu15sgBTfmrKj6T6w8nzy9Jz7GWOGlMilDE8Hmk-KsBE9JFhVYg3vlO8vZADPM/s1600/DSC_0794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK52hOxIWLkzerDccJGgPKW6S2b5ClF2l9OFQibkA7117TSBVgCiByfA91Y7_88TzETrRwmJi3xTs1tlu15sgBTfmrKj6T6w8nzy9Jz7GWOGlMilDE8Hmk-KsBE9JFhVYg3vlO8vZADPM/s400/DSC_0794.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anjuna Beach- with the holiest of Indian animals!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWARHonNEbu0G9c1rgeUnKiDcAsTE_H612nhRaEWZuJSElyo9n6tfkktxs-fVuV-D4NU9R74F5oJQfM7JmiLxSLZiVLM4qdlqODzhADzem65vDfG4oafOmd6F9Qzlna10vC4C9oUglr8/s1600/DSC_0907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWARHonNEbu0G9c1rgeUnKiDcAsTE_H612nhRaEWZuJSElyo9n6tfkktxs-fVuV-D4NU9R74F5oJQfM7JmiLxSLZiVLM4qdlqODzhADzem65vDfG4oafOmd6F9Qzlna10vC4C9oUglr8/s400/DSC_0907.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baga Beach at sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table> The food was amazing in Goa- super cheap, and really flavourful. We found that when we got into Northern India the food became much pricier, and went down in quality. Oh, and the beer was cheap too :) After a lovely 5 days in Goa we boarded a plane, and headed for the real gong show of Delhi!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-14567812947866591572011-03-20T11:06:00.000-07:002011-03-20T11:06:26.234-07:00Updates.....Well my friends, it has been a while....and it seems a lot has happened since I last updated this thing. I spent almost 2 weeks in India at the end of Feb (which I will blog about later) and upon returning to Saudi, my grandmother passed away. Its a little difficult writing this, as she would follow my adventures on this blog. We were very close, and I have been feeling rather guilty, as I had meant to call her before venturing off to India, but got busy, and never made that call, and now I won't have the chance. I know its stupid, and not very productive to feel like this, and that she knew she was loved, but still I can't help it.<br />
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Anyways, 3 days after returning from India, I was on a plane heading back to Canada to see my family, and attend her funeral. I am so fortunate that work granted me leave- when I spoke to my nurse manager there was no question of me not going, and all she said was "tell me how much time you need." I'm so thankful to her for that, as I would have regretted not going home for this. Anyways, the funeral was wonderful, and heart wrenching at the same time. It felt very strange being at her house, and her not being there. In a lot of ways it doesn't really feel like she's gone. I never thought she wouldn't be there when I came back from Saudi. She was a wonderful woman, with a bunch of grand kids that adored her, and she will be very much missed, and in our thoughts often. Granny- I love you.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granny and I before I left for Saudi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-73693065571678587772011-02-04T04:37:00.000-08:002011-02-04T04:37:42.001-08:00Saudi Black CloudThe last couple weeks have taken a turn to the dark side, and I'm either going thru late phase culture shock or suffering a mental breakdown. Currently I'm hating anything and everything related to being here. It's like all the daily minor frustrations of living here all snowballed into something that I'm having a hard time getting out of. I dream of coming home. After work I sometimes get on expedia and pretend to book a one-way ticket out of here. Not good, and Inshallah it will pass.The other day at work a coworker said to me "Saudi will break the strongest person." And currently I'm finding this statement to be true :(<br />
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Work is frustrating beyond words- morale is really low right now, and most of the staff is unhappy. My caring and compassion are running pretty much on empty. At times it is abundantly clear that no one, not the patients or doctors value my medical expertise (as I am after all a mere woman.) This seriously frustrates the shit out of me! Most of my day is spent ensuring that doctors do their job, which only adds to my work, and results in me constantly biting my tongue. If only they could hear the thoughts running threw my head!! <br />
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I'm not depressed, just angrier than I have ever been in my life. I seriously think that if I could just kick some one's ass I'd feel a lot better. I've considered implementing a swear jar as my recent language is resembling a trucker/sailor/who knows, and I'm pretty sure this new lingo made my Dad blush during our most recent conversation.<br />
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So what is a trapped girl supposed to do?? Well I guess I'll keep ensuring that I leave this country as often as possible. I'm heading to India in a couple weeks for 12 days, and then have a friend from back home meeting me in Turkey in March. I've started running again to attempt to burn off some of this aggression. I bitch- A LOT. And I'm trying to keep busy, hoping that this will pass. If not then I guess I throw the towel in and come home. Part of me still wants to stay/ needs to stay as I want to pay off all my debt, and have some great travel plans coming up. I guess we'll see how strong I really am!! Hopefully next time you hear from me everything will be back to unicorns and rainbows!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-76691177652084574692011-01-30T06:20:00.000-08:002011-01-30T06:20:11.241-08:00Oman......Oh Man!!!So a couple weeks ago a Canadian, a Kiwi, and an American set off to Oman for a week. We had a blast! Oman was completely refreshing coming from Saudi. It is a Muslim Middle Eastern country, and yet women can drive, don't have to cover, and you can drink!! I was surprised at how calm it felt compared to Riyadh. No angry glares, the driving was about a million times better!<br />
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We flew into Muscat, and "thanks God" (as my roomie says) the flight was uneventful. Well, uneventful if you block out the Talibanish looking dudes sitting in economy. They made me a little nervous, and were dressed for 'caving' weather if you get my drift. Muscat was great- we spent a couple days there. Had an interesting encounter at a Omani strip club on accident, walked the corniche, and most importantly drank to our heart and liver's content. We opted to "couch-surf" in Muscat, and stayed at a super cool Australian couple's villa- they were great hosts!!<br />
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We had organized a 3 day tour of Oman, and on our 2nd morning our tour guide picked us up and we hit the road. He was an interesting character, who in true middle eastern fashion was more busy trying to figure a way into our pants then on giving a proper tour! He was oh so not subtle in his constant glances to ensure that our breasts were still in the same place as the last time he looked. His English was decent though, and for this we tolerated his shenanigans. He also let us drive the tour company's land rover, and I had a great time doing donuts in the desert!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihr86o3kYB3cB8zZiMers-tiRHXwoAQhwF0qMUoiUchIyM-GmAi4dUmkkSCN_Hgentzm4tcmMH7ixIw2Mm76TNHA6bxlXLp7zBLHCJK7UnMmCT6R15EV2NHn6NLasB3JQ0z_ydm3eqsuA/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihr86o3kYB3cB8zZiMers-tiRHXwoAQhwF0qMUoiUchIyM-GmAi4dUmkkSCN_Hgentzm4tcmMH7ixIw2Mm76TNHA6bxlXLp7zBLHCJK7UnMmCT6R15EV2NHn6NLasB3JQ0z_ydm3eqsuA/s400/DSC_0027.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muscat from the Corniche</td></tr>
</tbody></table>We spent time in Bahla, took a tour of Al Hootra cave- one of the largest in the world, toured a historical village outside of Al Hamra, toured Nizwa fort, and Jabrin Castle. We spent an afternoon in Wahiba sands with a Bedouin family, 4X4ing, and riding camels. We swam in wadis that were breathtakingly beautiful. We drove the Omani coast, dipped our feet in the Indian Ocean, and saw a sea turtle attempt to lay her eggs and then return to the ocean. It was awesome, and we packed a ton of things into the week.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jabrin Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Al Hamra</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wadi Bani Khalid</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvEEJ5va1CP_Oz7onDg8OkJ9mLcWg86o8WzuqWwU_OK3ptUhAr0HLZaWQmnTEbGfs_PAqXBZC0or7V4UXNfgyj_ViDgJUODUih-j5onNdRCzqPz9ZtGWbY0c6VAoMnCFNr5qT983xF0U/s1600/DSC_0721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvEEJ5va1CP_Oz7onDg8OkJ9mLcWg86o8WzuqWwU_OK3ptUhAr0HLZaWQmnTEbGfs_PAqXBZC0or7V4UXNfgyj_ViDgJUODUih-j5onNdRCzqPz9ZtGWbY0c6VAoMnCFNr5qT983xF0U/s400/DSC_0721.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Mosque in Muscat</td></tr>
</tbody></table> After our tour we returned to Muscat, to stay with the couple we met off couch surfing. We slept in, shopped, and walked the beach. It was a relaxing last couple days filled with good food, lots of drinks, and some great company. Oman exceeded my expectations, and may have bumped Jordan from my #1 spot of Middle Eastern countries!! Oh-Man until we meet again!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-63253601778908247022011-01-21T07:14:00.000-08:002011-01-21T07:14:42.449-08:00Milk RelativesI would like to preface this blog by saying that this is a real thing.....well...at least in Saudi anyways. It was recently brought to my attention that not only can you be related to someone by blood, but also by milk. Yep, you read that right. If you have shared the same breast milk with another person then that person becomes related to you by 'milk'. Seriously. I'm not making this up.<br />
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A while back there was an issue in the news regarding women being alone in cars with their drivers, as this was illegal because often they are not related to their drivers. The solution for some of these women was to breast feed their driver, and he would then become her "milk related son." I attempted this with my driver Chandoo, but it didn't end up working. And honestly, who would believe that I have a 50 year old Indian son by milk anyways?<br />
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This story has provided me with more comedic material than I know what to do with!! It has taken the phrase "blood brothers" to new heights, and I'm trying to convince my Kiwi mate at work that we need to become "milk sisters!" Inshallah this will happen!!Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835742636087953427.post-84942145164726259922011-01-21T06:59:00.000-08:002011-01-21T06:59:13.554-08:00The most frustrating word....The most used, and equally most frustrating word in the Arabic language is Inshallah- meaning literally "Allah/God willing." This word is used for everything. "Will my travel visa come on time?" "Inshallah." "Will my bonus be on my next paycheck?" "Inshallah." For Westerners nothing is as irritating as hearing the dreaded "Inshallah" after a question you have just asked. Really all it means is maybe.....maybe not. Just when you think things are going well, and your paper work is going thru without a hitch, then someone drops the Inshallah bomb, and you quickly know there is no way in hell that you are getting whatever it is you need, in the time frame that you actually need it.<br />
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I personally get a great deal of satisfaction from turning this back on people at work. "When will the doctor come to see me?" "Maybe an hour.....Inshallah." "Can I have my pain medicine." "Inshallah!"Kristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08495701348905023496noreply@blogger.com0