Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia —
I am struck by the unfamiliarity of everything as I weave a path through the market; some stalls covered, some exposed to the blazing sun. I feel disoriented.
“Why the hell are those peanuts bright orange?”
“Watch out for that scooter!”
“Mmmm something smells incredible.”
“I wonder how much batik fabric is here.”
“That guy looks friendly; ask him for a portrait.”
It’s 10 o’clock in the morning. The breeze is calm, the tide is gentle and the elderly Englishmen nearby have just ordered their first round. Island life is good. The allure of Thai islands is no secret, and throughout history travelers have been coming to the Land of Smiles for much needed rest and relaxation. Ko Chang, or Elephant Island, situated in the northeast corner of the Gulf of Thailand, is the second-largest Thai island. Despite being in the land of tourism, the island has retained remarkable charm.
I sat impatiently on the bed while rain pelted the rooftop. I was miserable. I shouldn’t have been so naïve in my trip planning but my child-like optimism will never leave me. Let me make an official statement: Planning a trip a week before the monsoon season is not a good idea. Don’t listen to the travel agents. They’re only concerned with your wallet.
BODHGAYA, India — Bum ba dum dum dum, ba dum dum dum. “How long have they been drumming?” my wife asked. “Seems like days.”
“Surely they can’t keep that pace up all night,” I said.
While traveling through India you can’t help but think to yourself, “Why did I want to come here, again?”
