“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off your bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
—Attributed to Mark Twain
When traveling, expectations can disappoint. Shouldn’t it be about the adventure, not the itinerary? You will have more fun and less stress being spontaneous, not on a rigid schedule. I’m not advocating stupidity. You need to research destinations for weather, customs, language, etc., and prioritize a few ideas for what you want to see and do so you’re prepared.
I brought some preconceived notions with me to Thailand: Hikes through mountainous jungles teeming with waterfalls and tropical birds; snorkeling and kayaking swimming-pool waters encircling mysterious sculpted islands. None of that happened! We avoided Thailand’s exotic southwestern coast due to recent tsunamis; spent more time with family than exploring scenic parks and tropical forests; plus sweltering 90-100 degree heat/humidity prohibited extensive tramping.
Instead, we chose Pattaya along the Gulf of Thailand, south of Bangkok, for a few days of sun and relaxation. This coastal city with narrow winding streets swarmed with pedestrians, cars, scooters, tuk tuks, and street merchants.
From Bali Hai Pier a ferry motored us to an island that did have white beaches and azure seas. Coconut slushies soothed my parched throat while reclining under umbrellas. Hundreds of sunbathers cooled off on inner tubes, jet skis, or banana boats. Not exactly peaceful seclusion, but heaven compared to the northeastern village of Chaijaren.
Near Pattaya the playful garden of Nong Nooch beckoned. Pathways wound through the canopy. Bright hibiscus and bougainvillea, feathery ferns, and lianas adorned this botanical paradise where the breeze whispered through banana, palm and pine trees. Imaginative sculptured creatures peered out from leafy vegetation. Highlights were feeding bananas to the elephants and petting a live tiger!
We explored portions of the Pattaya floating Market, a maze of khlongs-canals connected by boardwalks and bridges, bustling with shops and food boats. Also featured were a cultural village, herb garden, zip-line, daily shows, amphibious boat, and wooden trolley.
On a hilltop to the northeast in Chon Buri perched an elaborate temple and pavilion. Captivating ocean views were a backdrop for the colorful, ornate architecture. Giant sea turtles used to swim in the pools below but have been relocated.
Each locale brought contemplation of a miracle. Twenty years ago my son, Shannon, traveled halfway around the world and met Pong in Pattaya. They strolled these same paths, falling in love and forever changed each others lives. God definitely had a plan for them as he does for each of us. So, stay flexible and journey on…
cheryldfitzgerald.com 