Another reason I love London, amongst the many mentioned in I ♥ London, is that it is just a step, hop, and a jump away from some historic sites. One item on my bucket list was to visit Stonehenge. From London there are a couple of tours that you can take and trying to fit in as much as possible in a short period of time, I opted for the all day Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath tour.

The most anticipated part of the tour for me was Stonehenge, but we spent the least amount of time there so it was a bit of a killjoy. On top of that, as soon as we got to Stonehenge it started to rain and all we had time for was a quick loop around the Stone Circle and some quick photos to document the trip before racing back to the bus to keep from getting completely drenched. I know that rain is quite common in England, especially during the month of October, but it was sunny in the morning and we were hopeful that the sunshine would continue. It was funny because Mike specifically said to me, “I really hope it doesn’t rain when we get to Stonehenge because that would really suck”, low and behold it rained the moment we got to Stonehenge. LOL. I guess we were lucky to even be able to walk around the entire circle because when the weather is wet they usually close off the grassy section.

Having read a lot about Stone Circles, I was really excited to see the stones but the experience was “meh” for me. Obviously, it had more to do with the weather and the tour’s scheduled time allotment for Stonehenge than the historic site itself. I mean the stones are magnificent and I can appreciate why it’s a World Heritage Site, but it’s not just about the physical site and the scenery. The story behind how the stones were moved and the placement of the stones around the circle is just as important to me. This is definitely a do-over trip for me.

The next time I visit Stonehenge, here’s what I would do differently:

1)  Give myself more time: I think my biggest mistake was trying to do too much in one day and for some reason Stonehenge got the short end of the stick and we were only able to get a cursory visit. With some places that is fine, but I wanted to learn a lot more about the mysterious monoliths than the 15 minute summary we got on the tour bus.

Next time, I would rather rent a car and drive to Stonehenge myself. Sure there are other “go directly to Stonehenge” tours that you can take but the problem is someone else has predetermined how much time you can spend at the Stone Circles and that is something I don’t want to repeat again. There is something to be said about not being handcuffed to someone else’s schedule and having the freedom to explore on your own. There is more to explore than just the Stone Circles and really depending on your thirst for information, it seems that the Visitor Centre is worth visiting. You can also get an audio tour (which I had no idea existed) that can provide information that allows you to appreciate Stonehenge that much more. To be honest, the audio tour wouldn’t have been practical for us because of the time restriction, but it is a good thing to know for next time.

Also, visiting Stonehenge on my own will give me the time I need to just take in the moment and enjoy the beauty.

2)  Bring a tri-pod: it was extremely hard to capture nice pictures without having a bunch of people in the shot, so I recommend bringing a tripod to take a bunch of pictures and then piecing them together (refer to our Travel Hack #3).

3)  Bring an umbrella (this will protect you from the rain or sun) and proper footwear, so that you are protected from the weather and can enjoy the beauty of Stonehenge whether it rains or is extremely hot.

Since I didn’t really get my Stonehenge fix, I guess I will just have to go back for a proper visit!

The post My Visit To Stonehenge appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

The first time I went to Europe I did it solo style with a big yellow backpack in hand.   This was your typical “backpack throughout Europe and get my fun in before I start my real grown up job” type of trip. I realized, that, out of all the cities I visited (the list included Paris, Cannes, Monaco, Nice, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Rome), I love London the most. Looking back it was hard to explain why: I was staying in a hostel room with twelve other people, the room was infested with mice, when I woke up from a nap on my first day in London I had my own Friends’ version of ugly naked guy stripping in front of me (not what I expected to see upon opening my eyes), the value of the Canadian dollar was zilch compared to the British pound and everything cost twice as much so I really had to stick to my daily budget, and the food was meh. Despite all this, I love London! The experiences I had and the people I met made London one of my all time favorite cities.

Given my soft spot for London, it was no surprise that London was my destination pick for our European trip. Mike wasn’t too excited since he is more of a Dubliner and always saw London as a transit hub and a “stop over” to where travelers really want to go. Determined to change his mind, I wanted to give Mike a different perspective of London.

Here are ten reasons why I love London:

1) Shopping: there are so many amazing stores to visit in London, from historical department stores such as Harrods and iconic fashion houses like Burberry to more recent fashion brands such as Reiss. Yes, Princess Catherine gets a lot of her dresses from Reiss and the white Nanette dress was instantly sold out after Kate Middleton, as she then was, wore it in her engagement photos. Being a fan of Princess Catherine’s fashion style (um . . . really who isn’t?), it was a must do on my list to stop at the Reiss store in Knightsbridge (I was told this was the location she frequented most, but unfortunately I didn’t see her). Having bought more than my fair share of Reiss dresses, I got extra attention from the salesgirl and she gave me her personal email address and told me to send her an email if there were any other dresses I wanted and she would be more than happy to ship them to me. She even found the Nanette dress for me, but given that it was two sizes too big I decided it was not worth paying a small fortunate for the dress only to have to pay and get it refitted.

There are a lot of streets in London, such as Oxford Street, Bond Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street that are lined with stores and unique boutiques where you can find something for anyone. For men who want a nice (and expensive) custom suit, go to Savile Row.

For all you shopaholics who are looking for a good deal head to Bicester Village, which is a designer shopping outlet about 45 minutes from London. The best way to get there is by bus, but just keep in mind that it is an all day venture as you only get picked up and dropped off at certain times. Also, make sure to check out the website because they sometimes post deals and you can always find VIP discount vouchers on the Internet.

2) Sites: there is no shortage of things to see in London and there is something for everyone:

• If you are a museum buff head to the British Museum or Natural History Museum. There really is no shortage of museums in London and you can probably spend a full week going to all the museums.

Museum of Natural History

Victoria and Albert Museum

• If you prefer to get your fix of Royalty head to Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace or even the Tower of London.

The Victoria Memorial, which sits in front of Buckingham Palace.

• If you prefer to focus on the arts then the Tate Modern and National Gallery are necessary stops.

Exhibit at the Tate Modern.

• If you are more interested in seeing the politicians then head over to the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben.

• For those who want to pay homage to religious aspects or even attend a worship service, go to Westminster Abbey or St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Go to the London Eye to get a different perspective of the city and a great view of the skyline.

• If you want some time to rest and relax find a spot in Hyde Park or St. James Park.

View in St. James Park.

You will never get bored in London. I promise you that!

3) Theatre: I like to see live theatre and there are so many great shows playing in London. Popular shows such as Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, the Lion King, and Wicked are usually always playing. Depending on when you go, you can even catch shows that are hard to find such as Miss Saigon.

Having watched some of the shows in London and then seeing them again in Canada, I have to say there really is no comparison. I don’t know if it is due to the location, the actors, or the fact that shows in London are performed in theatre houses with better acoustics but . . . when in London go see a show!

It is probably best to get your theatre tickets ahead of time, especially for the more popular shows that sell out every night, but if you are unable to pre-book there are many different ways to get last minute discounted tickets, such as the tkts booth in Leicester Square. Remember to check out the face value of the ticket and the seating plan to make sure you get a good view.

4) History: London is a city that has more than 2,000 years of history. There are catastrophic events that have made it into London’s history books, such as the plague, the Blitz during World War II, and the Great Fire of London, all of which have shaped the city into what it is today and makes it that much more interesting for tourists.

View from the Millennium Bridge, a good way to reflect on London today.

London is also where gentlemen’s clubs, such as Brooks’ and White’s, were originally created and made popular. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t support establishments that don’t accept women, but I do find the purpose and membership of these places intriguing.

The architecture in London is fascinating and it is not uncommon to see buildings that are over a hundred years old. In Canada, such buildings are rare and would get special status as a “historical building”. I couldn’t help but wonder about the piece of history each building holds and the secrets that are hidden in the walls. I guess that is a normal feeling when you are walking through the streets of a city that was once the epicenter of the world.

5) Energy and Vibe: with a population of more than 8 million and millions more visiting each year, London has a unique energy that is difficult to explain. Commerce, education, the arts, fashion, and music – all elements that make London a global centre also contribute to the city’s liveliness. From Piccadilly Circus to Knotting Hill (made famous by Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant) to South Kensington, each neighborhood is distinct and has something unique to offer. Even cloudy skies and the constant rainy drizzle can’t dampen the pulsing London life and the feeling that runs through you.

The buzz during the night in Knightsbridge.

South Kensington.

6) The Royals: the chances of me meeting Prince Harry, Princess Catherine, and Prince William (preferably in that order) are that much greater in London than anywhere else. In no way would I balk at the idea of meeting the Queen, but the younger Royals are who I prefer to rub elbows with J.

7) Accents: I love the British accent and I honestly think that anyone who has a British accent sounds that much smarter, even though I sometimes have no idea what they are saying because the accent can be quite thick. Some of the words and phrases they use, such as rubbish, jumper, crikey, knackered, “taking the piss”, and dodgy, are quite fun and always puts a smile on my face when I hear them.

8) Pub Grub: I know the English aren’t known for their culinary cuisine, but the food has changed immensely since my first visit to London and the Indian and Thai cuisine are just as good as anywhere else.  I had a chance to try some ramen and it was delish!

Enjoying some ramen at Shoryu Ramen.

If you prefer something more traditional, the pub grub is spectacular in London. My go to is the fish and chips because who doesn’t like deep fried battered fish with fries on the side?

9) People: Despite the fact that most Londoners avoid eye contact while riding the Tube and make no effort to converse with you, but really who wants to strike up a conversation with a stranger while packed in a train like sardines were personal space is non-existent and you are close enough to get the weather and not the news, I have always found Londoners to be friendly and helpful. Every time I needed directions or suggestions on where to eat, the people I asked were friendly and provided helpful tips. Also, I found that Londoners were always more than willing to take a couple of seconds out of their busy day to snap a photo for an eager tourist (yes, like myself).

10) The Tube: the Underground, known as the Tube to Londoners, makes it extremely easy to get around London. With 11 lines (Bakerloo, Central, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria, and Waterloo & City) and 270 stations, the system is overwhelming at first but all you really need is some patience and a Tube map. After your first trip you will realize how easy and safe it is to take the Tube and there will be no hesitation. It is also the fastest and most affordable way to travel around the city. Not to mention, you get to see many different personalities and tourists at Tube Stations and on the Tube itself. This isn’t always a good thing though, especially during peak hours when the crowds are big and people are impatient but it just adds to the experience.

Tube stations are everywhere in London, making travel easy.

If the Tube is not your thing, you can always take the bus (there are many of those too), hop in a cab (the black cabs are iconic but quite expensive), ride a bike (the Barclays Cycle Hire make it cheap and convenient to rent a bike), or walk – our preferred and favorite way to see a city.

I think I accomplished my goal and was able to get Mike to see and appreciate a different side of London. Although I still don’t think this is a city he would choose to visit on his own but . . . baby steps my friends, baby steps.

And that’s why I love London!

The post I ♥ LONDON, ENGLAND appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

Upon landing in Siem Reap there was really only one destination I had in mind: Angkor Wat. Of course there are other things to do in the thriving Cambodian city, but our plan was to see Angkor and then figure out the rest as we went.

There are different ways you can go and explore Angkor Wat, but Mike and I opted to get our own tuk-tuk driver and a personal guide (allowing us to set our own pace and see what WE wanted to see). After a good night sleep and a hearty breakfast we were ready to be amazed. And amazed we were. I have been to a few Wonders of the World and other World Heritage Sites, but Angkor Wat is in a class of its own. I was instantly captured by its beauty, lost in the amazement and often found myself racing to catch up to Mike and our guide.

Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that occupies over 400 square kilometers and includes three large temples: Bayon, Ta Prohm and Ankor Wat. Once the capital of the Khmer Empire, the temple city contains temples and monuments that pay homage to both its Hindu and Buddhist past. Initially a Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu, it was later converted into a Buddhist temple and statutes of Buddha, along with other elements and symbols of Buddhism, were added everywhere. As a city deeply rooted in religion, Angkor was once the largest religious pilgrimage site in Southeast Asia.

The Bayon Temple.

Ta Prohm Temple.

The biggest temple – Angkor Wat.

Vishnu – The Hindu God.

Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva – the Compassionate Goddess in the Buddhist Religion.

Angkor is an architect’s dream. There is purpose and meaning in every structure, adding to the city’s brilliance. It has been the setting for some epic battles in Cambodia – first with the Chams and Thais, and then amongst the Cambodians during the Civil War – and it is tragic that some of the temples and statues became victims of the wars. During our tour, we saw massive bullet holes along bridges and structures and missing Buddha heads, all evidence of the violence and invasions the city endured.

Both sides of the bridge to the Bayon Temple is lined with buddha statues, but you can see some of the heads were missing.

Bullet holes on the left side of the frame.

It is hard to describe in words the beauty and magnificence of Angkor Wat, so let me show you with photos what I can’t do with words. But even these pictures don’t properly convey the magic of Angkor. It is something you really need to experience.

The enormity of Angkor Wat is a bit overwhelming, so here are some helpful tips for visiting Angkor:

• Hire a guide: the history and stories are just as important as the temples themselves, so hire a guide who can give you valuable information and provide context to what you are seeing. This will allow you to appreciate the site so much more. Also, a guide can show you where the more popular points of interest are or tricks to avoid bottlenecks, which are helpful especially if your time is limited.

• Give yourself plenty of time: there is a reason why Angkor is considered a temple city. It is enormous, so make sure you have enough time to enjoy yourself so you aren’t rushing from one temple to the next.

• Weather: it can get extremely hot, so it is better to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon (when the sun is not beaming down on you). A lot of people try to make it to Angkor for the sun rise, which I’m sure would be breathtaking, but given that I’m not an early riser (especially on my vacation) it was something we didn’t get the opportunity to experience. Also, bring lots of water, sunscreen, and a hat to shield you from the direct sunlight.

• Respect the dress code: there is a lot of walking, so make sure you are dressed comfortably but remember no sleeveless shirts, and pants and skirts must be below the knee. You don’t want to be in a situation where you are refused entrance to one of the temples.

• Be patient: there are a lot of tourists and it can get congested, especially in places where only “one-way” traffic is permitted and you have to wait for a good break in the flow before you go up or down. Don’t let this frustrate or annoy you, just accept it as being part of the experience. Also, it can be difficult to get the perfect picture in front of a temple or statue without tons of people being in your frame, but check out Travel Hack #3 to get the perfect shot.

• Enjoy and live in the moment: it is easy to get lost in the busyness of Angkor and want to move from one place to another, but find a place to sit back and soak in the wonder. Be present.

Buddhas sitting in meditation.

The post Angkor Wat: A Wonder in Siem Reap appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

Have you ever stopped to wonder how they make the noodles for your Pho noodle soup? That question had never crossed my mind until my visit to Nha Trang, Vietnam.

For those who don’t know, Pho is a Vietnamese soup containing rice noodles and meat. It is often served with basil, bean sprouts, green onions, and lemon and Hoisin sauce are added to taste (unless you are like my husband and add half the jar of Hoisin sauce – in that case it really isn’t Pho anymore but some form of Hoisin soup). You can get different types of Pho and various combinations, but the basic types are:

• Pho Dac Biet: Pho with everything in it
• Pho Tai: Pho with thinly sliced beef
• Pho Sach: Pho with tripe
• Pho Bo Vo Vien: Pho with beef meatballs
• Pho Ga: Pho with chicken
• Pho Bo Sate: Pho with beef in a sate broth
• Pho Ga Sate: Pho with chicken in a sate broth

Like I said before, I never really thought about how the rice noodles are made – just more concerned with the type of Pho I was going to order and whether the broth is going to be flavorful and free of MSG. When you are making Pho, it usually takes about 15 seconds to cook the noodles (assuming they have been presoaked) – just put them in boiling water to soften, throw them in the bowl and add the broth. Simple enough. But there’s actually a whole other process that is invisible to us Pho eaters before we can even boil the noodles to eat our favorite Vietnamese Pho noodle soup!

Making Vietnamese Pho Noodles

Step 1: rice grains are soaked in water for a long period of time to soften.

Step 2: once soft enough, the rice is ground up into a batter. Traditionally the rice is not mixed with any other flour, but now it is common for people to add tapioca starch to make it more chewy and flexible.

Step 3: the batter is then heated directly onto the drying racks (you can see the fire provides a constant source of heat).  Here’s a video that helps that shows you the art of making banh Pho:

Step 4: the racks are placed out in the sun to dry.

Step 5: a machine is then used to cut the dried rice paper into noodles.

We were told that the factory produces all the Pho noodles for the City of Nha Trang, which is a lot of noodles. I have to say, visiting the factory makes me appreciate my Pho noodles that much more.

The post Got Banh Pho? Making Vietnamese Pho Noodles appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

There is so much to do and see in a vibrant city like Saigon. It can be overwhelming at times, especially if you only have a few days to spend in the city, so here are some suggestions on things to do and places to go.

1) Go to Chợ Bến Thành: The main market in Saigon where you could get everything from clothes, jewelry, fruits, vegetables, dried foods, spices, ready to eat meals, and my absolute favorite – chè (a sweet Vietnamese dessert or pudding). There’s a particular stand that sells several types of chè and you definitely need to go there. Although the portions are small, which just means you get to try as many different types as you want, it is authentic and approved by the locals.

There are several food stands that offer a wide selection of Vietnamese cuisine, from more popular dishes such as pho and bun to “less Westernized” dishes such as banh bot loc (a dumpling wrapped in banana leaf) – there is something for every palette. Our last morning in Saigon Mike and I went with the three musketeers and had breakfast at one of the food stands. It was great way to say goodbye to Saigon – amazing food and even better company!

Chợ Bến Thành is also a great place to pick up souvenirs, clothes, or knock-offs. Remember to haggle with the vendors, but not if it is first thing in the morning. Vietnamese people are extremely superstitious and they believe that the first sale of the day sets the tone for the rest of the day. If you haggle with the vendor first thing in the morning chances are you will get yelled at.

2) Visit the Reunification Palace: The Palace was the headquarters for the American and South Vietnamese troops during the Vietnam War. It also symbolized the “Fall of Saigon” when the Viet Cong bulldozed through the Palace’s main gate on April 30, 1975 to capture the capital and end the war.

While touring the palace you can see the command centre, along with communications equipment and maps used during the war. The most interesting thing was the bullet holes and helicopter on the rooftop, which is meant to illustrate Americans being airlifted from the Palace before the Fall.

3) Visit the War Remnants Museum: This museum tells a different, not-often-heard side of the Vietnam War. Although disturbing, it is definitely a must see. Be aware though, there are gruesome images of war victims that will evoke some strong emotions.

Most of us have seen the famous picture of the Napalm Girl taken by Huynh Cong Ut, which shows you a bit of the horror of what those children faced that day. What we don’t see are the ever-lasting effects of the Agent Orange liberally used during the Vietnam War.

4) Go for a Xich Lo Ride: During my first visit to Saigon (23 years ago), the Xich Lo was my main form of transportation. My first tour of Saigon was by way of Xich Lo and I have to say, it was the best way to see the city. It made me feel like a local and allowed me to see things from a different perspective.

Xich Los were once the main form of transportation in Vietnam, but with development and modernization Xich Los are now a thing of the past and have been traded in for faster forms of transportation that allow people to travel greater distances. You can still find Xich Los in Saigon, but rather than being used by Vietnamese people to get around and transport goods their purpose is to give tourists a unique Vietnamese experience.  If you decide to tour Saigon on a Xich Lo make sure to negotiate and agree upon a price before hand.

5) Get Massages or your hair shampooed: I don’t know about you, but I love going for a massage. The idea of going for a massage instantly relaxes me. The great thing about getting one in Saigon is you only pay a fraction of the price.

My cousin and I went to get our hair shampooed at the Hoang Oanh Salon and it was amazing! They massage your scalp and face (if you want) for about 45 minutes. They do this while you are laying down, so once they are done shampooing your hair you flip over and get a back rub as well. After that, they blow out your hair so you are ready for a night out on the town. The greatest thing about the shampoo and scalp massage is it cost me less than a cup of Starbucks coffee!!!

6) Try Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine: Every square inch of real estate in Saigon is used for some sort of business, most of which consists of food stalls. Don’t be afraid to pull up a chair and try some authentic Vietnamese food. In Saigon, unlike some other places in North Vietnam, you really don’t have to be afraid of being served a portion of man’s best friend (yes – I know a bit of a culture shock to even have to think about that).

Most people have probably tried a Vietnamese banh mi sandwich (a chicken, pork, or beef sandwich served on a baguette with pickled carrots, cilantro, pate, a special mayonnaise, and hot peppers), but there really is no banh mi like the ones you get in Saigon. Mike and I ate so many chicken banh mi sandwiches that I thought we had our fix, but when we went to Nha Trang and Hanoi we found ourselves seeking them out, so make sure to eat up in Saigon!

Try the fresh fruit such as logan, lychee, rambutan, and mango. You really haven’t tried a mango until you’ve tried one in Vietnam, which are so juicy and flavorful – makes my mouth water just thinking of them. If you are brave enough, try durian. Durian comes in a porcupine like husk that has to be cracked open in order to get to the soft buttery fruit. I love durian and can eat it by the bucket loads, but I have to admit it is an acquired taste and most people can’t get past the pungent, gas like smell. Mike thinks it smells like raw sewage and won’t go near it, but that’s okay because it just means more for me! One time while my cousin and I were buying durian on the streets of Saigon, two British tourists asked us what we were buying and I told them it was durian. They were both willing to smell it, but only one was brave enough to try it. Not surprisingly, they quickly walked away after that. I know I’m not doing a good job of persuading you to try durian, but it is everywhere on the streets of Saigon so you should be aware.

If you want to learn how to make Vietnamese food, go to a cooking class. There are several places that offer classes and includes going to Chợ Bến Thành to pick up groceries.

7) Get custom made clothes and shoes: labour is extremely cheap in Saigon and there are many talented seamstresses. If you are looking for a new wardrobe, why not get things tailor made? Mike got three suits made in four days at a cost of $650 Cdn, which is $216 for each suit! There’s no way he would be able to buy a nice suit for that price in Canada. This was considered expensive because it was during Tết (Vietnamese New Year) and we also put a rush on the order.

If you have a favorite clothing item, pack it with you so you could get it made exactly as is. That’s what I did! I brought my favorite black trousers and was able to get them made in three different colors at only $30 a pair (this included the Tết and rush factor). The workmanship is impeccable and I didn’t even have to go in for a fitting.

This is the same for shoes. There are cobblers everywhere, so if you need a new pair of shoes go in and get your foot sized. It’s that simple! My uncle is actually a cobbler and Mike was able to score two beautiful pairs of shoes that he wears all the time.

8) Visit the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica (Nhà thờ Đức Bà): the Cathedral is a landmark of Saigon and is symbolic of Catholicism in Vietnam. Built while Vietnam was a French protectorate, it has a lot of history and you can go attend Sunday Mass or just people watch.

Across the street from the Basilica is the Central Post Office, which is one of the oldest buildings in Saigon and built during the late 1880s by the French. You can go visit the souvenir shop or mail a letter since it is still a functioning post office.

9) Go to the Củ Chi Tunnels: Củ Chi, which is approximately 30 km from Saigon or 1.5 hours on the bus, has an elaborate tunnel system used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. The tunnels were instrumental to the Viet Cong’s fight against American troops. They were used as living quarters for the Viet Cong and were an essential supply route, allowing the easy transportation of food and weapons.

Looking at the intricate tunnel system, which had many levels and included hospital rooms and kitchens, and the conditions that the Viet Cong had to endure you can’t help but respect their resilience and determination. Although I agree with Mike that the tunnels were built for small Vietnamese people and not Westerners, I am a small Vietnamese person and there is absolutely no way I could endure that kind of life for even one day, much less for months or years on end.

My cousin trying to make her way through the tunnels.

10) Travel to the Mekong Delta: Experience a different side of the Vietnamese lifestyle by taking a trip to the Mekong Delta. There are many things to do in the Mekong Delta including going to the floating market, visiting the Coconut Candy Factory (if you are nuts about coconut like I am, this is definitely a must do), taking a boat down the Mekong River, and visiting My Tho. (Ladies a note of caution: if you choose to go on this tour, bring toilet paper!!!)

Learning how to make candy at the Coconut Factory.

What are some of your adventures in Saigon? Were you brave enough to try durian?

The post 10 Things to do in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) Vietnam appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

It had been 12 years since my last visit to Saigon Vietnam. Needless to say I was thrilled and giddy with excitement to see my family, devour all the fruits, desserts, and Vietnamese cuisine that was on my long list of Things I must eat while in Saigon, and I was very much looking forward to finally introducing Mike to my cousins, aunts, and uncles!

My auntie spoiled me by making one of my favourite meals – Banh Canh (Vietnamese udon). Topping things off with a nice cool coconut!

With family in Saigon and the ability to speak passable Vinglish (a mixture of Vietnamese and English words with a lot of “cai ai”, which means “the thing”, thrown in when I don’t know the proper word for what I’m describing) in my heavy Canadian accent, I am fortunate to be able to experience Saigon in a completely different way. The moment Mike and I stepped off the plane at Tan Son Nhat International Airport my cousin, who unlike me is fluent in Vietnamese, escorted us through customs with absolutely no problems. We did get a lot of stares from those waiting in line to get their Visas approved (Mike and I had applied for our Visas in Canada, so we would have skipped that step), as well as those who were being questioned by the Customs Officers. Once our luggage finally arrived (we were waiting so long for my bag that I was scared it was still somewhere in Vancouver), my uncles had a cab waiting to take us to our Bed and Breakfast, which was in the Backpackers District (more on that later).   Luckily for us, the nerves that some travelers get when first arriving in a foreign country were not there because my cousin and uncles were with us. They knew exactly where to go and made sure we were properly settled before taking off. Also, we didn’t even have to worry about going through the troubles of getting Vietnamese Dongs because all of that had been arranged beforehand and my uncle just handed over a wad of cash and we became instant millionaires (well in Dong currency that is).

It was about 2:00 a.m. when we finally settled in and both Mike and I were exhausted after more than a day of traveling, so the first thing Mike did was raid the mini bar. Normally, we would leave the mini bar alone and just go out and buy our own beer but at 20,000 Dongs for a can of Heineken (that is approximately $1 CDN), I told Mike to have at it.

The next day, after Mike enjoyed his first real Vietnamese breakfast and authentic Vietnamese coffee (café sua da – YUM), my uncles picked us up to take us to my grandpa’s house (where my dad was born and grew up), so I could pay my respects. I know that anyone who has traveled to Vietnam will have seen all the scooters and mopeds whizzing around, but whether they have ever driven one, or ridden on the back of one, is a completely different story. Mopeds are the main form of transportation in Vietnam. It is not uncommon to see a family of four on a moped or even someone move a couch on one – it is completely foreign to us, especially when the only system we know is one that requires us to buckle up and refrain from using electronics or doing anything that will “distract” us from driving (I can’t imagine a bigger distraction than trying to balance a couch on the back of your scooter, while at the same time moving through a heavily congested road) – but this is the only system that Vietnamese people know and it works for their lifestyle.

Taking distracted driving to a whole new level! Although this picture was taken in Hanoi, Vietnam, this was a common scene in Saigon.

Armed with extra helmets, my uncles passed them to us and I immediately jumped on. Mike, on the other hand, hesitated and asked me whether this was a good idea. I had never driven a moped, but had ridden on one numerous times so this was an experience that I was familiar with. I completely understood Mike’s fear (the best way to describe the traffic in Vietnam is organized chaos), so I told him to put on his helmet, hold on to my uncle and “trust in the driver”. After a while, Mike was able to relax a little bit but I don’t think he was ever able to enjoy the ride. For some reason, he was more comfortable crossing the streets of Saigon than sitting on the back of a moped.After the first few times Mike quickly learned that when crossing the street, look straight ahead and keep on going – do not hesitate and do not make any unexpected moves or else you will throw off the whole system. You don’t have to worry about dodging the drivers, they will get out of your way.

This is Mike doing the Saigon Street Shuffle:

Brings a new meaning to “sharing the road”. Both pedestrians and drivers have the right of way.

Despite not speaking the same language, Mike got along extremely well with my uncles. It was great to hear my uncles cracking jokes, even though they were at Mike’s expense. I was telling my uncles how much I was paying for certain things and not surprisingly it was more than what the locals paid. My uncle Tam told me it’s because I have the “white guy” with me and so everything will instantly cost at least twice as much. That comment was immediately followed with a hearty chuckle and became an inside joke between Mike and uncle Tam. From the start my whole family liked Mike and told me how lucky I was to have such a kind and tall husband (Vietnamese people are not very tall, so anyone over 5 feet 8 inches is considered tall). They doted on him, asking what his favorite Vietnamese meals were so they could prepare it, and my cousin Trang always made sure to have an abundance of beer in the fridge just for him. The best thing about this trip to Saigon, besides sharing it with my husband, is I got to spend a lot of time with my family and get to know my uncles better.

Mike and the three Musketeers during a family dinner.

My cousin Trang and I. She’s absolutely amazing!

I got to meet this cutie patootie named Bean, who was always hamming it up and never shying away from attention.

Mike and I stayed on Phạm Ngũ Lão Street, also known as the Backpacker’s District, which is a lively and safe area with lots to do, good places to eat, and plenty of other tourists so you can meet people from all over the world. The first bed and breakfast we stayed at met our needs perfectly, the location was great and the staff were friendly, but after my dad (who met us in Saigon) and uncles found out how much we were paying per night (which was not that much, especially when compared to what we would pay for similar rooms in different countries), they organized a quick exit for us. Fortunately they found another hotel for us, which was also located in the Backpacker’s District, and $12 less than what we were paying. Neither Mike nor I really wanted to leave because it was a hassle to pack up just for one night (we were flying out to Nha Trang the next), but the three musketeers made such a ruckus there was no way we could stay (Mike and I still joke about this). That’s the thing about family – it really is hard to tell them no. LOL. I would definitely recommend finding a place on Phạm Ngũ Lão Street.

An alley in the Backpacker District of Saigon.

I know not everyone is fortunate to have friends or family in Saigon, and so here are some things you should know that will make your trip that more comfortable:

• It can get extremely hot and humid in Saigon, so if you are going during the summer time make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellant. This time around, we went in December and I was pleasantly surprised. I had mentally prepared for a morning ritual of salving on the sunscreen, then spraying myself from head to toe with bug spray, but fortunately this was not the case. It is cooler and less humid in December, as compared to July and August, and apparently when Mike and I were there, Saigon was experiencing an unusually “cool winter” (it was 25 degrees Celsius and my cousin Trang was complaining about how cold it was), so we got away with just sunscreen. It makes a huge difference when you aren’t eaten alive by mosquitoes or sweating all day.

• If you don’t feel like driving or riding on a moped the easiest and, most importantly, safest way to get around Saigon is by taxi. There are two official taxi companies in Saigon: Mai Linh Group (they drive green and white vehicles) and Vinasun Taxi (vehicles are mostly white with their logo prominently displayed on the side), and I recommend sticking to these two companies.

• It is extremely smoggy in Saigon and the air pollution is really bad. You will notice that most people on mopeds wear masks, so if you plan to walk around for long periods of time pick up a mask and wear it.

• Always carry tissue or toilet paper with you because you never if there will be toilet paper and that could be extremely uncomfortable . . . especially for us ladies.
• Do not drink the water or even ice cubes for that matter. Drink bottled water, canned beverages, or fresh coconut (nothing beats fresh coconut water).

How ice is transported in Saigon.

Coconut vendors are a common sight in Saigon.

• Be aware of pickpocketers and other thievery. Iphones are a hot commodity and walking around with your iphone will make you an easy target. Also, anything on your body, not just in your pocket, is fair game and they aren’t afraid to rip necklaces off of you.

• The Vietnamese are a humble people and extremely welcoming and eager to please. If you are looking for a “Kodak moment” and want to partake in the Vietnamese way of life, do not hesitate to ask for a picture but make sure to tip them.

Mike wanted to try his hand at selling coconuts.

• Try speaking simple Vietnamese words like “cam on”, which means thank you. Vietnamese people really appreciate the effort and you will get a smile out of them.

Want to know what to do during your visit to Saigon Vietnam? Read my next article for some suggestions.

The post Saigon Dep Lam Saigon Oi Saigon Oi (Saigon is Very Beautiful) appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

You never know what to expect when you are traveling, from the sites you visit to the food you eat there is always an element of surprise. This is also the case when it comes to the people and personalities you meet on the road. Everyone travels differently and their personalities will affect how they respond to their adventures.

Here are some personalities that you may have come across while on the road.

1)  The Planner: These travelers have been preparing for their adventures for weeks, or even months, in advance. Hotels, hopper flights, and tours have all been booked and paid for. Every facet of the trip is carefully considered, most likely documented in the form of an itinerary and emailed out in advance. Planners will execute their plan with military-like precision and they also have contingency plans in case the original plan goes sideways.  When things don’t happen according to plan, Planners usually become frustrated. A Planner’s inflexibility may impact other fellow travelers, who feel that they too cannot deviate from the plan for fear of upsetting the Planner and as a result, may end up going to places or doing things they really don’t want to do during their trip. On the other hand, with the amount of pre-trip planning that takes place, the Planner significantly reduces the risks of things going completely awry.

2)  The “Fly by the Seat of Your Pants” Traveler: In contrast to the Planner, there are some people who prefer to leave things to the last minute, including packing for the trip. In their minds, the only things they really need are their passport and credit cards – everything else can be purchased on the road. They are generally impulsive, sometimes to their detriment, but usually optimistic that things will naturally work themselves out.  Traveling with such a person can be frustrating, unless you share the same attitude.  The probability of something going wrong is much higher, but the “Fly by the Seat of Your Pants” Traveler views these types of situations as an adventure.

3)  The Duo: Some people, whether friends or couples, need the company of a companion when traveling.  Most things are done together and they are never really far from one other. When there is a disagreement, the Duo will likely come to a compromise relatively quick since they still have to travel with one another. It seems that Duos gravitate towards other Duos, and it may be difficult for another personality to “tag along” with a Duo. The best part about traveling as a Duo is you get to share the experience with someone else – whether spouse, partner, or BFF they are with you through the good and bad!

4)  The Lone Traveler: Many people prefer their own company and like to travel solo style. This allows them to do whatever they want, when they want, and they aren’t accountable to anyone but themselves. This doesn’t mean that the Lone Traveler is opposed to meeting people on the road, on the contrary, I actually find that when I travel by myself I actually meet more people since I am usually the one to approach others and introduce myself. Traveling can be a bit more difficult for the Lone Traveler as there is no one else to look out for you and you can only rely on yourself, so sometimes simple tasks such as going to the bathroom at the airport can be quite the ordeal since you have to lug all your bags with you. The best part of solo traveling is you get to learn a lot about yourself – your strengths, weaknesses, and what you are capable of and chances are, you will be pleasantly surprised

5)  The Tag Along: Tag Alongs can be great.  You never know who you will encounter and it’s entirely possible that you will become fast friends. Tag Alongs can add to the adventure and can be seen as a breath of fresh air, mixing up the dynamics and adding some new energy. That being said, there is the other side of the coin where a Tag Along can quickly become an irritant – especially if they have “overstayed” their welcome and rather than contributing to the traveling experience, they just “mooch” off of you. When you are handcuffed to a Tag Along it can be difficult to extract yourself, but the best thing to do is to be honest with the person. If that doesn’t work, well introduce them to someone else!

6)  The Talker: Let’s face it some people love to talk.  Sometimes it’s because they want to strike up a conversation, boast about something, or they just like to hear the sound of their own voice. For a short period, Talkers can add to the travel experience and give you some helpful information, but after a while when you realize that they have no intention of stopping – even when your body language clearly says you are done with the conversation – it can be frustrating. This is especially the case when you find yourself in a confined space (on a plane, train, or even automobile) with a talker, it can be trying, particularly if you are not in the mood to converse.  If this happens to you, you may either want to close your eyes or listen to your iPod. If you enjoy the chatter, continue to talk with the Talker.

7)  The Constant Complainer: It doesn’t really matter where you travel to it is almost unavoidable that there is going to be something to complain about. There are some personalities though who relish in the art of complaining and use this as a form of communication. What is a minor annoyance for some, for instance waiting too long for a table at a restaurant, can become a complete rant for the Constant Complainer who sometimes can’t see past the negative. Constant Complainers can cause extremely awkward situations for their traveling companions and be a complete killjoy and dampen the mood. I have met some Constant Complainers during my travels and the best way to deal with them is to laugh it off or give them something to smile about. The benefits of having a Constant Complainer around is that if something bothers you too, chances are the Constant Complainer will bring it up so you don’t have to.

8)  The Party Animal: There is almost always a Party Animal in the group and they can be a lot of fun. Sleep is never an issue for them – either they don’t sleep (in their minds, sleep can wait until you get home) or they can sleep anywhere (on a train traveling from one place to another). Depending on which type of personality you are, being around the Party Animal is not for everyone, especially in situations where it isn’t appropriate to get your party on, for example while touring a museum. Like the Duo, Party Animals tend to attract other Party Animals, which often result in . . . a party!   Of course, certain destinations or events, such as Oktoberfest, are more conducive to the Party Animal so you need to expect that type of personality when you go there.

Image courtesy of Mixtribe.

9)  The Spender: Some people like the “five star” experience when they travel. This means first class flights, five star hotels, and five star restaurants. While on the trip, money is not an issue and they will spend what is required in order to experience the best of the best. Spenders sometimes feel that other travelers should be like them and not be afraid to spend the money, which can be alienating in some ways because most travelers have a budget. Spenders can be quite generous though and they are good for showing you a different perspective of traveling.

10)  The Germaphobe: The Germaphobe will bring antibacterial wipes and meticulously wipe down the airplane, bus, or train before sitting down – from the tray in front, the seat, the seatbelt, the hand rest (including volume and channel buttons), the head rest, and even the help button – everything gets a once over. A Germaphobe’s preferred travel wear usually consists of a hoodie with a nice big hood, so they can wear throughout the flight and not have to touch the headrest – even though it has been cleaned you can never be too sure. The Germaphobe will make sure to carry at least one bottle of hand sanitizer and liberally use it. Germaphobes also freely offer their traveling companions the use of their hand sanitizers, because after all what’s the point of being “germ-free” when the people you are with are germ carriers? When the Germaphobe enters a hotel room, the first thing they will do is bring out the latex gloves, slap it on and wipe down the remote control with an anti-bacterial wipe. After that, it’s off to the bathroom for a thorough cleaning, one that could actually put the housekeeping staff to shame. No surface gets missed, not even the toilet handles and the doorknob. Germaphobes often travel with disposable slippers, something they can wear inside the room as they do not want to be caught walking around barefoot. It goes without saying that a Germaphobe’s traveling companion will also get a pair of slippers too, especially if they are sharing the same bed because if only one person’s feet are clean than . . . you really aren’t clean! When calling for an elevator, Germaphobes will press the button with their knuckles rather than their fingers since you are more likely to touch your face with your fingers than knuckles. That concern is short lived because immediately after the button is pressed, the hand sanitizer is brought out. Although access to hand sanitizer is sometimes appreciated, traveling with a Germaphobe can try most people’s patience, especially because there is the constant reminder to “clean yourself” and it can be seen as a killjoy when you have to wait for the Germaphobe to clean every surface space (even though the clean environment is appreciated).

Which personality have you come across on the road? Which personality are you?

The post 10 Personalities you will Meet While Traveling appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

Image courtesy of Giuseppe Milo.

I have always been curious about Ireland, a country known for its struggles to separate from Great Britain, potatoes, and of course Leprechauns. Fortunately, I was able to spend a week in Ireland and got to experience first hand the country’s beauty and the hospitality of the Irish.

The first stop was Dublin and I really didn’t know what to expect. I quickly realized that Ireland is a magical island and Dublin is the epicenter. Here are 10 things to do in Dublin Ireland:

1)St. Patrick’s Day: The Irish never really need an excuse to party, but St. Patrick’s Day is their special day.  It is amazing how everyone around the world becomes Irish on March 17^th.   The good St. made his name by driving all the snakes off of the emerald isle.

In Dublin, there is a massive parade which includes floats, music and of course, beer no matter what time of day.  The parade route varies from year to year but whatever the travel route, it’s generally standing room only along the entire stretch.

A great way to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day  (weather permitting) is to go to Phoenix park, which is Dublin’s largest park and accessible by the Dart.  It’s the ideal place to have a picnic, and like the parade, there’s plenty of music and other forms of entertainment (theater, poetry, magicians, etc…).  Going to the park is the preferred option for hundreds of people, so expect a lively atmosphere and a sea of green.

As you can imagine, this is a major date for the tourist heading to Ireland, so book your accommodations early if your plan is to enjoy this wonderful event.

Image courtesy of William Murphy

2) Pubs: pubs are a large part of the social fabric of Ireland and Dublin has more than its fair share.  Instead of watching television, most Dubliners go to the “local” (pub in their neighborhood), have a pint and converse with their fellow neighbors or anyone else that is sitting next to them.  Drop into a pub and enjoy. Keep in mind that there is often live music playing at the pub, whether it is a solo fiddler or an 8-piece band belting out traditional Irish music.  It can get loud, so if that’s not your thing, move on to the next pub.

Image courtesy of William Murphy.

3) Beer: what more to there to say except that Dublin is home to the Guinness factory and it is well worth taking a tour even if you don’t drink beer.  The Irish have a saying that Guinness doesn’t travel well, so if you do like beer enjoy some straight from the well!  Don’t fill up on too much Guinness though since there are many other great beers that you will find in Dublin.

Image courtesy of deandare06.

4) Sports: the Irish are very passionate about their sports.  Dublin has Aviva Stadium, which hosts all of the big events.  Soccer, rugby and hurling (a sport like Lacrosse where they wack each other with sticks, except with no padding) are very popular.  If you can catch anyone of these games live it will be memorable!  If you can’t get tickets, there is always the local pub which can get just as rowdy (in a good way) as the live event.

Image courtesy of Naomh Colum Cille CLG.

5) Food: if you are a foody, lower the expectations down just a notch or two.  Dublin is not known as a culinary destination of choice.  However, the pub grub is fantastic!  Irish stew and fish and chips are always a safe bet.

Image Courtesy of Antonf.

Image courtesy of Bjaglin.

6)  Transit: Dublin has an exceptional transit system that include trolleys, buses, and a light rail transit system called “The Dart”.  Hop on the Dart and explore some of the outlying areas.  Like any big city, there are many things to see besides the city centre.  The Dart follows the coastline and offers fantastic views.

7) Killiney: if you feel like heading to the beach then hop onto the Dart and take it to Killiney. Bear in mind that Irish beaches are not like what you would find in Kailua or Waikiki.  They’re a little rough around the edges, much like the Irish themselves!  However, many people swim from this location, so if you are not adverse to unpredictable weather and a cold ocean, then this is the spot to do it.

8) Dalkey: One place you may want to consider going to is a community called Dalkey.  It is a beautiful little township (which is what the Irish call suburbs).  There is a popular pub called “The Queens”, which has won Pub of the Year and this is no easy feat considering the volume of pubs in Dublin. It also happens to be Bono’s “local”.  Chances of seeing him, either alone or even with the Boss, are best when U2 is not on tour.

9)  Grafton Street: if you are looking to shop in Dublin, there is no better place than on Grafton Street. Running from St. Stephen’s Green to College Green, this pedestrian friendly street is lined with high-end shops, cafes, and restaurants and is bustling with people. Don’t forget to explore the side streets, which houses some uniquely Irish stores where you may find an unexpected gem. If shopping is not your thing, Grafton Street is a great place to people watch and take in the energy.

A short distance from Grafton Street is the world famous Trinity College, definitely a place worth visiting and stopping in to view the Book of Kells.

10) Weather: Not so much a “to do”  as it is a notable characteristic of Dublin.  Ireland has two seasons – rain or no rain.  That should in no way discourage you from going to Dublin!  In fact, it seems to have been a major reason for the pub culture where people can dash into a nearby pub for some warm soup and conversation.  Rain gear (or even an Irish sweater) is a good idea since it can start pouring at any time and from any location, but don’t fret too much as there can also be glorious sunny days too.

Image courtesy of William Murphy.

11) Accents:  The Irish lilt is almost musical, but since Dublin attracts people from all the counties the accents can vary in a significant way.  Sometimes you may wonder if the person you are conversing with is speaking English, but everyone gets the hang of it quickly.  An important Gaelic word to know is Sláinte, which means CHEERS!

So there’s my list of the top 10 things to do in Dublin Ireland.

What are some things you would add to this list? Sláinte and enjoy Dublin!

The post 10 (plus 1) things to do in Dublin Ireland appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

For part 3 of my Hawaii trip,  Mike and I took a day trip to the ever so popular Waikiki Beach!  Although we stayed in Kailua during our Hawaiian vacation, there was no way we were missing out on all the fun things to do in Waikiki.

Diamond Head Hike

Driving from Kailua Beach to Waikiki, we decided to take a detour and hike up the Diamond Head. Not knowing what to expect, we sunscreened up and brought plenty of water to keep us hydrated. The hike only took us about 30 minutes, but then again we did have proper hiking shoes, as opposed to flip-flops or even high heels (don’t ask, I have no idea what some people are thinking when they decide to hike up a volcano – albeit one that is no longer active but still!) and we didn’t have any kids with us or strollers (even though the signs clearly said no strollers, some people were adamant that they could push the strollers up the trail). There are a lot of people going up and down the hiking trail and both lanes of “traffic” are busy, so unless there is enough room to pass the person in front of you, hiking etiquette says you can really only go as fast as the person in front of you. Regardless of how long it takes, the view from the top is breathtaking and worth the sweat!

View of the water from Diamond Head.

A different perspective at the top.

Selfie!!! Proof of my hike up Diamond Head.

Things To Do In Waikiki

Despite the arm and a leg that you pay for parking (more on that below), I can now appreciate why tourists gravitate towards Waikiki. This beachfront neighborhood offers everything from world class shopping to restaurants that are masters in gastronomy. Not to mention there is a lot of activity on the streets to keep you entertained and of course there is the beach! Whether you are in the water, soaking up some rays, or people watching on shore – there is something for everyone.

Kalakaua Avenue

It was interesting to see people busting out into song and dance as we were walking down the street.

Relaxing at Waikiki Beach.

Even before going to Honolulu, I knew that the shopping would be spectacular. My sister told me to save up and top up my shopping fund because I would need it (yes, I make it a point to create a shopping fund when I travel so I can spend guilt free). I was giddy with excitement even before getting to Ala Moana Center, but as soon as I stepped inside the mall I was salivating. There are actually more than enough stores along Kalakaua Ave to satisfy most shoppers, but who’s kidding who? There was no way the shopaholic in me would go to Honolulu without venturing to Ala Moana. There were so many stores I didn’t know where to start. I couldn’t diddle-daddle because we had dinner plans with my good friend Neal, so I was a women on a mission and bee-lined it to my favourite stores. Whenever I go shopping, Mike and I usually head off on our own because the poor guy hates to shop and prefers to wait at a pub or coffee shop, whereas I like to throw myself into retail therapy and I don’t want him knowing the kind of workout I put my credit card through so . . . it really is just better for our marriage this way :).

Trolley stop on Kalakaua Avenue that will take you to Ala Moana (take the pink trolley).

After some intense shopping (on my part) Mike and I met up with a Neal at the infamous Duke’s Restaurant and Bar in the Outrigger Reef Resort. I have to say, this was a five star experience for several reasons:

A Mai Tai with dinner – definitely hit the spot!

We started with the Crispy Coconut Crusted Black Tiger Shrimp.

Hmmmm seafood – the sautéed mac nut and herb crusted fish.

Mike’s Huli Huli Chicken.

The decadently delightful Hula Pie.

View of the sunset from our table at Duke’s.

Duke’s Restaurant and Bar in the Outrigger Reef Resort.

Parking in Waikiki

One of the most common complaints about Waikiki is the cost of parking. Here are some things I discovered that could help you save on parking:

What is your list of things to do in Waikiki?

Want to read more about Hawaii? Check out these posts:

Kailua Hawaii – A Hidden Treasure

Surfing North Shore Oahu – Waimea Bay

The post Going To Honolulu? Things To Do In Waikiki appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.

You would think that with weather warnings and alerts of hazardous surges occurring along North Shore Oahu that I would heed the advice and stay away from the surfing mecca of the world, but this actually had the opposite effect. I wanted nothing more than to go and see the 50 feet waves that were threatening Oahu’s North Shore. I wasn’t the only one with this idea as hundreds of people including local residents, tourists, and the media were itching to get a glimpse of the surfers fearless enough to venture out and catch some of the biggest waves (keep in mind that if you are heading to the North Shore when the waves are really big pack some food and water with you because you could be stuck in traffic for a while).

The traffic was bad all along the Kamehameha Highway.

The waves were high enough that danger signs were necessary.

The waves, although breathtakingly beautiful from a safe distance on the shores of Waimea Bay, were extremely powerful and dangerous. At one point, the Honolulu Emergency Services Department and Lifeguards were concerned that the waves would reach heights high enough to wash out the parking lot at Waimea Bay Beach, which was about 50 feet from where Mike and I were sitting, so people had to move their cars and clear the area.

Watching the waves from a safe distance on the shores of Waimea Bay Beach.

50 feet waves everyone was eager to get a glimpse of.

Listening to the lifeguards, most people started to get out of dodge but I caught up with two free surfers – Daniel Kfouri and Bruno Silva – who had absolutely no intention of vacating the area and wanted nothing more than to run towards the perilous surf brought on by the winter swell.

Bruno Silva and Daniel Kfouri, two free surfers enjoying the waves at Waimea Bay.

Daniel Kfouri, a free surfer and native of Brazil, has been surfing for 25 years and spends at least three months every year in Oahu to catch some of the world’s biggest waves. Daniel told me that the waves were between 50 to 80 feet high and were getting higher by the minute. There were several other surfers out on the water that day, making it difficult to catch a wave, but that did not deter him from continuing to try.

Daniel Kfouri and his surfboard.

Bruno Silva, originally from Brazil, was also at Waimea Bay determined to ride the waves. Bruno has been living in Hawaii for over 10 years and surfing for over 20 years. Below are some pictures of Bruno surfing at Waimea Bay and Pe’ahi Jaws. He makes surfing look so easy, but we know it is anything but! I guess the fact that Bruno is a surf coach and personal trainer at Turtle Bay Resort definitely helps.

Bruno Silva surfing at Waimea Bay

Bruno Silva surfing at Pe’ahi Jaws.

I have so much awe and respect for people who make something extremely difficult and scary look easy and fun. You definitely need to reach a level of strength, balance, and grace that I most certainly do not have.  Daniel told me that one of his scariest surfing moments was getting caught inside a big wave. I think there are a couple of steps that I would have to master first, like being able to get into the water without tripping over my surfboard. Not like I would want to do the Pamela Anderson run on Baywatch, but look at these boards – they are absolutely huge and I’m sure quite difficult to handle. They definitely don’t look like the ones that the Teen Choice Awards hand out.

Bruno Silva and his surfboards.

I asked Bruno to identify some important skills that a surfer should have to enjoy the waves (besides the obvious – learn to swim, which I know I still need to do). He told me that since the waves can reach over 40 feet, safety is always first and so it is important to learn how to hold your breath for 3 minutes and develop CPR and rescue skills. The latter skills are ones that you hope you never have to use, but there’s nothing wrong with having them in your arsenal just in case.

For those who are thinking of surfing for the first time, here are some points to consider:

be safe and enjoy the water!

Read more about my Hawaiian Adventures:

Kailua Hawaii – A Hidden Treasure

Going to Honolulu? Things To Do In Waikiki

The post Surfing North Shore Oahu – Waimea Bay appeared first on Blaze Your Adventure.