Nomadic Texan

This is actually an experiment and I am adding a video today from my experience at the Amita Thai Cooking Class in Bangkok. Tam Piyawadi Jantrupon the owner and instructor is a very sweet lady who takes her time and ensure you are digesting her teaching. Sorry I couldn’t help the pun.

This video is a session where she instructs us on the various flowers and spices used in a plate of appetizers she served upon arrival. They are lightly battered and fried briefly, similar to Japanese Tempura. In addition she tells us of the specific medicinal qualities o f each. They were very tasty and scrumptious! I can’t recommend her class enough!

Tam with an Assistant

*** My trip to Thailand and Malaysia was sponsored by Thai Airways, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Tourism Malaysia USA. All opinions are solely mine and as always generated without any influence.

Last August when I lived in Cuenca for five weeks, this Indigenous lady sat on the corner of the street where my condo was located, selling lottery tickets. She was there every day rain or shine and sold tickets from early in the morning until late afternoon.

Indigenous Lady Selling Lottery Tickets

I always wondered if she had a family and if she had housing. She never missed a beat and when I would walk by her she extended a ticket and asked me if I wanted to purchase a ticket. I never did and almost felt guilty about NOT gambling!

Homes of Hope Project

This past May two of my sons and I volunteered with Homes of Hope. We helped build a home for this family in Tijuana Mexico. I was more than surprised by the way that this project effected me and it was one of the most emotional and pleasing efforts that I have completed in my life. There is nothing in the world that could match this family’s smiles and gratitude, after we gave them the keys to their new home.

To construct the habitat with my two sons touched me more than I ever imagined. Volunteer work is the most rewarding undertaking I Have participated in and I would encourage everyone to join in and volunteer abroad when possible.

One of the things that struck me as unusual in my recent trip to Thailand and Malaysia, was the amount of monkeys everywhere we went near forests or jungles. I am not used to that in Texas. We experienced more monkeys though, at locations where Buddhas were present and I am guessing it is a natural instinct to adapt to people feeding you and having excessive trash near. Its kind of a guaranteed system of meals for these primates.

This photo is from the Batu Caves and we were sternly warned that feeding the monkeys at this temple could cause a lose of a finger or an attack. Neither was something I desired. The monkeys were sitting above the entrance to the restrooms at the shrine and I for one was just a little nervous that they might not like another bearded primate invading their space. Take a close look at the one on the right and tell me you don’t agree!

Monkeys Watching Over the Toilet at The Batu Caves

*** My trip to Thailand and Malaysia was sponsored by Thai Airways, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Tourism Malaysia USA. All opinions are solely mine and as always, generated without any influence.

I have stayed with many a hotel in my traveling history, ranging from low end budget types to 5-star luxury hotels. One of the ways I judge a hotel is the bathroom facilities and size. Obviously cleanliness is paramount to receive a favorable review from me.

As I entered the bathroom at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, I was taken back by the size of the shower and the various heads available. The view below is as you enter. It reflects a shower head with hose and a bench behind the door with room for at minimum, two people on the bench.

Right Side of Shower as You Enter

The next photo is of the left side and shows that you have a choice of shower heads if you opt for this side. Overhead is a magnificent Rain head with sufficient power. I find that most of the Rain heads only allow a light spray. This one had a great blast and was extremely invigorating.

On the wall is a double headed spray that lifts up and allows you the benefit of two full Massage heads. They are fantastic after a long day of traveling. I assessed the area in the shower and thought to myself one could have a party and six or eight people would not be crowded, if that was the case. It was unbelievable in size and facility. I do not think I have ever encountered such a large and useful shower in my life.

Left Side of Shower as You Enter, With a Rain Head and Fold Out Double Head Massage Shower

After the fabulous shower I sauntered outside to see what the beach held and found this view. I was overwhelmed and could have stayed there all evening watching the sun set, but alas we had dinner arrangements and I had to leave! If you are ever in Penang Malaysia you have to stay at this hotel.

It is one of my top five hotels of all time. A more detailed blog post is forthcoming. While I showered at home this morning, I yearned for this gigantic refuge, as I continually bumped into the sides of my small shower stall at home. #Bummer!!!

Wonderful Beach Setting in the Late Afternoon

*** My trip to Thailand and Malaysia was sponsored by Thai Airways, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Tourism Malaysia USA. All opinions are solely mine and as always generated without any influence.

Mosaic Above Upstairs Doors

One of my favorite events on my recent FAM tour to Thailand and Malaysia was visiting The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in Penang Malaysia. It is located in the Georgetown section of the city. The house was built in the 19th century and has wonderful brocade wood work along all the staircases and windows.

One aspect especially caught my eye and that was the myriad of mosaic structures above the doors and windows of the second story. They were more visible from the balcony overlooking the front yard and stone wall. This one particularly caught my attention with all its intricate detail and design.

If you know me, you understand that I love Colonial architecture, doors, windows and balconies. I am not sure exactly why I am drawn to that period. The magnificent arches, large doors mainly made from wood and over-sized windows are more than attractive to me. They are magnetic and pull me in. When you add the ornate and intricate balconies I get mesmerized and can never take enough photos.

I have hundreds and hundreds of photos of old wooden doors from my visits over time to Cuenca Ecuador, along with hundreds of balcony photos. It got to the point on my trip last March with Kim, that she was pointing out doors before I could see them. She began questioning whether I had a photo or not of each specific door.

Old Town Phuket Thailand

On my recent FAM trip to Phuket Thailand we stopped in old town and had about an hour to scurry down several streets and capture what we could. I loved this photo and even though it is kind of garish it drew me in. Thank you Thailand for giving me another source of joy!

I love beach towns in any country and always gravitate to them regardless. I was recently in Phuket Thailand, a very well known city and it has infinite attributes. One I was totally caught off guard by, was the amount of wonderful buildings and intoxicating architecture that exists in the old section of town. As we entered, our guide Jennifer decided we needed to stop and see this area.

I was fortunate that they gave us about 30 minutes to walk and shop. I was only really interested in the Colonial Spanish or French style of architecture represented and took a plethora of photos. One of my favorites is this one and I shaded it black and white for effect.  I love the more traditional aspect of this type of photo and am old enough to remember when this was our primary source of pictures and color was considered a luxury.

There is something that defines the lines and and construction of a building better when it is presented in black and white. I love that it completely captures my eye. How about you? Do you like to see photos in black and white or would you rather all photos be exposed with colors? Thank you kindly for taking the time to read my post and for your comments.

B/W Photo of Old Town Phuket

Our visit to James Bond Island or Khao Phing Kan, in Phang Nga Bay Thailand was both exhilarating and educational. The ride over in the Long Boat was stimulating and was an experience I shall never forget. It was a proper end to the ride, when we wound up at the restaurant in Sea Gypsy Village for lunch. The village is elevated above the ocean on stilts to account for the tides and storm surges.

The majority of its income base is centered around tourism and visitors that stop off on the way back from James Bond Island. In addition to a rather large restaurant there is a maze of shops and retail outlets, which sell fresh water pearls, all kinds of clothing, authentic regional food items and various traditional souvenir goods. It is well worth the stop and one can wonder endlessly for hours just investigating the wares the vendors offer.

Koy Panyee Sea Gypsy Village

As we headed out of Phuket Thailand, to take the Long Boat to James Bond Island or Khao Phing Kan in the Phang Nga Bay,  I knew I couldn’t make the entire trip without a potty break. I have a bad bladder and holding is not an option ordinarily, as my wife Kim will tell you. Her on the other hand, she can hold it for days.

It pisses me off. Pun intended! Luckily our guide had a stop planned for beverages and the sampling of some of the best Dim Sum I had ever tasted! I was so glad when they offered us a taste. I wanted to eat the whole pot!

Very Tasty Dim Sum

I caught the name of the restaurant. It was Phing Nga Restaurant right before the Sarasin Bridge. I captured a few photos of the magnificent orchid presentation on the wall separating the dining rooms, along the path to the restrooms. I was very surprised at how clean and well stocked the restrooms were. Very nice! I was much more taken back though by this array of orchids.

Wall of Orchids

Obviously I had to choose one as my favorite and it literally jumped out and caught my attention. What do you think did I get it right?

An Amazing Purple Orchid

As I sit here tonight scanning my shares and connections on social media, I came across a musician friend that loves Japan more than I do if that is possible. It s been many years since Kim and I have been to Japan and I am ready to go back. If I could afford it, I would eventually retire in Japan. I love its people. its food and its culture. It is one of the countries in the world that still understands how to act with class. This photo is from my visit with my son to the Big Buddha and I love looking at this photo, as it reminds me how much I really miss Japan. Kyoto I hope you are ready because next time we are coming your way!

The Big Buddha

There is still time to take advantage of a fabulous piece of Texas history this year. It is especially fascinating, if you have young children and  are familiar with the Polar Express story. The Texas State Railroad is running December 11-23 and December 26-29 in Palestine Texas. I recently experienced this wonderful little town on the edge of the East Texas Piney Woods and fell head over hills in love with it. Santa Claus will be on board and your kids can interact with him. Don’t hesitate. Buy your tickets now!

Polar Express 2012

Hippies

One of Mike Pell’s signs that I loved at Sweet Dreams Winery, was this one. It got my attention as soon as I walked up and met him. I used to be one of these folks, as my longtime friends well know and now that I am a retired business executive, posing as a travel and food blogger, I get to use the front door!

Again I want to thank Palestine Texas for hosting Kim and I and for showing us the “Pearl of the East Texas Piney Woods”! Psst. Please don’t tell my readers about my past! Y’all be kind to each other and have a great day. Peace!

The Rock and The Love of My Life

I have thought long and hard about what my #50 “Photo of The Day” should be and what it should stand for. After I decided on the subject, it really didn’t take that long to locate a photo. I am 63 going on 64 years old and have shared 37 years of that life with this beautiful lady. She has stood behind me come whatever and I can’t express my love for this lady enough. That’s the reason I am dedicating #5o to her and telling the world how much she means to yours truly.

Thank you my dear for putting up with me all these years, helping raise three wonderful sons and for making my life a joy! I truly hope we can have another 37 years, that is if we can remember who and where we are! Thank you Kim, for sharing my life and for loving this old man through thick and thin!

Homes of Hope Project

I was thinking back to this photo in Mexico today and how I learned my sons have all become men. This picture shows Kim and my youngest two sons, Chris next to me and Sean holding the little girl. They both worked their rear ends off, to help this family in need Memorial Day weekend and I have never been prouder. Their words of gratitude and praise struck me like a bolt of lightening at the key exchange and closing ceremonies.

It was an eye-opening experience and one I will treasure the remainder of my life. I only hope that everyone reading this post, has the opportunity to experience a volunteer program and has the additional pleasure of doing it with your relatives, especially your children. If and when you do, don’t be surprised if it becomes an overwhelming emotional event! It was for me.

American Airlines Waiting to Take Me to Ecuador

Yesterday I posted a blog post, which stated how unhappy I was with American Airlines and how I was discriminated against on my return flight from Guayaquil Ecuador to Miami. I was totally humiliated. I received a phone call from the executive office and my issue was resolved, after we discussed the situation.

Thank you American Airlines for doing the right thing for a 40 year loyal passenger. Most of all thank you to my social media supporters for helping with the campaign #AAFixItNow. Without you I am more than positive the resolution would never have had wings!

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Okay I have to admit I really didn’t have this idea originally, but the end recipe was all mine. While most of my BBQ Chicken Pizza is made with Monterrey Jack Cheese, I read in a recent magazine, about a well known chef using some Gorgonzola cheese mixed with cheddar. I decided I would do a sprinkling of Monterrey Jack with the majority Gorgonzola cheese on my half. Kim wanted my traditional pie.

All my pizza’s are made with flat bread. I bake it for about 45 minutes and use a very ample supply of chicken boiled in cumin, chili powder, garlic powder and black pepper. I use a heavy amount of  red onions, along with jalapenos. The bread is basted with a large dose of BBQ sauce and when its finished, it is usually eaten within a day, if not that meal! Try it!

The Driskill Hotel

One of Austin’s iconic structures is the Driskill Hotel downtown on sixth street and about a block off Congress Avenue. The hotel was completed in 1866 and was named after a cattle baron named Jesse Driskill. It is filled with western motif and furniture that takes one back to the old days in Texas. One of my favorite items is this lighting arrangement in the lobby. It is so vibrant and one cannot keep from staring, when it is seen in real life. If you visit Austin Texas this hotel has to be on your “To Do” bucket list.

Coffee Club

In Toronto at #TBEX the #Travel blogger conference this past June, I had the good fortune to finally meet with the Coffee Club. We are a group of six travel bloggers who absolutely love coffee and have a passion beyond the norm, for this magical elixir! We are always trading remarks about who is having coffee where and of what quality. It is a one-upsmanship game and we all have our days.

Looking at the photo from the left is Karla of TravellerSoul76, Lance of TripsByLance, Aaron of elATLboy, Jill of RoadWarrior, Maria of LatinAbroad and some old guy of the NomadicTexan. We all are also kind of kooky, if you haven’t gathered by now. I enjoyed being around these great bloggers and hope to see them at the next#TBEX conference 2014, in North America for a cup of java!

Home Away From Home

Who recognizes this airport? It is like my home away from home and I have lost track of how many times I have been in and out of the airport. You could probably blindfold me and I would still be able to navigate the terminals.