A Whirlwind of Crazy

Things have been really crazy since the last time I blogged. Just finished doing a bit of traveling and trying to settle down in NY now. Its been a month since I've been back from Asia but I'm starting to feel antsy again. Since August, I traveled with some buddies to Munich for Oktoberfest, Kapadokya for some hot air balloons, and Istanbul for some spices and a good time. In January, I managed to make it to Whistler to get some boarding in since the east coast wasnt doing so well with the snow. Soon after Vancouver, I landed in Taiwan with stops in Bangkok and Angkor Wat for about 6-7 weeks.

Oktoberfest was an amazing experience and I highly recommend that everyone should experience this once in their life time. The energy, the lights, the people are all outstanding! We camped for two days in Munich for Oktoberfest and although it was a rough experience, I wouldnt have had it any other way. We met some interesting people, drank a lot of beer, and ate a lot of sausages and pretzels! I think we all gained a few pounds from all the carbs! After Oktoberfest, we ventured out to Fussen to see Neuschwanstein Castle... the castle that walt disney based his earlier classics on. Definitely a must see. Dont forget about the BMW musem either!


Turkey was another completely difference experience in itself. Our first stop was Cappadocccia (Kapadokya). Here there are known for their caves, rock houses, valleys, fairy chimneys, and wonderful hospitality. The first day we were there, we did a 9 mile? (close enough) hike through Red Rose. October is definitely a good time to visit. Very hot during the day and cools down at night. We ate at some local restaurants and smoked some hookah and called it a night. The next day, we woke at 5am for a hotair balloon ride over the colorful valleys of Cappadoccia. One of the most unique experiences in my lifetime. If you ever want a hotair balloon ride, this is the place to be. Balloons rose over the valleys and lit up the sky before sunrise. Wonderful silhouettes of the balloons hung in the background as the sun began to rise.


We flew back to Istanbul after as our last and final stop. The culture and history of this city is so fulfilling and makes you just say "Wow". From the stuffed mussels on the street, the pubs, the clubs, nightlife, to the Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and to the Spice Market, Grand Bazaar, the density of things that happen in this city is amazing. I have to say my favorite part of this city is definitely the spice market and the grand bazaar. Wish I had more time to explore. Pierre Loti is gorgeous on a sunny day as well as the ferry ride down in the middle of town. If you ever make it to Turkey, do not overlook the hamams (bath houses). Another experience I will never forget... Women and men are separate, for good reason. You are scrubbed head to toe, felt nice afterwards but definitely exprience this with friends you are close with. Though we didnt get to visit the Asian side of Istanbul during the day time, we did have a very nice dinner at La Civert to celebrate a birthday, which is located right under a bridge and has a very nice outdoor area.


Since I'm on a travel freeze right now with school and babysitting my nephew, I'll be back soon to update Vancouver/Whistler and my Asia trip after I plan my next epicurean adventure, till then... Pleasantly Epicurious