I haven’t had the best time in Bali to be honest. The over-tourism, congestion, traffic, unsanitary conditions, amount of bugs and unexpected unpleasantness has been more than any other place I have visited. However, one thing that always brightens my day, and stay, is the vegetation. Botanical Bali, how beautiful the flowers are, bringing joy …
Always on the lookout for a good market, I have found one in Bali that is a complete vibe. While I have certainly struggled to find an authentic local market, there have been numerous tourist ones. This one tops the cake though, the Sunday market at La Brisa Bali is fantastic! Getting There Located at …
Of course, I found a market! In fact, there are quite a few in this little haven on the island of Phuket. The biggest seems to be the vibrant Friday Night market at Kamala Beach, the one towards the north end of the main road. Location The two largest markets are situated at either end …
I have left the Old Town and travelled for 40 minutes to reach the coastline of Phuket. There are any number of beaches that I could have chosen to explore, however I was looking for a less crowded, less touristy place to sink my toes into the sand. At beautiful Kamala Beach on the Island …
After exploring the mountain location of Chiang Mai, I was ready for a change of scenery and pace. I decided a beach destination was in store. Flying down south, on Nok Air, I landed on a tropical island. Here are my first impressions of Phuket Thailand. Big Phuket is much larger than I had envisioned …
I have been so lucky to be in town for the duration of the three-day festival here in the Old City. Having no idea about this until recently, I find myself present for the spectacular Chiang Mai Flower Festival! 2024 marks the 47th year since its conception and wow have the organizers ever done an …
I have not made a post about flowers in a very long time. Now I will not be able to leave this amazing country without such a post. For I have been surrounded by the most amazing blooms since my arrival. Here are the beautiful tropical flowers of Vietnam that I have been lucky enough …
The bulk of this post is about colourful casa’s in the Colonias of Puerto Morelos. But before I go there, I have to tell you the best news. A magical thing happened this morning on my walk-a-bout town. I headed out towards the stop for the colectivo as I was on route for the beach …
The plants that we Canadians are trying to keep alive and thrive in our cold northern climate, are the same plants that grow here by abandon in Puerto Morelos Mexico. Po Mo is a tropical plant lovers paradise! Not only will you see brightly coloured flowers everywhere you look, but the foliage is what you …
Today was a marvellous morning to catch the sunrise at Puerto Morelos beach. As I was walking to the beach this morning, I saw a coin on the sidewalk. I bent to pick it up and a young Mexican man said ‘Lucky’. I turned and said “Si Lucky!” for it was a 1 peso coin. …
Walking through town and to the beach as much as I have, and having a fondness for all plant life, I have noticed quite a few beautiful tropical fruits growing in Puerto Morelos. Many of the yards and gardens have fruit trees as you might find in any location. Here in tropical Puerto Morelos, the …
Having walked around the beach part of Puerto Morelos quite extensively now, one can’t help but admire the colourful houses. Luckily this town is still quaint, there aren’t many hotels or bigger condo buildings. Most of the structures are low rise and not much taller than the palm trees surrounding them. The houses range from …
So my brain is having a little difficulty with the juxtaposition of a tropical Christmas. I’m Canadian and am most familiar with the typical western Christmas. You know, the cold weather, soaring dark pine trees, snow covered ground and mugs of hot chocolate. Being absolutely bombarded everywhere you go with Christmas music and decorations, usually …
Each morning when I return from my walk, I take a cup of coffee and a book out onto my terrace. This morning it occurred to me that this is one of life’s simple pleasures that is so integral to my well being. I am currently drinking a Mexican brand of coffee called Blason. The …
There are many reasons why people flock to Mexico. Friendly people, sunshine, warmth and food are just a few attractions that bring millions of visitors here every year. One of the more prominent reasons for me is the love and uninhibited use of colour. From the colours of the houses, to the colours of the …
There is colour everywhere you look in Mexico. Plants always seem to be in bloom and produce stands are overflowing with their colourful bounty. Walking around every town that I have had the privilege to explore so far, are brightly painted murals. And here is no exception, the beautiful Puerto Morelos murals are everywhere! Mayan …
Each day for me begins with a long walk. I head out early in the morning when the air is pleasantly fresh and the atmosphere is soft and dreamy. I like to imagine most people tucked away in their beds, while myself and a few other like minded souls have the world to ourselves. Today’s …