There are many theories as to how the world was brought into existence, and many more mysteries that still surround its explored lands and waters. For us, parts of the world are still only theories and mysteries—a handicap that we shall soon remedy. Our new adventure begins at our home in Ohio, recently leaving our wonderful friends and the great city of Charlotte, NC. It was there that we sporadically quit both of our jobs, sold all of our furniture, and officially became world nomads! Traveling within Southeast Asia will be a beginning, as we anticipate many more adventures to stem from it. Yes, this is beyond our comfort zone, but where's the fun in life if it were not to be challenged?!
Our beautiful dog, Boo Radley, insists she is ready for the trip with nothing packed but her shades and her stick. Sadly, she cannot come, but she will be staying with Kathy's dad and step mother (major thanks to you both!!!!) and be spoiled rotten, as she deserves.
Highlights from our Itinerary are as follows: We will take a train ride along the length of Vietnam, visiting the islands of Halong Bay and the history of China Beach. Cambodia will awe us with its ruins of Angkor Wat. In Thailand we will become beach bums at James Bond Island, motor bike through Bangkok, snorkel the vibrant coral reefs, and discover the power and beliefs within its numerous monasteries. From there we enter Malaysia, to venture in the tea plantations and the jungle trek world’s oldest tropical forest. Singapore will greet us with its innovative presence and an evening Zoo safari! Lastly, as many save the best for, Indonesia will gladly exhaust us with its vast landscape. Here we will see the orangutan reserve park, surf around the clock in Bali, swim a crater, and climb a volcano. All while enjoying amazing ethnic foods and embracing new cultures.
When it came to packing, much was overly considered. Within a backpack, packing cubes, and a day-bag, we were able to pack as follows:
CLOTHES + ACCESSORIES
3 Tank Tops, 2 Long sleeve shirts, 3 tee-shirts
2 Shorts, 2 pants (of if you’re Jamie, 4 shorts, 0 pants)
At least 1 dress (Kathy managed 3)
Make-up bag: Mascar, eyeliner, hair ties
Shower bag and microfiber towel, Shampoo + Condition and Brush
3 pairs of shoes: sandals, gym shoes, flip-flops
2 pairs of bikinis
12 pairs of underwear, 3-5 sports bras, 5 pairs of socks
1 Rain Jacket + 1 hat
1 Novel, 1-3 journals
Lots of Tampons and possibly a divacup—still debating ;)
NEEDED
Medical Kit: a few rounds of antibiotics, Imodium, pepto-bismol tablets, ibuprofen, witch hazel, wound care, band aids, rehydration salts, motion-sickness tablets!
Supplements: Great papaya enzyme, Standard Process probiotics, and vitamins
Bear Grylls Safety/Survival Kit
Badgers's DEET-free Bug Spray, Ben's 30% DEET bug spray, 15 Citronella Bracelets, Banana-Boat Sunscreen, Face wipes, and Sanitizer
ELECTRONICS + GEAR
Nikon D5100 with 18-55 + 55-200mm Lend
Go Pro with tripod
2 USB's for pictures
13" MacBook Pro (or a strong possibility of an HP)
1 Converter/ Adaptor
Pacsafe Security locks
Pacsafe passport holder
