The Simply Beautiful Norway

There's really only one way to describe Norway - simply stunning. From the lovely people, the colorful farmland, the majestic mountains and the delectable food - Norway was a wonderful ending to our trip. We stayed with Caleb's grandfather and step grandmother both of whom were so hospitable. On the first night we arrived, we were greeted with a homemade meal. After several weeks of scourging the internet to find a good restaurant or happening upon one, it was fantastic to have a home cooked meal! Their place instantly felt like home and I'm so thankful we were able to stay with them.

Koh Lanta

This place was bliss. After coming from a party island, we made it to Koh Lanta which was more easy going. Caleb found us an amazing resort, Pimalai Resort, on the island with air condition, no broken shower head and the most amazing view!

Pool at the Pimalai Resort

Koh Phi Phi

After Chiang Mai we headed south to Koh Phi Phi Don. Koh Phi Phi has two islands - Don and Leh. Everyone stays on Don and travels to Leh for adventures in snorkeling and with monkeys. We flew into Phuket and took a ferry to Koh Phi Phi Don. When arriving, there was a bit of a culture shock. I never appreciated the "No Solicitation" signs until this point. You are instantly bombarded with people selling hotel rooms and boat rides to Koh Phi Phi Leh. I just ignored them and moved on. A porter from our hotel greeted us and got our luggage to carry to the resort.

We made it to the "resort" and checked in just fine. I put resort in quotes because this was not a resort. I can describe Koh Phi Phi as an island to go to when you're between 18 and 25 and just want to party. The "resort" was basically a place with a bed to lay your head between drunken stupors and running water to wash off last night's alcohol that's oozing through your skin because you reek of it. Can't you tell that I like this island? If you can't tell - this is complete sarcasm. We did not participate in any of the parties but this is what I observed. I would not recommend this island to anyone but maybe one day to do snorkeling and see the viewpoint.

Chiang Mai - What a Gem

After the hustle and bustle of Bangkok (it's almost the same number of people as New York), Chiang Mai was a very welcome retreat. This town has the smaller beach town vibe.

Chiang Mai - Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

When looking for activities in Thailand, I immediately thought about riding elephants. As I did more research, I learned that the elephants that are ridden are typically abused. Therefore this was not an option for us. But through the research everyone mentioned going to an elephant sanctuary where you get to interact with the elephants more than if you rode them. Done and done. I found the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary online and signed up for a half day excursion.

We were picked up at our hostel and met our excursion group. These people - Joe, Helena, Rianne and Emily - were amazing! All of them had so many adventures and stories and we all clicked.