Well everyone, this is it. The final Chapter. It has been a pleasure a blogging for you, i hope i have inspired some of you to do something a little crazy or different. I certainly did some much that i cannot put in this due to parents reading, however the entire year will be in my memories for the rest of my life. I also hope maybe some of you might even consider a gap year with Project Trust, an incredible charity. Also you shall be pleased to know i have been very careful not to make the 'gay year' spelling mistake repeat from my fundraising. I hope you haven't found the awful grammar too horrible and feel free to contact me about anything, even the film Frozen.
The last 6 weeks blew by in a blur. Adapting to live without Dermody was rather interesting, however i had my three wonderful kittens Orea, Mozz and Auzz to keep me company. First i managed to do on my return was stab my fridge, yes well done there Cal. No cold water for me until i get home then. The main excitement of the last stint was of curse the world cup. Now most people would watch the world cup in the evening, maybe some pizza and a cold beer. Bliss. Me, alarm goes at 3:30 to catch the opening game. Fun Fun Fun. The group stages were incredible and the entire country was buzzing with talk, I'm sure they learned more English from the football than from me the whole year. However discussing the likes of how bad England where, James Rodriguez, Suarez the dinosaur and as the boys called them the "Beautiful Brazilian Babes" kept us all very entertained.
Due to the big house now having only me in it, we decided to move our PT meet up to Kota Putra, home of Tom and Danny. Now they happen to happen to have a beach, complete with large amounts of driftwood. Que giant manly fires. All 18 year old boys are pyromaniacs in case you didn't know. This couldn't just be any fire, we had to put stuff on it. It began with just plastic, some shoes however ended with some classics. Deodorant cans. Incredible, enjoying the lack of Malay health and safety one last time before returning home. We finished the nights with what we called 'The Triskelion'. This beast was three deodorant cans strapped together with a fuse. Lets just say it put the fire out with a bang. Lads Lads Lads.
I decided that some female influence was potentially required so the girls of Kuala Krai, Alex and Helena were invited for the last free weekend before Ramadan. We had a girly day. Sat, watched films and ate junk food. I felt very guilty due to the brilliant gym progress i am making, but one day cant hurt. I have now lost 8 KG in 4 months, 4 inches of my waist and can bench 55KG. The six pack is coming ladies, watch out. Now all that was left was to prepare for Ramadan.
Ramadan is the annual Muslim fasting festival. From sunrise to sunset, nothing may pass your lips. Nothing. I decided however, challenge accepted, i would take part. I fainted the first week, lack of water. After that i slightly bent the rules, but still did my best. how the kids manage it, from as young as six i cant understand. Suppose it is testament to what utter belief in something can drive you too achieve. Through all this however, they still find the energy to play football. For me however Ramadan introduced unique festival foods and markets. You will never taste, smell, hear, touch and see food like this in your life. It was staggering, the amount, the excitement. I got completely absorbed into the celebrations, was invited to break fast with all the teachers and really knew then what a part of the community i had become. The only downside is, the gym opens at 9 at night. Nightmare. Ended up getting to sleep at 12 for an 8am start everyday. Almost as bad as school at home.
There was time for one last small holiday before the end of my teaching contract. Another trip to the gorgeous Perhentian islands, this time with the lads from Besut. We arrived and did exactly what immature bys do at the beach, bought a tennis ball and an inflatable ring. We spent the day trying to drown each other, throwing sand and smacking each other in the back of the head with the ball. Standard Proceed huh. the funny moment came when Danny, looking confident, hurdled the ball at me. I dodged. It landed in a fisherman's boat. He went insane, threw the ball back at Danny. The colour of red that boy went, he could have been middle class strawberry at Wimbledon. However not as red as i was later that night when we got out the water. In a disastrous move, no sun cream was applied that day. To say i was a lobster was an understatement, in was so painful. Kids, listen to your parents, sun bad, suncream good. However, it wouldn't phase me from an evening of good mates,, sunsets and alcoholic beverages. the next morning involved snorkeling, sunbathed and generally enjoying the beautiful of relaxing on a tropical beach on my GAP YAH. Had to reference the great video at some point in my final post, hopefully i haven't copied Orlando too much. For people who don't know https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKFjWR7X5dU is this bible for traveling in this world. It certainly was the way my biology teacher say my year going, and i have to say it made me laugh a few times after id 'been on the lash'. Best nights o my life. The Perhentians were rounded off by watching Germany beat France at football, always fun when the bar is full of German's and French. I shouted out GO SCOTLAND at one point, not the right crowd. The islands had given me many incredible memories over the year and will be sorely missed, having such a beautiful place on my doorstep, i have never know what that feels like. Oh wait, i live in the highlands of Scotland, so its simply beautiful in a different way. Comparing the two is impossible, they are both as unique and breathtaking as each other.
With the end of my wee holiday, all that was left was to watch the world cup semi final's. Shouldn't be too interesting. 5-0 at half time, what am i seeing. The Brazilians being beaten 7-1 was possibly the most shocking things i actually saw in my entire year, which is saying something. The school went insane, the kids couldn't contain the shock that the great Neymar was out of the greatest competition on earth. Some of them even managed to blame me for it, not quite sure how that happened. Moving onto to the final, the atmosphere was tense, who would win, would Messi perform. To be honest, i got the time wrong and missed the start of the final, epic fail. The lads would never forgive that that one.In true German style, clinical. What more did we expect to be honest, i won a beat with the teachers for predicting the winner from the beginning. Another welcome surprise from the Final result, i won my phone. Well an invite to be my exclusive dream phone,, the Oneplus One. I had been wanting this phone for months, and now it would be waiting for me at home. Mum did seem slightly unhappy when i let slip that this was the thing i was looking forward to most about my return to Scotland. Such a teenager was the comment used. Clearly Asia hadn't changed me too much.
With the football over, there was time for one final Malaysia lads meet up. What did we do, build a massive fire again. This time in the back garden. The evening finished with a beer on the roof watching the sunset. This was perfect, it was exactly what my year had been about. Good company, fantastic place and good drink. Now came the packing. Oh the packing. After dumping my life for a year onto my bed i realised that when mum said it may not all fit, she might have had a point. After packing my suitcase to 29.7KG with a 30KG weight limit, get in, i thanked myself i had been hitting the gym for so. The last few days at school where very emotional, the kids gave me so many posters i was gutted i couldn't get them back. Some of the teachers were still calling me James,but that's to be expected. In all the hype for Hari Raya the fact they made space to give me a send off was very touching. I had a school assembly where i even got to sit in the posh VIP chairs, love it.On my final evening, i gaev a shout out speech to the kids, who had been the main reason my year had been such an incredible experience. I was then grouped hugger by half the school, they also promised to look after next years Project Trust volunteers as they have me. I will admit i was rather touched as i pulled away from the house for the last time. It had been my home for a year, so many memories had been made and it will always have a special place in my heart.
Kelantan was left behind, so after a short stay in KL which involved the cinema and rooftop drinking, it was time to board the plane. I cant really describe how i felt, the 3 girls where crying their eyes out but i will say i felt more as though a great chapter of my life was over, time for the next adventure. The flights home where thankfully uneventful, i was used as a human pillow and my jumper was stolen within 10 seconds however that's what you get for traveling with girls. Alex i have to say is the cutest sleeper i have ever seen, she looks like a kitten snuggled up under a blanket. Adorable. The stop in Abu Dhabi was brief, onto to London. Again, snuggles with Alex and nearly loosing my passport kept the flight interesting. The passport incident was solved and the air hostess simply said 'sure, would you like a whiskey'. She will always have a special place in my heart. The arrival on British soil was eventful, a burr of family tears and reunion, lea and i watched from the sidelines, didn't stop Alex's mum from pulling us both for huggage with luggage. So that was it, on the train. A surprise of too old women was waiting for me at Kings Cross. In the true and never changing fashion of my Granny and Gac, i was promptly scolded for not being more punctual in my arrival. Brilliant. It was fantastic to see them after a year, i cant wait to see everyone in the wide Vickerstaff family. As i boarded the train, i finally felt that the best country in the world was within touching distance. I was going home. Scotland. In true fashion of, as Helena described us, 'The people north of the wall, you wildlings' i met some quality girls on the train and we preceded to take full advantage of the free alcohol in first class. My mum would have been proud. On my arrival in Inverness, my first thought was 'God this country is cold'. However on seeing my now fatter brother, dad and a quick chippy on the way home, it started to sink in, i had done it.
Reflecting on my year is something that is very difficult to put into words. I view it as many things, i had survived. I have changed so much, more than i could have ever imagined. I had seen some truly incredible things, done some truly incredible things. Some things i would love to repeat, some I'm glad have remained in Asia. There is so much i cannot put in this blog and so much i still wish in my short blip of existence i hope to achieve. Thank you to everyone that supported me both before, during and hopefully after my life changing experience. In Malaysia, one of my favorite girls Mitts has provided the cute factor to brighten my day, Posh Twanks has hated me religiously, but i know she loves me really, the north Malaysia lads have provided manly moments, including chasing a chicken from the kitchen with a mop, Li Li and Dope on Sabah provided exotic company when i saw them and all my others friends i have made during the year, have a drink on me. Now it is time to be reunited with some of my old nutcases at one of the best weekends the highlands can offer, Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival. I'm sure i will teach them how to live Asia style, Lads on the Lash.
I really hope you have all enjoyed keeping up with my doings, hopefully this has been a slightly unique taste of just a small piece of what i have experience. A big shout out the Chris my desk officer and Project Trust for being the best support any crazy teenager could ask for and i would encourage anyone with even the slightest curiosity to just drop everything and get out there. You are only young once, get out there and see the world. Say 'just do it' and go make some incredible memories. I certainly have. So for that, priceless experience, i am incredibly lucky.
Next steps are university in Edinburgh to study Biological Sciences which my mum has already started nagging me for. You can travel the world but some things never change huh. Thank Mum and Dad for looking out for me, we drive each other nuts but i wouldn't have it any other way. Love you both. Oh and Siobhan, cheers for irritating Boi for we while Ive been away. Love you both too. In fact to everyone, i love you and Thank You. For everything.
Thursday, 14 August 2014
Wednesday, 13 August 2014
NAM and parents
Well as reliably as ever, im back blogging. Due to the time restraints of a year, this will be the penultimate blog on this, what can only be described as a blog that will go down in history. Scholars will write poems and sing songs of the literary genius that has constructed this overview of his volunteering year. Hopefully everyone has enjoying my slightly, shall we say different style of telling my story. This will cover the last 3 months, including two family visits and a trip to Vietnam.
Well last time i left you i was rather drugged up, unable to walk and had just passed out in an immigration que. Im sure you will be happy to know that i am good as new, no lasting damage done. Upon returning to school, we had a visit from everyone's favourite desk officer to prepare for. Yes, Chris was flying all the way to Malaysia to 'check up' on our progress. He wasn't fooling anyone, he comes for the food. His time at Pasir Tumboh was fairly standard, he arrived and ate some food. We taught some lesson, ate some food. He interviewed us, ate some food. The visit was finished with, of course, a violently competitive game of ping pong. No one remembers the score. His final present to us was a bag of Haribo and mini eggs. We decided not to mention that we had been to Tesco early that week, purchasing a wide selection of confectionery, including Haribo. He was most shocked as we devoured both bags within 15 minutes. "Most vols ration them for months" well we aren't most vols.
The next event in the calender was a visit from James family. Now this is what most people might call a normal family, unlike my lovely bunch. They arrived, decided it was hot and went straight for the air-con and cold drinks. Due to his granny being a bad-ass granny, they were staying in the luxurious 5 star Renaissance hotel in Kota Bharu for the price of a small Travelodge back home. James and myself took full advantage of the complementary nibbles. There visit was a mix of eating food and preparing to eat more food as they were of course pampered by the school. His sisters in particular were a subject of most interest. Many students were curious if i was married to both or just one of them. Well, im good but i think married in 3 days is maybe a little outside my abilities. It was great meeting James family and they seemed to enjoy there time in Malaysia.
Next, the big test was to come. My parents. The trip hit a 'small' initial snag. Dad decided "you know what would make this 10,000 miles trip around the world to seem my loving son even more enjoyable, a broken pelvis". Yes, he managed to fall off his, lets guess? Bike is correct. Unable to walk, 3 weeks before coming out. Thankfully, he put on his game face and played through the pain. He made it, just. It was great to see my two troublesome parents arrive in my small corner of the world after having been free for 8 months. I didn't actually take an official time on the nagging, but i think about 12 seconds rings a bell. As by my advice, my parents were also staying in the luxurious Renaissance hotel. This was mostly for my benefit, having enjoyed the complementary nibbles so much the first time around, it seemed criminal to pass up this opportunity. The trip followed a similar pattern of food food and more food. A MacDonald s was even squeezed, just to check it wasn't any different. We spent a day at the MARA debate competition at MSRM Pengkalan Chepa. This was a chance to experience another Malay school, formal Malay dress and an organised event. What did my parents, sat around and chatted to the other volunteers. It was school all over again, leave the room for 5 minutes and my mum steals my friends, brilliant. After this hectic week, monging out was needed. The Perhentian Islands, the perfect place to do nothing for 2 days. Now, i could have been to these beautiful islands at any time during the past 8 months, however they can be rather pricey. Que Bank of Dad to cover the bill, excellent. Reading, beer, snorkeling and of course, more food ended a fantastic week. We even saw a dragon, well a very large lizard i was convinced was a dragon. Finally it was down to KL and onto the flight. The last food experience was my parents trying Durian. Mum fained some interest, calling it "different'. Dad simply said it was the most bogging thing he had ever experienced. I agree. So it will be nearly 4 months till i see my crazy parents again, will have to fend for myself until then. Hopefully they will be just as generous when i return to the UK, fingers crossed.
So, all that was to do now was to prepare for the final holiday of this amazing year, there was really only one country to do. I was going to NAM. Mostly so i could finally say, YOU WEREN'T THERE MAN, YOU HAVEN'T SEEN WHAT I SAW!!!!!!!
Now to begin with Nam was the perfect opportunity to be reunited with my long lost brother. Liam is based on the Borneo side of Malaysia and we had known each other since we shared a house at selection, the beginning of our Project Trust experience. We had planned to travel together and enjoy the wonders of Vietnam. Unfortunately however he acquired an attachment, with hormones. I joke of course, his girlfriend Hope happened to be the girl i was 'escorting' during the Bali incident and due to that we had become incredibly close having only known each other a total of 6 days. This predicament, traveling with a couple did however lead to much ridicule and nicknames. Captain Third Wheel seemed to be the most favored.. Never the less we arrived in KL full of excitement.
After much teasing of Liam over the weekend, we departed for Vietnam. This was the usual short haul flight, however a hidden surprise was waiting in Hanoi. Unknown to myself, Liam had organised a personal taxi to the hostel, complete with man, name board and even black cap. Fare to say felt more like an ambassador than a backpackers at this point. This quickly changed on arrival at our hostel in downtown Hanoi. Lively,, bustling, full of slight burnt westerners. A proper travelers hostel. Our stay in Hanoi mostly involved lounging in the upstairs beanbags and getting lost in the maze of Hanoi. Even Bear Grylls and his squirrel tracking skills would have struggled in this place, everywhere was the same i swear. There must be 200 shops on every street with the word 'Noodle' in the name. Finally we stumbled upon the central park and lake, peace. Que attempt at arty photos on Liam's fancy camera, he kept complaining he wasn't in any of them however neither hope or I can take a photo. There goes my career for Vogue. The rest of Hanoi passed with lakes, coffee and unfortunately, grenades again. I did however put 8 on the board for Scotland, represent. Then it was time to split the group, due to a mixed interest in hitting up Hai Long Bay. I decided, it isn't going anywhere and it was rather expensive. The three of us felt the need to relax, so we traveled down the the rice farming town of Ninh Binh, located in the centre of Northern Vietnam. This is one of those hidden gems of the world, unknown by tourism. The views were entirely staggering, the most incredible i had experienced in Asia so for. We took a small boat through the rice paddy's, being rowed by a women. Now when i say rowing, she was using her feet. Couldn't work that one out, but she new what she was doing. The limestone caves, hilltop temples and general tranquility of the place was breath taking. I highly doubt i will ever have a more peaceful nights sleep.
So far Vietnam was fully living up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful but also rocking countries on the planet. Our next stop on the journey south was Hue, the old capital. WE rejoined the others coming from Hai Long bay and decided a beach day was in order. We rented the mopeds, put the helmets on and gunned it. Well we reached the beach fine, my navigational skills. There was a small obstacle, a hill. I thought 'I am a man, i know what to do". Stand back ladies, gave it full POWER. I unfortunately didn't notice the hole halfway up. There was a smash, swearing, screaming and I'm pretty sure Dale peed a little. I had broken the bike, no drive. Great. After pushing, yes pushing the bike down the road, i found a mechanic. No English. Eventually we discovered the problem. The chain had broken, into 8 pieces. Only i could manage this, the look on the mechanics face when it fell onto the floor was priceless. So a day at the beach was enjoyed, included amazing BBQ's, drink and sun. Amazing place to just relax, have some great banter with some incredible friends in a stunning part of the world. However then it was time to retrieve the bike. Upon arrival, i was told it would be double the original price. No way. I jumped on and drove off, leaving the original agreed sum. National pride of Britain, save money at every opportunity. The drive back however, in the dark, on Vietnamese roads, was not pleasant. After four near collisions, including one evasion maneuver we made it back to the hostel. Well most of us. In an attempt to constantly overtake me, Danny forgot he didn't know the way. Its far to say, when he finally turned up i felt karma had been sweetly served. That evening was rather eventful, ending with a rather mental girl getting a taxi from the front door of the hostel, to the hostel. She was promptly charged and kicked off at the driver. Hilarious.
So Hue done, we were more than halfway down the country. Next stop, the one i had been most looking forward to. Hoi An. Now for anyone who has seen the top gear special which by the way was all of my research for coming to this country, Hoi An is the very place the boys bought there fantastic suits. I couldn't wait. Arrived, slept, woke up, straight to the tailors. Three piece, full cashmere, black, purple lining. Class. Plus tailored shoes, belt and shirts. I felt incredible, i was ready to receive my Oscar. However, on the way back, something was spotted in a small corner shop. Dark maroon red, white trim. Smoking jacket. I couldn't resist, so for less than 200 pounds, i had the full works from head to toe, plus a smoking jacket. What more do you need it life. The next night, the hostel threw up what i will only describe as the current best moment of my life thus far. There i was, in my dorm, completely oblivious to the life changing moment about to occur. From the next door balcony i begun to hear the chorus of "I wanna dance with Somebody". Without even thinking a jumped up, ran to the window, our eyes met in the dim light of sunset and we both sang our hearts out with 'With somebody who loves you'. I feel myself and Imz will now be friends for life, it was ones of those perfect moments of human communication. So much feeling, love, passion and emotion in one moment, it was indescribable. However it was now time to head out, and of course myself and Imz spent the entire night telling everyone about our moment. Now, the hostel was rather quite this evening so myself and another guy decided to make some nightlife, so after raiding the local hostels and bar, we arrived at the river side with a group of 60. Now this certain establishment had a deal, buy 1 get one free. We promptly asked for 60. They had to bring out crates, on a trolley. What a photo, what an evening. there was however to be a slightly sour end to our time in Hoi An. Due to a dispute over money, my friend got into an argument with a local. The golden rule of traveling, don't mess with the locals. I decided to step in, send my friend home and that would be it. However once my friend departed, a large group of Vietnamese arrived, one of them swinging nun chucks. I was out of there rather quickly. The rest of the evening was spent poolside, simply admiring the stars.
Our travels at Vietnam were slowly coming to and end. After a Valium filled, uncomfortable bus ride with careered into Na Trang. Russian territory. Due to the now lack of funds, we decided the expensive water park was not our favorite. What to do instead. Of course, rent mopeds. We filled them up and drove, and drove, and drove. It was incredible, full throttle, Vietnamese coastline flying past. This was what backpacking was all about, being free. We discovered and abandoned holiday resort on the harbor front, overgrow and spooky. We watched the sunset from the balcony of an old house. Bliss. Driving back, we experienced again Vietnamese traffic at its worst, many ear misses. Don't worry mum, it was safe really. That evening was spent on the beach where someone we managed to walk into an exclusive Russian yacht club. Finally, a trip round Vietnam wouldn't be complete without a midnight skinny dip. However one of our group suddenly remembered he couldn't swim. Cal to the rescue. So after dragging this idiot back to shore, it was most definitely time for back. Just time for one last Vietnamese street sandwich, so much better than any Donner kebab.
The bus to Da Lat left at some ungodly hour, some we were pretty much vegetables when we collapsed in our hostel a few hours later. However this wasn't just any old hostel, this was the Da Lat family hostel. With Mama. Mama is possibly the most crazy, mental, bag of spanners i have ever met. She was however incredible, always singing, dancing and posing for selfies. This hostel as well, no single beds. Slept sixteen all in one giant bed, top and bottom. Plus a sign that simply said 'no single no bed". That was a strange night. We had karaoke, everyone sitting and eating on the floor and backpackers forced to wash the dishes. The next day was my last in Vietnam. Lets go out with a bang huh. Canyoning. A full day of running, jumping, sliding and general water fun. Plus abseiling waterfalls, sexy sliding and jumping 14 foot cliffs. Its fair to say, i was knackered.
The next day also began with a blur of packing, bacon rolls and a bus with dodgy air con, now almost expecting in NAM. On to Ho Chi Minh, the end of our journey and the start for the Americans. I had achieved in 2 weeks what the Americans could never do, travel the length of Vietnam. Ad watched 3 Vietnam war films on the way, best way to appreciate the culture. My night in Saigon involved a rooftop pool and shirtless snooker, where i was beaten by what i can only describe as a snooker god. Also a girl. Jumped on my plane, back in Malaysia this time with no immigration fainting fits. Prepared to take the bus home to Kelantan, oh wait. Delayed 7 hours, fun for me. Finally rolled home at 3 the next afternoon, brilliant, so it was time for bed.
Looking back, Vietnam was my favourite of all the countries i visited in Asia. It had everything you would expect from asia, incredible food, sun, sea, cheap booze, culture, history and finally amazing people. However it seemed to have something else, possibly it was the backpacker vibe that seemed so much stronger as I travelled down this giant snake of a nation. The atmosphere was full of the feeling that the people there were incredibly happy, content with themselves. Living life, not a care, taking everyday as it came. Take what you can, give nothing back.
6 weeks to go, then home to sunny Scotland. Vietnam however will always be in my memories, along with the memories i made there. What a country.
Well last time i left you i was rather drugged up, unable to walk and had just passed out in an immigration que. Im sure you will be happy to know that i am good as new, no lasting damage done. Upon returning to school, we had a visit from everyone's favourite desk officer to prepare for. Yes, Chris was flying all the way to Malaysia to 'check up' on our progress. He wasn't fooling anyone, he comes for the food. His time at Pasir Tumboh was fairly standard, he arrived and ate some food. We taught some lesson, ate some food. He interviewed us, ate some food. The visit was finished with, of course, a violently competitive game of ping pong. No one remembers the score. His final present to us was a bag of Haribo and mini eggs. We decided not to mention that we had been to Tesco early that week, purchasing a wide selection of confectionery, including Haribo. He was most shocked as we devoured both bags within 15 minutes. "Most vols ration them for months" well we aren't most vols.
The next event in the calender was a visit from James family. Now this is what most people might call a normal family, unlike my lovely bunch. They arrived, decided it was hot and went straight for the air-con and cold drinks. Due to his granny being a bad-ass granny, they were staying in the luxurious 5 star Renaissance hotel in Kota Bharu for the price of a small Travelodge back home. James and myself took full advantage of the complementary nibbles. There visit was a mix of eating food and preparing to eat more food as they were of course pampered by the school. His sisters in particular were a subject of most interest. Many students were curious if i was married to both or just one of them. Well, im good but i think married in 3 days is maybe a little outside my abilities. It was great meeting James family and they seemed to enjoy there time in Malaysia.
Next, the big test was to come. My parents. The trip hit a 'small' initial snag. Dad decided "you know what would make this 10,000 miles trip around the world to seem my loving son even more enjoyable, a broken pelvis". Yes, he managed to fall off his, lets guess? Bike is correct. Unable to walk, 3 weeks before coming out. Thankfully, he put on his game face and played through the pain. He made it, just. It was great to see my two troublesome parents arrive in my small corner of the world after having been free for 8 months. I didn't actually take an official time on the nagging, but i think about 12 seconds rings a bell. As by my advice, my parents were also staying in the luxurious Renaissance hotel. This was mostly for my benefit, having enjoyed the complementary nibbles so much the first time around, it seemed criminal to pass up this opportunity. The trip followed a similar pattern of food food and more food. A MacDonald s was even squeezed, just to check it wasn't any different. We spent a day at the MARA debate competition at MSRM Pengkalan Chepa. This was a chance to experience another Malay school, formal Malay dress and an organised event. What did my parents, sat around and chatted to the other volunteers. It was school all over again, leave the room for 5 minutes and my mum steals my friends, brilliant. After this hectic week, monging out was needed. The Perhentian Islands, the perfect place to do nothing for 2 days. Now, i could have been to these beautiful islands at any time during the past 8 months, however they can be rather pricey. Que Bank of Dad to cover the bill, excellent. Reading, beer, snorkeling and of course, more food ended a fantastic week. We even saw a dragon, well a very large lizard i was convinced was a dragon. Finally it was down to KL and onto the flight. The last food experience was my parents trying Durian. Mum fained some interest, calling it "different'. Dad simply said it was the most bogging thing he had ever experienced. I agree. So it will be nearly 4 months till i see my crazy parents again, will have to fend for myself until then. Hopefully they will be just as generous when i return to the UK, fingers crossed.
So, all that was to do now was to prepare for the final holiday of this amazing year, there was really only one country to do. I was going to NAM. Mostly so i could finally say, YOU WEREN'T THERE MAN, YOU HAVEN'T SEEN WHAT I SAW!!!!!!!
Now to begin with Nam was the perfect opportunity to be reunited with my long lost brother. Liam is based on the Borneo side of Malaysia and we had known each other since we shared a house at selection, the beginning of our Project Trust experience. We had planned to travel together and enjoy the wonders of Vietnam. Unfortunately however he acquired an attachment, with hormones. I joke of course, his girlfriend Hope happened to be the girl i was 'escorting' during the Bali incident and due to that we had become incredibly close having only known each other a total of 6 days. This predicament, traveling with a couple did however lead to much ridicule and nicknames. Captain Third Wheel seemed to be the most favored.. Never the less we arrived in KL full of excitement.
After much teasing of Liam over the weekend, we departed for Vietnam. This was the usual short haul flight, however a hidden surprise was waiting in Hanoi. Unknown to myself, Liam had organised a personal taxi to the hostel, complete with man, name board and even black cap. Fare to say felt more like an ambassador than a backpackers at this point. This quickly changed on arrival at our hostel in downtown Hanoi. Lively,, bustling, full of slight burnt westerners. A proper travelers hostel. Our stay in Hanoi mostly involved lounging in the upstairs beanbags and getting lost in the maze of Hanoi. Even Bear Grylls and his squirrel tracking skills would have struggled in this place, everywhere was the same i swear. There must be 200 shops on every street with the word 'Noodle' in the name. Finally we stumbled upon the central park and lake, peace. Que attempt at arty photos on Liam's fancy camera, he kept complaining he wasn't in any of them however neither hope or I can take a photo. There goes my career for Vogue. The rest of Hanoi passed with lakes, coffee and unfortunately, grenades again. I did however put 8 on the board for Scotland, represent. Then it was time to split the group, due to a mixed interest in hitting up Hai Long Bay. I decided, it isn't going anywhere and it was rather expensive. The three of us felt the need to relax, so we traveled down the the rice farming town of Ninh Binh, located in the centre of Northern Vietnam. This is one of those hidden gems of the world, unknown by tourism. The views were entirely staggering, the most incredible i had experienced in Asia so for. We took a small boat through the rice paddy's, being rowed by a women. Now when i say rowing, she was using her feet. Couldn't work that one out, but she new what she was doing. The limestone caves, hilltop temples and general tranquility of the place was breath taking. I highly doubt i will ever have a more peaceful nights sleep.
So far Vietnam was fully living up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful but also rocking countries on the planet. Our next stop on the journey south was Hue, the old capital. WE rejoined the others coming from Hai Long bay and decided a beach day was in order. We rented the mopeds, put the helmets on and gunned it. Well we reached the beach fine, my navigational skills. There was a small obstacle, a hill. I thought 'I am a man, i know what to do". Stand back ladies, gave it full POWER. I unfortunately didn't notice the hole halfway up. There was a smash, swearing, screaming and I'm pretty sure Dale peed a little. I had broken the bike, no drive. Great. After pushing, yes pushing the bike down the road, i found a mechanic. No English. Eventually we discovered the problem. The chain had broken, into 8 pieces. Only i could manage this, the look on the mechanics face when it fell onto the floor was priceless. So a day at the beach was enjoyed, included amazing BBQ's, drink and sun. Amazing place to just relax, have some great banter with some incredible friends in a stunning part of the world. However then it was time to retrieve the bike. Upon arrival, i was told it would be double the original price. No way. I jumped on and drove off, leaving the original agreed sum. National pride of Britain, save money at every opportunity. The drive back however, in the dark, on Vietnamese roads, was not pleasant. After four near collisions, including one evasion maneuver we made it back to the hostel. Well most of us. In an attempt to constantly overtake me, Danny forgot he didn't know the way. Its far to say, when he finally turned up i felt karma had been sweetly served. That evening was rather eventful, ending with a rather mental girl getting a taxi from the front door of the hostel, to the hostel. She was promptly charged and kicked off at the driver. Hilarious.
So Hue done, we were more than halfway down the country. Next stop, the one i had been most looking forward to. Hoi An. Now for anyone who has seen the top gear special which by the way was all of my research for coming to this country, Hoi An is the very place the boys bought there fantastic suits. I couldn't wait. Arrived, slept, woke up, straight to the tailors. Three piece, full cashmere, black, purple lining. Class. Plus tailored shoes, belt and shirts. I felt incredible, i was ready to receive my Oscar. However, on the way back, something was spotted in a small corner shop. Dark maroon red, white trim. Smoking jacket. I couldn't resist, so for less than 200 pounds, i had the full works from head to toe, plus a smoking jacket. What more do you need it life. The next night, the hostel threw up what i will only describe as the current best moment of my life thus far. There i was, in my dorm, completely oblivious to the life changing moment about to occur. From the next door balcony i begun to hear the chorus of "I wanna dance with Somebody". Without even thinking a jumped up, ran to the window, our eyes met in the dim light of sunset and we both sang our hearts out with 'With somebody who loves you'. I feel myself and Imz will now be friends for life, it was ones of those perfect moments of human communication. So much feeling, love, passion and emotion in one moment, it was indescribable. However it was now time to head out, and of course myself and Imz spent the entire night telling everyone about our moment. Now, the hostel was rather quite this evening so myself and another guy decided to make some nightlife, so after raiding the local hostels and bar, we arrived at the river side with a group of 60. Now this certain establishment had a deal, buy 1 get one free. We promptly asked for 60. They had to bring out crates, on a trolley. What a photo, what an evening. there was however to be a slightly sour end to our time in Hoi An. Due to a dispute over money, my friend got into an argument with a local. The golden rule of traveling, don't mess with the locals. I decided to step in, send my friend home and that would be it. However once my friend departed, a large group of Vietnamese arrived, one of them swinging nun chucks. I was out of there rather quickly. The rest of the evening was spent poolside, simply admiring the stars.
Our travels at Vietnam were slowly coming to and end. After a Valium filled, uncomfortable bus ride with careered into Na Trang. Russian territory. Due to the now lack of funds, we decided the expensive water park was not our favorite. What to do instead. Of course, rent mopeds. We filled them up and drove, and drove, and drove. It was incredible, full throttle, Vietnamese coastline flying past. This was what backpacking was all about, being free. We discovered and abandoned holiday resort on the harbor front, overgrow and spooky. We watched the sunset from the balcony of an old house. Bliss. Driving back, we experienced again Vietnamese traffic at its worst, many ear misses. Don't worry mum, it was safe really. That evening was spent on the beach where someone we managed to walk into an exclusive Russian yacht club. Finally, a trip round Vietnam wouldn't be complete without a midnight skinny dip. However one of our group suddenly remembered he couldn't swim. Cal to the rescue. So after dragging this idiot back to shore, it was most definitely time for back. Just time for one last Vietnamese street sandwich, so much better than any Donner kebab.
The bus to Da Lat left at some ungodly hour, some we were pretty much vegetables when we collapsed in our hostel a few hours later. However this wasn't just any old hostel, this was the Da Lat family hostel. With Mama. Mama is possibly the most crazy, mental, bag of spanners i have ever met. She was however incredible, always singing, dancing and posing for selfies. This hostel as well, no single beds. Slept sixteen all in one giant bed, top and bottom. Plus a sign that simply said 'no single no bed". That was a strange night. We had karaoke, everyone sitting and eating on the floor and backpackers forced to wash the dishes. The next day was my last in Vietnam. Lets go out with a bang huh. Canyoning. A full day of running, jumping, sliding and general water fun. Plus abseiling waterfalls, sexy sliding and jumping 14 foot cliffs. Its fair to say, i was knackered.
The next day also began with a blur of packing, bacon rolls and a bus with dodgy air con, now almost expecting in NAM. On to Ho Chi Minh, the end of our journey and the start for the Americans. I had achieved in 2 weeks what the Americans could never do, travel the length of Vietnam. Ad watched 3 Vietnam war films on the way, best way to appreciate the culture. My night in Saigon involved a rooftop pool and shirtless snooker, where i was beaten by what i can only describe as a snooker god. Also a girl. Jumped on my plane, back in Malaysia this time with no immigration fainting fits. Prepared to take the bus home to Kelantan, oh wait. Delayed 7 hours, fun for me. Finally rolled home at 3 the next afternoon, brilliant, so it was time for bed.
Looking back, Vietnam was my favourite of all the countries i visited in Asia. It had everything you would expect from asia, incredible food, sun, sea, cheap booze, culture, history and finally amazing people. However it seemed to have something else, possibly it was the backpacker vibe that seemed so much stronger as I travelled down this giant snake of a nation. The atmosphere was full of the feeling that the people there were incredibly happy, content with themselves. Living life, not a care, taking everyday as it came. Take what you can, give nothing back.
6 weeks to go, then home to sunny Scotland. Vietnam however will always be in my memories, along with the memories i made there. What a country.
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