Sanuk Canadian

A trip to Kanchanaburi, Thailand continues... After enjoying the Tiger Temple and getting up close and touchy feely with the big kitties, we jumped into our van and headed to (what we thought) would be our hotel. Instead, our guides treated us to a surprise -- a waterfall inside a national park, which wasn't listed on the tour! ^_^ I was very surprised because, next to a major highway, just down a slope, was this national park and once inside, felt like a jungle trek. I saw a tree with its long roots extending like snakes over the ground... The guides had recommended visiting Saiyok Noi waterfall in this park, which was a short 5 minute hike. We were surprised. "Noi" in Thai means "minor" or "small" and this waterfall lived up to its name. The tiny waterfall and pool: Another view with cutenekko! We noticed a bamboo forest nearby had a funny sign -- ...I guess people couldn't help themselves from leaving an imprint. ^_^ Thi...

..a trip to Kanchanaburi continues... Yesterday, I mentioned to my readers that I would visit a Tiger Temple. It's quite controversial, as many believe the tigers to be drugged so they will be docile enough to handle. It's up to travelers to decide if they want to visit. After waiting in line for my guide, I was quite surprised. I had anticipated to get only one or two photos with ONE tiger. Instead, I was lead by the hand to at least 4 different cats, posing at each one. The results were spectacular! Kitty #1:  He was really passed out, enjoying the nice weather: Kitty #2 - a tiger cub:  Kitty #3 -- another tiger cub:  Kitty #4 -- enjoying the shade:  He he is again, looking up: It's interesting to note: you must sign a waiver stating you understand the dangers involved, before entering the compound. Also, once inside, near the tigers, you are lead to each cat via a guide. One guide per person. Next to each tiger are...

...a tour to Kanchanaburi continues... I advised my brother and his girlfriend to upgrade our tickets to the "tourist carriage". I had never ridden in this special car, but thought it might be nice. When we boarded, I was very happy we changed! Inside our special car:  Soon after sitting down, our train departed and traveled over the bridge. If you'd like to see a video, visit HERE . I was surprised, as next, we were presented with a box! Ohhh...what's inside?  Let's open the box!  ...yum! Sweets!! ^_^ There are two things I really love in life lately -- traveling by train and eating delicious food. If I can do the two together, it will create nothing but an explosion of happiness for me. Even my brother commented: "Whoa, your whole face changed just now S!" The explosion of happiness...well, looking a little subdued due to the heat (laugh):  Carriage staff kept coming by with more water, cola and wet towels. The service was...

My brother had requested only one thing while in Thailand -- he wanted to see the famous bridge over the River Kwai and ride the train. I was happy to oblige. We booked a 2 day all inclusive tour which included many, many activities. Our first stop in Kanchanaburi was the war cemetery. I was in awe of the beauty of the location.. Tombs..R.I.P:  Cross:  View of the cemetery from the front gate:  I thought Thais should be very proud of this cemetery. It's beautiful and very respectful to those who lost their lives in the war.  Next, our group headed over the war museum. Here, we saw a huge steam train used by the Japanese to carry prisoners: A unique view, bells created by old bomb shells:  While walking through, I watched an artist hammering out leather into intricate patterns: ...I also almost stepped on a huge lizard!  After the museum, I headed over to view the bridge. The weather was perfect, but very ...

During my brother's visit, I had a ticket to something very, very exciting: Lady Gaga's Born This Way Ball in Bangkok.  I had bought the ticket way back in March as a gift to myself -- a way to say "good bye" to the city. I was super excited to attend this concert because my ticket said "Front pit", meaning, I could stand in front of the stage. I left immediately after my Thai language class to head over to the concert... 5 hours before she was due on stage! o_O There were free shuttle buses from the airport link station to the concert venue. On the bus: Others waiting in line:  The concert was at the huge outdoor stadium Rajamangala National. My gate was really hard to find. I kept walking around (well, almost floating with happiness) looking for my entrance. Gates:  Before entering the gate, I could get a photo of the poster: cutenekko loves Gaga! ^_^  We were not allowed cameras inside, and I didn't bring my phone, so...