Reflections on Asiana

My three months in Asia have been an unforgettable experience for me. I was pretty nervous before I left, worried about traveling alone in third world countries. But I seem to enjoy doing things that scare me...so I just jumped in. And it was beautiful.

There are many special things about South East Asia. First, there's all the modes of transportation, such as hot pink taxi cabs in Bangkok with flowered uphostery and wild decorations. In Cambodia, I learned that a Toyota Camry can carry at least eight people, maybe more on the weekends for a trip to the beach. In Vietnam, I saw people transporting everything imaginable on motorbikes: pineapples, pigs, flowers, and even scaffolding.

The animals were also unforgettable. Even in the heart of urban Saigon, a rooster's crow woke me in the morning. You can always tell the gender of the dogs in Asia because the females have sagging nipples from nursing and the males have their bits hanging out all over the place - nobody seems to spay or neuter the animals! The upside is that there are tons of cute puppies and kitties all over the place.

The food, especially street food, was unforgettable. Sweet drinks like mango shake or iced coffee or lemon juice were the perfect way to beat the heat. I've come to adore rice and will have to buy a rice maker as soon as I get home - and learn to make more curries!

Last, the people were so warm and relaxed. Even people trying to rip me off would be pleasant about it. I will always remember all the ladies who befriended me on buses and trains and shared their food. Also, my various travel partners and hosts made my solo trip sometimes feel like a family vacation.

I leave South East Asia feeling more relaxed and confident than ever. I like I've grown so much and learned so much, but I also feel closer to my original self than ever - the person I was when I was a child and life was uncomplicated and carefree. My nickname growing up was Ana so I've decided to call this new composite of myself Asiana.

I unfortunately don't have much more time to write about Asia but I know that my reflections will continue for months and years to come. My odyssey isn't over yet! I'm back to Australia for one more month to see the bits that I missed last time. More news from the road to follow - lots of love to everyone back home!