Jeffrey and Renee Around the World

Home Sweet Home

2010-07-23T15:18:00.000-07:00

July 22 – Home sweet home

We are excited we will be home today. Really excited. It is a four hour flight. Our dear friends, Wei and Yee-Ping invited us to stop by Palo Alto for lunch which was gladly accepted. Wei brought flowers and cameras to welcome us. Thanks Wei and Yee-Ping.

As we departed the Palo Alto airport, the control tower radioed us and said, “ We were informed that you guys just finished your around the world trip. Congratulations on your achievement, and thank you for including us in your trip.”. What a gracious statement! We will appreciate and remember the remark forever.

Approaching Palo Alto.
With Yee-Ping and God-daughter, Jackie.

With Wei, Yee-Ping, Jackie, and God-son, Eric.

Home! In front of hanger at El Monte airport.

We are at El Monte!

Pushing the airplane back to the hanger.

Unloading three months of luggages.

Home, at last!

A Big Thank you!...

We want to thank each and everyone who has made this trip possible. The Air Journey Corporation who arranged the trip with class and professionalism that has exceed our expectations. Came through every time when difficulties and challenges seem overwhelming. With a smile and high spirits too. Thank you, Air Journey.

The group members who accompanied us for the past 80 days. We want to say also, “Thank you for including us in your trip.” You are gracious and patient with the slowest airplane. Many times, you gave us your hands when we needed help by standing by us when taking off, and taking loads from us when weight was critical. We learned so much from each one of you. Thank you all.

Our dear friends and family at Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Taipei Brunei, Cambodia, ….. Your encouragement and support made this trip even more special. With your blessing and good wishes, our hearts are filled with love and spirits all the time. There were not a moment in this trip we did not feel blessed and appreciative that we have your support. Thank you, thank you!

Special thanks to Fred who joined us from Singapore to Bali. You have represented all the XO friends with your trust and support which is dear to our hearts.

To Victoria and Jonathan. Thank you daughter for picking up the Camera for me and teaching me how to Blog. One more new skill acquired from this trip and enjoyed every minute of it. Jon, thank you for keeping the house clean when I come home. One of the best surprises.

We will see each other soon and catch up on all this. Until then, everyone, thank you for being with us. We love it and we love you.

Sincerely from Jeffrey and Renee

Seattle, Washington

2010-07-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

July 21 to July 22 – Seattle, Washington

One more day, we will be home. To us, the journey is not finished until we are home. For the first time, I have the “can’t wait” feeling. Check in at around 5:00 pm. The dinner was arranged at the top of the Space Needle. An official ending of the Around the World Journey. It is the last stop of the Itinerary. At the beginning of the trip, we were wondering how we would feel when we flipped over the last page of the three volume pre-printed flight plan, now we know.

Mount Ranair a 14,000 feet.

City of Seattle.

Space Needle tower.

View from the rotating tower top restaurant.

Sunset and moonlight.

July 22 - the flight home.

Alaska, U.S.A.

2010-07-23T13:49:00.001-07:00

July 19 – Anchorage, Alaska

We gained one day when arrived Alaska. It was 11:30 PM. The customs officer came to our plane and escorted us to the customs building. Got congratulated by the officers for finishing the trip.

Our group had arrived several hours before us and were awaiting in the hotel for a celebration toast. We were all in an enlightened state of mind. Congratulating each other for a life enhancing journey. There are so much to learn. The energized enrichment from mother nature, on land and in air, human being spirits, self discovery, …. and much much more. It will take time to realize the impact of this trip, I guess. But at this moment, we all know, we have done it and all still are in great spirit. Congratulations to all and each one of the 2010 Around the World Journey group member!

Passing the Pacific Ocean and entering U.S. airspace and seeing Alaskan mountains.

Anchorage airport near mid-night.

Largest water plane park in the world. Water airplanes everywhere. Taking one day of rest in Alaska after 4 days of straight flying. Casually walking around town. Weather is pleasant. Locals wear T shirts only.

Yes, we cannot resist. On board a water plane for a glacier tour.

Anchorage city.

Low altitude and slow speed flying. About 85 nautical miles per hour compare to the regular 200 t0 300 nm.

Frozen rivers near and close.

Massive glacier break.

Over the water fly by. Spetacular.

July 21 - Continue the long way home. From Anchorage to Seattle is a long flight crossing the whole British Columbia, Canada. About 1300 NM. The airplane can just make it without fueling in BC which will require in to Canada and through U.S. customs again.

Anadyr - Russia

2010-07-23T11:40:00.001-07:00

July 19 - Anadyr, Russia

Anadyr is the most Northeastern point of Russia. Pacific Ocean on one side and Arctic Ocean on the other side. Closest point to the U.S.

Upon arrival, two drums of Avgas awaiting us. The same as all other situation of drum providers, no pumping equipment. Jeffrey took out hand pump, and filter, and starting to work. After a while, he realize his lack of triceps muscle, he pull out a $20 bill and ask the truck driver to pump for him. We did have a electric pump with us but the problem is whenever there is only drums, there are no electric hookup at all. So the hand pump has to work. The fueling took an hour, just finish before we almost miss the last ferry boat to town for the day.

You can tell the ferry boat has been in service for a long time by the thick exterior white paint. Only locals are on board. Russian look very much like Asian, especially some woman. I even try to talk them in Chinese, when English does not work, of course, no one understands. After 30 minutes boat ride, and 5 minutes taxi ride, we arrived the hotel. Pleasantly surprised, a quite new and nice hotel with a receptionist understands some English. What a relieve!

Anadyr is a nice and modern small city. Banks, super market, drug stores...and so on. Very much similar to Iceland town where we just started our journey. After a walk around the hotel and visited a well stocked super market, we retire to the room and getting ready to catch the 8:00 AM ferry back to the airport tomorrow.

July 20 –

7:45 Am at lobby to be picked up by taxi, just to discover we are short of one person. Turns out the group member took a morning walk and underestimated the time needed to walk back to the hotel. By the time the taxi came, luggage loaded, and arrive to the ferry dock, sure enough, the ferry long gone. The next ride is 3 hours later.

The lesson learned? Do not walk away from the place you are not familiar with, walk in circles. Anyway, we are strained at the ferry dock with a taxi driver does not understand us. Right away, we thought of chartering one of the other boats on the dock. Those looks like construction ferries. After 1 had refused us, the other one agreed for US$200. Taken, of course.

What a recover! We managed to arrive at airport just 20 minutes late. Well, unfortunately, a Boeing 747 with full load of passengers just arrived too. We had to wait for 3 and half hours at the airport, by plane side, before our passports get stamped by customs.

By 2 PM, we took off and on our way to Alaska, U.S.A. Yeh!

Only one and half hour later, we reached U.S. radar control. Yes, it is nice to come home. Forgot to bring a bottle of Champagne on board.

From air, the swamp looks like cut outs. In the winter time, covered with ice and snow.

Anadyr airport.

Pumping Avgas.

By the dock, there are several sank ships. We have nice weather in the afternoon.

On board ferry boat.

Sharing Orios with Russian children.

Jeffrey calling "Russia!" to the Russian flag.

Anadyr town with road to ocean side.

The hotel.

Streets of Anadyr.

On board the construction ferry. An exclusive ride. Actually, an experience money cannot buy.

A straight ladder to the upper deck.

No seats, everyone needs to find a place to stand.

Airport in sight.

The living quarter of the two sailors.

Okay, no GPS, where do I go?

Here we are, dropped us off at the construction site.

It seems a over the sea bridge is being built.

Airport, at last. A pretty new airport only has no ramps, all stairs. Maybe, ramps and elevators are being built.

Ferry helocopter.

Leaving Anadyr toward the finishing line.

Here we come, Alaska!

Magadan - Russia

2010-07-22T22:55:00.000-07:00

July 18 to July 19 –Magadan, Russia

Left highly developed Japan to Siberia, Russia. Don’t know what to expect. The reason we stop here is because only Magadan has Avgas in east Russia. We paid in advance at a price that is 9 times we pay in the States. Landing in Russia is with excitement as the finishing line is closer.

It is Sunday, today, the airport opens just for us. $1800 each airplane. Maybe it is the reason everyone seems angry and no one speaks any English except the ground handler. No one speaks English in hotel either. Forget about morning calls.

Actually, Magadan is a nice seaside town with mountains covered by pine trees. At least this time of the year, it is very green. Reminds me of the Alpine in Switzerland. Can become a great ski resort town only if the Visa does not take 2 months to get.

A note to pilots. So far, every country’s air controllers and radar controllers all use English and the aviation terms exactly as we use in the States, including Japan and Russia. No worries if one wants to fly internationally.

Stay overnight at town hotel and tomorrow, depart to Anadyr. A town that is at the most Northeastern point of Russia. 6 hours flight from Anchorage, Alaska. - The finishing line ....

Very green Magadan.

The seaside town by the Pacific Ocean.

Friendly taxi driver and his friends.

A brand new church under construction.

Celebrate Brian's birthday in Magadan. Miraculously, we found a cake, a candle and a upside down salt bottle as candle stand. Brian and Dad, Steve.

Happy Birthday! Brian.

Creative design in the bath room. One faucet for sink and tub. Someone should apply a patent for that.

The most expensive two drums of fuel.

Tour director Al helping Jeffrey.

Leaving Magadan to Anadyr, further north. These sea of cloud are so tranquil. We have our classic music on in the plane. As if we are watching a cinematic presentation by nature.

Sapporo - Japan

2010-07-22T22:17:00.000-07:00

July 17 to July 18 – Sapporo, Japan

Before arriving Sapporo, we stop by Obihiro to fuel Avgas. Again, Sapporo only has jet fuel. Obihiro is further north to Sapporo, we flew over Sapporo, to Obihiro, and then return to Sapporo to join the group and stay overnight. Total fly time on the 17^th is 6 hours. Had dense fog as landing at Sapporo, however with no problem. We stay the the airport tonight. Inside of the airport, there are these shops selling Hokaido’s live king crab, salted fish, cantaloupe, and other framing products. Here is known for its abundant agricultural products and ocean harvests. No time to enjoy, the finishing line is insight, everyone wants to cross it now. We leave to Magadan, Russia 8:00 AM tomorrow.

Obihiro airport.
Jeffrey with fueling and ground staff.

Landing at New Chitose airport, Sapporo. Visibility is ..... like this.

Runway all lighted up.

Airport shops. Wish we can have a cooking class learning how to cook these salted fish.

July 18 - at Sapporo airport departing to east Russia. Crossing those cold water again. Captain's order, survival suits on again.

I laugh so hard because I almost killed myself putting the suit on. What a paradox!

Nagoya- Japan

2010-07-21T19:47:00.001-07:00

July 17 - July 18 - Nagoya, Japan

Took train back to Nagoya from Kyoto. Nagoya is in mid Japan. Third largest city. We stay in the hotel inside of train station where there are hundreds of stores and restaurants including a full size up scale department store bigger then Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills. Best of all, the basement of the department store has the best deli vendors plus a supermarket housing exotic fruits from the world. Sumo wrestling is very popular in Japan. Jeffrey went to a match in one afternoon which is the highlight of the stay. From this point on, we have done most of the touring. The rest is flying home. Next four days are flying everyday for 6 hours. Hope I can take it.

News release in Japan.

Square watermelon and cantelope in the supermarket.

Wreseling court.

The very helpful and friendly team of airport ground handlers in Nagoya.

Waving goodbye to Nagoya.

Special lunch from flight attendant i.e. Renee.

The sea in the sky.

Kyoto-Japan

2010-07-15T14:53:00.000-07:00

July 12 to July 15 – Kyoto, Japan

The rain never really stopped when we were in Kyoto. It just made the city even more romantic.

One of our favorite places. Every time here (my 5^th, Jeffrey, he lost count) , I am amazed with how well the history is preserved not only by well keep the temples and shrines, also the way people live.

Tradition is part of life. Men and women would wear Kimono even walk their dogs. Many small family stores line up the streets. It makes one slow down and be relaxed. You cannot rush things even if you want to. We want to take a good rest here so schedule is very relaxed. Took a long walk along the Philosophers’ trail in the light mist of rain, had simple yet excellent “Ben Tou” lunch. At nights, Kaiseki, (traditional fine Japanese dinning with entertainment), of course.

Fly from Taipei to Nagoya. Colder weather made the airplane wings start to accumulate ice. Icing is not good for our small airplane. Jeffrey decent from normal cruising 21,000 feet to 15,000 and icing was gone.

Can see nothing outside the window.

Irrisponsible co-pilot.

Nagoya is third largest city in Japan. The development is massive.

Runway in sight.

Red carpet welcome as customs officers inspect the airplane.

With customs officers and ground handler, Mr. Micky.

Efficient airport with Avgas truck ready and waiting for us before e we land. I like that.

Jeffrey attached flags of countries we had landed for this trip to airplane.

Starting from home, America.

One last country in the list is Russia.

Here we are, Japan. One more to go.

Waiting for train to Kyoto at Nagoya train station. Part of the group. Looks like we are airline employees.

Train attendant.

Breakfast at Hyatt, Kyoto. Good choice to stay.

Starting a walk through the Philosophers' trail. It is a long trail starting and ending with two famous temples. In between, many temples worth visiting too. We stopped by two of them today that we have not been before and with minimum visitors. The stream and the plantation around it is kept as natural habitate. Fishes and ducks can be seen on clear water. Small shops, not many, and tea houses along the way. Spring time, cherry blossom is amazing, and in autum, the turning leaf is just beyond I can describe. At this time, it is green over green.

Small shops on a side street.

Honein Temple. Nice and quite. No entry fee required.

Sit down for a Ben Tou lunch. A very simple tea hous that has maybe 10 tables.

Jeffrey's favorite "Beef Bowl".

All gone.

Simple green tea and red bean cake. The best ever. Red bean cake is home made in the morning.

In a small bakery. The philosophical senteances on the wall echos the reason for the name of the trail.

Translation : One usually becomes famous or successful when the time is poor and difficult. Failure or setback occures when one is erogant.

Lotus pond of a small temple on the way.

A rare golden koi.

Imagine when all these green is bright red.

One this stairway, look out to the garden. Every step is a different view.

Kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto. Pronounciation: "Sa A Mi".

One of many well presented dishes.

Owner of "Sa A Mi".

Famous Gion district.

Dinner with Geisha entertaining.

The young Geisha (Miko Son)'s name is Toneiwa.

Dancing expressing four seasons.

The back of Geisha is as beautiful as the front.

Playing drinking game with Jeffrey.

Loser has to drink. Not bad.

Ending of a fun evening. Tomorrow, taking train back to Nagoya.

The Starter Problem - Brunei-Hong Kong - Taipei

2010-07-11T08:17:00.001-07:00

July 1 to July 3 – Brunei

We almost skip Brunei because there is no Avgas. However, when in Singapore, we were told that just a few months ago, the Sultan of Brunei bought the Piper Aircraft Company. Singapore airport service center helped to call the Piper company and they extended an invitation for us to go there. They have Avgas and love to share with us.

Brunei is an rich small country due to oil. The Sultan has been in place for 40 (?) years. He is the King of the country and has the highest managing authorities. People enjoy benefits like free land and housing, education (including overseas studying and boarding) , and medication. Population is only 400,000. Seems that most people is happy and grateful to be a citizen of Brunei.

Spectacular view of sunset from Empire Hotel. Dancing clouds as if it were on stage.

Sultan's mosque.

Children let out from "Friday" school. Pink is Sultan's favorite color.

Water Village.

Gold and white mosque next to the water village.

The Starter Problem -

The airplane’s start up has not been perfect for the past few take offs. Jeffrey decided to have the starter and battery checked while we are in Brunei. It was thought that it may be a simple starter or vibrator clean up will solve the problem, yet it is not as simple as thought. With involving several U.S. technicians (Kevin Mead and Tom had to be waken up by Jeffrey in the middle of the night, sorry,) over the phone, emailing trouble shooting procedures back and forth, the starting system doesn’t seem to want to work.

We did not tour too much. Only thing we know is people at the airport. Piper Corporation staff is very supportive and kind to us. Jeffrey’s airplane was towed to a huge hanger and he avoided needing to work under the 38 degree C airport parking lot. Alex of Piper Corporation gave Jeffrey rides to and back between airport and hotel many many times. Jeffrey put it nicely, he said, if not for the problem of the airplane, we would never have the opportunity to get to know and make new friends here. So, well worth the experience.

After two exhausting days of crawling under the airplane, Jeffrey decided to stop working on the plane and wait for a new starter to ship to Brunei. We decided to fly commercial to Hong Kong, wait there and then go back when starter is arrived. Meantime, a technician from Singapore is commissioned to fly to Brunei to work on the airplane.

Jeffrey and Alex at Piper Hanger.

July 4 to July 7 - Take commercial flight to Hong Kong awaiting parts from the U.S. Get to see dear friends like David, Mahaz, Jie, son, Josh. It was sweet to see David and Mahnaz two nights in a row.

Airport pick up by Peninsula Hotel. The sophisticated Hong Kong.

Dinner on first night.

Lobby of the landmark Peninsula. Will be filled at afternoon tea time.

Second night dinner with David and Jie.

Renee, Mahnaz and Vennesa.

Hong Kong has many islands and is connected by cross sea bridges like this.

Hong Kong at night.

Notice the fried fish skin in front. Those are supposed to dip into the fish ball noodle soup and is delicious.

July 7 – Part (Vibrator) arrived Brunei, Jeffrey depart Hong Kong to Brunei. Renee took commercial flight to Taipei waiting for Jeffrey.

Jeffrey arrived Brunei in the late afternoon and started to work on the plane right away with the mechanic from Singapore. Again, the Piper corporation’s supported is 100% . Allowing them to work at night in a hanger provided was a huge favor. Once the vibrator is in, the plane started like a whistle. By then, it was after 10 PM, everyone was tired. The good news was airplane is fixed and can continue the journey now.

Burning the night oil.

Starting an engine inside of hanger is so loud even for these experienced ground handlers.

Finally, airplane is good to go.

Flying to Cambodia. 6 hours yet seeing clouds builds up. It was spectacular but later build up to be a major thunder storm. Not fun.

July 8 - The plan is to fly to Cambodia as original scheduled, just a few days late. 7:00 AM, as the airplane has started the engine, the tower hold the airplane for 45 minutes before granting take off permission. After took off, one hour through the flight, the radar controller informed them that since Singapore has not grant permission for the plane to pass, they cannot proceed and need to fly back to Brunei. As Jeffrey were scrambling calling airport handler and ground support, the satellite phone was low in battery and the backup battery were nowhere to be found. Jeffrey end up had to turn off the phone and flew back to Brunei. That was 3 hours of flying back to where he started.

As it turned out, the permission was granted within 10 minutes of their turn around only the phone was not working and he has no way of knowing it. So, after landed, the fly plan had to be refiled, and again, scramble for fuel, and again, on route to Cambodia. That was around 1:00 pm already. After 6 hours of flying, with time difference, arrived Sim Reap airport at 9:00PM. Meanwhile, Mr. Un Rithy, friend of Don who is friend of our L.A. friend, Phillip, accompanying a fuel truck from Phnom Penh drove 5 hours to Siem Reap to deliver the fuel to Jeffrey. Mr. Rithy gave 100% support to Jeffrey as he was a high ranking air force official knowing the manager of the airport, Jeffrey got fueled, and cleared customs at maybe a record speed. After an engaging conversation and dinner with Mr. Rithy, they said good bye and Jeffrey called it the day. Next day either to Hong Kong or Taipei. Preferably direct to Taipei but Hong Kong is an important back up if landing for fuel is needed.

11:00 PM, Jeffrey was informed that there were no avgas for sale in Hong Kong. The only people have some are the Hong Kong Aviation Club. David was able to call on the Chairman of the Club near mid-night, asking for 2 barrels of fuel. It took many people calling each other in the middle of the night to secure the avgas to Jeffrey if needed.

In Cambodia air Controller tower. Mr. Rithy on the first right.

Fueling with fire truck standing by.

July 9, 7:00 AM, Jeffrey decided to fly to Taipei directly as landing permit was granted even though it is 8 hours continuous flying. Landed in Taipei at 8:30 PM (with time differences). By this time, all one can think of was to check into the hotel and get some rest however, a fuel truck waiting for them by the plane. The fuel truck drove 2 hours from another city to Taipei and waited for 4 hours. They need to fuel the airplane and get back. Fueling at departure was not an option. AND, they only take cash. Low in cash, Jeffrey ran to terminal, found ATM, and got some of the cash. He was short, fortunately, the ground handler pay the rest as a personal loan. By 10:30 PM, Jeffrey, exhausted, with 20 bucks in the pocket, got on the hotel transfer car and on their way to Four Seasons, Taipei.

Dear friend David, and son, Spencer welcome us with the best wine. Restaurant is "Sabatini". The best Italian restaurant in Taipei. Great recovery from a chanllenging pass few days. Thanks, David.

Drinking 82 Margaux and 89 Petrus. Expensive wine yet the friendship is priceless.

Cheers!

Now, there it is, the story of all the drama due to a starter malfunction. With all these difficulties, the challenge of physical and emotional strength is one thing, the other thing is that along each steps of the way, there were supports from new and old friends. Without everyone’s relentless support, every step can be 10 times harder to solve considering the whole scenario happened across several foreign countries at a highly controlled airport and airspace environment. Thinking back, no proper words can describe the experience. It was just lots of high tech coordination, communication, flying skill, experiences, blessing, and luck.

Back to business. Pilots meeting prior to next day's flight. Now next stop is Nagoya, Japan.

Bali-Indonesia

2010-07-02T01:52:00.000-07:00

June 28 to July 1 - Bali, Indonesia

Did not realize that Bali is just South of the equator and not far from Australia. No wonder there are a lot of Australian visitors here. We could fly to Darwin, Australia to add one more Continent to our list but that is okay. By now, we can feel more of the accumulated fatigue and want to spend the days just to rest. Therefore, taking our time very easily here. Visited one private home, see a wood carving artist, Jeffrey scuba diving one morning. That is all.

Indonesia is a Islamic country, has 90% Islamic population, most in the world. Yet, Bali is an island of Hinduism. 90% of the population in the island believes in Hinduism. People are very religious here. Temples in private homes, in the village, and large ones in town. Hinduism statutes at every turns of the road literally. Temples are filled with worshippers and offering twice daily. Seems that people live a fulfilling live here.

Weather is warm (high 90s) and humid. Feels like Taiwan. The green moss in the garden has a Japanese flavor. Bali is basically a beach town, nothing like Jakarta. Perfect town to do nothing.

Passing the equator to Bali. Noticing the lattitude indicator at 00.00.00.

Welcoming Balinese grils.

Vibrant tropical plantations by the beach.

Sunrise view from suite.

Beautiful sunrise.

A private home with temple for family worship.

Typical temple entrance like two pieces of book ends.

Back yard.

The outdoor old kitchen. I like these photos. Somehow, they look like water color paintings.

Jeffrey taking a walk at the house.

Jeffrey scuba diving. The third one this trip. For 20 dollars, he got someone taking underwater pictures for him and giving him the memory chip. Good deal, huh. I am not good at fish species at all. If anyone can identify some of them, please comment freely.

Look at the size of the giant clams.

Jeffrey at sea bottom.

Nice dive.

Now that we are talking about fish, on Brunei newspaper, The Straits Times, there is one article talking about the premium fish. Here they are, with English and Chinese names. The $ are Singapore dollar which is 1.3 to 1 U.S. dollar.

Empurau I thought can be the "Chinese Shung Fish". The writing under the fish is" The freshwater fish is highly prized because of its elusiveness in the wild and its reputed unforgettable tender and delicate texture. Hence, it is also know by its Chinese name wang bu liao (which means unforgettable). The framed fish cost significantly less the those caught in the wild."

Humphead Wrasse (su mei) "Viewed as a status symbol because of its bulbous head and size, the fish is extremely rare and several countries have taken measures to protect it, such as allowing limited trade. It is extremely difficult to catch because it refuses to take bait on hooks.

There is no photo for the High-finned garoupa which is considered a premium fish also.

Leopard coral trout is more readily available.

We will fly north back to Brunei next and then to Cambodia.

Borobudur - Indonesia

2010-06-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

June 26 to June 28 - Borobudur - Indonesia
Borobudur is in the center of Indonesia's Java Island. Java as many know is formed by volcano and still has a few active ones. Actually, we were welcomed by a 6.3 degree earthquake centered at west Java. The Volcanoes gave the island enriched soils that seems can grow anything.

The highlight of this place is the Buddhist temple believe to be build in 800AD and is discovered by British surveyors in the early 1900s. Maintenance now is mostly funded by UNESCO now.

Have not heard of Borobudur before this trip and indeed, at the temple site, we did not see many foreign tourists, most are locals and young students. This temple is quite different from what we have seen before. A square base build up to a center tip. Almost like a Pyramids. Hundreds of Stupas each represents a lotus flower stand inside has a statue of Buddha. Many many beautiful carvings telling the familiar stories of Syakamuni. The carvings are very detailed with vivid expressions. Javanese think Angkor Wat's carving is a follow up of their arts.

The town is very quite, unspoiled. We can feel the local people's earthy nature and friendship from their hearts. They harvest tobaccos, rice, tropical fruits, makes rattans, potteries.... Seems that nature are kind to them too. It is a little Shangri-La.

Smoking volcano welcomes us.

Green green rich land.

Horse carriage ride through the village.

Drying tobacco leafs.

Borobudur temple at dawn.

Two early visitors. The temple is not open to public only to special reserved visitors.

Now, visitors come.

Beautiful carving. Two beautiful dancers dance suductively to induce Syakamuni from his meditation to enlightment.

walking through history.

Jeffrey being interviewed by local college students.

Students asking his autograph... Why?

Private B B Q dinner and Java dancing performance for Fred's farewell. Fred will say good bye to us after arriving Bali.

The pool side set up is just outstanding.

Javanese dancers.

Nice ending to a joyous event.

Pilots invite Fred to photo with their airplanes before the flight to Bali. This is Citation jet, Owner, Steve and co-pilot, Gielln.

Okay, Fred is having fun with the French made "TBM". Owner Steve "W" painted a great shark face on the tip. You see, they are flying and having fun with their airplanes.

"TBM" owner Steve W. and co-pilot, Brian.

Now, he is on the plane with Jeffrey. Fly from Java to Bali is short, just about 2 hours.

Singapore

2010-06-26T18:17:00.001-07:00

June 24 to June 26 - Singapore
Singapore is such a international country/city that many people have visited. Not much we can add except the highlight is our good friend, Fred came all the way from Los Angeles just for joining us for a few legs starting from Singapore. We are so pleased and excited to see him at the Raffles hotel. Fred has been traveling for a week in the Malaysia rain forest before he landed here. We opened a bottle of wine right away to celebrate the reunion. What a wonderful treat to see old friends from far away! (Quoting Confucius).

Appoaching Singapore. The river divides Singapre and Malaysia.

The beautiful and historical Stemford Raffals sutie in Raffals Hotel.

Welcoming Fred.

A drink at the porch.

Fred invited the group for an elegant luncheon at the hip "China Club". Printed menu with his best wishes. Thank you, Fred. It was lovely and all enjoyed so.

Panaramic view from the private room of the 'China Club".

Fred joining us for a ride.

Captin, crew, and the honorable passenger.

Fred in great spirit.

Flying to Borabudur, Indonesia.

Krabi-Thailand

2010-06-26T16:05:00.000-07:00

June 21 to June 24 - Krabi – Thailand

I have not heard Krabi before therefore totally unprepared by the stunning beauty of the precious island. The resort, Rayavadee is build among the limestone rocks with three beaches. Each has a different view of these rock formations. We did not have the best weather for its scuba diving or snorkeling, however, the island is more well known by rock climbers. There are a few rock climbing shops providing equipments and guides. Now, we are convinced that it is a good sport to look into. I will look into a rock climbing gym somewhere close home after return. What a cool thing to do! Check out Jeffrey virgin climb.

Camera cannot do justice to the beauty of the island. I can only capture a small portion of these natural wonder. By now, if people ask me where are the places we like the most, I say, Santorini, Luxor, and Krabi. If anyone is traveling close to Thailand, really highly recommend to come here.

Crack of dawn.

A leisure walk.
Dinner in the limestone cave.

Thai cooking class.

Cutting, chopping and grinding.

Whala... Masaman Chicken.

Just steps out of bungalows.

Millions of shells in the rocks.

Walk through these branches to the climb site. Actually, only 5 minutes from the hotel beach.

Getting ready for the climb.

Taking beginner's lesson from top instructor, Kwa. Kwa has been instructing our pilot friend, who is also a rock climber for 2 years, so considered an old friend of his. He climbs with such a ease. Very good teacher with safety in mind constantly.

Yah! Touch the "ring".

Coming down is easy. Nice legs, Jeffrey. Actually, just half an hour of climb can make one ache all day next day.

Tomorrow is Singapore. Fred is waiting for us there. We are excited that we will see an old friend from L.A soon.

Ching Mai - Thailand

2010-06-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

June 18 – Calcutta over night

On the day of departure to Chiang Mai, a storm is over Bangladesh and Myanmar and seems developing and not going anywhere. The pilots decided to fly from Agra to Calcutta ,the east most point of India and waited the weather out there. We ended up spending a night in Calcutta and take off early morning the next day trying to catch some break in the morning. Fly to Calcutta was not bad, just fly by communications to the radar and control tower until the last minute. Just seconds before run way we see it appears under pouring rain.

June 19 to June 21 - Chiang Mai, Thailand

The fly to Chiang Mai is another story. I don’t know if it is because we were crossing the “Golden Triangle”, we were directed all the way out. We were in cloudy, raining condition most of the 4 hours flight. Mean time, for a good two hours, we cannot get direct communication with Yungoon (Myanmar) control. Communication was done by relay through couple of United airline pilots. Pilots are usually more than happy to help because laps of radio communication could happen to anyone, but still, thank God there are good people out there.

Just to complicate things, after one hour of fly, cabin pressure was not normal. Jeffrey requested to decent 10,000 feet to stabilize the pressure. He suspected icing.

Now, as we are fighting through the weather, with a lower elevation, and being directed a long way, the fuel level was getting low and we are not in Thailand yet. Last thing we want to do is to land at Myanmar where has no AV Gas, and no one we know there to help us. After repeatedly requests for fly direct, the Air controller finally let us fly direct to Chiang Mai. Took a picture of the fuel gage just to remind ourselves of this day.

Turn out it was filter icing that affected the turbo engine. Jeffrey cleaned the filter, test fly the next day in Chiang Mai airport at 21,000 Ft and everything was fine. Then, we can spent the rest of the day to enjoy the Northern Thailand rice farming town. We did the touristy thing on the one day we have in Chiang Mai which was not bad for the first time visitors.

We will fly to Southern Thailand, Krabi nest. One couple of the group are very experienced rock climber and recommended this place. Hope that it is not too “Krabi”.

The thick clouds are indication for systems. Trying to fly around those.

Looking for "blue sky".

Fuel gage at landing.

Way to Chiang Dao elephant camp. Thailand is hard hit by the political situation this summer. Tourism is way down. Many places are running at 20% occupancy. Many time, we are the only table in the whole restaurant. Actually, same situation is middle east. However, bright side for us is that we almost have the whole elephant camp to ourselves.

Get to know the elephants.

Time to take a bath...

or shower...

Elephant that paints.

The painting is US$20.00.

Little tribe gril.

Not so little tribe gril....

A good one and half hour elephant ride in the rain forest and through the river. Actually, pretty special. I enjoyed it. Jeffrey is absent because he was in the airport to check out the airplane and test fly it.

The quiet river and the bamboo rafts.

A bamboo raft takes us down the stream. Inside basket is a picnic lunch prepared by Four Seasons.

Fish Spa. No, these are not my feet.

Little tiger petting. Large titers are available too, but not for me.

India

2010-06-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

June 16 to June 18 - Agra, India.

After 7 hours of flying, two hours of fueling, and a few hours transfers to and from airport, we arrived the “East” from the Middle East. Stopped at Ahmedabad (Gandhi’s birth place) for fueling and as port of entrance. It was hot but fortunately we have some clouds. Agra is of course, the town houses Taj Mahal. Since the airport code for Agra is VIAG, the teenagers of the group start calling the airport “Viagra”. Not all radar controllers have sense of humor, they found out.

Oberoi hotel has a great view of the Taj Mahal and a tour of 2 hours is not too difficult. We get to talk to some locals and start to take a few pictures with them. They gathered more and more and all want to take pictures with us. make no mistake, they have bigger and nicer cameras. It took a whole 30 minutes to finish this "encounter". We will depart to Thailand tomorrow. The weather is not very favorable. Seems that there is a big system in Bangladesh and Myanmar Pilots are talking about detour or delay.

At Ahmedabad for refueling. Drums of AV-Gas which is not seen in U.S. AV-Gas is used mostly for general aviation airplanes and is readily available in the U.S. But in the rest of the world where private recreational aviation is not popular, AV-gas is hard to find. . Part of the challenge of this trip is to find AV-Gas and use the airport strategically. Our Malibu is the only one using AV-Gas, other 3 are all Jets.

Sampling the Gas.

Verifying fuel.

Tansfer bus alll to my self.

Street of India.

Morning commute.

View of Taj Mahal from Hotel.

Oberoi Hotel with Taj Mahal at far background.

The look of it is tranquil, isn't it. Just ignore the tourists.

This day visitors are mostly locals. They have summer vacation for May and June. Too hot for regular tourists.

Jeffrey with local kids.

Somehow, we became the "attraction".

Beautiful India young bride.

More and more people. Notice the hand on my shoulder.

Talking to locals made Jeffrey's day.

Dubai and Oman

2010-06-18T06:27:00.001-07:00

June 11 - 16 Dubai-Oman (阿曼)

Dubai and Oman are not far from each other and both are real real “hot’. Landing in Dubai International was hard enough since the tower and ground controllers are talking non-stop plus the temperature were grueling 112 Degree F. Once I opened the cabin door, a heat wave came in even warmer then the inside cabin. On the way to hotel , I felt we were cooked medium rare. Oman was worse, not only hot, but humid. Camera fogged up right away. Impossible to take a photo outdoors. Some pictures I took in the hotel were right after wiping off the lense but still foggy. Not a time to visit these places now, I guess.

Sand dune bashing was arranged for us in Dubai. It was in the afternoon and the sunset Champagne toasting was pretty nice. By the way, shopping is over rated. The Hermes stores (2 of them) only have about 10 bags, no comparison to stores in Paris.

Oman was a very conservative Islamic country until about 20 years ago. The current Sudan ordered beautifying and modernizing the country. The Chedi is first class and beach front. But because it was so hot, I did not go to the beach nor the pool. It has beautiful Mosque and indoor souk. Famous for their ceremonial knifes and swords. Of course, we bought some. Leaving Oman airport was hard again. India will be hot again. Reporting at 46 degree C. Challenging.

One thing we realized is that airport handling should be a good business. We were charged for everything at a good price. All the radar communications, landing permits, process for landing permits, bag handling, customs clearance, fuels, fueling….. All that you can think of. General aviation in U.S. is really a good deal.

Approaching Dubai.

Inside suite of Burj Al Arab Hotel (meaning, Tower of Arab).

View from suite noting a tall niddle image is the tallest building in the world. Burj Khalifa. (again, Khalifa Tower).

View from room.

Ready for Dune Bashing.

No, he is not praying. This is our tour director taking picture.

Openning a bottle of Champagne.

Toasting to a beautiful sunset.

After a few drinks, they thought they have seen airplanes.

The plane, the plane..... These are the teenagers of our group.

Somewhere in Oman. Renee did not go to avoid the heat. The Chedi in Muscat, Oman.

The two want-to-be Omani Ministers.

Traditional living room settings. Again, hotel staff were amused by Jeffrey.

Sinai - Egypt

2010-06-13T06:22:00.000-07:00

June 8 to June 11 - Sinai (Sharm El Sheik, Egypt)

First, just want to remind to friends that we love to read your comments, therefore, I move the comments key to the top for easy viewing. On the Chronicle page, I put our next destination there. Therefore, if you have been there, let us know your input as to restaurants, places to see and so on.

Sinai Peninsula was given (returned) to Egyptian government in 1982 by a peace agreeement between Egypt and Israel. It is mostly desert except for the beach resorts area. Security is very tight here. In addition to the X-ray screening at the hoteal entrance, cars are searched everytime also using equipment to search under the cars.

Red Sea scuba diving is famous among divers. Therefore, Jeffrey had a 4-tank dive in one day. The next day, he just snorkled with me. The snorkling is great too. The pier of Four Seasons extend right into the edge of the corral reef. Once jump into the ocean, a verticle drop of the reef is right in front of you. Many many colorful fish. Easy snorkling and fish watching.

Camel ride is the highlight for the next day. We had a good one hour of camel ride in the desert where you see the desert resembles ocean and rivers. Mount Sinai hiking is offered but the pick up is 3:00 AM. Therefore......

Knowing we are in the area of Biblical mention is already inspiring.

Approaching where desert meets the ocean.

Hi, Everyone.

Jeffrey finished snorkling.

Moses heard God in a mountain very much like this.

My camel and me.

Our camel leader is just 7 years old. Took all the photos for us.

Set up for tea party.

Jeffrey is becoming an Arabian.

The tea maker.

The tea party.

In the desert with the winds, we can see plastic trash bags every where. The government set up these iron wires to catch the plastic bags for collecting and cleanning. Kind of sad. I will think twice when I use plastic bag at Vons from now on.

Desert or river?

Desert or ocean?

We will fly to Dubai tomorrow.

Luxor-Egypt

2010-06-07T10:11:00.001-07:00

June 5 to June 8 - Luxor, Egypt

Luxor in Arabian literally means "Temples". These temples were build for ceremonial worship in ancient Egypt time, around 1400 BC which is 3500 years ago. Kings and Queens and Nobles and priests come to Luxor third week of July through the Nile river when water is high from Cairo. We saw the carving of celebration, feasts, records of major events. All and all, just amazing. The sheer size of the statues, columns, just amazing. The massive structure, according to historians, evidenced the economical power at the time when Egypt is the super power of the world.

In roman times, (4 to 6 century BC), the temple was converted into a Christian churches. Many destruction seen today, cutting off heads, taking out faces from carvings... were believed to be done by the religious radicals during that time and also later on by Arabs in the 8 century AD). With the Nile's frequent flooding, earthquake, and looting, it is a miracle that we can still see a good sizable remains of a great ancient civilization. We are pretty speechless seeing these structures. Excavation is being conducted everywhere in the city. Many projects are supported by international grants. What a history lesson.

When the airplane approach Luxor international airport Luxor looks like an oasis in the desert, river Nile flowing through the center both side of the river is incredible green, it is so beautiful.

Entrance of Luxor Temple. To avoid the day time heat (41 degree C), we were scheduled to enter the temple at 8:45 PM. Later on during the night, we have the temple all to ourselves. Notice that there is just one obelisk (granite) in front of the King Statues. The other one was taken by the French in 1830 and is now in Concorde square in Paris.

The size is the Kings. Really cannot imagine how did Egyptians engineered these structures without modern measurements, equipments, and machineries.

The mosque of Abul-Hagag was built on top of a church from Roman time and which was build on top of Luxor temple. Civilization layered over civilizations. Seems like the King is over looking the mosque from a distance.

Story time under the stars. Very enjoyable.

These columns seem to support the sky.

Carving of the Kings who unified north and south of Nile.

The entrance at night.

Our Egyptologist curator, Professor Ahmed Henu, is telling us the blue print of temple.

Entrance to Karnak Temple. The largest temple ever built in the history of man. 2400 years of non-stop building that covers an area of more than 250 acres of land.

Sunset Feluque. Felucca is a typical Egyptian sail boat. A cruise on the Nile is nice and relaxing.

Jeffrey cannot help but start to sail the boat.

and row the boat.

Valley of Kings - The only remain of the Temple of Amunhotp III. Just amazed by the size of the two statues.

As Professor Ahmed explained to us before, after the Pyramids period, the Kings and Queens started to find discreete burial sites to avoid the looting. These sites are across the Nile from the Luxor Temples. Including King Tut's tomb was found here by English Archaeologist, Howard Carter. The entrance were covered by sands and mud. Basically, invisible but the whole valley is the ground for tombs filled with treasures of generations of Pharaohs. One thing to mention is that even though the young King Tut's tomb content has the world's attention, it is actually very insignificent in the Kings Valley. The largest tomb is 100 times of his but only King Tut's was intact, never found before the 19th century excavation. Imagine how much could be in the other King's tombs and even in the Pyramids.

Cairo, Egypt

2010-06-06T06:06:00.000-07:00

June 3 to June 5 - Cairo, Egypt

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids. The short stay in Cairo is just to visit the wonder of old Egypt. Our guide, Mr, Ahmed Henu, is an author, Egyptologist and a great story teller. A good history lessons for us. Only after we arrived to the hotel, we realize that we were staying at the historical Mena House. It is the first and only (for a long time) hotel just right at the foothill of the Pyramids. The Hotel was first build in 1884 by a English couple. One of the significant event relate to the history book we have studied was the "Cairo Conference" during WWII. Mena House was the site for the conference where Chiang Kai Shek, Roosevelt, and Churchill meet in 1943. In the meeting, the leaderss agreed that Japan would be forced to give up occupied Chinese territory (including Taiwan) and give their unconditional surrender.

Air view of Cairo airport in the big desert.

View from our balcony.

Mena House front door.

Mena House with Pyramids as backdrop.

Sound and light show at the Pyramids.

The day at the Pyramids. A little history here, just to remind ourselves later. It is believed to be build during 2575BC to 2150BC by the Pharaoh/King Khufu for his burial site. Pyramids got out of style by the Kings because these sites were all looted with no exceptions. Later, the Kings and Queens choose their sites discretely underground and were expedited later mostly in Luxor. Where we will fly 2 hours to, tomorrow.

Entrance to King Khufu's coffin room.

Crowing space inside of the Pyramids.

Distance shots with the Sphinx.

We visited the Cairo Museum in the afternoon where the treasure of King Tut are housed. King Tut died at 18 and half years old. His image were all handsome and powerful. We saw his golden coffin and mask (made of 250 Lbs of pure gold). The golden mask of King Tut's face is synonymous with Egypt. No Camera allowed. We will see his tomb in Luxor tomorrow.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

2010-06-04T08:02:00.001-07:00

May 29 to June 2 - Istanbul

Jeffrey and I have been to Istanbul in 2008. As mentioned before, we want to bring a different set of eyes to see places and we did. This time, the experience is different in a good way. For the big sightseeing places like the Blue Mosque, St. Sophie's, and the Baslitic Cystern, we went. For the one free day on June 1, we went to a small harbor (outside The House Cafe). Spent a day like a real Turk.

We had Turkish coffee made just for us, went to pipe smoking joint, ate Gyro for lunch, Mado for ice cream. took a Turkish bath.

Last day, we were transferred to airport by Helicopter. Next stop, Pyramids, Egypt.

Birds eyeview of the Bosphorus Strait.

View of Bosphorus from Hotel.

Outside of Blue Mosque. A Islamic temple decorated most by blue tiles and glasses.

Entrance of Blue Mosque.

Inside of a beauful temple where people still worship in.

St. Sophis Museum. Once was Church, Mosque and now just Museum.

Jeffrey plays with a cat as we wait in line.

Beautiful work in these hundreds of colums.

Tourists, Tourists, everywhere.

Underground water reserve system in Istanbul. Not functional today but for Tourists. Once was water reserve build by Ottoman empire mainly for defensive purposes. Amazing structure. Today, above the system, has regular buildings with stores and condos.

Upside down face of Goddess Medusa in the water reserve. The builders want to minimize Medusa's evil power.

Buy fruits from street vendor.

Fresh prune vendor.

Lunch outside of Bazzar.

The Ciragan Palace Hotel.

The Harbor next to a local Mosque.

Pipe store owner who makes the best Turkish Coffee.

Looking at seafood restraurant's luncheon selections.

Best fry fish we have had for this trip. Very much like Chinese' "Little Yellow Fish". Very tender and fresh. So good, we ordered second order.

Friendly Gyro chef.

Popular Ice Cream brand. It is actually very very good.

We did not eat this, but it is popular that people put a lot of stuff on a big baked potato such as corns, hot peppers, sliced hot dogs, and on top, lots and lots of mayo.

The pipe waiter who starts the smoking for customers. He looks happy all the time, I wonder why.....

A little pipe smoking will not hurt anyone, right?

Making of Turkish coffee.

Helicopter transfer to Istanbul Airport. We will fly to Egypt today.

Santorini - Greece

2010-05-31T09:34:00.000-07:00

May 28 to May 31 - Santorini, Greece

Our airplane was last to arrive becuase a jump for the battery was needed at Malta airport. After arriving to a empty custom, (with no restrooms), and half an hour wait in the sun for taxi, we were dropped off at a road side and cannot see any sign of our hotel.

Called the hotel and a strong guy (later on we know he is also a professional boxer), in all white uniform walked down the stairs along the cliff side and carried all 8 of our duffle bags. He does this all day long. We followed him through steps and small walk ways along the cliff. Finally arrived to an entrance of a white cave. Fortunately, two icy cold sparkle wine awaits us.

Just pass the reception cave, it was like walking into a most peaceful, calming dream. The breathtaking beauty of Aegean sea amazed us with its presence. You dare not to even wisper , as you feel time stands still right here and right now and any sound will wake up this unimaginable dream.

After three flat of steep stairs up and two flat down, we were lead to our all white room in a cave. View with a private jacuzzi. What else can one ask?

Sontorini as we approach.

Oia town church at sunset, Santorini.

Pool side welcome dinner at sunset.

Our room is at the very top behind me to the right.

Entrance of Kirini Resort.

Room.

Belcony.

Walkway also a dinning room at night.

The brightest bluest sky.

Many other resorts and hotels along the cliff side by side.

Renee wearing the dress bought from local store.

Hotel donky. His name is Lemonia. I think he is in training for carrying luggages. (I hope). Very very cute. In the old times, there were a lot of donkies to carry goods and tourists ups and downs of the cliff but now there is a cable car for cruise ships' passengers

Spa in a cave. Nice and cool.

Getting ready for a sail boat ride.

Sunset cruise.

Pilots and their wives.

Jeffrey snorkling along the vocano islands.

Everyday meditation.

Say goodbye to a beautiful dreamy place.

Captain Ying is ready to fly to Istanbul.

And his first officer.

Republic of Malta

2010-05-30T03:35:00.001-07:00

May 26 to May 28

Republci of Malta

Malta is the southernmost point of Europe. Just north of Africa. South of Sicily. We were explained that the country was the homes of knights of St. John’s. It has a significant historical position for the war between Ottoman and Christians. Very flat island country. Rich in history and seems to have a good harbor for large yachts. Restaurants and food are excellent. Though a short technical 2 day stop but still enjoyable.

Very flat small island country.

Many cathedrals, historical buildings over 1500 years old.

Boat ride around the harbor.

Outside of Xara Palace which is now an Relais and Chateaux hotel and restaurant. Had a great meal here.

Really a cute place to visit.

View from our room.

Gibraltar Rock and Ibiza Island, Spain

2010-05-27T03:01:00.000-07:00

We stopped by Gibraltar for lunch on our way to Ibiza, Spain. I did not know that Gibraltar is a nation now. We had to go through customs. Flying in gave us a nice view of the rock. After out of custom, got a taxi to take the 6 minutes cable ride to top of the rock where local apes welcome us. (Actually, they are known for taking food or shinning items from people, espcially woman and children. Yes, they did. ). I like this picture with the airplane, the rock and Jeffrey. Can be the cover of our photo book.

Ibiza is a vacation spot for Spainsh people, I guess. Thierry, the owner of the tour company has a property here. His parents has been taking them to Ibiza for vacation since the early 70's. Water, the old town, the Spainish food, it has everything. Good shopping for beach dresses and leather goods.

Flyying in.

On top of the rock.

Ibiza, Spain. A restaruant on the beach serving Paella.

Pilots on the boat.

Renee and one of the new friends. Allison.

Walking on sanded bridge in between islands.

Ibiza old town and three tired shoppers.

Old town Ibiza.

Marrakech, Morroco

2010-05-25T23:42:00.000-07:00

Marrakech, Morroco

First, see some new followers, Welcome, Wei and Yee-Ping, CH, and Michelle.

We have not heard of Marrakech until this trip. Casablanca usually comes to mind when talk about Morrooco. Marrakech is the third largest city in Morroco and has been the capital of the nation many times in the history. Has been in many Hollywood movies such as “ The Mummy”, …. . Hotel Le Mamounia, is the top choice. Beautiful indeed, and new. Every room is decorated Morrocan style. Food served here is out of this world which can be a problem.

Yves Saint Laurent lived here before he died. The garden of his house now is open to public. We paid a short visit.

Somehow, somewhere, during our shopping at the “Suk” (local market)) which is so big we cannot find our way out without the tour guide., I have got a new Arabian husband and his name is "Laurance". Jeffrey has amused all the staff in the Hotel. Made friends with all the waiters in the restaurant. More importantly, he danced with belly dancers “Morrocan “ style. Every local who looked at him had a grim on their face but we don’t know why. I think, it is nice to amuse the local people once in a while.

Hotel La Mamounia

An old property of the Marrakech governer.

Marrakech street.

Snake Charmer

The suk. Too bad no chance to really buy something. There are many wook works with intricate inlay design. Can be good to make a Mah Jion table.

Now, Jeffrey and Thierry (owner of the Aviation Tour company), trying to scare local people.

Entrance of a Morroco restaurant.

Table setting for before dinner drinks. Everything is beautiful.

Look at Jeffrey's face.

Thierry proposed to hold hands with Jeffrey when wearing the robe as Morrocan men do. I was laughing of control.

Dinner table with Aournd the World good wishes.

Belly dancers.

We are off to Ibiza, Spain tomorrow.

Paris - May 18 to May 21

2010-05-23T04:43:00.000-07:00

Paris - May 18 to May 21

We want ourselves to bring a new set eyes with this trip. Even for places we have visited, I believe there is always something different one can explore or be so fortunate to doing do one's favorite things again. Reporting to girlfriends, no interesting Birkin insight.

Things we have done interesting this time in Paris are: Attend cooking class at the Michelin two -star chef, Guy Martin's kitchen, get to book Le Jules Verne (one month in advance and only by the Concierge at the Plaza Athenee) and had a classic, outstanding French dinner. Breakfast at Allen Ducas' restaurant is a feast to the eye. French elegance at its best.

Cooking Class - three course, appetizer, main course, and desert. The kitchen hygiene is spotless.

My work. Salmon and funnel appetizer. I know, it is ugly. It is not easy as it seems.

At the 54th floor of Eiffel Tower. The Le Jules Verne Restaurant. The name is after the author who wrote "Around the World in 80 Days". How appropriate!

Food here is not fancy. Presentation is basic. The flavor... . We were laughing and eating at the same time. It was magical. The head waiter says, it is just French cooking, nothing else. Even desert was just superior to the "rest". We were told, 9 pastry chefs in the kitchen. Here are lobster salad and pigeon.

Plaza Athenee. Looking out of our room.

Welcome chocolate symbolizing our fly around the world journey.

Room.

The Poilane bread. I read once that they make the "Best" bread in the world. After 20 Euros of taxi ride and 20 for the bread. It is good but not "that good". Maybe, we waited too long to eat it.

Inverness - Scotland

2010-05-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

First thing taxi driver told us: Inver means "the Mouth of", therefore, Inverness is the Mouth of river Ness. Here is where river Ness meets the ocean. No question, Scotland is very very green. It rains a lot here but fortunately, for the 3 days stay, no rain at all and pilots get some needed rest.

Cute Hotel Bunchrew.

One of the castles.

Lake Ness (in Scotish, Loch Ness). Looking for the Water Monster.

Water Monster coming to us....

Town of Inverness. By the way, no Pringle of Scotland here. Where is it?

River Ness.

River Ness. Water very clear. Great water here. Makes the best Ice Tea and Whisky, of course.

Country road.

In the Hotel yard.

ICELAND - May 13-14

2010-05-19T22:10:00.001-07:00

Cheers! From Iceland. Pre-dinner drink.

Iceland in rain.

A quick stay over at Iceland. In order to avoid the Vocano ash, we shortened the stay at Iceland to just one night. For the past few days, a lot of flying and no real break. Pilots are tired. Cute town though.

Look~ How happy Jeffrey is when he found the fuel he needed

2010-05-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

Look ~ How happy Jeffrey is when he found the fuel he needed at Kuujjuaq.

The Beautiful Greenland

2010-05-14T15:21:00.001-07:00

Arctic/Greenland

2010-05-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

Corss Atalantic

2010-05-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow the team will start to cross Atalantic. Due to the Vocano ash, there are four routes being planned and today, at the pilots meeting, I guess we will need to make a final decision. The most likely route for now is still going through Iceland but go North. Because the ash seems to move to south and covered the Azores (An island off Spain) where was the original alternate.
Now, here is the planned route, (don't even try to pronouce them)

Quebec city to Kuuijuaq (Northern Canada), then Kangerlussuaq (Greenland) Akureyri (Iceland), Fiesland (Norway). (Above is for three days of flying).

Inside the Cabin

2010-05-07T13:21:00.001-07:00

Two seats are taken off to place emergency raft, spare parts, and a lot of paper work. Notice the bucket, the emergency toilet. Hope that nobody needs to use it.

Toronto Canada

2010-05-07T13:06:00.001-07:00

Concierge recomended Canoe Restaurant at TD Bank building at 54th floor. Food and services are top quality.We were impressed that when we arrive, the reception gentlemen told us "We will give you an experience you will never forget". Great attitute. No wonder it was packed on a Thursday night. I ate a beautiful "Lobster Bouche" before I remember we should take a picture. It was funny. ..... Met new friends, Jane and Ken" who are from Quebec, told us we must try "Poutine" in Quebec so that is what we will do.

Arrive Toronto, Canada today. Landed at this small airport, City center airport. Going through custome is just a phone call. No officers therefore, no stamps on passports. (This becomes a problem when we try to get tax refund today). Ended up stay at "Hazelton Hotel". Planned to go to Montreal next day. But, we are rained-in. Storm is being forecast for today and tomorrow. We will stay Toronto for two more days. Skip Montreal and directly go to Quebec City to meet the team.

Quite street

2010-05-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

Very quite street at Santa Fe.

Hutchinson

2010-05-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

We arrived at Hutchinson, Kansas today. Mead Aircraft is a place specialized for servicing Piper airplanes. This is Kevin Mead, Piper guru. Will stay here for 2 days. Here is capital for general aviation. Other then that, nothing to to really.

2010-05-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

「 Jeffrey is enjoying the Shao-Bing from good friend. 愛心燒餅, 實在太好吃了.

2010-05-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

Santa Fe, New Mexico, on route to Whichita, Kansas for plane check out before out of country. We met these U.S. Top Gun pilots about to depart by their F-18. Jeffrey is super excited. Really cool. I think.

2010-05-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

Day 1. Leaving El Monte Airport. Nice day with "great tail wind".