Final Goodbyes Canal-Side

Written by Sidney Jhingran and Jessica Young, 2014 Southeast Asia: Animal Conservation Program Leaders.

After an exciting week of exploring new destinations on Independent Travel Time, the group reconvened in Bangkok before disorientation. Everyone shared stories from ITT, some went shopping on Khao San Road, and others sought out the creature comforts of a nicer hotel – but everyone as a whole hit the sack pretty early to get a good night of rest.

Bright and early the next morning, we all piled into a minivan for the short drive down to Amphawa – a quaint canal-side town famous for its trendy weekend floating market. Once there, everyone had the chance to get comfy in our cabin by the canal where we were all sleeping together on the floor slumber party style! After sharing an amazing seafood lunch together, everyone grabbed a quick snooze before catching a ride on a canal boat to the weekend floating market. There was much shopping to be done, seafood and snacks to be bought, and other interesting sights to see in the busy market. Once night fell, we got back into our boat to weave our way back through the canal and see nature’s very own display of fire flies in the trees along the banks.

Back in Bangkok the following day, the team was let loose in the city to get their fill of the busy metropolis before flying home or continuing their own personal travel adventures. The group met up that evening for a delicious poutine/falafel dinner and drinks at the Blues Bar for Sid’s (early) birthday celebration. Yes, a chocolate cupcake with candles even made an appearance! For our final meal, the group ate at a swanky Thai restaurant that served an eclectic mix of Isaan, ancient, and modern Thai dishes. We shared post cards, most-likely awards, and goodbye hugs.

We then quickly changed our minds about goodbyes and decided to reconvene at Hippie de Bar for our final farewells. The team hung out for a while swapping stories and favorites from the trip before the dreaded goodbyes couldn’t be put off for any longer. After a trip like this, who can really blame us for not wanting it to end!

It’s been quite the ride this summer and we can’t wait until the next time!

Big love,Sidney and Jess2014 Southeast Asia: Cities & Sanctuaries Program Leaders