Yesterday I went to Phuketown to have lunch with June and Kathy. They had met an English couple while on their boat tour and today they were all hanging out in a private car checking out the sites in Phuket. They wanted to see Old Town so I joined them there for a pit stop.
After lunch to my surprise, Tia had a lock around her tire and this note taped onto her already torn seat. I was so confused. A scooter taxi man came up and told me where I parked was only reserved for taxis during the weekend. I had no idea. He said they changed to every other side of the street daily. (*To note, if there are a lot of open parking spaces on one side of the street and not the other, there is probably a reason)
He kindly offered me a ride, for a fee of course, to the police station to pay my ticket and get Tia released. I took him up on it, because it looked like it was going to rain and the walk was 3 km away when I google mapped it. Possibly the taxi drivers and police are incahoots together.
The ticket. Nice that it is translated in English also.
It was probably about time for me to encounter the police in some manner or another. I loved being helpfully escorted there by the taxi scooter. He pointed me into the office and told me which counter to go up to. There was no wait. The police were chilling out watching something casually on TV.
He asked for my name. I said Tonya”. That was all he wrote onto the payment slip. It was 500 BHT/15$. Not too bad in reality compared to a US ticket that usually starts at 50$. They handed me a receipt and told me to go to building number 2. Confused I walked out.
My taxi guy was waving me over to building number two. (so helpful, he knew the drill) I went in and there were about 4 police officers gathered around another TV. This one I could view and saw they were all watching a fight/boxing match going on. One officer took my ticket and then radioed on his walkie talkie, apparently to the street cops, to release my scooter.
My scooter taxi driver and the police station.
When I was walking out of the building number 2, two more police officers were going in and said in a very friendly way “Hello, how are you today?” I said happily back, “not great I parked in a wrong spot and got a ticket”. He replied, “tip” with a smile. It’s known here that the officers take bribes and call them tips since they don’t make much money. But it all looked legit to me. But funny how he outwardly also referred to it as a tip.
This was a first for me. On the back of a taxi scooter, which by the way was a cheap option and fun. And visiting the police station. Not a bad overall experience. But was the start of a very expensive day.
I started writing, out of true old fashion motherhood nervousness, a list of all the things I wanted to tell my girls about driving a scooter in Phuket. When they come to visit me in December it is so important that they are able to get around on a scooter but I am worried about all the things that differ when driving here. The least of the worries driving on the opposite side of the street!
Teaching them to drive at age 15 was nerve racking to say the least. I know I was not the most patient or laid back teacher. Zoe admitted she learned to just tune me out completely and ignore all my jumps, grabs and screams. Sedona on the other hand simply quit and had Victor teach her instead. (Not my best mom moments)
I decided it could be a fun post, for anyone coming here to hear my tips on what you need to know about driving a scooter in Phuket. Just random observations I took in while driving these past 6 months. Comparisons to western rules and unexpected surprises. I refuse to live in fear and not use this very fun transportation method. When I tried to look up tips on how to drive a scooter, there was only basic (blah blah) information found regarding. So my insight should be most helpful and entertaining.
Tia and I, my companion of adventure here.
When I decided to move to Phuket I knew I could only afford a scooter as my means of transportation. With the help of Tiffani, willing to risk her life on the back, we rented Min’s bike and I pretended I had experience. My only real past experience was in junior high school driving David Bond or Ron Harris’ mopeds. Since then, I barely even rode my bicycle. But I was a gymnast, so I have this balance thing down!! So consider the source when reading the below, some of the basic things I was unaware of.
THINGS I LEARNED AND YOU SHOULD KNOW WHEN DRIVING A SCOOTER IN PHUKET ARE LISTED BELOWIN RANDOM ORDER
1. The hardest thing for me about learning how to drive a scooter was turning and using the brakes.
Turning while driving Tia is MUCH easier than the bigger scooter. (Min’s) But still both are different than turning on a bicycle. You have to lean more rather than just turn using the handle bars. Sometimes I still find it helpful to stick my feet out to balance or lean one way. (I’ll probably lose a toe in the future)
Breaking was hard for me to do with my right hand because that is also where the accelerator is. So it would scare me half to death when I went to squeeze the break but then the accelerator would rev up! I used to only break with my left hand to avoid this. (don’t tell Tiff) I am better now….but Traci said this happened to her also when she was practicing. You have to learn to squeeze the right break without moving the accelerator. (difficult when going down steep hills and you are leaning into it)
2. Here you drive on the opposite side of the road. So all right turns are like left turns and all left turns you can just easily ease into traffic like our US right turns.
Unlike left turns in the USA, where the person going straight has the right of way, here the people turning go first at a traffic light – it is difficult at first to understand and I still don’t see where everyone does it this way. But you need to be warned that it may happen.
Most traffic lights have turn signals for all traffic directions making the turning situation easier and there really aren’t that many lights, so traffic flows smoothly. The traffic lights also have timers that usually count down so you know when it’s going to change to green. The scooters commonly start taking off when there are 2 seconds left.
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3. When there is a traffic light, you will want to maneuver your way to the front so you and the other scooters are the first to go when the light changes. That is customary. Expected. Do not park behind a car if you can help it.
That can mean, weaving in between the stopped cars to get there, or driving up the turn only lane until you get there. You always have to watch out for the car’s rear view mirrors and move your mirrors accordingly in between.
You can always put your feet down at a stop light to reset. I usually leave my feet down a bit when I first take off also for balance. (see above photo showing this) You will see many flip flops and shoes in the road because it is very easy for them to fly off in the midst of all of this.
4. When driving you always want to stay as close to the left side of the road as possible. That will allow cars and other motorcycles to pass you on the right. The scariest is usually the other motorcycles because they can come up very fast and they are very loud. Just know, they have control and you have to trust the chaos.
You can drive along the left side and pass all the cars. You never have to be stuck in traffic. Occasionally though there is a prick who purposefully maneuvers his car to the extreme far left. But usually you can just go around him on the right if there’s room. I am known to say out loud a lot “what the fuck?!” It helps me vent and maneuver. I recommend this phrase for all those driving.
Sometimes there are small narrow paved parts to the road (like in the US where we would pull off in case of an emergency)—this is where you want to be most of the time driving the scooters and you will find many other scooters doing the same. These lanes are usually open but occasionally around corners they merge back into traffic and or some cars are parked there. You also have to watch out for those scooters with side cars in this lane. You will have to move around them because they are like tortoises.
You also should attempt to avoid all grates in the road. They are just bad on the tires.
Always wear a helmet!
5. Phuket sets up police blocks all the time on roads randomly. These used to scare the shit out of me. But if you are wearing a helmet they should not pull you over from my experience. If they do pull you over, you must show respect and the scooter paperwork, your passport and international drivers license. If they still seem to want to give you trouble you can use google translate and “ask if there is anything you can pay to help the process”—they usually will take bribes. Average rate is 500 BHT so I usually always make sure I have that amount on me. But I believe they would allow you time to hit up an ATM.
6. The beauty of being on the scooter is that you can stop anytime you want. So if you are traveling and decide you want to check your GPS or simply want to check out the view….just pull over.
7. It is MUCH harder to drive a scooter when someone is on the back. IF you are the one on the back, you need to lean in the same direction that the driver is leaning and realize if you move, to resituate yourself or reposition, it causes the scooter to wobble and it can get out of control/off balance.
8. Parking the scooter is usually easy but I have never been here during high season. If someone is on the back of the scooter, that person will need to get off prior to pulling in or out of a parking spot.
You will want to back your scooter out prior to starting it up. There is no reverse on a scooter. Another side note is the newer scooters will not start up unless both brakes are squeezed and the kickstand is up. (Unlike Tia who starts, or doesn’t, based on total personality)
9. When you are first driving, it is near impossible to keep track of traffic and look in your rear view mirrors etc. so treat the drive like you would in Manhattan—- mind what is in front of you and the traffic behind you will do the same. Just NEVER make a bold move. And ALWAYS use your turn signal so you can warn the people around you what you want to do.
Many locals still use the old fashion hand gesture turn signals. If you see some odd arm motions from the passenger on a scooter, more than likely they are turning.
On the scooter the turn signal will not turn off automatically. I’ve caught myself many times driving with my turn signal still on which I am sure entertains all those behind me. You have to press down on a button to stop the signal every time.
Chinese tourists are by far the worst on the scooters(yes I am stereotyping) and often are taking selfies while driving so avoid being near them on the roads if possible. I usually get ahead of them.
10. If you need gas/petrol, you will have to find a station, and then pull into wherever the other scooters are going. You cannot just go up to any pump. If there are no scooters at the station which is rare, they will wave you to where you need to go. There are no self service options which is a blast and luxury from our past. I enjoy this service!
The gas tank is IN THE SEAT, so you have to use the key to open up the seat and screw off the cap for them. I usually say “full” and they know that word. It is never more than 100 bht. Once they are done you have to push your scooter out of the way before you start and jump back on etc….so the scooter behind you can start fueling.
They also sell gas in bottles on the street in the beach communities. I have used that when desperate but don’t trust it as much. The people at the shop will pour it in for you. You only have to pay. It can take up to two bottles if getting low. They sell two types of gas for scooters. You would need 91.
11. You will want to always apply sunscreen to your hands, feet and back neck (if your hair is up )when driving. You will feel great with the air flowing on the scooter, but the hour you spend on the scooter will scorch you! I learned the hard way about the feet.
I would also recommend wearing a long sleeve light weight cardigan to avoid the sun on your arms.
12. People will drive their scooters in the opposite direction- coming at you, on the narrow side paths. They are crazie but they exist, so you need to know about them. There are no set rules here EVER. You can’t get mad if a car or scooter does something stupid and doesn’t obey what we would consider a rule. It just all melds together and works. You roll with it. (or like me just say “what the fuck?”)
13. You can leave your helmet on the scooter’s rear view mirrors. They are never stolen. You can leave your beach mats or jackets there too. But I would not a purse.
14. Roads are not always flat. One tricky thing is the white lines on the road, they are raised up and if you hit them with the side of your tires it can set you off balance. I remember the first week when Tiff and I had the scooter this would freak me out.
Patong Hill. I drive every time I go to the beach.
15. Sharp hills and turns are everywhere here. I know the roads now so I am more comfortable with what turns are coming up ahead of me. But when you first start out, it can freak you out. The turns are very sharp and you wonder why the hell they made the roads so difficult. And to note, the scooter breaks are not “sharp”. So if you break it’s like an ease into slowing down. You have to allow for that and if you are going down a steep hill and there is a curve ahead, you have to plan accordingly.
The turns here are not like the USA where the roads are tilted/banked to compensate. Best to go slow.
16. I have only had near accidents when following other scooters too closely. So be sure to leave space for their reactions. I have had scooters pass me, only to turn left in front of me to park.
17. U turns are probably the hardest thing to do and a necessary evil. To get anywhere you more than likely will do a U turn. It’s very common here. I usually stay beside a car so when it pulls out, I know he will protect me from any oncoming traffic. Make sense? I sneak out to the right of him, so he would take the blow.
But scooters can usually sneak out way before a car can. Scooters are just overall more agile and can zig in and out more easily when turning or sneaking into traffic.
Traffic lights here can be up to 200 seconds long. Which is more than 3 minutes. That being said, if you are trying to do a U turn, or pull out and there is non stop traffic, be patient. It will end. There is always a break. It just may be 3 minutes away. These long lights keep the traffic flowing and actually is a nice way to maintain the roadways. There are rarely any traffic jams.
18. Roundabouts are another very common thing in Phuket. They are very efficient! But you will need to know where you are getting off to figure out your position in the circle. If you are listening to google maps it will say take the 2nd exit or take the 3rd exit etc. You would just count the streets that show up on your left and take the number accordingly.
19. If you see food panda scooters- people wearing pink and having a package with a panda face on it….they will always go fast and pass you. Give them space they are on a mission.
20. When cars pull out in front of you be warned. They pull out VERY slowly. Traci noticed this too. She was like wtf? In the USA when we pull out into traffic we try our best to quickly accelerate to go with the flow. They will not. So if you are driving on the scooter and then a car pulls out you will need to slow down otherwise you will hit him, because he will not move quickly. It’s just different timing than what we are used to.
I am amazed at how the locals drive. Some are extremely slow. Others crazy. Pick up trucks are the worst and buses. So stay clear from them if possible. Do NOT expect them to be looking or caring about you.
21. If you see a dog laying in the street like in the above photo, he will NOT move as you drive up closer. Thai dogs act dead and are fearless. They oftentimes lay in the streets and do not move. Consider them an object to avoid.
22. Driving at night takes on an entirely new challenge. There is not always street lighting and the scooter headlight is only good for showing other cars you exist, it does nothing to illuminate the road in front of you. When you are old like me, this can be an issue. (I mean I can barely read a menu if the lighting isn’t right)
I also use the helmet’s face mask as a protection but at night, due to the tint to help with sunshine, you cannot see through it. Flipping it up and exposing your face to all that may fly up from the road is challenging. (and not a huge joy in the rain either)
I BELEIVE that is all the notes I had. I’m personally overly confident at this point and take risks I need to reconsider which usually occur when in a rush to beat a storm. Ironically I never seem to miss getting dumped on by the rain. Speaking of, another good thing to note: Plastic rain ponchos under 1$ at every 7/11. I’ve had my cheap plastic one now since May and it does the job!
My friend Juvi’s brother, June, and his wife Kathy are in Phuket visiting from NYC! Being an avid golfer June is traveling with his golf clubs and hitting a few courses while in Thailand this month. While he was away Wednesday, Kathy and I decided to put on our walking shoes and trekked to a few of the beaches near their hotel.
A selfie at our first stop, Kata Beach.
I asked if she was up for a steep incline and she was quite the trooper! Never complaining as we flip flopped our way in the humidity uphill. I wanted to show her Kata Noi which is one of my favorite spots.
While climbing the rocks at Kata Noi, I discovered a new restaurant with a perfect view. After the walking we put in, a cocktail was definitely in order to help endure the walk back.
Kathy in her cute sun protecting hat.
Always a beautiful view as we climbed the rocks. Kathy said it reminds her a lot of Hawaii with the water and mountains. I have never been to Hawaii and am thankful in a way not to have the comparison. I think I may be less in awe of Phuket has I seen the American landscape version.
Another sunny day .Optimistically, I am waiting for the change out of the rainy season.
The tree roots along the beaches always fascinate me. Not sure if I will ever get used to seeing them above the ground.
These roots took over a rock. This tree became part of the restaurant we ended up at. I love how they build around the old trees and appreciate their presence. I rubbed the roots of this tree as I learned from the Chinese man. (in Shanghai.)
The spot we ended up at.
The windows were wide open and a welcoming breeze created the perfect atmosphere.
I will definitely stop in here again. We were here about noon and the place was empty. I think watching the sunset from this view could be amazing.
Another site of the restaurant.
Sadly empty.
We exited the property a different way than we came in.
June was finished golfing, so we headed back to their hotel. They had pool access right off their patio. I was sweating by this time and did not hesitate to jump right in.
We ordered some beer and pizza and had it delivered pool side! A perfect afternoon refreshment.
After recouping a bit, we walked over to Karon Beach.
I never tire of this view. When Zoe and Sedona get here I am going to conquer that rock with them.
We ordered some fruit drinks, mine of course with an added shot of Malibu Rum, and some curry chicken samosas which were amazing!
Part of the landscape on our walk back to the street.
I love this shot of the fish next to the emptied ice bags. Just sitting on the street waiting to get put out for display to entice the tourists to stop and eat. Fresh catch.
June at the Karon Temple. I made him pose
Typical Thai statue.
When we exited the Buddhist temple, we walked a different way back to the hotel. It was a part of the street I had never been on before. I snapped a photo of this house’s elaborate lawn ornaments. Reminded me of when I was a rebellious teen and would steal garden balls to help save the neighborhood for the ugly displays.
In the end Kathy calculated that we walked 9 miles that day! No wonder my feet were literally throbbing! I finally caved and negotiated a cab ride for the remainder of the way home. I felt like I was back in NYC pounding the pavement and my legs screaming at me. These New Yorkers have stamina!
I hopped on Tia and attempted to beat sundown but as soon as I passed over the mountain to my side of the island, the luminous black clouds anchored the sky and drenched me, yet again! I’m thankful for the zip lock freezer bag purchase I made at the gas station my last night in the USA. My passport is now protected.
As I was leaving Thailand to head to the US, the customs officer warned me, as she could tell my passport had been wet. She said it can’t get wet. I explained my scooter and the rain, and she smiled understandingly but was firm about correcting it in the future.
Wayne “we chatted” me that the Yu Garden I was so determined to see was actually closed for construction. Ironic right. I discovered so many other places and embraced them not even knowing that my destination was closed. Love how God works in my favor.
The one other place I had read about which was near Yu Garden was called Old Town. Said to be a contrast to the modern newness of the city. It was authentic in architecture and old world style. I did my best to zig zag using Apple’s crazy map and ended up seeing a lot of the old living section as well. (according to google maps this area is called Shanghai Old Street) I passed the same man in one of the alleys twice and I just hand gestured a circle and he understood I was literally walking in circles.
An entryway, I believe to the Old Street.
True alleyways. Filled with electrical wires and boarded up windows.
Instead of side carts like they have in Thailand, China attaches theirs on the back.
I actually enjoy the contrasting colors and materials they use on this building.
Yes I am pretty sure someone still lives here. Even with the taped up windows.
Beautiful authenticity.
The colors, the modern chair vs antique, the padlock and worn down wood. I truly appreciate.
Love this view I captured. I’m thinking photography could be another hobby I pick up. (but it may interfere with my other two jobs and beach time)
I actually hope, if they do fix this area up, that they keep the architecture and just refinish it like Phuket town.
I didn’t have time to eat all day. But their food shops were intriguing.
I came across this building and a woman approached me and asked if I wanted to buy a watch. I wasn’t sure what was going on. I just said no and kept walking to discover this great touristy shopping area.
Saw more tourists here than anywhere else in the city.
Lots of shops and no time to spend the 30$ I cashed in.
Trying to capture the architecture but couldn’t quite get the lighting.
You can see how crowded it was.
Meredith had told me about this. Its a bun like pastry that you drink from and there is soup inside. A true Shanghai speciality. I wish my girls were with me because I am pretty sure they would’ve jumped right in and given it a taste.
I did stop here and this man hand crafted me a good luck poem.
Sad seeing the Mc Donald’s sign in this shot eh? Just wrong.
Started to all look the same.
When I got out of the shopping area, I was distracted by this street and started to walk in the wrong direction again. I worried if I was ever going to make it back to my hotel in time for the taxi and flight to Phuket.
I decided to chance the subway system. Even with the transfer it would have to be faster than my tired feet walking.
I successfully made it closer to my hotel. Still had to trek another 20 minutes, but it beats walking the entire 45! I’m sure if I were smarter I could have figured out a closer stop. I was just tired at this point and their kiosks were not logical to me.
I honestly was thrilled and exhausted by how much I squeezed into my layover visit in Shanghai. I hope next time to see Beijing and actually stay a couple days if at all possible. I hadn’t been to China in about 13 years. It was beautiful to witness their innovation and experience their modern culture.
Seeing Shanghai in the daytime was spectacular. The architecture, the parks, the greenery walls, the cleanliness and high end retail. Was truly a treat to be able to spend a layover in China.
A normal person would’ve taken at least two days to cover the areas I did. And I am sure there is so much more to see here. It’s like NYC in that sense, that you will never see it all.
Everywhere you went there were parks, flowers perfectly attended to, and these live plant green walls. Helping to absorb the pollution and add oxygen into our atmosphere.
This view was taken from the second park I happened to enter. Notice the green wall gating the area before the city scape.
A closer view.
And yet another green wall. Why doesn’t the USA have these? They have been in Europe for years and now in China. We are so slow to catch up with environmental issues. (Probably because there is no profit or $ in it)
All the streets are tree lined.
Looking out the Starbucks window and seeing the Chinese mural and bicycle was worth capturing. I am not sure if the USA has caught onto the no straws yet but over here they have a new lid that you can sip from.
Picture of the map I was given with the one circle showing where my hotel was and the other the garden that was closed. The walking time between the two circles is 45 minutes. I know, looks like 5 right?
Their scooters you don’t hear coming because they are all electric. There are not as many as in Thailand, but they do frequent driving on the sidewalks which complicates things.
Rent a bikes here as well.
Never forget when you are in a city to look up.
Their buildings were faceted and reflective.
Trying to capture this golden fu dog.
Some older architecture mixed into the modern views.
For some reason the yellow crane caught my eye in this view and I wanted to include it. Symbolic of nature, city and the work still being done.
I was thrilled when I finally reached the river and spotted the Oriental Pearl building.
I crossed the street to find a wonderful river walk.
Selfie moment.
I wish I had time to explore across the river. This view is postcard perfect.
View as I was walking away. I took so many photos of this skyline!
Taking in the view and activity of the boats.
The boats lined up along the pier were Chinese government agency vessels. Customs, urban management, etc.Urban landscape.
That cool twisted building is called the Shanghai Tower.
Another view of it after I left the river side. The red flowers here are untouched photoshop wise. They were truly that blazing red and were planted throughout the city.
Tried to do a panoramic view.
An adventure I am happy to have experienced and appreciated.
Oddly these buildings were on my side of the river. If you were looking away from the modern skyline this is what you saw. Nice that the seating benches have an overhead piece that will shade the sun.
There’s that building with the crown from the night view.
Can’t say enough about how excited I was to explore this city. Tearing up the streets in Tonya style, attempting to take in the views and the culture with my IPhone.
After the sculpture park I headed in what I thought was the direction toward Yu Garden. I started early enough so I thought a 45 minute morning walk would be a great way to take in more of the city. Afterall it was a sunny day and I had been trapped on a bus and a plane the day before.
Well, to God’s lesson of following His path not mine, I walked for a solid 35 minutes only to discover it was in the complete opposite direction of the river. I enlarged my Apple maps, the only internet GPS that worked, to see what was in this area I was now located in. Nothing. No notable landmarks, no tourist sites. I had walked past quite a few very high end designer stores but had no clue if I should just turn around or ?
The landscaping along my walk. Everything pristinely kept.
Landscaping outside the designer stores.
Stopping to regroup I saw this park. Okay, another park, why not? As I wandered through it, the message was clear on the lesson I was to take in from this culture.
Took a photo of the sign so I could remember where I was.
You know me and nature.
Reminded me of Central Park with the buildings in the background, but you could get lost in here and forget you were in the city.
Hearing music I made my way to these folks dancing and having a blast.
Reminded me of the belly dancers from Yellow Springs.
Further up the path was this elderly group practicing their singing together.
People were randomly doing Tai chi and would hang their bags in any available tree.
This man captured my heart. He was simply rubbing the tree bark as if speaking to the tree. I am going to steal this habit and do it here. It seemed so right and natural. Oddly something that looked like what I have always wanted to do but never had. A new form of absorbing nature. (And probably a wonderful exfoliant)
The elderly in China are in every park and could teach everyone a thing or two. I saw one lady walking and clapping her arms in front of her and then behind her. I wondered why. So I tried it. Was a great stretch and also served as a sort of meditation.
I saw another elderly gentleman pumping his arms like chicken wings as he walked.
What I love most is how I was brought here and what I saw spoke to me. As if community and exercise were being shown as life lessons to pay attention to. They so boldly display it here. They don’t wear any sort of fancy outfits. They just find a spot and find their peace. This is not a trend. This is a lifestyle.
This was a pathway in the sculpture park that was like a track. What I loved about it was it wasn’t just a circle around nothingness like our tracks. It maneuvered and went in and out between trees. Nobody was running. Everyone just walks.
Another dance rehearsal at another park. Their green space here is admirable.
I sat on a park bench in this park and ate some ice cream. The trees were so very different than what I was used to seeing. Their movement is freeflowing.
As I was exiting this park, I saw many groups of men gathered around stone stools and tables. I thought maybe chess matches were going on, but discovered it was a card game most likely playing as gambling entertainment.
I saw a few 70th Anniversary signs still up at many parks.
I hope once I am back on Cambly my students will share some of the celebrations they may have seen regarding this big anniversary for China.
In my hotel , there was a party in the room next door that woke me up at 2 am and continued until 4am. I blasted them back best I could with some Post Malone tunes downloaded from Spotify, but it was difficult to get back to sleep. There was also 24 hour construction going on right outside my window. Apparently China does not have quiet hours for work. I could not escape.
I set my alarm to 7 am so I could do my best to cover Shanghai in the 6 hours/layover. The forecast was sunny with zero percent chance of rain. Bonus.
Starving from the lack of food on the airlines that was edible (no worries Joanne sitting next to me ate my meals) and the hotel restaurant closed upon arrival, my first stop was any coffee shop I saw. Happened to be Starbucks, which goes against my usual “no chain restaurants while traveling” rule, but I made an exception and got a much needed iced coffee and veggie sandwich to go.
I headed toward the metro station determined to get to the ever famous Yu Garden. That was my goal of the day. Funny how God always has other plans for me. I read my Jesus Calling daily and it basically said to follow His path not mine. Today I believe that meant literally.
I discovered a sculpture park by the metro station. I mean really?? It never popped up as any sort of tourist thing to do in Shanghai, yet I was giddy to have stumbled upon it. It was beautifully kept. Police and security were everywhere and people were starting to come out to begin their day. Was a perfect morning.
The first sight I came across were the cow sculptures. Felt right at home again.
The contrast of the cattle vs the skyline. Nuf said.
This piece had a dual purpose of art and jungle gym for kids.
Loved the curves and tangled view with the stiff vertical structures in the background. Again a beautiful contrast in movement and color.
People stayed on the pathways and there was no litter to be found.
From the different angles I could not quite figure out what the hands were attempting to hold.
These trees were my favorite. I have not seen anything quite like them before The way their branches sprout out in different angular directions.
A view so perfect for these sculpted figures to gaze out upon. I wished I was allowed on the grass so I could go sit with them.
I didn’t take photos of all the sculptures because I thought I was overdoing it. But you can see how unique each one displayed is. Such an interesting park for the public to walk through and appreciate while picking their favorite.
The reflection of the water as still as can be.
Selfie. Yes showing my lack of sleep I know.
This cut out was not in the park but I came across it later when walking the streets.
Another sculpture in the city streets. Red must be a popular color here.
Julie picked me up from the mega bus with a turkey sandwich ready for me to devour after my 6 hour bus ride. We caught up in our quick 45 minute ride to the Chicago airport talking a mile a minute recapping my Cincy stay. She got an earful. I always feel guilty that she never gives me more scoop. She’s too good of a listener!
I arrived to join in quite a long line for China Eastern check in. When I finally got to the counter I was informed that my luggage was overweight. They wanted to charge me an extra $165 to send it as is. Instead, in foreigner fashion, (you know you’ve seen it done before if you travel much!) I pulled my suitcase to the side and started using an available scale to unload 7 kilos from it.
Love economy class. Thank goodness I’m not on any sort of time schedule.
Thank God I packed an Ikea bag in that luggage which came in handy considering my additional carry on was already packed tightly and the strap was tearing apart. I should have taken the roller bag that Zoe pulled out for me, but instead I thought I was being smarter by carrying the KET smaller bag. Lesson learned.
This make shift carry on was heavy as hell and I paid my shoulder dues carting it around everywhere I went. The one thing about traveling alone, you don’t have anyone to watch your luggage when you take a quick trip to the bathroom or need to grab a water. I ended up hugging this bag like a baby carrying it in front of me with both hands to ease the load.
Such a beautiful sunset. This shot was actually taken on my way from Shanghai to Phuket. But felt it was appropriately placed in my airport stories.
Upon arrival at Shanghai, I carried my Ikea baby to the customs line for a 24 hour visa stay. In front of me was an Australian couple, the women recognizably with the dreaded Alzheimer’s disease. The man, I guessed to be the husband based on the way she kept kissing him, was struggling to keep her in place as she wandered out of the line every 2 minutes. I spoke to him about understanding his situation only to receive what I believe was a much needed human conversation. Unfortunately, I struggled to understand his accent.
I actually was wrongfully judging him. Thinking to myself why is he taking her out, she obviously will get lost easily and he was very distracted and tired. Everyone in line was watching over her. I asked him if he had a tracking device on her. (more out of curiosity) Of course he did. I asked him how he kept her in the hotel rooms at night and he explained his clever tools. I asked if she got disheveled when in a new situation or sat still for the long flights. All none of my business yet I was in all seriousness wanting to know. She was blind like Pretty Perfect Pam, wide eyed and smiling always. He was taking her to Wales to visit family. Probably a much needed break for him.
After clearing customs with my mini visa, I grabbed my luggage and a new SIM (which doesn’t work google, what’s app, Instagram or facebook-aka China internet blocks) and headed to figure out my way to the hotel. I only had 30 USD$ on me since I loaned a fellow on the bus 30$ for a luggage fee that he had no cash for. (He later Zelled it back to me) I exchanged that cash and tried an ATM only to have it not read my card. PANIC> How much was the taxi to the hotel? Do I risk jumping in and not having enough to pay? It was quite dark, I was tired and didn’t feel up to figuring out the metro with my Ikea baby and roller bag in tow.
I found a booth outside of the airport that of course took credit cards and off I went on an $50 dollar hour long journey to the hotel.
I “we chatted” with one of my Cambly students, letting her know I was in her country. She then called me and talked to the taxi driver to ensure I was safe 🙂 I told her about my cash and atm situation and she said she would hire me a driver herself, a private car, to take me back the next day. (What a sweetheart!! I swear people are amazing to me for no reason!)
It was wonderful having Wayne ( my student) to talk to on “we chat” during my quick stay in China. I felt less alone, since I was cut off from all other social media outlets. On my drive to my boutique hotel, I was completely fascinated by the lights of this city and snapped all of the following photos from the cab windows. A true tourist I know= geek. Many are not the clearest, but had to share nonetheless.
I have so many post drafts lined up after this one of my 6 hours in Shanghai which were incredible. I have never been here before and took it all in!
Changed messages up the side constantly.
The buildings on the left changed colors along with the ones beside it. Here captured in all red.Then it moved to all blue.
The literally thousands of skyrise apartment buildings were beyond belief. This city was so much bigger than any other I’d ever experienced.
All bridges were lit and beautiful.
Do you think the cabi was getting annoyed with me? 🙂
A constant cluster of skyrises.
Could not capture the views but you can sort of get the point. Huge and colorful. Full of life.
The colored lights were the best.
The architecture which I captured the next day was so modern and diverse.
You can see the ever famous Oriental Pearl Tower in pink in the background and the building in front of it was wearing a crown.
The view flying over Shanghai.
The pilot gave us an excellent take of the city from the air. Glad I was able to whip out my phone in time to capture it.
Shanghai at night got me excited! I couldn’t wait to explore the next day. I woke up at 7 am, repacked and headed out to the streets at 8 am. Only to walk continually until 2 pm. But sooooo worth it! I’ll admit I’ve already gone through one package of salon pas heating squares trying to ease my pain.
This post is for all those that do not have the privilege of living in Cincinnati and seeing such a wonderful display of art! My timing back to the US was perfect as I was able to capture awesome fall weather, changing of the leaves, the Yellow Springs festival and Cincy’s BLINK.
I love that Cincinnati embraces such a creative light up art display and moves pedestrian traffic throughout downtown to be witness to how this area has remarkably transformed. This year BLINK was expanded to include Covington, Kentucky. Justin’s new job has a beautiful view of the Cincinnati skyline and we were able to go up and take a look before crossing the bridge to The Banks Thursday night. (The Banks is a part of Cincinnati by the river in between the Cincinnati Red’s baseball field and the Cincinnati Bengals’ football stadium)
My phone doesn’t do the best on night photos, but you have to admit this is an awesome view!
Covington building with black and white poetry and imagery continually changing on the facade.
The Ascent condos, already an architectural wonder/eyesore- were continually changing lights.
Possibly the world’s largest disco ball?
Very clever use of the arched windows.
A lot of the murals already existing in the city became victims to the ever changing lights adding to the creativity. Food truck seems appropriately displayed below.
Roebling Bridge connecting Covington to Cincinnati- crossing the Ohio River. This bridge for those that are not familiar was built in 1866 and at the time was the longest suspension bridge in America. It was copied in 1883 by the more famous Brooklyn Bridge in NYC.
The city’s skyscraper lights were all on mixing in with all the colorful displays added just for this weekend.
The SkyStar ferris wheel has been up in Cincinnati since September 2018 and keeps extending its stay. It’s an added attraction to The Banks and now lit appropriately for Blink.
My friends Stephanie and Bob being goofy by the wheel.
Walking through the city enjoying the lights is only improved upon with some adult beverages and great friends.
On the Contemporary Art Museum walls the ever changing artistic display was fascinating.
Trendy marbling effect.
Each display was unique. I wish I had time to really stay and watch them all fully transform or even read more on their meanings and original artist’s thoughts and intentions. An upside down smiley?
The light up teeter totters were fun for all ages! Wish these were permanent.
Having fun as if we were kids again.
This was one of my favorites in Washington Park.
Now this display was just plain fun. I mean who wouldn’t want to sit on toilets that are in the middle of a park, glowing and smoking!
Had to give it a try! Facing potties why not?
This particular building beside the historic Cincinnati Music Hall had so many great graphics. I couldn’t stop photographing it.
Odd but beautiful nonetheless. The streets were very crowded, seemed like a great turn out.
Ironically once I got to Shanghai, they have these type of changing light displays regularly. I think they are onto something. It brings a city to life!
Not sure exactly what this was, but some sort of moving display that lights up and changed colors.
A tribute to Bootsy Collins a Hall of Fame funk musician from Cincinnati.
A fun map showing the coverage of the work.
We went down both Thursday night and then again Sunday. The city still has a few kinks to work out with the parking situation and overly crowded free trolly. We could not get out of the parking garage one night and ended up Ubering home only to retrieve the car the next day. Was crazy how traffic was at a stand still!
This was my first trip back to the USA since leaving in April for island life in Thailand. I wasn’t sure what to expect. I kept overly busy. My calendar was booked solid with bank appointments, tax talks, immigration, family visits and friend events. I experienced a big heart felt tug of familiarity and love yet watched my return also play with my anxiety of obligations and expectations.
I was reminded of the fear driven energies commonly found in American culture. Fear of enough money, fear of having enough time to do all that needs done in a day, fear of what others think, fear of losing their jobs, fear of success, fear of confrontation, fear of safety and fear of what the future brings.
I told Julie upon my arrival, when she drove me from the Chicago airport to the megabus station, that I wish I didn’t understand the voices around me. It was putting me in an agitated state. I prefer being able to tune out others like music in the background. Don’t get me wrong I love people. And sincerely LOVE engaging with intimate conversations in attempts to understand the world around me and my own personal growth. But it was tough. No longer being in my secluded self controlled bubble.
Justin , as always, challenged me with thoughts of why environment has such an effect on my personal peace. How could one control and sustain your own peace within. I am deep in figuring this one out and even when in Shanghai noticed the different energies of that culture and my behavior accordingly. They say awareness is the first step right?
This photo captures me in such a natural expression wearing my new diamond heart shape necklace. A shimmering gift from my love welcoming me home.
A reminder of what we need to all remember no matter where we are at.
Staring out the window on the bus ride home, this image of the flat lands really resonated with me.
Loved sitting out in the sun sipping on a beer with Cincinnati’s west side city view.
It really is a beautiful skyline.
Love this image capturing one of the calm moments in my week.
This guy was new to Oakley Square!
The joy of revisiting this establishment with my Zoe professionally managing the very busy crowd that followed me in. I sat and ate two sundaes just to get some time in with her.
I-75 view so familiar from all my trips to Findlay. Now travelling to visit with my Sedona!
With the sight of the sugar towers you know you reached my hometown.
A blinding capture trying to make our way through the city.
Landscape art in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
This car is a classic at festivals. Only in America right?
The belly dancers continued to bring joy at the bi -annual Yellow Springs street fair.
This coconut shaved pineapple martini was instant happiness. I do miss the craft beers and cocktails!
Was a very quick two weeks that flew by in a flash. I am heading back in January to renew my visa at the US-Thai Embassy and plan to stay a full month. My kids will for sure be sick of me by that point after visiting me 2 weeks prior in December 🙂 But I am looking forward to less rush. I’m sure the snow and ice will keep me in and not quite as active.*** Until then…..
Tonya Takes Thailand 