More Than Shopping

Let me start by saying I love to shop when I travel, in particular when I am on the lookout for something authentic to purchase, items that reference the place that I am visiting, a product from a local brand, locally made hopefully, even better if crafted by an artisan rather than mass manufactured. However, shopping isn't the be all and end all of a good trip.

An original experience, a lovely view to take in, eating as the locals do, a gastronomic meal, spiritual enhancement, and many more intangible encounters add to the journey. These are the experiences that stay with us when we reminisce years later.

As 2012 comes to a close, I am grateful for the many journeys travel has taken me on the past twelve months. I look forward to even greater ones in the year ahead.

Beautiful view of Bangkok's skyline from the terrace of Zense at CentralWorld Bangkok, Thailand.

Birthday Bash In Bangkok

I was joking with my good friend, saying that his birthday week-end festivities in Bangkok were akin to a destination wedding. There was a pre-birthday bash dinner the night before, the birthday bash itself, followed by a post birthday bash brunch the next day. It was a wonderful way to celebrate and I had a great time as I always do.

I got into Bangkok last Friday morning, one of the earlier guests to arrive, and was happy to be invited to dinner at fab italian restaurant Zanotti. It was a very nice prelude to the birthday party on Saturday. Up on the 17th floor of CentralWorld, Zense offered a fantastic view of the Bangkok skyline at dusk over pre-dinner drinks. Dinner amongst good friends in an intimate setting made the celebration a meaningful one, particularly during this milestone of significance. Sunday brunch at The Sukothai was a smaller affair as some friends had headed off to Hua Hin, but no less enjoyable.

This occasion reinforced a few things I already knew. Good friends are hard to come by and when they do, we should nurture and cherish the friendship. Good friends are those whom you can be open with, without the fear of being judged. Good friends are the ones who make it a point to consider your likes and dislikes, and then plan to make one's stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Good friends are those whose birthdays you look forward to celebrating again come the following year.

Table setting during the birthday dinner at Zense, CentralWorld in Bangkok, Thailand.