Vietnam is charming, beautiful and enchanting with a unique blend of western and eastern cultures. My brother’s family of four and I spent Christmas in Hanoi and Ha Long Bay. We had a fabulous time. Read more
88-Temple Pilgrimage, Shikoku, Japan December 6-10, 2012 (3)
 Dining in a monastery |
 Dai Garan, Mt. Koya |
Categories: My Japan trips
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88-Temple Pilgrimage, Shikoku, Japan December 6-10, 2012 (2)
 Shosanji |
 Ryozenji |
Categories: My Japan trips
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88-Temple Pilgrimage, Shikoku, Japan December 6-10, 2012 (1)
88-Temple Pilgrimage Route, Shikoku
Kobo Daishi弘法大師, founder of Shingon-shu or “True Word School” 真言宗, was born in Shikoku 四国. The famous 1400-km long 88-temple pilgrimage route in Shikoku 四国遍路,is associated with Kobo Daishi. After completing the first stage of the pilgrimage route visiting 23 temples in Tokushima Prefecture, I reached his final resting place in Mt. Koya高野山. The pilgrimage experience, exquisite architectures of the temples and beautiful scenery with foliage and snow are most unforgettable. Read more
Categories: My Japan trips
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Taiwan November 26-29, 2012
Jocelyn, my neighbour
The 35th anniversary gathering of my Social Work Class will be held in Taiwan next July. I had no intention to visit Taipei before this occasion till my neighbour Jocelyn persuaded me to go with her. This is the only trip I have taken against my wish since my retirement. Read more
Categories: My China trips
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57 Days in Central Asia & the Balkans: Epilogue
An Akhal-Teke horse in Turkmenistan
Both the Silk Road and the Balkans have long been on my wish list. Finally I have come to see these two fascinating regions. Comparing with my 72- day overland journey to nine West African countries earlier this year, this 52-day trip to ten countries in Central Asia and the Balkan Peninsula is smooth, comfortable and uneventful. Read more
Balkan (6) Ohrid, Macedonia & Tirana, Albania October 11-14/10, 2012
Categories: My Europe trips
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Balkan (5) Prizren, Kosovo & Tirana, Albania October 9-10, 2012
 Our Lady of Ljevis Church (1307), a World Heritage Site in Prizren |
 Clock Tower & Et'hem Bey Mosque, Tirana |
Categories: My Europe trips
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