This month we’re Straying with Kelly Moodie from Canada who recently got off the beaten track in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia on a Stray Asia Tour.
What would you say to yourself one month before took the Stray Bus?
Pack lightly and make sure to leave room for a pair of elephant pants (or several) clothes in Asia that are so cheap and comfy!
What is your favourite photo that you took on your trip?
This selfie was taken with our whole group in front of the slow boat we spent two days cruising down the Mekong River on. We had a great group, it was quite diverse but we all got along so well. Morten was 20, and Andrew was 70 and he was out later than us most nights proving that age is just a number! The longboat was a great way to get to know everyone in the group.
What were the highlights for you?
The Tree Top Adventure in Paksong (Laos) was life-changing. Ziplining while surrounded by the most magnificent breathtaking waterfalls was the most incredible feeling! In fact, the first thing that pops into my mind when I think of my Stray adventure is the beautiful scenery in Laos. The scenery in Laos was amazing, everywhere, all the time.
Another highlight was visiting the elephant conservation reserve in Chiang Mai. The one run by the Karen Tribe was incredible with very low person-to-elephant ratios so we got tonnes of time to interact with, and get to know, the elephants.
What is the most interesting thing you learnt or did while on tour?
It was interesting (and horrifying) to learn about the millions of innocent people that were killed during the Cambodian genocide. This photo was taken at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (formerly S21 prison) in Phnom Penh. It shows the prisoners who were arrested for “crimes” such as having a university education or being a teacher, doctor or monk. It was terrible to realise this happened not long ago.
What will you miss the most when you return home?
Cheap and delicious Thai Food- especially Khao Soi which you can find in Northern Thailand and Laos. Crispy fried noodles in a yellow curry sauce are delicious and not something you usually find in Thai restaurants back home.
The weirdest foods I ate on tour was marinated and barbecued rats in Cambodia. Surprisingly it was very tasty however I don’t think I’ll be craving it when I get home!
Explore South-East Asia like Kelly
Want to explore South-East Asia just like Kelly did? Check out the Stray Asia Tours and make it happen. There are heaps of bus passes to choose from so you will see more & do more when you explore Asia the #StrayWay.
