Boracay, Philippines

I have died and gone to heaven!  Boracay is one of the most stunning places I've ever seen in my entire life.  White sand, crystal clear aqua water, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and sail boats lining the horizon.  It rivals Grand Cayman for the best beach.  Plus, the country is 80% Christian and I think 40% of that is Catholic. Saw a few statues of Mary while walking around today. There are lots of Christmas decorations up and restaurants and stores along the main strip were playing Christmas music today.  I've spent two glorious days soaking up as much sun as possible before I return to the freezing winter cold in Korea and Colorado.  Tomorrow I'm going scuba diving and then I'll spend my last two days lounging around in the sun again. 

As much as I love Boracay, part of my heart is still back in Thailand.  Chang Mai is a beautiful place, but what made it a highlight were the people I met.  Our "Chang Gang" consisted of Clare (Canadian), Nat (Aussie), Yelle (Dutch), and Nate (American). A few other people would hang out with us on a daily basis, but the five of us got pretty close.  Clare and I met on the LONG bus ride from Laos to Chang Mai and after that we just clicked.  I didn't think we'd be friends at first, but after chatting and hanging out the first day together, we became inseparable.  We're trying to plan our reunion, and Boracay would be 1,000 times better if she were here.  But, I've met some nice people here and I'm so happy to be in such a beautiful place on the last leg of my trip.

I fly to Korea on the fifth and back to Colorado on the seventh.  I can't believe I'll be home for the first time in fifteen months!

Hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving.  Can't wait to be home for Christmas.