Asia Series: Ayutthaya

I took a day bike trip about an hour outside of Bangkok to the ancient city of Ayutthaya.  Ayuthaya was founded in 1350 as the capital of Siam.  (now Thailand)  It was mostly destroyed in the 18th century by the Burmese, but the ruins are still absolutely stunning.  I felt like I was in an Indiana Jones movie.   Lunch included drinking from a coconut- SOOOOO delicious!

The Asia Series: Bhutan, Part 2

We stopped over in the town of Punakha and stayed at this lovely hotel overlooking the city.  We visited the Punakha Dzong (fortress) which is the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan.  

The Phallus is a sign of fertility and good luck in Bhutan....so yep, it was everywhere (insert giggles)

The Buddha Tree

The Dzong (fortress)

Our last day was an intense hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery- It is 2000 feet up on a sheer cliff face!  It's about a 3 mile, steep uphill hike (1 way). Not for the faint of heart, but well worth it!

You can take ponies halfway to the top- not us though!

Another Dzong (fortress) in Paro Our last evening was a traditional Bhutanese meal at an old farm house.  Complete with a real hot stone bath!