Photos from River Kwai and War Memorials

In the heat of the afternoon we visited Hell Fire Pass where the PoWs had cut through limestone by hand to build the railway. we received audio guides which allowed us to walk in peace and contemplate how horrendous life was for these men.  We were all immensely moved by the experience, I was shocked how much impact it had on Isy and Maddy. Later we visited a museum by the River Kwai, I had just finished a book called 'The Railway Man" and in this book it talked about a Japanese interpreter who later devoted much time to making amends for events in the war, this is a memorial to that man. We then set off in a convoy of Rickshaws to the Bridge over the River Kwai. Poor chap. Refreshments on the Bridge. War Cemetery. After visiting Hell Fire Pass Isy asked if the next day she could place a flower on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  Clearly the experience had made a significant impression on her and we very moved by her thoughts.  I found the visit extremely moving and reading the grave stones had to wipe away tears.

Photos from Waterfalls and fish that nibble your toes

After Bangkok we travelled to Kanchanaburi and a much welcomed dip in some waterfalls.  However, to get to the falls you had to swim through the pools, this was highly entertaining as when you put your feet in the water the fish started to nibble them. Extremely good for removing dead skin but personally not my idea of fun.  Needless to say Rich, Isy and Maddy were straight in there whilst I tried to avoid the fish and failed miserably. No suprise that after this Maddy had holes in the bottom of her swim suit. Some of those fish. To jump or not to jump?

Photos from Bangkok Easter 2013

Once again we have been lucky enough to escape and enjoy more travel.  We had 2 weeks in Thailand travelling around with 2 other families from the UK.  Our travel companions and their children were great company and the holiday was manic but fantastic. Have to admit that I am not sure the girls would ever want a 2 week beach holiday anymore. Anyway we started off in Bangkok and ironically after leaving a dry country ended up staying in a dry hotel in Bangkok.  The nice chilled glance of wine by the pool was very illusive We started with a boat trip around the canals of Bangkok, Maddy was at the front and when we set off at great speed she was not amused, thankfully we slowed down. One of many Buddhas, our own mini Buddha (plastic sprayed gold) was dropped shortly after purchase and his head fell off, oops, thankfully superglue has fixed this. Outside the Grand Palace, long trousers only hence the fact we are all extremely hot in 40degrees of humidity Grand Palace, imitate the statue competition.