https://blogofriches.com/2019/07/27/wrapping-up-in-japan-hiroshima-fukuoka-and-okinawa/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_7164.jpgIMG_7164Okinawa is also home to plenty of Alana's favorite mythological animal: the shisa.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_7111.jpgIMG_7111Shurijo Castle was much more colorful than the castles we had been to on mainland Japan.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_7206.jpgIMG_7206Our first sunset on Zamami was a little... 🤨https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_7078.jpgIMG_7078Alana gazes into the distance, reflecting on the ephemeral beauty of the cherry blossoms.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_7074.jpgIMG_7074Finally! The whole reason we decided to come to Japan in spring!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_7091.jpgIMG_7091Somehow this is the only picture we ended up with of Canal City. It really was an impressive mall, and there were plenty of affordable restaurants inside.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6992.jpgIMG_6992Hooray for cherry blossoms!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6985.jpgIMG_6985The Memorial Cenotaph, located under the concrete arch, is inscribed with the names of over 290,000 victims of the bomb.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6980.jpgIMG_6980The A-bomb Dome remains in the same condition it was left in after the bomb blast.2019-07-30T19:40:33+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/07/20/bunny-island-and-miyajima/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6768.jpgIMG_6768https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6970.jpgIMG_6970Hungry, hungry Richard!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6930.jpgIMG_6930Ooh aah!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6925-2.jpgIMG_6925 (2)Our top three highlights of Miyajima: the sunset, Great Torii, and deer.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6786.jpgIMG_6786Hungry, hungry bunnies!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6744.jpgIMG_6744Hungry, hungry bunnies!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6719.jpgIMG_6719Hungry, hungry bunnies!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6712.jpgIMG_6712Our view of the ticket/bunny food shop from the line for the ferry.2019-07-20T18:54:10+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/06/04/crotch-peeping-at-amanohashidate/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_6596.jpgIMG_6596Ready for bed!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_6583.jpgIMG_6583Alana and Kasabo: the official Amanohashidate mascot!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_6503-e1556728618775.jpgIMG_6503Matanozoki (tr: crotch peep). And yes there were plenty of other people making use of these special crotch peeping platforms.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_6496.jpgIMG_6496Don't take off! Not that the one foot drop would really hurt you.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_6485.jpgIMG_6485The Kyoto Tango Railway is a far cry from the bullet trains that Japan is known for.2019-06-05T01:49:09+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/05/23/marathon-of-spas-one-night-in-kinosaki-onsen/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6483-e1556332549144.jpgIMG_6483After our marathon spa day we were ready to hit the road again!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6471-e1556332333133.jpgIMG_6471Nothing like a cold bottle of milk to take the edge off of a spa session.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6480.jpgIMG_6480Onsen #6: Ghttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6477.jpgIMG_6477Onsen #5: Kouno-yuhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6475.jpgIMG_6475Onsen #4: Mandara-yuhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6470.jpgIMG_6470Onsen #3: Ichino-yuhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6463.jpgIMG_6463Onsen #2: Yanagi-yuhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6454.jpgIMG_6454Onsen #1: Satouno-yuhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6449-e1556331741187.jpgIMG_6449Seriously, who though this was a good idea?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6446.jpgIMG_6446Alana is ready to hit the spas!2019-05-23T16:00:29+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/05/16/animal-adventures-in-japan-part-2-the-deer-of-nara/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5825.jpgIMG_5825The bronze Buddha was very large and Todai-ji itself was a very impressive structure.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5879.jpgIMG_5879https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5859.jpgIMG_5859"Got any more of those crackers?" asks the deer before searching Alana's pockets. Once the deer realized you were handing the crackers out they could be pretty relentless in their pursuit for more.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5852.jpgIMG_5852Awwwww!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5841.jpgIMG_5841The one and only Nara Deer Crackershttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5820.jpgIMG_5820The deer are quite literally everywhere in the area around Nara Park.2019-05-16T23:10:21+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/04/29/miyama-heimat-youth-hostel-the-coolest-place-we-stayed-in-japan/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6432-e1556292508418.jpgIMG_6432The hostel featured one of the main attractions of Miyama, a traditional thached roof. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6428.jpgIMG_6428The Miyama Heimatt Youth Hostel: by far the best accommodation of our month in Japan.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6405.jpgIMG_6405All the trouble we went through to get there was absolutely worth it to experience this side of Japan.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6366-e1556291878969.jpgIMG_6366I almost felt bad digging in to such a carefully prepared breakfast. Note the natto in the small, pink bowl. I think this is something that everyone should try at least once in their life. It is very good for you after all. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6359.jpgIMG_6359Our hosts checked to make sure we were alright consuming a caffeinated beverage at night time before our matcha lesson.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6354.jpgIMG_6354We spent some time practicing our names on old newspaper before attempting if for real on nice white paper.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6351.jpgIMG_6351This veritable feast was cooked by our extraordinary hosts, who then joined us for dinner. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6349.jpgIMG_6349Waiting at the bus stop, wondering if we would make it to our destination.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6347.jpgIMG_6347I have a feeling we're not in Kyoto anymore.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6344-e1556291049692.jpgIMG_6344On the road again, trying to take up as little space as manageable. Fortunately the local countryside trains weren't nearly as crowded as the big city lines.2019-04-29T18:33:57+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/about/2019-04-28T23:26:08+00:00weekly0.6https://blogofriches.com/2019/04/26/things-to-eat-in-kyoto/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_3897-e1556310075937.jpgIMG_3897This is one of the pictures the owner of Vegan Cooking Arashiyama-kan was kind enough to take for us at the temple nearby.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6339.jpgIMG_6339You donut like tofu you say? Togaden will change your mind!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_62411.jpgIMG_6241(1)The owner explained what everything was, but of course I can't remember now. It was all delicious though!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6079-e1556120234421.jpgIMG_6079Oh man am I excited for soba! heh heh heh2019-04-26T20:35:23+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/04/24/things-to-do-in-kyoto/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6284.jpgIMG_6284Behold, the golden pagoda!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6278-1.jpgIMG_6278https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_62501.jpgIMG_6250(1)If there are fifteen rocks in a garden, but no one there to see them, do they even make a sound?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_62181.jpgIMG_6218(1)What monkey business is this?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6177.jpgIMG_6177Here we see Alana in deep contemplation.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6154.jpgIMG_6154Kodai-ji also had a very interesting night time light display.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6124.jpgIMG_6124If you only have time to visit Yasaka Shrine once, I'd recommend saving it for night.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6042.jpgIMG_6042Never mind that previous caption. Some situations are just lost causes.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5924.jpgIMG_5924As much as I complain about the crowds at some of these places, patience and good timing can usually get you a pretty good picture.2019-04-24T15:03:07+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/04/15/things-to-eat-in-osaka/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6317.jpgIMG_6317You can't beat delicious and affordable!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6311.jpgIMG_6311Genji Soba wins the best soba we had during our trip award.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5798.jpgIMG_5798The list of things I would brave a crowded market for is not long, but it definitely includes donuts.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5906.jpgIMG_5906Pizza again?!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5785.jpgIMG_5785You can never go wrong with fried stuff on a stick.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5667.jpgIMG_5667Gyoza oh! is right!2019-04-15T23:35:21+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/04/07/things-to-do-in-osaka/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6314.jpgIMG_6314Spa World also had a pretty impressive crew of mascots.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/spa-world.jpgspa worldArtist rendition: Me and the guys up on the 6th floor.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6313.jpgIMG_6313This is as far into Spa World as you'll get via our pictures. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6308.jpgIMG_6308Be sure to do your part to keep mossy Buddha mossy.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5797.jpgIMG_5797Many street markets are covered, so don't let bad weather ruin your shopping spree!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5775.jpgIMG_5775Tsutenkaku (that Eiffel Tower looking thing) is one of the most prominent features of the Shinsekai area.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5734.jpgIMG_5734Wandering around the castle makes for a great free afternoon activity.2019-04-07T04:12:10+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/03/31/osaka-and-the-march-grand-sumo-tournament/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5719.jpgIMG_5719By the end of the day the arena was filled to capacity, and everyone was seriously pumped for some sumo action.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5696.jpgIMG_5696The senior wrestlers all came out for a ceremony prior to their matches.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5693.jpgIMG_5693Things started to pick up in the afternoon.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5688.jpgIMG_5688Finally, some action!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5682.jpgIMG_5682We wanted to get there early to get the best seats we could, but it turned out that wasn't really necessary.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5691.jpgIMG_5691What time is it? Sumo time!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5679.jpgIMG_5679Our humble abode for the next weekhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5672.jpgIMG_5672Proof beyond a doubt that we were actually in Osakahttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5671.jpgIMG_5671Welcome to Osaka!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5588.jpgIMG_5588While Willer may lose points for style, they make up for it in comfort. 2019-04-01T02:08:29+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/03/25/shimizu-adventure-park/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5585.jpgIMG_5585While souvenir shopping at the Tokyu Hands department store we came across this gem of a home fitness device. The Rodeoboy is a perfect complement to your Shakeweight!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5579.jpgIMG_5579Nothing like heaps of cheap sushi to refuel after a long day of obstacle coursing. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_5567.jpgIMG_5567Hooray for climbing on things!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_3845.jpgIMG_3845Sometimes wet feet were simply unavoidable. Luckily the sun was hot and our shoes dried out before the plague set in. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_3828.jpgIMG_3828Some obstacles were as simple as climbing over a log wall, others were more complex. One of our favorites involved entering the bottom of a large room with steeply sloped walls which required you to run in a circle to get enough momentum going to reach the top. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_3808.jpgIMG_3808There was a plank running the length of the course in case you didn't feel like tempting the wobbly log platforms or any of the other more perilous obstacles. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_3796.jpgIMG_3796We were clinging to the ropes for dear life not just for the pride of completing the obstacles, but because we were hanging over 30 cm of the murkiest, grimiest water I've ever seen.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_3790-edited.jpgIMG_3790 (Edited)This was just the beginning!2019-03-25T19:29:24+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/03/14/fuji-q-highland-and-getting-engaged/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5552.jpgIMG_5552Sayonara Fuji-san!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5471.jpgIMG_5471Happy Easter!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5524.jpgIMG_5524No, Alana isn't just punching me in the chin here.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5497.jpgIMG_5497Weeeeeee!!!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5492.jpgIMG_5492Alana is eexcited for Eejanaika!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5468.jpgIMG_5468Alana was pretty happy about skipping over the 170 minute wait for Do dodonpa thanks to her fast pass.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5444.jpgIMG_5444Fuji-Q had something for everyone: ice skating, insanely steep roller coasters, and great views of Japan's tallest mountain. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5432.jpgIMG_5432It was a brisk, cold morning, but that didn't stop anyone from enjoying a trip to Fuji-Q!2019-03-15T23:53:41+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/02/12/another-sunny-day-sightseeing-in-tokyo/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5410.jpgIMG_5410How I felt after an hour shopping with Alana.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5403.jpgIMG_5403The cotton candy shop at least allowed us to get above the crowd for a minute. The woman in the bottom right has one of the $9 models. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5397.jpgIMG_5397Alana: Me: https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5394.jpgIMG_5394Of course there were a few reminders of the fact that we were in the middle of a big city.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5392.jpgIMG_5392Even though there were plenty of other people, it didn't feel crowded.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5377.jpgIMG_5377Its easy to forget you're in the middle of Tokyo while visiting Meiji Jingu.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5338.jpgIMG_5338Alana is ready for the world cup!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5341.jpgIMG_5341Tokyo is so large and sprawling that it doesn't have much of a distinctive skyline. In the middle you can see Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5335.jpgIMG_5335The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is a great spot for free high-rise views of Tokyo.2019-02-14T19:19:58+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/02/06/takaosan-fire-walking-festival/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5327.jpgIMG_5327There were multiple ways up the mountain, in varying degrees of pavedness.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5296.jpgIMG_5296Apparently this was the direction in which you could sometimes see Mt. Fuji. This was the first time that I noticed a somewhat hazy sky on our trip. More on that in a later post!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5249.jpgIMG_5249There were still some flames in the middle as the participants began filing across. Things quieted down before the regular Joes were allowed to start walking though.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5226.jpgIMG_5226Can you imagine putting out a fire that big with only buckets of water? https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5222.jpgIMG_5222As soon as the pile was lit it was a rush to toss all of the wooden slats on top.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5215.jpgIMG_5215The guy in purple here probably read several miles worth of scrolls without taking a breath or altering the pitch of his voice.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5214.jpgIMG_5214The pre-fire ritual also involved traditional weapons like the spear, sword, and bow and arrow pictured here.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5194.jpgIMG_5194The yamabushi, Shugendo monks, led the procession past the crowds and stalls selling food.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_5185.jpgIMG_5185The event took place in an empty log just down the street from the train station.2019-02-06T16:57:40+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/01/21/next-level-larping-maricar-akihabara/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5157.jpgimg_5157https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5172.jpgimg_5172This just didn't cut it after our MariCAR tour.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5103.jpgimg_5103Our fearless leader Hun, part tour guide, part traffic director, part photographer, and part shepherd, made sure we had an outstanding experience.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5093.jpgimg_5093"Fill it with regular please!"https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_6220.jpgimg_6220Our second trip to the Tokyo Tower was way more fun than the first!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_6217.jpgimg_6217Good thing we had our international driver permits!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_6213.jpgimg_6213Nothing out of the ordinary on this cold March night in Tokyo.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_6207.jpgimg_6207Here we goooo!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5069.jpgimg_5069The MariCAR shop was chock full of cool stuff like this Luigichu, or Pikaigi, or something. 2019-01-22T00:14:07+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2019/01/13/the-day-we-moved-airbnbs-and-ate-the-best-meal-of-our-entire-lives/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5062.jpgimg_5062That little fried mushroom might not look like much, but they add up quickly!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5061.jpgimg_5061I'm salivating already.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5063.jpgimg_5063What you can see through the window is pretty much the entire restaurant.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5064.jpgimg_5064You can see why we wandered past the first time.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5052.jpgimg_5052Many of the shops were so crammed full of stuff I could hardly turn around without bumping into something. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5045.jpgimg_5045This was before Alana realized she didn't really care for crepes.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5041.jpgimg_5041Alana and Dipper Danhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5030.jpgimg_5030Here we met our greatest nemesis in all of Tokyo.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5034.jpgimg_5034Hooray for exploring new places!2019-01-14T01:01:55+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/12/23/sengaku-ji-the-least-crowded-temple-in-tokyo/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_5021.jpgIMG_5021Yum yum yum yum yum yum yum, delicioso! https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_5017.jpgIMG_5017These long rows are statues of Jizo, a Buddhist deity who protects the souls of unborn children and those who died early in life. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_5012.jpgIMG_5012Zojo-ji and Tokyo Tower. Would you have paid to go up to the top in weather like this?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_5005.jpgIMG_5005Sengagku-ji in the rain. Also featured: the only two other people we saw there. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_5003.jpgIMG_5003Most delicious breakfast in Tokyo? Ehhhhh. Most affordable breakfast in Tokyo? You bet!2018-12-23T20:55:32+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/11/04/yoooooookohama-where-the-wind-comes-sweeping-down-the-streets/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4979.jpgIMG_4979It may have been a cold, miserable day, but thanks to Cup Noodles everyone had a good time in Yokohama!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4956.jpgIMG_4956"Please take your complimentary inflatable noodle display bag!" is what I imagined was being said. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4939.jpgIMG_4939Three cheers for cup noodles!!!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4932.jpgIMG_4932Just looking at this picture, I can feel the chill entering my bones again.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4927.jpgIMG_4927That's the look of a panda that knows it's about to be eaten.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4913.jpgIMG_4913Welcome to Chinatown! Or rather, Chinastreet?2018-11-05T00:06:18+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/10/24/unanticipated-encounters-on-the-other-side-of-the-world/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4906.jpgIMG_4906Alana's and my favorite: Inari sushi (in the front).https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4901.jpgIMG_4901I was pretty bummed when I saw all the fun I missed out on.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4889.jpgIMG_4889How good was the food, you ask?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4888.jpgIMG_4888Not only did the vending machine have pictures, there were life size displays of all the menu items in the restaurant window. These are both pretty common features in Japanese restaurants.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4883.jpgIMG_4883Whole sections of sidewalk were lined with little gumball machines.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4861.jpgIMG_4861At only 100 yen per fortune, we figured this was a pretty good budget friendly activity.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4841.jpgIMG_4841Not that mine turned out any better. The main street leading up to the temple was lined with souvenir shops and was about as tightly packed as our subway car on the way in that morning.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4839.jpgIMG_4839Here we see the exact moment Alana gave up on getting a good picture in front of the temple.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4882.jpgIMG_4882We were off to Akihabara, home of all things anime and arcade-y.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4824.jpgIMG_4824I'd love to share the significance of this little statue, but alas it was only our second day and my Japanese wasn't yet up to the task of finding out.2018-10-24T16:40:37+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/10/14/japan-our-first-full-day/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4770.jpgIMG_4770The Samurai Museum was a great rainy day activity, though I'd definitely recommend checking it out regardless of the weather.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4805.jpgIMG_4805https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4721.jpgIMG_4721Hooray for exploring new places!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4814.jpgIMG_4814Eventually it stopped raining and we were able to take our hoods off.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4807.jpgIMG_4807Even though the weather wasn't that great, we got to enjoy these totally real cherry blossoms.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4784.jpgIMG_4784Richard and Alana, ready for action!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4797.jpgIMG_4797Play all the claw games! Not really though, there were 5 or 6 floors of nothing but these things.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4791.jpgIMG_4791Oh well, being warm and dry is overrated anyway.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4734.jpgIMG_4734Glad I could finally check "be a samurai" off my bucket list. Honestly though, that helmet was really heavy. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4726.jpgIMG_4726This isn't our best picture of Godzilla, but it gives you a pretty good idea of how thoroughly soaked we were by the time we got to the museum.2018-10-14T23:54:51+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/09/04/%e3%81%93%e3%82%93%e3%81%ab%e3%81%a1%e3%81%af%e6%97%a5%e6%9c%ac-hello-japan/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_3925.pngIMG_3925We didn't end up using any of these phrases, but it was good to know that if we were framed in a drug bust, we'd be able to talk our way out of it safely. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/us-getting-saved-e1535918541963.pngus getting savedHere again we have a realistic recreation of our moment of salvation. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/us-getting-lost-e1535918443283.pngUs getting lostWe were too busy trying to figure out where we were going, so here is an artist's representation of how we spent much of the night.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_4710.jpgIMG_4710I know, I know. You're not reading a travel blog about Japan to see pictures of me eating pizza. It was dark. We were exhausted. Not many pictures were taken that first night.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_4709.jpgIMG_4709Three cheers for Saizeriya!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_4708.jpgIMG_4708Nothing like following up 12 hours on a plane with 2 hours on a subway!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_4705.jpgIMG_4705We made it! 2018-09-07T02:25:47+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/08/13/next-stop-japan/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_4702.jpgIMG_4702This is a transition post so you get lots of transition pictures. We had a brief layover in Auckland on our way to Tokyo.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_4692.jpgIMG_4692We spent our last day in New Zealand doing some community service with the Student Volunteer Army, a very cool organization that formed to help out in the aftermath of the 2011 earthquake in Christchurch.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_3113.jpgIMG_3113One last shot of those amazing New Zealand mountains I've been obsessing about for the past few monthshttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_4797.jpgIMG_4797As our time in New Zealand came to a close, we were forced to begin thinking about where we'd go next.2018-08-13T20:30:45+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/06/01/tekapo-and-aoraki-mt-cook/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_17431.jpgIMG_1743(1)https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_44461.jpgIMG_4446(1)https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4472.jpgIMG_4472The trail could get a bit crowded at times, but it's not hard to understand why given the combination of great scenery and accessibility. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4570.jpgIMG_4570So long South Island adventures!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4495.jpgIMG_4495Alana is never one to pass up a little climbing on rocks!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4493.jpgIMG_4493Alana, posing with a piece of ice freshly washed up on the shore, large icebergs in the lake behind, in the middle of summer.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4450.jpgIMG_4450After taking those swing bridge pictures, I finally caught up with the rest of the group just in time to get this shot before they were off down the trail again.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4436.jpgIMG_4436If you look closely, you can see the rest of the gang on the swing bridge!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4318.jpgIMG_4318The lakes were so calm you'd almost think they were just painted there.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_1505.jpgIMG_1505The Richard/Alana pose (until we can come up with a better name for it).2018-06-02T18:15:30+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/04/29/milford-sounds-good/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_1386.jpgimg_1386After the shock of our cancelled kayak tour we were able to find solace in the incredible scenery. And the coffee. Okay, mostly the coffee at that point.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4982.jpgimg_4982Pies, pies, they're good for your thighs! The more you eat, the more you fly!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_0038.jpgimg_0038The outgoing winds were indeed very strong.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_1181.jpgimg_1181:-Ohttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_0048.jpgimg_0048Yup, that's snow on the mountain. In the middle of summer.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_1115.jpgimg_1115I Spy: Seal Editionhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_0043.jpgimg_0043Alana, complimentary hot beverage in hand, takes in the majesty of the surroundings.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_1170.jpgimg_1170It was cool seeing the mountain from a different perspective than our hike.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4913.jpgimg_4913Here we are, about to board the ship and set sail on a three hour tour. A three hour tour.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4951.jpgimg_4951After the shock of our cancelled kayak tour we were able to find solace in the incredible mountain views. And the coffee. Okay, mostly the coffee at that point.2018-05-12T18:45:16+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/04/12/roys-peak-the-pinnacle-of-our-time-in-wanaka/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0124.jpgimg_0124Roys Peak: Blog of Riches Approvedhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0170.jpgimg_0170If you're doing this hike make sure to go all the way. No lines for the pictures up here!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0138.jpgimg_0138Alana, preparing for takeoff.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0070.jpgimg_0070It was pretty windy, and standing in line for the lookout had us both feeling chilly. But the views!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0096.jpgimg_0096The reality of getting cool pictures on popular hikes...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0101.jpgimg_0101Of course after waiting in line for a picture at the lookout we had to do a cool pose!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0069.jpgimg_0069The views were so great that we had to constantly stop for pictures. It had nothing to do with the fact that our legs and lungs were screaming in protest.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0016.jpgimg_0016It was so steep, but the amazing views started even before the parking lot was out of sight.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0001.jpgimg_0001We can see the top from here! It can't be that hard, right?2018-04-13T17:23:27+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/04/09/back-in-the-saddle-again-okay-it-was-our-first-time/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0056.jpgimg_0056Alana was singing happily the entire time.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4754.jpgimg_4754and the skies are not cloudy all dayyyy!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4749.jpgimg_4749Possibly watching the horse in front of me give birth to a litter of feces. Never has the term food baby rung more true in my mind.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0928.jpgimg_0928Home, home on the range...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4762.jpgimg_4762"Yee haw! Git along little dogies!"https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4746.jpgimg_4746Alana, in a state of pure bliss, was singing and talking to her horse the whole time.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0927.jpgimg_0927Look all around, there's nothing but blue skies.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0931.jpgimg_0931Hello, are you Mr. Ed?2018-04-10T16:57:18+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/04/08/west-coast-is-best-coast/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4596.jpgimg_4596https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4691.jpgimg_4691Now there's a group of happy hikers (or cheerful trampers)!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0857.jpgimg_0857Hey you! Down in front!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0829.jpgimg_0829New Zealand has a remarkable capacity to look absolutely majestic regardless of the weather.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_0765.jpgimg_0765There was a lot of cool art just behind Fat Pipi on the beach.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4628.jpgimg_4628The glow worms didn't show up on camera, so enjoy this picture of our horse friend instead!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_4581.jpgimg_4581Shorts were a bad idea. My legs were a feast for the sandflies.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_3701.jpgimg_3701If you look close enough you can see my mom and sister on the bridge.2018-04-08T17:55:48+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/04/07/terrific-news-blog-of-riches-has-an-instagram-blogofriches-celebrate-with-us-and-our-dolphin-friends/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/571263b0-a847-4171-a1e2-8adb5a32ca52.jpeg571263B0-A847-4171-A1E2-8ADB5A32CA52Where’s Waldo? Dolphin edition.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/eb35fe49-703a-4e7f-8791-84797951002e.jpegEB35FE49-703A-4E7F-8791-84797951002E“It looks so pretty I don’t want to eat it!” said no one at our table. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/8798466d-7516-450b-a69d-c2d4fb61d399.jpeg8798466D-7516-450B-A69D-C2D4FB61D399The entire experience was surreal on a level that only New Zealand can manage.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/6d9cb215-4983-4673-a214-3317b7148842.jpeg6D9CB215-4983-4673-A214-3317B7148842The dolphins followed the boat as we went, but they were so fast that it was hard to get a good picture.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/d0c6f3ba-8dd9-477c-a3fd-27b1e66a8c35.jpegD0C6F3BA-8DD9-477C-A3FD-27B1E66A8C35If you think these pictures are good, you should check out our new Instagram! @blogofricheshttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/193bdb8b-5110-4347-9f68-035a228e4dce.jpeg193BDB8B-5110-4347-9F68-035A228E4DCEEven when there weren’t any dolphins jumping around, the sunrise was more than enough to keep our jaws firmly on the floor.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/0dcbb619-cbe5-45d9-8844-83a665654217-e1523117447980.jpeg0DCBB619-CBE5-45D9-8844-83A665654217The scenery on the way back was great too, unless you were huddled up in a blanket fending off seasickness.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/48240035-c3a6-435b-bb36-ef27116d717b.jpeg48240035-C3A6-435B-BB36-EF27116D717BHere we are, encountering our first dolphin, in the early morning light off the coast of Kaikoura.2018-04-07T19:47:19+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/03/16/sydney/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3664.jpgIMG_3664Everyone is manly at Manly beach! You can see the less than ideal beach weather in the background.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_4446.jpgIMG_4446These little kangaroos were much more friendly than their full sized relatives.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_4439.jpgIMG_4439The female koala was really working her charms for the male.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3572.jpgIMG_3572Sometimes you just need a good rest in the shade to get your smile muscles working again.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3571.jpgIMG_3571Of course we had to stop for an obligatory Opera House and Harbour Bridge picture. There were plenty of good spots for this along the north end of the Botanical Gardens.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3561.jpgIMG_3561So many pretty flowers! Not much in the way of shade though.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3516.jpgIMG_3516Everyone loves a good adventure!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3486.jpgIMG_3486After we put the jellyfish business behind us we had a very enjoyable walk.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3465.jpgIMG_3465Of course, this little guy would just happen to wash up onto my foot...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3461.jpgIMG_3461Hey what a nice spot for a photo! I'll just be standing here for a few seconds. What could possibly go wrong?2018-03-16T14:49:00+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/03/02/a-few-days-in-melbourne/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3141.jpgIMG_3141So long New Zealand! See you in a few weeks!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3426.jpgIMG_3426We really should have brough something to go swimming in.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3200.jpgIMG_3200Nothing like a mountain of food to alleviate the stress of an afternoon spent shopping with Alana.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3181.jpgIMG_3181William Ricketts Sanctuary was filled with intricate carvings like these. Some were admittedly pretty strange.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_3347.jpgIMG_3347Loch Ard Gorge was our favorite stop. I thought it was more scenic and less crowded than Twelve Apostles.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_32991.jpgIMG_3299Hey man, the Twelve Apostles are pretty cool.2018-03-02T01:22:41+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/19/abel-tasman-day-5/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2985.jpgIMG_2985When we got up to get on the boat there were sweaty butt-prints on the bench.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2981.jpgIMG_2981Aw yeah! We did it!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2977.jpgIMG_2977Almost there!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2975.jpgIMG_2975The pictures of the cicadas didn't really turn out, so you'll have to take my word on it. This is Alana celebrating after we finally left them behind.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2968.jpgIMG_2968Hey we made it! And look, we're still smiling!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2964.jpgIMG_2964This bike path was seriously seep.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2944.jpgIMG_2944At this point we could see Wainui just down the hill, but we had to turn off the track and keep going up.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2936.jpgIMG_2936Alana, as the back of the inchworm, makes her way up the trail.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2934.jpgIMG_2934It was nice to see a new side of the coastal scenery.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2928.jpgIMG_2928Here we go! Wet weather got nuthin' on us!2018-01-19T04:23:45+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/17/abel-tasman-day-4/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2854-2.jpgIMG_2854 (2)Rocks make for good camera stands.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2919.jpgIMG_2919The wekas thought they were being sneaky.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2924.jpgIMG_2924Who's ready for dinner? Only when camping would a meal that involves boiling a plastic bag seem appetizing. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2894.jpgIMG_2894One last hill with a view before the campsite.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2876.jpgIMG_2876Hey man, cool rocks!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2889.jpgIMG_2889Me and my wet boots :-(https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2871.jpgIMG_2871Here we see a log over a small stream (not "the" log). Did we walk over it? Of course! Why worry about getting your wet boots wet?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2846.jpgIMG_2846There was a cool breeze blowing in the right leg area of this beach.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2845.jpgIMG_2845Beach number 2. Alana wishes she had a surf board.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2840.jpgIMG_2840We didn't take any pictures of Totaranui because who wants to look at a crowded parking lot when you have views like this?2018-01-17T02:44:24+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/15/abel-tasman-day-3/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2756.jpgIMG_2756https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2801.jpgIMG_2801Almost sunset! This was about the latest we've ever stayed up while on a hike! That's Alana there in case you're wondering. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2773.jpgIMG_2773Time for a dip! Our sweaty slog over the hills was well rewarded.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2763.jpgIMG_2763Ok for real this time: Almost there! Just down the hill!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2745.jpgIMG_2745A few minutes later: JKLOL :-Phttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2733.jpgIMG_2733We're almost there!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2703.jpgIMG_2703Alana quickly grew impatient with my endless introspection.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2699.jpgIMG_2699Turns out it stops at a really nice beach!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2679.jpgIMG_2679Up we go!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2671.jpgIMG_2671Here we are standing above the estuary that we chose not to cross, even though it was low tide and probably would have been easier. 2018-01-15T11:31:49+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/14/abel-tasman-day-2/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2628.jpgIMG_2628https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2649.jpgIMG_2649Yum?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2645.jpgIMG_2645I guess how crowded the beach is just depends on how you angle your camera. It also helped that most of the kayakers and boaters were gone by the evening.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2643.jpgIMG_2643Ok I guess it was quiet enough.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2635.jpgIMG_2635Yikes! So much for peace and tranquility.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2627.jpgIMG_2627Hey, nice picture!Oktimetogo!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2622.jpgIMG_2622How is it possible to sleep with your arm in the air, holding on to a backpack strap? I donhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2589.jpgIMG_2589We stopped to look back on the estuary we had just crossed. And all the houses...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2582.jpgIMG_2582The water was a bit too cold for Alana.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2567.jpgIMG_2567The clouds hung around that morning as well. 2018-01-14T00:29:55+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/13/great-walk-5-the-abel-tasman-coast-track/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2533.jpgIMG_2533https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2537.jpgIMG_2537While we missed the fuzzy green moss covering everything, we could definitely appreciate our new surroundings.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2564.jpgIMG_2564In the background: WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2563.jpgIMG_2563I guess everyone has a different idea of what escaping into nature entails.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2559.jpgIMG_2559We found a nice spot for our tent to hopefully stay dry.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2548.jpgIMG_2548Fortunately we were pretty close to the campsite when the weather turned.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2512.jpgIMG_2512Why climb mountains when you can just go on a five day beach walk?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2509.jpgIMG_2509Here we go again!2018-01-13T05:14:49+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/03/kepler-track-day-4/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2494.jpgIMG_2494Miles Better Pies: the only responsible way to end your Fiordland tramping experiencehttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/fhd0104.jpgFHD0104We made it! Time for some celebratory candy canes!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2486.jpgIMG_2486The end is in sight!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2444.jpgIMG_2444Sometimes the fuzzy moss covering the ground would switch to palmy bushes.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2446.jpgIMG_2446I thought today was supposed to be flat :_(https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2450.jpgIMG_2450Alana using TPR to demonstrate "river".https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2440.jpgIMG_2440Here I pretend to pause for a photo while I regain my balance and stop the wobbling.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2424.jpgIMG_2424"See you soon!" said Te Anau. "See you sooner!" Alana replied.2018-01-03T03:50:26+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/02/kepler-track-day-3/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2417.jpgIMG_2417Ah, the solitude of tent camping.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2416.jpgIMG_2416Lucky for us, those ominous looking clouds didn't amount to much. I'm sure we would have enjoyed a nice evening on the lake if we didn't go to bed so early.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2384.jpgIMG_2384No swimming until we get to the campsite! https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2292.jpgIMG_2292There were still some nice views though. And who doesn't enjoy a candy cane while hiking?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2330.jpgIMG_2330Most of the day three scenery was a lot like this, with varying degrees of fuzzy and green.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2265.jpgIMG_2265Hey where's Alana?!2018-01-02T09:22:08+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/21/queenstown-and-its-surroundings/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1017.jpgIMG_1017https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1090.jpgIMG_1090https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1043.jpgIMG_1043This gal is happiest when it's over.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1032.jpgIMG_1032This guy is happiest while huffing it uphill.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1054.jpgIMG_1054https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0572.jpgIMG_0572https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0603.jpgIMG_0603"Yeah, well why don't you get out here and pull it, Ms. Bright Ideas."https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/fhd0029.jpgFHD0029"Wow, man, my back hurts just sitting here in this canoe!"https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0600.jpgIMG_0600https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0595.jpgIMG_05952018-01-01T05:46:33+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2018/01/01/kepler-track-day-2/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/fhd0059.jpgFHD0059We dropped our packs for a quick detour to a lookout. Packless side trips are always a nice change of pace.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2261.jpgIMG_2261In the end we made it in time to relax and enjoy the sunset. Or at least we would have if we hadn't been asleep in the tent by the time the sun actually went down.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2216.jpgIMG_2216Finally! We get to go down! That's a long way down though...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2219.jpgIMG_2219Alana points the way to Lake Manapouri, where we would camp on our third night.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2191.jpgIMG_2191Kea number two, waiting for the next unsuspecting hikers to come by.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2163.jpgIMG_2163"Though you can't stay down for long in the presence of such endless natural wonder." Alana quipped with a renewed sense of optimism and vigor.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2155.jpgIMG_2155If this picture was closer, we could see the look of dread on Alana's face at how far the trail stretches into the distance.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2098.jpgIMG_2098Having already made I contact, I knew I couldn't blink or look away until we had passed.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2088.jpgIMG_2088WOW! SO BEAUTIFUL!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_2058.jpgIMG_2058Now that the sun was out again it was time for a break. 2018-01-01T05:41:24+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/30/great-walk-4-the-kepler-track/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1935.jpgIMG_1935Finally! Time for dinner!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1934.jpgIMG_1934The wind picks up and the ominous clouds make their appearance.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1931.jpgIMG_1931If you look closely you can see Te Anau on the other side of the lake!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1928.jpgIMG_1928The first day was so short and flat. If only we knew what was coming next (we did know what was coming next, but sometimes knowing a situation is going to be terrible still doesn't prepare you for being in a terrible situation).https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1903.jpgIMG_1903Modeling with the moss.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1893.jpgIMG_1893Dear Santa, I just want weather like this for Christmas. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1883.jpgIMG_1883Soaking up the sun while we still could. (Alana soaks up the sun while I hide under my layers in shady spots to avoid getting burnt to a crisp on the first day.)https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1871.jpgIMG_1871Even if the weather forecast, sandfly swarms, and long distances have you grimacing. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1876.jpgIMG_1876Smile for the camera!2017-12-30T04:11:21+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/19/routeburn-track-day-3/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1556.jpgIMG_1556Om nom nom!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1550.jpgIMG_1550Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1546.jpgIMG_1546There was another side trip up a hill in the area, but we figured we wouldn't be missing too much.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1541.jpgIMG_1541Aw yeah! Some nice easy downhill.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1531.jpgIMG_1531Cool waterfall? More like frigid waterfall!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1526.jpgIMG_1526Rain, rain, go awayhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1513.jpgIMG_1513When life gives you lemons, take pictures of them anyway because lemons are kind of interesting in their own right.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1500.jpgIMG_1500Noooooo! I thought yesterday was supposed to be the hard day.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1494.jpgIMG_1494Ready to go, whatever the weather!2017-12-19T23:15:40+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/13/routeburn-track-day-2/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1179.jpgIMG_1179Alana was actually still asleep as we packed the tent up.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1327.jpgIMG_1327The extra hour and a half of suffering was totally worth it!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1453.jpgIMG_1453Photo credit: Alana's boothttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1484.jpgIMG_1484Brrrr! Now that's clean!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1383.jpgIMG_1383Alana felt inspired to practice her yodeling. Or maybe she was just taking a picture too.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1347.jpgIMG_1347Finally, we're heading down!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1293.jpgIMG_1293Hooray we made it!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1284.jpgIMG_1284Almost there!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1257.jpgIMG_1257But seriously, how did that end up there?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1230.jpgIMG_1230Now we're ready!2017-12-15T22:39:53+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/11/great-walk-3-the-routeburn-track/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1174.jpgIMG_1174Alana displays her legendary "ability to sleep anywhere" skill.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1173.jpgIMG_1173Bonus points if you can find our tent in the background!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1170.jpgIMG_1170Ok, time to turn around.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1151.jpgIMG_1151This walks: the hiillllllllls are aliiiiiiiiiive picturehttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1137.jpgIMG_1137Home sweet home! Now that's a heck of a campsite!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1130.jpgIMG_1130You know you're in some pristine nature when a hut ranger tells you "If the water is flowing, you can drink it."https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1107.jpgIMG_1107Does it ever stop going up?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1099.jpgIMG_1099I let Alana cross first so she wouldn't have to deal with the inevitable wobbling I'd cause.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1095.jpgIMG_1095Ah yes, here we have another classic Alana standing by the sign at the trailhead shot.2017-12-15T21:59:52+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/02/milford-track-day-4/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/pie2.pngpieI was pretty hungry.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1015.jpgIMG_1015Back where it all started. See you next time!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1011.jpgIMG_1011Alana wants YOU to walk the Milford Track!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1009.jpgIMG_1009We did it! 335 miles! Ok, it was just 33.5 miles. In honor of how old the track is they still use miles instead of kilometers.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_1005.jpgIMG_1005The end is in sight!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0991.jpgIMG_0991Alana really wanted that afternoon nap.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0980.jpgIMG_0980Lunch time waterfallhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0955.jpgIMG_0955And of course the mountains!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0948.jpgIMG_0948There were plenty of cool waterfalls as well!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0938.jpgIMG_0938There were some cool bridges on day four as well. Richard was incapable of walking across them without causing an absurd amount of wobbling.2017-12-02T11:50:04+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/12/01/milford-track-day-3/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0915.jpgIMG_0915We don't want none of that instant-freeze-dried-vacuum-sealed-just-add-water-camp-food-stuff here! https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0899.jpgIMG_0899So tall!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0858.jpgIMG_0858Ok, this is starting to get old.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0829.jpgIMG_0829Finally the downhill part! we thought. The poison is in the dose as they say.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0817.jpgIMG_0817Here comes the sun, do do do do!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0812.jpgIMG_0812"idgaf"https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0797.jpgIMG_0797"Meh, whatever..."https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0791.jpgIMG_0791"What are you lookin at, punk?"https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0809.jpgIMG_0809Hooray! We made it!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_0788.jpgIMG_0788:-O2017-12-01T09:29:54+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/11/30/milford-track-day-2/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0753.jpgIMG_0753Alana frolicking in the meadow next to the lake.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0767.jpgIMG_0767If I go swimming in a forest, and no one is around to hear it do I actually get wet?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0743.jpgIMG_0743That low section in the middle is the pass we'd be going over the next day. Alana was really looking forward to it.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0735.jpgIMG_0735The flowers! The flowers! You could walk all day with a crowd like that cheering you on!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0703.jpgIMG_0703:-Ohttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0681.jpgIMG_0681No, we didn't run around with a highlighter to turn all the moss neon.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0668.jpgIMG_0668So cloudy! Alana, ever the daring adventurer, chooses to cast aside her rain jacket in order to "feel the breath of the forest on her bare skin."https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0666.jpgIMG_0666Alana doesn't mind getting up earlier than planned. Here we can see that she is well prepared for the supposed 6 hour walk to the Mintaro Hut no matter what weather comes our way. Note the pouch of breakfast balls in her pocket. Alana, possessing infinitely superior multitasking skill, can eat and walk at the same time while I must eat my breakfast standing still at the hut, lest I bite my tongue.2017-11-30T06:32:40+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/11/29/great-walk-2-the-milford-track/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0660.jpgIMG_0660"Must stay awa... Zzzzzzz" said Richard as soon as he sat down.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0653.jpgIMG_0653Its hard to capture just how fuzzy and green everything was.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0651.jpgIMG_0651Some parts of the trail had little detours that highlighted specific ecosystems like this bog.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0645.jpgIMG_0645:-O https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0637.jpgIMG_0637walking, walking, walkinghttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0627.jpgIMG_0627The hilllls are aliiiiive (no pun intended)https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0626.jpgIMG_0626Is it worth it? Follow Alana and find out!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/boat-edit.pngboat editPictures at the front of the boat: expectations vs. realityhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_0607.jpgIMG_0607It's time for another adventure!2017-11-29T09:16:54+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/11/14/finding-a-job-in-wellington-on-a-working-holiday-visa/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_3429-e1510641854488.jpgIMG_3429Hi everyone! I'm Alana!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_3029-1.jpgIMG_3029 (1)As fun as this is...2017-11-15T18:22:25+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/09/30/oh-those-wellington-days/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_0027.jpgIMG_0027Wellington is a nice city, but its still a city. Fortunately the great outdoors in never far away in New Zealand!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_0096.jpgIMG_0096https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_0166.jpgIMG_0166Today, September 30th, is the last day the sauna is open. Who knows where it will pop up next?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_3360.jpgIMG_3360The most seal activity we saw was an occasional side eye. They were pretty heavy sleepers.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_3307.jpgIMG_3307The trip to Weta is worth it just for the Troll pictures.2017-10-07T12:08:34+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/05/10/%e9%95%bf%e6%b1%9f%e5%9b%bd%e9%99%85%e9%9f%b3%e4%b9%90%e8%8a%82-the-changjiang-international-music-festival/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image6.jpegimageLadies and gentlemen, the moment you've all been waiting forhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image5.jpegimageThe crowd behind me just before the Backstreet Boys came onhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image4.jpegimageMeat on a stick, fried chicken, and fried rice - dinner of music festival championshttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image3.jpegimage11乐队https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image2.jpegimageSome tents and one of the stageshttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image.jpegimagehttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image.pngimageThis year's lineup2017-05-27T05:46:04+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/05/11/two-half-days-in-shanghai/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image13.jpegimageEverybody loves Nanjing Road!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image12.jpegimageThe Bundhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image11.jpegimageThe view of Pudong from the Bund. And a few of our travel buddies.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image10.jpegimageIt was like this for a good four or five blocks.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image9.jpegimageI'm sure it was a cool place before the invasion of consumer culture. Can you spot the Golden Arches and m&m store?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image8.jpegimageWhat could possibly be better than soup dumplings? Fried soup dumplings2017-05-27T05:44:43+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/05/21/5-days-of-chinese-school-lunch/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image18.jpegimageHooray for Friday!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image17.jpegimageWho wants some liver?! Seriously though, who does want liver?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image16.jpegimageAn apple a week keeps the doctor away?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image15.jpegimageWhen meat is cut it is always haphazardly hacked to pieces, bones included. This requires you to eat with more slowly and carefully than back home, hence China's relative lack of childhood obesity.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image14.jpegimageI've been told by colleagues that pig feet are good for your skin.2017-05-27T05:43:18+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/05/21/saizeriya-chinese-italian-food/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image27.jpegimageThey do look pretty good.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image26.jpegimageObviously delicioushttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image25.jpegimageNo ketchup for you!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image24.jpegimageI'm sure there are worse things you could put on a pizza than mayonnaise, but for the moment nothing comes to mind.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image23.jpegimageI've always like cornhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image22.jpegimageFruit salad, yummy yummyhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image21.jpegimage"Hi welcome to Saizeriya! My name is ______! What can I get for you folks today?" said no waiters in Chinahttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image20.jpegimageLunchtime on Saturdayhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/image19.jpegimage萨莉亚意式餐厅 Saizeriya Italian Style Restaurant2017-05-27T05:41:53+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/11/06/crazy-big-flip-table-the-ultimate-stress-relief-game/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/404.jpg404我受不了啊！I can't take it! your character screams, as he unleashes chaos on the dining roomhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/389.jpg389If that isn't the face of pure rage...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/383.jpg383Well that certainly got their attention!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/380.jpg380Such ill mannered children!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/370.jpg370Choose wiselyhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/410.jpg410终极舒压游戏: 疯狂大翻桌 - ultimate stress relief game: Crazy Big Flip Table2017-05-27T05:40:59+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/13/coming-to-new-zealand/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2618.jpgIMG_2618The image of my meal has been removed due to its explicit nature. Please enjoy this picture of Alana I her seat instead.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2616.jpgIMG_2616You can find me in the club, bottle full of bubhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1783.jpgIMG_1783Our home for the 12 hours in between LA and Auckland 2017-05-27T05:40:04+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/15/chinatown-new-zealand-aka-auckland/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1815.jpgIMG_1815Welcome to Auckland! The city that sleeps every night promptly at 7pm.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/fullsizerender.jpgFullSizeRenderFunny business aside, note the beautiful green grass, trees, and ever present space needle.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1796.jpgIMG_1796You can see the space needle, I mean sky tower, from pretty much anywhere in town.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2625.jpgIMG_2625Here we are at one of the two Gong Cha locations in the CBD. We used to go there often in Shenzhen, and Alana is never one to pass up a milk tea!2017-05-27T05:39:21+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/16/we-got-a-car/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1817.jpgIMG_1817Here we are ready to set out on our first adventure!2017-05-27T05:38:35+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/16/road-trip-number-1-piha-beach/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1932.jpgIMG_1932Here we are about to head into a thick grove of broccoli trees.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1927.jpgIMG_1927https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1960.jpgIMG_1960Here we see Alana, thinking the kind of deep thoughts you can only think while perched on a cliff hundreds of feet above the ocean. What kinds of deep thoughts are those you ask? Well you'll have to come to Piha and find out for yourself.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1919.jpgIMG_1919"Alana, come for a dip" whispered the waves as they broke on the rocks below.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1894.jpgIMG_1894Ooh aah! In reality the waterfall was much more than twice the size of our heads.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1885.jpgIMG_1885Searching fruitlessly for the REAL black sandhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1868.jpgIMG_1868We had to content ourselves with this mediocre vista.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1863.jpgIMG_1863Another frustratingly low view from halfway up lion rock. Note the rough looking waves.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1851.jpgIMG_1851Can you see it?2017-05-27T05:37:57+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/25/kong-rangitoto-island/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1981.jpgIMG_1981Auckland looked so close, but felt so far away. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1996.jpgIMG_1996We somehow managed to pull through in the end.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1990.jpgIMG_1990We tried our best to mask our fear, but it was hard to ignore the noises in the dark. Are those a pair of menacing eyes peering out of the darkness behind us?https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1976.jpgIMG_1976Run! Run away! It seemed to be screaming.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1967.jpgIMG_1967What is that off in the trees ahead?!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1966.jpgIMG_1966Look at the sheer destruction! Can you see the outlines of a footprint there in the middle?2017-05-27T05:36:55+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/25/hamilton-gardens/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2041.jpgIMG_2041Oops, I thought they said reproductive gardens. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2044.jpgIMG_2044The Kitchen Garden, complete with scarecrow, lacking in shadehttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2037.jpgIMG_2037The Tudor Garden with no shade in sighthttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2025.jpgIMG_2025The American "Garden"...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2017.jpgIMG_2017The Indian Gardenhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2015.jpgIMG_2015The Japanese Garden was nice and shady.2017-05-27T05:36:16+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/25/there-and-back-again-a-tourists-trip-to-hobbiton/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2096.jpgIMG_2096Here is Alana outside Sam's hole. This was the only hole built fully to scale because of a longer scene that was shot right out front here. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2083.jpgIMG_2083Fun fact: There is a scene where Gandalf and Bilbo sit smoking pipes on the steps of Bag End watching the sunset. However the entrance to Bag End faces east so they had to shoot the scene early in the morning and then reverse the footage of the sun. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2724.jpgIMG_2724This is about as far inside as you could get.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2716.jpgIMG_2716Right in the front here we have the real vegetable garden. The giant fantasyesque looking tree in the back left is real. The much smaller tree on the hill on the right is fake. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2710.jpgIMG_2710The farm and a few of it's inhabitants could be seen right across the street from the cafe.2017-05-27T05:35:32+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/26/rotorua-redwoods-and-veggie-burgers/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2150.jpgIMG_2150Once I made it across without incident Alana felt comfortable enough to try it.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2134-e1490504376391.jpgIMG_2134Rotorua and Lake Rotorua in the backgroundhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2128.jpgIMG_2128Ooh, ahh! There were a lot of them, but I don't think they were quite as big as the ones in California.2017-05-27T05:34:22+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/26/how-i-survived-a-day-of-mountain-biking-with-alana/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2780.jpgIMG_2780This is Alana's "I'm making Richard suffer" smile. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2205.jpgIMG_2205Weeee! Alana giggles in the face of danger.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2777.jpgIMG_2777White knuckled, gripping the brakes the whole way down...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2770.jpgIMG_2770I suppose this wasn't so bad.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2182.jpgIMG_2182I would have been content spending the day with my new cat friend and a good book...2017-05-27T05:33:27+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/28/wai-o-tapu/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2301.jpgIMG_2301Alana and her new stick friend, who helped her test my ability to relax in adverse circumstances. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2276.jpgIMG_2276This was one of the largest pools. As we were walking past we got hit with a gust of hot, smelly steam.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2282.jpgIMG_2282Smile and say sulfur!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_2291.jpgIMG_2291Alana wanted one last whiff of sulfur before we left.2017-05-27T05:32:46+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/04/18/great-walk-1-tongariro-northern-circuit/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2421.jpgIMG_2421Nothing like the sight of your destination (that little tan rectangle just left of center) to get your spirits up!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2422.jpgIMG_2422This way, follow me!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2408.jpgIMG_2408Maybe those dark clouds are blowing away from us...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2401.jpgIMG_2401Ah, this isn't so bad (20 minutes in).https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2395.jpgIMG_2395What a great day for a hike!2017-05-27T05:32:08+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/04/18/tongariro-day-2-the-mordor-experience/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2518.jpgIMG_2518Those clouds couldn't have blown away just a few hours earlier.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2498.jpgIMG_2498We could start smiling in pictures again at this point.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2481.jpgIMG_2481We finally started making our way down.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2460.jpgIMG_2460At least this part was flat.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2442.jpgIMG_2442The views were...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2438.jpgIMG_2438To be fair, we were prepared.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2433.jpgIMG_2433There are dead faces in the water!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_2425.jpgIMG_2425At least the trail was clearly marked!2017-05-27T05:31:31+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/05/15/the-sunll-come-out-tomorrow-tongariro-day-3/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2931-1.jpgIMG_2931 (1)Our feelings going into the final day...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2921-1.jpgIMG_2921 (1)Some more typical day 3 terrain. That's Mt. Ruapehu in the background with a bit of snow around the peak.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2929-1.jpgIMG_2929 (1)Can you see it? Down there on the other side of that bunch of trees just left of center? Can you feel the sudden burst of energy? Almost there!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2927-1.jpgIMG_2927 (1)Such a nice change of sceneryhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2571.jpgIMG_2571One of the many hills we made our way overhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2914-1.jpgIMG_2914 (1)The day before you could barely see the water from here.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2562.jpgIMG_2562"Rest?! Why would we do that?" said Alanahttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2559.jpgIMG_2559Smile and say my precious!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2530.jpgIMG_2530What a difference a day makes!2017-05-27T05:30:27+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/05/15/4-1-17-tongariro-day-4/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2963-1.jpgIMG_2963 (1)No swimming this time, as tempting as it was.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2649-1.jpgIMG_2649 (1)Ok for real this time, one last shot with Mt. Doom!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2645.jpgIMG_2645What in the world is that?! Oh its a ski lodge.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2945-1.jpgIMG_2945 (1)Off we go again!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2603.jpgIMG_2603Have to get another shot with Mt. Doom!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2608.jpgIMG_2608And Mt. Ruapehu!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2620.jpgIMG_2620Lower Tama lake was't far from the main trail.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2965-1.jpgIMG_2965 (1)4 days later and we're back!2017-05-27T05:29:48+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/05/26/waitata-our-first-wwoof/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2841.jpgIMG_2841Off to our next adventure!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2687.jpgIMG_2687Stay tuned for the upcoming post: Alana and her power tools!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2661.jpgIMG_2661The chickens were always ready for scraps. They ate pretty much anything.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2784.jpgIMG_2784The workplace environment was pretty nice.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2893.jpgIMG_2893We'd usually get a heaping wheelbarrow full of poop every day...https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2732.jpgIMG_2732Aww, donkeys!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2839.jpgIMG_2839Clearing the path down to the beach was hard work, but someone had to do it.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2862.jpgIMG_2862The veggie garden, as seen from our bedrooomhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2878.jpgIMG_2878Our lovely home for the month of April2017-05-27T05:28:52+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/05/26/the-far-north/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3014.jpgIMG_3014Here you can see the sand blowing and the ocean off in the distance.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3072.jpgIMG_3072That choppy bit off the coast there is where the two bodies of water meet.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3077.jpgIMG_3077The tree on that rocky bit sticking out on the water is the 800 year old Pohutukawa tree that the Maori spirits use to return to the ocean and their ancestral homeland. https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3082.jpgIMG_3082https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3004.jpgIMG_3004Here we go!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3005.jpgIMG_3005Richard and Alana: *gasping for breath*https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3039.jpgIMG_3039This is the top of the second hill we went down.https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_3052.jpgIMG_3052No more moving for a little whilehttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2991.jpgIMG_2991So many shells!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2980.jpgIMG_2980Yeah! Let's run the whole way!2017-05-27T05:25:49+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2017/03/25/zorbing/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/1.jpg1This is a Zorb, borrowed from the home page of the 2017-05-27T04:28:35+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/05/05/an-argument-in-favor-of-not-planning-ahead/2016-05-06T00:16:36+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/04/20/help-the-atm-swallowed-my-bank-card/2016-04-27T05:38:50+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/04/21/china-knows-how-to-peanut-butter/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image5.jpegimage2016-04-21T09:49:52+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/04/16/the-13th-nanshan-primary-school-teachers-english-speech-contest/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image4.jpegimageSome foreigner with no sense of formality 2016-04-16T08:50:12+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/04/09/roxithromycin-and-root-of-the-kudzu-vine/https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image3.jpegimagePost-stir, bottoms up!https://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image2.jpegimagePre-stirhttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image1.jpegimagePacket of granuleshttps://blogofriches.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image.jpegimageCCRFG and hot water2016-04-09T08:54:21+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.com/2016/04/09/at-the-hospital-in-china/2016-04-09T07:15:44+00:00monthlyhttps://blogofriches.comdaily1.02019-07-30T19:40:33+00:00