2014 Niki and I rode BC Bike Race. The race is a seven day stage race that started in North Vancouver. Each day had a stop in towns from Victoria Island to Sunshine Coast and finishing in Whistler. It was an amazing ride and swore we would return to ride the trails on our own time and relaxed pace. Four years later we did just that. If you haven’t been to the Sunshine Coast the only way I can describe it, and it is corny, is magical. The BC Coast is a place one can easily loose themselves in curious exploration. It’s a special place we plan to return again and again.

Brian and I had planned to visit South Korea. However, we were flying standby and at the last minute the flight filled. So, Plan B, Tokyo. We thought we were flying right into Tokyo, but no. Instead, we flew into Narita Airport, about an hour and a half train ride from Tokyo. Other surprises we found; Tokyo is expensive, trains to explore other parts of Japan are expensive, Tokyo requires planning for a budget friendly visit, and it was a national holiday when we arrived. With all that we were able to have a good time and see most of Tokyo and a few of its suburbs. How? We rented bikes and that made all the difference. I’m sure I’ll visit Tokyo again, but next time I’ll be better prepared. Or I’ll skip Tokyo altogether and head north to ski with the monkeys on Japan’s North Island. Some pics are from BMay, not sure which? Trip highlights for me: traveling Delta One, thanks BMay, seeing and experiencing a bicycle culture in a big damn city, and first time use of a bidet toilet.

Immediately returning from Vietnam, I did laundry and repacked to go to Ireland with Niki. We had nine days touring the Southwest part of the island. Ireland is known for Guinness, but we found the oysters to be the sweet nectar. Also, if you ever feel you're not getting enough bread, Ireland is the place to go.

In spring of 2017 Brian and I spent thee weeks in Vietnam. Traveling from Hanoi down to Saigon. The trip was an incredible experience of culture, nature, food and history. If letting go and embracing a new country with all its sights, sounds, smells, tastes and ideas; then Vietnam should be top on your list. I look forward to a return visit.