My Travels

I thought instead of making a long post simply stating all the things I did in Thailand I'd put my holiday into a vlog style video. I couldn't fit everything in as it's hard to condense two weeks into a short video but I hope this shows a bit of how wonderful my experience in Thailand was. P.S. I apologise for my shoddy videoing and editing skills, it's my first attempt :)

Miss J xx

Thailand Haul

Shopping in the markets in Thailand is better than one would assume. If you know what you're doing you'll never pay too much, and if you don't then you're not paying a fortune anyway. If you go in searching for any thing that's a real brand you'll be quickly disappointed but if you're willing to pay not much for clothes that're fine quality wise it's perfect. Most of these items were so cheap initially I didn't need to barter with the price. Here's a look at some of the goodies I picked up on my trip.

Boy London t-shirt: $3 AUD

Chanel t-shirt: $3 AUD

'Super Junior' t-shirt: $3 AUD

Chanel no.5 tank: $3 AUD

Feather tank: $3 AUD

Peplum singlet: $3 AUD

Collared shirt: $6 AUD

Clock: $3 AUD

Beats headphones: $12 AUD

(my last fake pair lasted approx. 1 year)

Stuffed dog: $4.50 AUD

(handmade from this orphanage)

Rings: $5 AUD each

Naked 3 palette: $26 AUD

(The authenticity of this palette is questionable 

but the makeup quality passes the test)

'Inferno' Dan Brown novel: $8 AUD

(I can't go away without buying books)

Aside from the markets I also went to an actual shopping centre and visited H&M so these items you can get at home.

Pinky/peachy scalloped flats: $20 AUD

Black ankle boots: $40 AUD

(link)

From previous travel experience I know things like clothing bought cheaply will actually last, whereas electronics and the like are prone to not quite live up to what the salesperson is selling. However, I know what I'm getting when I'm buying this stuff, and really, who can resist a bargain.

Let me know your thoughts as always, and any travel shopping tips you might have.

Miss J xx

Hands Across The Water

As part of my current holiday in Thailand, my family and another organised a visit to the Baan Than Namchai orphanage which we learnt about through the Hands Across The Water organisation. (links are here and here)

The orphanage was originally set up after the 2004 tsunami devastation in Thailand that left so many children homeless and without family. As of our visit they currently house and support around 90 children.

This day was honestly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It was so touching to see all the work that had been put towards helping these kids, the oldest of which were attending university thanks to the Hands program. Together our two families spent only a little over $200 on supplies for the orphanage, which to some people may seem like nothing, but to them it was a huge amount of supplies, snacks and essentials. We also bought some beautiful handmade items made by the children from their craft shop where the proceeds go straight back into the orphanage.

The atmosphere and the children's positivity was so overwhelming, by the end I could hardly bear to leave. I would recommend to anyone, travelling or even at home, to seek out some type of charitable place, community or anything and do whatever little thing you can to help. The joy it will bring to the people you help and to you is worth it a million times over.

Miss J xx