Jill & Howard's Epic Adventure in Southeast Asia

Chi Lin Nunnery – Hong Kong

Jill, an award-winning freelance writer, recently wrote, “A handful of years ago, I started inviting my dad on my press trips. At first, we traveled to North Dakota, New Mexico, and South Carolina. And then we began to branch out to further-away destinations, like Greece, Ireland, and Alaska. This week, we made it all the way to Thailand!”

Thailand was just the start of our latest daughter-father escapade—an epic adventure through four countries that spanned 19 days as we traveled from Thailand to Cambodia, Vietnam, and Hong Kong on board the Crystal Symphony.

My favorite thing to do is to go where I’ve never been.
~ Diane Arbus

This was my first trip to Asia, and it was the journey of a lifetime that revealed itself through a four-country tapestry of cultures and collection of unforgettable experiences—I sipped tea with a villager in Yen Duc, sampled edible insects and other local delicacies at a food market in Bangkok, visited a golden-colored temple in Sihanoukville, sailed along the Perfume River on a dragon boat in Hue, rode the Ding Ding in Hong Kong, and much more—that left an indelible mark on my traveler’s heart!

And there was another first for me—my first cruise on a luxury liner. As I quickly discovered, life on board the Crystal Symphony was a sumptuous journey that included a spacious and well-appointed stateroom, gourmet dining, exceptional entertainment, and impeccable service.

“The memories we make together while exploring new places are incredibly special,” Jill continued, “and I’m so grateful for our time together.”

My sentiments…exactly!

I look forward to sharing the best of my experiences and fond memories with you! 

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My Stories, One Day at a Time

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Bangkok: Temples, Markets, and Food

​On our first day in Bangkok, daughter Jill and I saw 'Bangkok by Night' on a tuk-tuk tour of markets, temples, and more. The tour was a great start to our 16-day adventure in Asia.

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Bangkok: The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Khon

​Our guided tour, 'In and Around Bangkok,' lived up to its name, as Jill and I explored The Grand Palace and Wat Pho, dined on authentic Thai cuisine, and watched a wonderful performance at the Royal Theater. We had a wonderful day!  

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Welcome Aboard the Crystal Symphony!

Jill and I said, "Goodbye Bangkok and hello Crystal Symphony," as it was time to begin our 12-day cruise through Southeastern Asia. My early experiences onboard the luxurious Symphony exceeded my expectations! 

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Chachoengsao: Live Like a Local

​The Crystal Symphony was docked in Laem Chabang, and from there I traveled to the town of Chachoengsao to visit an ancient market and a legendary Buddha. Spoiler Alert: I had a great time!

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Simply Sihanoukville

Jill and I toured Sihanoukville - Wat Leu Pagoda, Psar Leu Market, a fishing village, and more. It was a wonderful experience!

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My Perfect Day at Sea

This was a sea day aboard the Crystal Symphony - a day of rest, relaxation, and fun from start to finish!

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Ho Chi Mihn City: Mekong by Boat and Rickshaw

Jill and I toured the Mekong Delta, a full day excursion that included a scenic drive through the countryside from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre and boat rides along picturesque canals and rivers. We made memories for a lifetime!

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Ho Chi Minh City: Through the Eyes of Locals

I toured the back alleys of Saigon on a Vespa. The ride was great, but my fondest memories are of the Vietnamese people I saw and met!

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