Post trip wrap-up

So, I've been back almost two weeks now, but I'm still only getting used to it. Today I walked into Whole Foods and nearly had a heart attack over how many choices I had. And last week I had a $16 drink at a hotel. Holy bejeesus. But, good things are happening after all. Got a great gig on Oct. 24th...first full band one back in town, you should come.

So here's a wrap-up of what I think about the trip. To see Spain and Morocco pics, come over. I've also made a 'best of' album and a 'best of food' album I can show you in person when I see you!

BEST FOOD:
Thailand, Greece, and Morocco. Tie, don't ask me to pick just one.


FAVORITE COUNTRIES:
Cambodia, Thailand, Nepal, and Morocco.


POOREST (GDP): Nepal

RICHEST (GDP):
Finland


BEST MOMENTS:

Sitting at the top of a sand dune and looking out at the Sahara Desert

Turning on the first light of the solar lighting system in Nepal.

Staring at the huge stone faces at Angkor Thom.

Teatro in Madrid

Giving the workshop in Greece.

Chasing kangaroos in the Hunter Valley, Australia.

Fire Fairies and the Wind Brothers in New Zealand.


FAVORITE REGIONAL DISHES:

New Zealand - lamb, green-lipped mussels, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

Australia - Wine.

Nepal - Aloo. Nepali pickle. And decidedly not Daal Baat.

Thailand - Oh god, where to start?
Tom Yum Koong, Kanom Krok, green curry, pork broth soup, EVERYTHING.

Cambodia - Amok (red fish curry custard wrapped in banana leaf).

China - Steamed pork ribs in spicy black bean sauce, roasted goose.

Finland - Meatballs, berries, blackcurrants, and salmon/potato soup.

Italy - Cannelloni, gelato (hazlenut).

Greece - lamb, figs, dates, chicken, olives, olive oil, octopus, and best of all...Kanelli's mom's avgolemono meatballs!

Spain - Carcamusa, jamon iberico, Rueda Verdejos, Ribera Del Dueros, manchego curado.

Morocco - Harira, tagines. And believe it or not, fresh orange juice!


I met so many amazing people and had such a wonderful time, I hope I can make a habit of this and do a trip every five years that takes me around the world.

I'm still having a tough time adapting to life alone back in LA, so if you're in town, give a call.

Warmly,

Sar