After staring out the window of a rugged Russian van for six days, I’ve returned to Ulaan Baatar completely mesmerized by the Gobi Desert.
Where can I begin? It’s hard to process the vast, gorgeous landscapes of southern Mongolia, much less represent them in pictures. In this post, I’ll share the places I called home on the tour. First up: the trusty vehicle.
Six of us sat in this van for six days. It was not the most luxurious ride, but we safely maneuvered many roads that were not roads. Lesson: When the asphalt ends outside the city limits, the real fun begins.
Lonely Planet’s 14 Top Experiences for Mongolia ranks”Staying in a Ger” as the #2 experience and “Mongolian Hospitality” as #6. Often just arriving at a ger in a beautiful setting was enough for a peak experience.
Sometimes there were souvenir shops inside the gers. Sometimes there were adorable children. On the fifth morning of the trip, I drank airag, fermented horse milk, while warming up by the stove in the center of a ger. Somehow sleeping in a hostel doesn’t quite measure up.
Anna I am so happy I can see your wonderful adventures and your super pictures. love aunt shirley
Anna, this is a what a travel fellowship is ABOUT. wow, you’re awesome.
Amazing route man!!You guys HAVE TO get pic wearing mknaini’s in Kazakhstan!!!Must be pretty hard to have a clear idea of how long it will take, with all those shitty roads and not knowing what mechanical issues you may have etc? Are you just going to book your flights home when you get to London??
Babies!!!
Anna,
I am reading every post and really enjoying your adventures!!
Love, Aunt Joanne
Great photos, Anna! You know how much I was looking forward to this post, so thank you again for sharing. Love, Tom
I think it will not be long before Barry wants to go there and stay in a Ger! As for the fermented horse milk….
Your adventures are beyond imagination, Anna, and we are so happy for you.
Linda and Barry
What an adventure you are experiencing. I am particularly happy you have interacted with local people along the way.
That makes it so much more than just being another sightseer. I also admire your great sense of adventure.Continued bon voyage!
Richard Azzolini
Oh Anna,
I think these were the most spectacular pictures yet! I am experiencing your trip vicariously and can’t wait to get get your next update and thanks for defining Ger!
love,
Nancy O
Hi Anna,I know I am an emotional juikne … but I really got tears running down my face … I am so happy to see your store … it gorgeous and I can’t just imagine how you doit all … new house … new baby … new store … WOW! hats of to you and you look stunning in your profile picture.Have to say you are one inspiring lady.Congratulations…