Today I have a guest post from a recent friend, Sue Henly.  Sue and I met at a travel event, and charmed me with her Australian accent.  I think she’ll charm you with her writing as well.
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In the soft grey light of early morning, we sit quietly on a bamboo mat, wicker baskets of sticky rice beside us, across from a shuttered colonial mansion heavy with bougainvillea.  Birds chatter in the flame trees until a gong sounds, momentarily startling them into silence.
Around a corner, dozens of barefoot monks and novices appear in a swish of saffron, golden bowls hanging …read more

Today’s Matchbook Monday features Betelnut, a San Francisco restaurant featuring a Pan Asian fusion menu. It is located in the Cow Hollow section of the city.
The restaurant’s bar is a bit of a “scene” kind of place, and is often crowded. Don’t let that put you off trying the dining room, however, or the outdoor seating during the nice weather. The ambience and menu appeals to a wide variety of ages, and you’ll find the dining area full of patrons of varying ages.
Betelnut has an extensive menu, and it can be hard to make a decision. …read more