Matthew Bowlby & Merlyn Bazi

Matthew & Merlyn

July 29, 2012

Matthew Bowlby & Merlyn Bazi

Matthew & Merlyn

July 29, 2012

Those that know us well probably don't expect our wanderlust to wear off anytime soon, which means we probably won't be tied to one place or another for at least a few years to come. Since it wouldn't be very practical for us to carry lots of cargo back to Lebanon, we've decided on the gift that makes us happier than anything - travelling the world, together!

So, if you'd like, you can help fund our honeymoon and all the wonderful things we've got planned! Our idea is to take three months backpacking across Asia, a place both us know very little about. We'll do it the way we love the most - on the cheap, with a backpack on our backs - taking bicycles, buses, trains and anything and anyone we can catch a ride with. We'll cross Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and anywhere else the wind takes us.

Below is a list of all the crazy things we have planned. You can help us along by funding one or more of the activities. We've also put a few items we'll need once we're back home at base (Beirut, for now). We'll be sure to think of you while we use your gift, and even try to send a photo or two.

We're going to Southeast Asia!

We'll set out from Beirut and head east towards Bangkok. From there we'll start our adventure moving on land across the region.

Our Registry

Activities & Experiences
Relaxation
Gear
Dining & Accommodation
For Life in the Real World
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  • $0-$50
  • $50-$100
  • $100-$150
  • $150+
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Angkor Wat Tour - A wonderful tour and photography course rolled in to one. We'll use our new camera and the expertise of a Phnom Penh-based photographer ased to explore this ancient series of temples and still home to a thriving Buddhist community.
$15000
1/4
$100
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Organized Bike Tour - Thailand has a wide variety of bike tours to choose from, some featuring excursions through vineyards and others through jungle terrain and back roads. This should be one of the best ways to explore the countryside!
$10000
4/4
$100
Giving Portions
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Rock Climbing in Thailand - Southwestern Thailand is widely regarded as one of the world's premier rock climbing destinations. With its many climbing options and astonishing beauty, there's a little bit of something for everyone, including beginners.
$10000
4/4
$100
Giving Portions
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Hiking Excursion - From rugged mountains and forests to sandy beaches and secret coves, Thailand offers a little bit of everything for hikers. We're looking forward to some breathtaking treks that should make this trip unforgettable.
$12500
3/3
$100
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Hot Air Ballooning - Thanks to your gift, we'll get to enjoy an amazing balloon ride over the countryside. With views of tropical fruit plantations, mountainous terrain and a lush green landscape, it will be the ride of a lifetime.
$10000
1/5
$100
Giving Portions
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Bangkok Walking and Historical Tour - A private walking tour of the city will help us understand its history, architecture and personality.
Gift Fulfilled
Chartered Boat Excursion - We're going to charter a traditional Thai boat and cruise around the islands and coastline. We'll have the chance to explore some National Marine Parks and enjoy a romantic sunset sail.
$5000
8/10
$100
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Shopping Around Thailand - Thailand is a terrific place for one-of-kind goods. We'll find a wide range of shoes, clothing, and accessories unequaled anywhere else, plus other keepsakes and gifts to bring back home!
$5000
8/8
$100
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An Evening of Thailand's Finest Nightlife - The country is renowned for its late night dining options and pulsating nightlife. Thanks to your gift, we'll be able to sample a little of both.
$15000
3/3
$100
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Couples Massage - Asia is world famous for its massages. There will be nothing like some hot stones on our back and the gentle sound of the surf to lull us into relaxation.
$15000
3/4
$100
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Fresh Flowers - Fresh cut, local flowers delivered to our room will keep the fresh, tropical essence of Thailand with us all day.
$3000
4/5
$100
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Champagne - Now it wouldn't be a honeymoon without splurging a bit. Your gift will contribute to a week of rest, relaxation and some fine champagne!
$2500
8/10
$100
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Guidebooks and Maps - Wait, where are we? We both have a horrible sense of direction and Matt's iPhone won't be getting reception in the Burmese jungle. We'll need guidebooks and maps to stay on the right track.
$1500
4/4
$100
Giving Portions
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Visas - Crossing borders ain't easy. Sometimes it even takes a little palm-greasing and special handshakes to squeak past.
$5000
10/10
$100
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Backpacks - We pack light, but we'll need new internal frame packs to carry all our gear right on our backs.
$5000
6/8
$100
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Sunglasses - We are definitely going to need some eye protection from the bright sun and the reflections from the water -- and my beautiful engagement ring!
$7500
2/2
$100
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DSLR Camera - Shooting on the iPhone isn't always enough for the fantastic footage we hope to capture. Honeymoon highlights in high-definition! We'll even be able to post our videos online...assuming we can find an internet cafe to upload the clips.
$10000
7/8
$100
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Round-trip airfare - we'll be on the ground all over Asia, but we've got to get there first. Travelling via camel from Beirut would take too long and the route through Syria is a little touch-and-go these days. So, up up and away.
$10000
40/40
$100
Giving Portions
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Phrase Books and Dictionaries - What's the most spoken language in the world? Bad English. Instead of battling through thick accents a rack of the retter "L", we figure best say it like the locals do.
$2500
5/6
$100
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An Unbelievable Hotel - During our stay we will experience the ultimate in service, class, and style at one of the best hotels in each of the countries we'll visit.
$10000
10/10
$100
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Dining Out - Dining destinations in Southeast Asia are exceptional. We're going to enjoy cheap street food and noodles, but sometimes we'll want to splurge on sushi bars and cocktails. Help us enjoy the best meals of the trip in unforgettable settings.
$10000
6/6
$100
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Breakfast in Bed - What could be better? Mimosas required.
$5000
1/2
$100
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Champagne Brunch - We've arranged so many excursions, it is more than likely going to drain us! We'll need to power up with a delicious brunch and mimosas.
$6500
2/2
$100
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Cypriot IKEA Extravaganza - There's an IKEA in Cyprus, just 30 minutes across the Mediterranean from Beirut. We'll need to hop over for a quick shopping spree to outfit our new home.
$10000
40/40
$100
Giving Portions
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$000
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