It was about 3am by the time Julia finally fell asleep... on the floor. On some occasions I have to assert control and be the adult for a change - so I suggested she make a bed and sleep on the floor. I think it must be the excitement of coming home that put the ants in her pant, (quite literally as she was bitten to death in the night!). We ventured out eventually around lunchtime to grab a bite to eat and use the internet access in the Hotel cafe.

Later in the afternoon Ju had suggested we kill time and visit the Big Budda next to the Golden Palace. The temple that housed the Buddah was bling tastic - everything was covered in gold foil. We walked around half interested. I kept catching Ju looking at her watch - she was probably counting down the hours. We finally found the Big Budda, and BIG was an understatement, the thing was MASSIVE!!

We had to vacate our room at six. We had plenty of time to pack and relax before popping out for some dinner. Pizza was the meal of choice... we didn't fancy eating anything too spicy for the flight home, our bellies had been a little sensitive the last few days. We managed to speak with my mum briefly on Skype. She was getting really excited about us coming home. I felt in a reflective mood the last few days. I would miss the temperature and the sunshine.

The last four months has been a positive experience. One that we will never forget. We have been lucky to have this opportunity and have worked hard to earn it. I had been racking my brains over the last few days trying to think about the one thing I had learned on this trip above all else. It's a difficult question, but I guess it's observing human nature and coming to the conclusion that; It doesn't matter what colour a person is, what socio economic background they come from, what nationality they are, what football club or what section of urban culture they fit into, being respectful, polite and courteous is really important. Sometimes I have been at the receiving end of it when I have least expected it (like in New Zealand) - and on other occasions I have been subjected to rudeness and ignorance from people you'd least expect it from (French in South America). I am sure over the coming months I will reflect more on our trip. I know which side my bread is buttered on when it comes to living in the UK - we have a great country and I am proud to be British.