Leaving Tashkent, Uzbekistan after living there for nine months was fraught with the usual problems you associate with Central Asia. Our luggage was overweight and we were up for US$450 customs charges. But in these countries its possible to find a way of satisfying everyone, and cash always speeds the process. After moving through to the boarding area we waited and waited. Only to be summons back by security who had been checking the contents of our suitcases on camera.
“You are carrying antiques,” we were told.
“No,” we cried. “You can see its only clothes, a few rugs and photos.”
US dollars were being sort – a bribe - But after they were shown a business card with an important title within the Central Bank, soon erased the problem, and we were allowed to continue with our journey.
One and a half hours later we finally begin our flight to Bangkok. We planned a holiday through Southeast Asia to refresh us. Our itinerary included 4 days in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 5 days in Vientiane, Laos and a week in Vietnam. Our friends awaited us, and the old pleasures of wandering around cities that were familiar. It was wonderful when we stepped off the plane in Phnom Penh, and people smiled and joked with us. The contrast between the two Asia’s is incomparable; the joy of living radiated from the eyes of the people we met in the street, in the shops.
Finally we returned to Sydney, Australia, refreshed and ready to catch-up with family and friends again. We know there will be another adventure somewhere in the world – probable in 2003. But a slower pace – and things to do will keep us here for a while.
“Angels of Saigon” is selling well and the feedback that I’m getting from readers is rewarding and encourages me to continue writing. See www.Bookworm.au.com www.amazon.com www.pdbookstore.com for your copy.
“The Baby Merchants” is creating a lot of interest, especially from readers who have recently seen documentaries on Television about trafficking of minors. This book illustrates the problems that continue to plague our society – unresolved. See www.bookworm.au.com www.amazon.com www.pdbookstore.com for your copy.
During my time in Tashkent, Uzbekistan I have written a number of “Short Stories” about the local people, their customs and culture. See www.authorsden.com and www.bookworm.au.com for these stories about life.
Good News! I’ve finally completed another book called “The Emerald Buddha.” This is a mystery thriller about an Australian woman, Michelle Maxwell, who life suddenly erupts with virulent phone calls about her dead husband. Secret deals from the past continue to haunt her – the Asian caller demands his money. Nicholas and Michelle must return to Southeast Asia to uncover the corruption trail that Paul Maxwell has laid – betrayal, death and danger are waiting for them.
This book will be published in 2003 and readers will be advised of availability.
Christmas is only a few weeks away, so Merry Christmas and buy a book for yourself and friends.

Best Wishes,
Leonie Campbell (author)
www.bookworm.au.com