tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26048072778671757452024-03-06T11:48:48.355+11:00If fate allow our destinies to meet.....Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger196125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-34556160894312927602011-08-01T09:04:00.001+10:002011-08-03T08:53:56.166+10:00Agrigento Travels<div style="text-align: justify;">Agrigento is a good base to be as it is within easy reach of the Western Coast and not too far to travel from Palermo where we departed from.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5982357545/" title="IMG_2806 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2806" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6135/5982357545_12bc538f79.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5982357401/" title="IMG_2805 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2805" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6013/5982357401_a85110079e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5982919160/" title="IMG_2819 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2819" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6017/5982919160_703d4e2d60.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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The town itself transports you back into the past with its winding paths and buildings. Definitely a fun way of exploring easily by foot. You can then drive off to the coast from here.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For us, we only stayed for a day and took a bus to head to the Valley of the Temples to see the remains of the Greek Colony. I think just the name itself hints at the wonder and magnificence of what you would be greeted with. You definitely want to make sure you do make this a must see place when coming to Sicily.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5982358723/" title="IMG_6826 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6826" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/5982358723_4d94a29b74.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5982358941/" title="IMG_6840 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6840" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6028/5982358941_915498f951.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5982920690/" title="IMG_6864 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6864" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6134/5982920690_70b1b919d0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For food adventures, please click <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/2011/07/agrigento-pit-stop-sicily.html">here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tips:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. You can take a bus from the main train station which will take you to the Valley of the Temple. You will not miss it and the journey is no more than 10-15 minutes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. The Archaeological Museum is not within the area of the Valley of the Temples. It is between Agrigento and the Valley of the Temple. Hop back onto the bus to take you there. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-72247579243870832182011-07-28T08:13:00.003+10:002011-08-03T08:53:32.639+10:00Sicily Travels - Palermo<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I was quite excited about heading away on a 10 day trip to Sicily. It has always made me wonder whenever I noticed Sicilians considered themselves to be unique and individual with their own cuisine and identity. Having never been to the South of Italy, I've heard that it is quite different to its northern neighbours. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I was looking forward to a robust and boisterous experience with fantastic scenery and food in tow. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">On the first day that we arrived, we were too tired to do much other than walk around having not had any sleep the night before. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We were just walking around randomly and were brought out by our delightful B&B owner for some lunch and a home cooked dinner. </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">He has the most amazing B&B, check out some of the room designs <span style="font-size: x-small;">(</span><a href="http://www.abali.it/en/abaliweb/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.abali.it/en/abaliweb/</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">)</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838949985/" title="IMG_6559 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6559" height="100" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5200/5838949985_bdf4144569_t.jpg" width="75" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5839501184/" title="IMG_6560 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6560" height="75" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3226/5839501184_02e92b1b88_t.jpg" width="100" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838950143/" title="IMG_6565 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6565" height="100" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/5838950143_ddb4ac9867_t.jpg" width="75" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Strolling through the winding narrow streets lined with pebbles, the stamp of Baroque Arab architecture was still quite evident. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We walked through the main streets and sidetrack into the alleyways whenever we can to immerse and feel the sense of what it was like living here. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The locals are very matter of fact friendly even though they do not look so from their expressions. It is easy to ask for help or directions and they do greet you when you walk by. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A few notable places and sites to see: </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><ul><li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Capella Palatina, Cathedrale, Fontana Pretoria, San Cataldo, Quattro Canti, Teatro Massimo - these are close to each other and you won't miss it. It is in all tourist maps.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Monreale - You will have to take a bus but is definitely worth seeing, it takes half a day.</li>
<li>Cripta dei Cappuccini - Seeing how the dead used to be kept and maintained.</li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here are some photos of a few places that we visited which I do recommend. </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838952525/" title="IMG_6740 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6740" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3575/5838952525_b4139b859f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838952525/" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6740 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5839501384/" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6567 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6567" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/5839501384_7bbf5a1422.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838951871/" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6675 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6675" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5310/5838951871_9d7763b182.jpg" width="500" /></a></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838952525/" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="IMG_6740 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5839502004/" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6631 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6631" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3644/5839502004_fcf7f571e4_m.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838951179/" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6648 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6648" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3498/5838951179_79de2c70bf_m.jpg" width="500" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5839501714/" title="IMG_6588 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6588" height="240" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2482/5839501714_f5777432ae_m.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5839502664/" title="IMG_6668 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6668" height="240" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2698/5839502664_3462947321_m.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5838953649/" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6780 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6780" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5061/5838953649_417862ac7c_m.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chopstix2steaknives/5839503584/" title="IMG_6748 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6748" height="240" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/5839503584_4258b8f598_m.jpg" width="180" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Tips:</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1. It is not necessary to have a car to go around in Palermo. Most attractions are easily accessible on foot. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">2. To Monreale, take bus 389 which is available around the Cathedrale. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. Arriving into Palermo airport, you can take a bus which takes you to the central train station in 30 minutes or so for €5.80. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. Most places are closed for siesta which means that you need to plan your sightseeing which is broken into the morning and evening with a siesta break between 1pm - 3.30pm.<br />
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For food adventures, please click <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/2011/07/palermo-eating.html">here</a>.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-24418099828035559172011-07-08T00:52:00.001+10:002011-07-08T00:52:30.533+10:00Day MusingsWhy is it that the one person I am missing is the one person I cannot see.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-27656595882102581272011-03-29T04:56:00.000+11:002011-03-29T04:56:12.957+11:00BostonFrom Washington, I travelled to the City of Boston. Boston is a very interesting place; it is rich in history and revolutions as well as known for its lobster and chowder. <br />
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History has always been one of my weaker subjects and what pops into my head when Boston is mentioned is the Boston Tea Party. This obviously changed since exploring the city. <br />
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Here are some interesting pictures. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566217602/" title="Picture 008 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="Picture 008" height="179" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5292/5566217602_248be819af_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565638505/" title="Picture 013 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="Picture 013" height="179" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5179/5565638505_20b8078d01_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566224692/" title="IMG_6053 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6053" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5566224692_7301361b88_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565645219/" title="IMG_6055 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6055" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5565645219_b8089488b2_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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Click <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/sets/72157626367430644/with/5565645219/">here</a> for more photos and <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/p/europe-others-food-travels.html">here</a> for food.<br />
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#Tips<br />
1. It is highly walkable and armed with a good guidebook or research done. You can see everything by foot and public transport. <br />
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2. If you are with family and elders, opt for the Duck Trolley Tours. One whole round takes 2.5 hours and covers more stuff and local insights then a book or the Freedom Trail would give you. It is better value in the summer as $36 per person gives you a free harbour cruise as well. <br />
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3. The Freedom Trail should be the first point of action. It gives a good and brief guide to the history and brings you through streets that you normally wouldn't venture to. Gives good insight to the feel of the neighbourhoods. Try not to do this on a Monday as a number of sights are closed. <br />
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4. Free tours of Harvard Square are at 10am, 12pm and 2pm starting at the visitor information kiosk.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-7957385194609088232011-03-29T04:52:00.000+11:002011-03-29T04:52:32.060+11:00Washington Day 2 & 3<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Day 2 & 3 found me headed to The National Mall where most of the Smithsonian museums are located.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Did you know that the Smithsonian museum was founded by a British who has never been to the US?</div><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565650881/" title="IMG_5620 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5620" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5565650881_df33519124.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">First stop was the Museum of American History where I spent loads of time at the Julia Child section. Julia Child is such an icon and even though they were showing shows that were aired like 20-30 years ago, I was still equally mesmerised. I was equally fascinated with all her kitchen gadgets too! </div><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566237618/" title="julia child by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="julia child" height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5566237618_09197420d0.jpg" width="375" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I can see how Americans who watch her show grew up with her as she was still on TV at a very old age. Super hugs to her husband who was there for her for all things big and small which was mentioned. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565658163/" title="Julia Child 3 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="Julia Child 3" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5017/5565658163_df7a5408a2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I literally had to tear myself away to check out the other exhibitions. The biggest draw is the Star Spangled Banner. Very interesting story to this one. It was originally but now there is only left as the custodian was giving away snippets of it as keepsakes to people. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The whole place is really inspiring. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565658921/" title="Natural history museum by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="Natural history museum" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5258/5565658921_c52a263c36.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next stop was the natural history museum. I can't believe how cool and awesome this place is. Seriously, both kids and adults will be mesmerised. The whole place is so well planned and the exhibitions are so engaging and well designed. You have to go to see for yourself. By far the best I've seen. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next stop was the air and space museum. I know that this has over million visitors in a year but the ventilation wasn't that great and I was feeling hot and stuffy and this is in the winter. The place feels a little dated too. Still, manage to catch the highlights such as the Amelia Earhart plane and the Wrights Brothers. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That was enough walking for me and I went off to <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/2011/02/washington-eats-transport-back-to-50s.html">head for dinner at a famous landmark</a> which even has its own gift shop. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The next day arrived and I headed for The Capitol and Library of Congress. I totally didn't realise that they are not open on a Sunday. Duh!! So tip for travellers, head there on a Saturday and the museums on a Sunday. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566231708/" title="IMG_5769 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5769" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5267/5566231708_b174d9c968.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So off I went to check out the Eastern Markets instead. I decided to head there by foot which allowed me to walk through residential areas and immersing myself even if it was just for those few moments in what life is like here. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It feels great to watch people going about their daily lives. I see people with groceries, families heading for Sunday church, a child having an argument with his dad. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I arrived at the markets and it was quite interesting. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My earlier mistake meant that had more time to visit the Natural History museum which I did. I even went to the Freer Gallery to check out the Peacock Room. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ventured into the Visitor Centre after and managed to catch an introduction video. Lesson learnt, the FIRST thing that you should do is head to the Visitor Centre and watch this video. It is so inspiring and told more about the museums than my guidebook did. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I headed to try the <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/2011/02/washington-eats-transport-back-to-50s.html">famous Mitsitam cafe</a> in the African American museum after. Hey, if they can even have their own cookbook, it should be worth checking out. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My last stop was the National Portrait Gallery to view all the Presidents portraits. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That's all for Washington on my 2.5 day trip. There is still so much more to see if you like museums and history, you can easily spend 5 days here including checking out neighbouring Georgetown and heading to the Kennedy centre for some free evening entertainment. There were also other places like madam tussahs, spy museums and many more. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I did manage to squeeze in a foreign film movie. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
For more photos, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/sets/72157626367458624/with/5566231708/">click here</a>.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-49296591174183464312011-03-29T04:47:00.000+11:002011-03-29T04:47:55.874+11:00Washington Day 1<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I decided to take a train rather than by air from New York to Washington. Leaving the hotel when the sun is still asleep is no fun as I made my way to Penn station to take the Acela Express. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While walking into the station, I was greeted by a homeless man who was clearly drunk and this was at 6 in the morning. I walked silently away only to have him follow me into the lift. Luckily there was another Guy in there who told him off saying that he is holding up the lift. Drunken man tapped me on the shoulder and said I'll talk to you later, I Nodded and said ok and then....*scurried away*. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What a way to start my journey to Washington. The train ride was really pleasant and they even have wifi! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566225172/" title="Boston south station by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="Boston south station" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5268/5566225172_120fbe3f17.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">Washington South Station</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With half a day left to explore, I went off in search of some lunch which took to me to Georgetown University. Pit stop breaks for some lunch. From there it was a 6 blocks walk to Lincoln memorial. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566235774/" title="abraham lincoln by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="abraham lincoln" height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5105/5566235774_f28bc72d76.jpg" width="375" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Washington reminds me a little of Canberra. Large open spaces, no sky rises and lined with government buildings. It was a really nice sunny day considering that it was winter and it was just so peaceful. Bar the regular interruption of ambulance and police sirens. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565656379/" title="WWII memorial 2 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="WWII memorial 2" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5257/5565656379_08859c1ba3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Managed to visit the WWII memorial, White house and finished with the national archives. There is so much history and the whole place just amazes you. Seeing the White House, the much revered Declaration of Independence and Constitution was just amazing. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was so sad that the FBI have temporarily closed their visitor’s tour. That would have been really interesting. Needless to say, I was really tired by this point as I walked everywhere! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5565657409/" title="chinatown 3 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="chinatown 3" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5565657409_1cd5ca4c17.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Last stop was Chinatown for dinner. Washington's Chinatown is only manned by about 20 plus shops and restaurant which is quite dismal. What did I eat? <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/p/europe-others-food-travels.html">Click here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That's it for day 1 as I walked back to my hotel from Chinatown.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-54146635027839402362011-03-29T04:39:00.000+11:002011-03-29T04:39:57.999+11:00There is no place like New York<div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5566255844/" title="IMG_8749 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8749" height="400" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5138/5566255844_8417e2d2b1_z.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I HAD to spend a few days in NY as part of my US trip, there is an inexplicable vibe that hangs in the air and whether it is the unrelenting freeze of winter or sunny summer, you will still fall in love with the place. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is just so much to see and if you have been watching a lot of US shows, it feels like a movie set wherever you walk and start recognising buildings and pavements for the first time. I love the grandeur of the Grand Central Terminal, the awe of the skyline from the Rockefeller centre and not to mention the delightful desserts and huge food portions. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I did not do as much sightseeing as my last trip which I know is way overdue. This time it was more catching up with friends, eating and shopping. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/5469686436/" title="IMG_6095 by chopstix2steaknives, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6095" height="375" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5094/5469686436_f4c8e38926.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I definitely <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/2011/02/momofuku-noodle-bar-nyc-fatty-delicious.html">ate a LOT</a> which you can catch it all <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/p/europe-others-food-travels.html">here</a>. Some of my favourites include the awesome <a href="http://chopstix2steaknives.blogspot.com/2011/02/baohaus-nyc-my-new-favourite-gua-bao.html">Gua Bao</a> or steamed buns, mouth watering ribs rendang and amazing texture in a poached egg just to name a few. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shopping was....... Let's just say I was feeling shopped out and my credit cards have a very big hole in it now. US is a great place to shop for American brands especially at their outlet stores. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In NY, there are four options in addition to the myriad of shopping centres like Macy's, Sephora and Bergdorf Goodman. I went to all of them and here is a quick guide on each. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong><em>Filene's Basement</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is at least one store in every state and works similar to TK Maxx and Century 21. They sell a huge selection of mid to high end brands at discounted prices. You definitely need time and patience to dig out the bargains. It gets especially crazy when they go on sale, the ladies go crazy and manic mayhem occurs in the wedding dresses department. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Century 21</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Century 21 is similar to Filene's Basement but you can't beat their huge selection of mid range to couture shoes available. I grabbed many a shoe bargains here. Not to mention accessories and clothings. If you are tight for time and can't head to an outlet, I'll say head here as it is a micro version of the outlets with a taste of selections, variety and prices. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Jersey Gardens</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This takes half an hour by coach from the Port Authority Terminal and runs every half hour. Buy your ticket at the machines which costs $13 and head to gate 202. Jersey Gardens have mainly low to mid range brands with some having additional sales. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Woodbury Commons</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lastly, you have Woodbury Commons Outlet which is an hour coach ride from Port Authority Bus Terminal. The ticket cost $42 which comes with a voucher book with additional discounts at participating stores. It is expensive for a coach ride and if you have more than three of you heading there, renting a car and driving there on your own might be a more economical option. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I say the price is worth it as the bargains are fantastic. As with outlets, sometimes you get great bargains and sometimes you don't. WC houses most of the mid range brands that can be found in Jersey Gardens as well as designer brands. Think </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Of all of them, my favourite is WC followed by Century 21. Having been all four places in one trip, I am seriously shopped out!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The New York stop was pretty much catching up with friends through food and shopping this time round.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Please click here for more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47109031@N04/sets/72157626367521878/with/5566255844/">photos</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-90545638947516277132011-02-05T03:43:00.000+11:002011-02-05T03:43:04.466+11:00When it's all worth it!<div style="text-align: justify;">A lot of people do not understand or know the dedication it takes to blog. I lost count of the endless finishing up posts past midnight and the sheer hours it takes to sort the photos.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It all becomes worth it when comments or feedback is left to know that people do read and do appreciate what you write. I also gained a whole new circle of friends who perhaps share the same passion or humour.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I recently had a dining experience which I truly enjoyed and genuinely love what the chef does. It took me nearly three weeks to write up my experience as I do want to do it justice even when not everything is positive.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With it being a Friday and I am all worn out and sleep deprived, I received a message from the chef thanking me for the review. It is truly a wonderful feeling and words cannot described how all that effort was worth it. Maybe it was the same for the chef too, to get feedback on the delicious creations which they would have spend so much time and effort on.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I guess it works both ways!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-33978390530116919192010-11-16T22:27:00.002+11:002010-11-16T22:27:09.972+11:00Fav quote of the Day from Earth CafeNo good ever comes from holding onto regret. Learn from your past, accept it & keep moving forward free of remorse or disappointments...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-19541085204126324362010-10-06T09:38:00.000+11:002010-10-11T21:37:26.079+11:00London Summer 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">The London summer for 2010 felt surprisingly short as we seem to only have 2 full weeks of hot sunshine. My denial of insisting that it is still summer is slowly being diminish to be faced with reality when the sun no longer sets past 9pm and the winds and rain greets you like a long lost friend.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Am really happy that this year I got to spend and make the most of the summer instead of being away for work. Looking back and reminiscing, I have managed to packed my days with events and things of interests. I managed to do a lot and yet still miss out on a lot.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">It is amazing how there are so many things happening around and it is just a matter of finding out what is there out there to do. Here are some of the random events that I have managed to enjoy during the summer….</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">BBC Big Band at canary wharf. Lazing on the grass, munching on delicious food and perhaps just people watching or reading while listening to big band music on a nice summer’s evening.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Tour of the Somerset House. This is a free tour and is available twice a week.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtg83cuAwE7PHVELG88eDdA8RciQZoIZN-IUhkBs9H_kzHBo9yUsZVksJj7BWnco7LpzlHvRHjWSCv0I5f38UtMRfSOz1s35VD2ku4bwdaPSzfPqjXQSfpccrFMdMN7QNP0M3mTx5Khs2r/s1600/Picture+129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtg83cuAwE7PHVELG88eDdA8RciQZoIZN-IUhkBs9H_kzHBo9yUsZVksJj7BWnco7LpzlHvRHjWSCv0I5f38UtMRfSOz1s35VD2ku4bwdaPSzfPqjXQSfpccrFMdMN7QNP0M3mTx5Khs2r/s400/Picture+129.jpg" width="370" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Kenwood Picnic Concert at Hampstead</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Tanguera at Sadler’s Well</div><br />
Was really looking forward to this and I think it is a good show but there were some sacrifices in the dancing to make way for the acting and storyline. <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cinderella by the English National Ballet.</div><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Into the Woods at Regent’s Park</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>I really quite enjoyed this one. A different take on the classic stories by the Grimm brothers. Definitely try to catch one of these next time or next year. <br />
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Elephant Parade (photos to come)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Spartacus by the Bolshoi Ballet. Vasiliev is just amazing. What has been said is true, his leaps are higher and he seems to fly in the air much longer. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIEE47mQ4OhRpAjA0JdxXVAOQqdV6vhxZfY6FyA3yjUT7mLsxzPvdfNXP2tpv3mczD5iEXM4dFlqqgvwNouzucSOmAkl23qK14kwkZylQIg80K53_Vm-4EP2WnV2e55AZraWxonhWNSKD/s1600/IMG_3059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIEE47mQ4OhRpAjA0JdxXVAOQqdV6vhxZfY6FyA3yjUT7mLsxzPvdfNXP2tpv3mczD5iEXM4dFlqqgvwNouzucSOmAkl23qK14kwkZylQIg80K53_Vm-4EP2WnV2e55AZraWxonhWNSKD/s400/IMG_3059.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0AJFZ5Jb3BJyTthN9_bDObWmhxhY7sllsos4IjupgSqG3IBWc_XOVFhMWvZC2p0QxitsGF6K1s7Zl_xYVg1nVP-punOE9ci2nHuBFwyFSywxvfkQEqPG10BtwFEVImD386aSdOl5xRWT/s1600/IMG_3050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0AJFZ5Jb3BJyTthN9_bDObWmhxhY7sllsos4IjupgSqG3IBWc_XOVFhMWvZC2p0QxitsGF6K1s7Zl_xYVg1nVP-punOE9ci2nHuBFwyFSywxvfkQEqPG10BtwFEVImD386aSdOl5xRWT/s400/IMG_3050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ascot Racecourse </div><br />
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There were also many others such as:<br />
Food related festivals such as Taste of London, Soho charity food festival which I will try to post soon on my food blog.<br />
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Picnics in the parks, weekend trips away, walks and trails…the list goes on. What I couldn’t fit in which is on my to do list for next year – berry picking, summer BBQ, more walks and trails such as Peak District. <br />
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The hole in my pocket has definitely expanded greatly in summer but some of the experiences are well worth it. There are still a few more places which I am trying to squeeze in before it is looking to the Summer of 2011.<br />
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And a hello to Autumn and Winter………Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-48376878977729535022010-08-18T19:47:00.000+10:002010-08-18T19:47:25.073+10:00A summer's day in LondonAah...When I was in Sydney, I always wondered why my British friends were seemingly obsessed with the weather. Yes, I know that the sky in London tends to border on grey for most parts of the year and it rains all the time. I was not entirely convinced that grey clouds and rainy days have that big an impact on our attitudes and behaviour.<br />
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Things have changed, after being here for more than a year. I like to pick bright sunny clothes as a sunny pick me up against the grey skies and starting a conversation with the weather does not seem unusual anymore. <br />
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It is currently 18 degrees today and in Sydney, this will be known as cold! But the sun is out, I have been missing out on my summer days for days now so I refuse to give in. I still want to enjoy my summer. I refuse to wear my jacket today and to take it as summer as the sun is out. <br />
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Strange how the weather affects you doesn't it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-15877932544585512052010-07-24T00:15:00.002+10:002010-07-24T00:16:30.116+10:00Cupcake mission accomplished!FINALLY.....after <a href="http://live2eatfoodie.blogspot.com/2010/07/hummingbird-specials-of-day.html">three weeks of trying</a>, I managed to get my cherry blossom cupcakes!<br />
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Walking back from Hummingbird, there were 2 little kids walking in front of me. The elder brother holding the hand of his little sister and walking along the pavement. Imagine being little kids on a busy pavement and having people walk by you from all directions as well as watching out for traffic.<br />
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What happen next brought a smile to my lips and touch my heart. The brother guided the little sister to the other side of him so that he is standing closest to the road and her to the pavement and shops. Protecting her more from the danger of the traffic (both human and vehicles). This is what I call pure selfless love and care. <br />
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I've always noticed that in a man if he does that, sign of being a true gentleman. To see that in a kid...little boy you rock!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-56702675247348779942010-07-17T20:13:00.006+10:002010-07-19T20:17:22.287+10:00Happy Brithday to....<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">ME!! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Another year has passed and it is another year older or should I say wiser? LOL!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Time to look forward and hopefully it will be a fantastic year....there are still tons of stuff and wishes and dreams that I have and want to fulfill.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKBw6iTghRtqtjvEEmWzAe6jbj-kF9cY6nkmMSjIZwG73KGr-NFMSE5KgA1njQxsX_3nLdfD2Vy8FbsfjOMBQUGiRT3KLKLeCpI7mx_krm9hJE1q5fCGkUgis9VWkzXdwn_YC-fgtjrUc/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKBw6iTghRtqtjvEEmWzAe6jbj-kF9cY6nkmMSjIZwG73KGr-NFMSE5KgA1njQxsX_3nLdfD2Vy8FbsfjOMBQUGiRT3KLKLeCpI7mx_krm9hJE1q5fCGkUgis9VWkzXdwn_YC-fgtjrUc/s320/photo.JPG" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And....got myself a nice little pressie...all thanks to the phone fund courtesy of my ex-colleagues and wonderful friends.....I am losing LOTS of sleep over this.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-21524596647871687452010-07-14T22:28:00.000+10:002010-07-14T22:28:57.159+10:00Dreams are made of....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wonderbackgrounds.com/nature/cloud/cloud_2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rw="true" src="http://www.wonderbackgrounds.com/nature/cloud/cloud_2.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Lately, I have been pretty stressed and my emotions feel like it has been on a non-stop rollercoaster ride. I can’t help but still feel a little anxiety that seems to like to linger just around the corner, unseen but its presence felt.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have a dream, a dream that I am hoping will be materialised. Seeing others who have trodden down the path and been successful helps to make it seem, “It can be done!” I find that thinking about my dreams helps to take my mind off things.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dreams are good, mine is made of hope, faith, determination, willpower yet it includes dashes of fear, worries, sweat and tears. I have a big dream and I will need to go through all that to make it work in the future, in the meantime, thinking about it brings joy to my face and bring me to a happy place.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What are your dreams and what are they made of? </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-17410787928938677792010-07-06T20:16:00.000+10:002010-07-06T20:16:30.758+10:00Thank you, Decca Aitkenhead<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While reading an article online, a sentence from the journalist really stood out to me. “I do, however, recognise that what I like to think of as my opinions are really emotional prejudices” (http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2010/jul/05/clay-shirky-internet-television-newspapers). My mind immediately thought of a particular friend that I know.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While it is without a doubt that we are all humans and are governed and ruled by both our logic and emotions, it is really interesting how each and everyone one of us are ruled in different degrees by these two paradigms. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Being too logical can be interpreted as having no emotions and of almost being like a robot. Yet, being too emotional and losing the balance of logic plays havoc in a world where boundaries are set for the auto synchronisation of people for society to operate smoothly to a certain degree.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The two words ‘emotional prejudices’ got me thinking about how many of us are doing that without realising. Some are reasonably justified through personal experiences and unique events while are the rest just pluck out of thin air? I believe that all emotions have a trigger and it is just a process of understanding what that trigger is. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Reading all the books in the world, seeing the world or even attending millions of talks will not help if one does not have the ability to then extract and analyse, starting with the most important one of all; self – analyse and understanding yourself. I find it is incredibly wonderful that this journalist was able to self-analyse and admit that yes, some opinions are emotional prejudices. It takes more out of a man/woman to be able to do that and shows character.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thank you, Decca Aitkenhead. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-82685883142447195512010-07-01T21:40:00.000+10:002010-07-01T21:40:53.875+10:00Desk decoration galore....It is always a period of adjusting whenever you start a new job. Learning the ropes, getting to know the people and the culture. My new company is very different and I am slowly acquainting myself to the bits and bops.<br />
I was so happy when I noticed that there is a break out area and a café but unfortunately my team loves to eat at their desk or out of the office. Have not found a lunch buddy yet. <br />
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I am loving the fact that I actually have a permanent desk instead of being immersed in the luck of the lottery to whichever hot desks are available for the past few years. It is nice to be able to experience and decorate your desk. Day by day, I try to make it more me! =)<br />
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Sow hat did I get up to? I have some recipe books on one side so that I can look at them when I need a break. Am thinking of maybe a cute figurine or two to brighten me up pr perhaps a tiny plant (although the office health and safety or gardeners might not be too impressed!) I have also been slowly bringing in snacks and shoes! LOL! Aahh…the wonders and fascination of it all.<br />
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Got me thinking, what else do people do whether intentionally or not with their work desk?<br />
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Have not succumbed to posting photos yet…..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-13361913746617032832010-06-16T23:15:00.000+10:002010-06-16T23:15:27.146+10:00New changes in a dynamic worldAfter a whirlwind three months away for work, things have now changed!<br />
I have resigned and this week is my first week at my new job. Good things to come hopefully for the future.<br />
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In the meantime, I somehow managed to sprain my wrist during dance class yesterday and I can't really put a lot of weight or do too much with my sprained wrist! =(Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-69382900030535896362010-04-10T20:46:00.000+10:002010-04-29T20:46:49.195+10:00Post DelayApologies for the lack of post, can't access Blogger in China. Have to wait until I am out of the country.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-62933095511152710272010-04-04T02:00:00.000+11:002010-04-04T02:03:13.844+10:00台北 狂狂狂!真不好意思!台北真得非常好玩, 每天回来都满累了,一碰床上那个轻软的枕头就没办法。。。睡觉了!<br />
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我会尽力的快点把全部post上来!<br />
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等我!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-24918420227258087772010-03-29T02:57:00.000+11:002010-03-29T02:57:34.779+11:00Taipei Day 1<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yippeeeee……after a long stint in China, I am forced to leave the country or I would become in illicit with the law. The destination that I have decided to head to is Taipei. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Have never been to that country but I have a lot of friends from there and watch heaps of Taiwanese shows. It was a long wait at the airport waiting to check in. I was so early that the check in counter wasn’t even open.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I chose to fly with EVA airways. The staff crew were really nice and friendly and I was pleasantly surprised with the food. It was delicious, I think it is definitely at the top of my list from all the airlines that I have been on. Check out the food review here.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Got to the airport and was out within half an hour, went to pick up my youth travel card which is actually a key chain! It was quite late by the time I was settled in the hotel. The hotel is really great, the staff was so helpful and was there at every step. It’s great when you get wireless internet access in the room as it means that I can seat anywhere within the room. It is a Japanese inspired styled room where you even have a section for 泡澡!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TfpEfuOKD6TAevaCNabKasnSZTvMVZ5Mrdj-qyPc5URglVXH22CXiXJZNalTwHn0I7cUwcZCY7bW2SPt2LaG1p1-YiZdzoPDf6xikmz4_2WqkhfZYG2iBmfFJiDrHL5CBYB5ISlUJEel/s1600/IMG_0496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TfpEfuOKD6TAevaCNabKasnSZTvMVZ5Mrdj-qyPc5URglVXH22CXiXJZNalTwHn0I7cUwcZCY7bW2SPt2LaG1p1-YiZdzoPDf6xikmz4_2WqkhfZYG2iBmfFJiDrHL5CBYB5ISlUJEel/s320/IMG_0496.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So excited to finally be here that I decided to walk around the streets and grab a bite to eat. By the time I head to bed, it was way past midnight! That is my first night in Taipei!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-52418040291844500372010-03-10T15:37:00.003+11:002010-03-11T13:27:37.672+11:00Toilet Manners<div style="text-align: justify;">Have departed Shanghai and am now in a city called ‘Zhang Jia Gang’. It’s definitely a really small city. Requested for a non-smoking room of which they don’t have any more available unless I upgrade to a bigger room. For an extra 7 quid, am happy to pay that so that my lungs will be happy. It is a really nice room and the amount of space and amenities is much better. On my second night, I even received a little ducky key chain. So cute!<br />
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There is definitely more room and space in ZJG. Shanghai is just massive and the amount of people is just incredible. What puzzles me is that in a city with tons of people, everyone seems to walk really slowly. What is more annoying at times is groups of 3 or 4 people who link arms together and occupy the entire pedestrian walk area and because of their slow speed, they are seriously causing human traffic jam here. Yet, they are so oblivious to the jam that they are causing!<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another amusing incident was going to use the ladies in a hotel. Very posh décor and the door to the cubicles were made of glass. It’s not entirely see through as the glass was shaded in alternate stripes so there is still a bit of privacy. Imagine my surprise when I open the door to the ladies and there was another lady in a cubicle who didn’t even bother shutting her own cubicle door. I have no idea what was going through her mind when we glanced at each other for a few seconds while I walked to an empty cubicle. <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I never thought that I would say that toilet manners need to be taught!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-19316711383187481982010-03-05T13:53:00.002+11:002010-03-05T14:02:46.377+11:00Time Out Shanghai<div style="text-align: justify;">A few days into my trip here in shanghai, I chanced upon the Time Out Shanghai monthly magazine and got myself a copy. This was the March 2010 issue and the front article on the best markets was enticing!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMUfHEUyWdKnp7n3JV04lcMVBvjy9_W1_lHr_jlz0Senn3gfJ35tmLVcmHUccpQMgIrnHNde7Y6gkEyDZhyphenhyphennn4wbk4cJh9YMqq-fv9f71nvrnIkWyZ_Vd6loffAcqO1L27a_TI7rFTl0W9/s1600-h/timeout_shanghai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMUfHEUyWdKnp7n3JV04lcMVBvjy9_W1_lHr_jlz0Senn3gfJ35tmLVcmHUccpQMgIrnHNde7Y6gkEyDZhyphenhyphennn4wbk4cJh9YMqq-fv9f71nvrnIkWyZ_Vd6loffAcqO1L27a_TI7rFTl0W9/s320/timeout_shanghai.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyhow, there was a restaurant that was recommended in the magazine under the 'Off the Beaten Track' food section which is called 十味观. This restaurant was highlighted for its variety of coloured ‘xiao long pao 小笼包’. In a land where you can get 小笼包 at nearly everywhere you turn, coloured ones is something unique and it immediately piqued my curiosity to try it. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After a long day at work, we left later than expected for dinner and was worried that the restaurant might be close. The taxi did not even drop us at the location and we had to walk around to find it. Didn’t help that we were walking in the rain in the wrong direction before we realised that we had to double back. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Can you imagine the look on our faces when we got to the restaurant and what did we see? A truck parked at the front of the restaurant and workers lugging out the kitchen stove. Tables and chairs have been totally removed as well!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Seeing that scene before me, I think even in my food deprived brain, I'm pretty sure that the restaurant has closed its business. Not happy! How can Time Out recommend a restaurant in its latest monthly magazine which is the March 2010 version and have that restaurant shut down in just a few days into the month? It’s only been less than a week into March!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What is going on Time Out? </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-11357637907929532272010-03-03T00:17:00.001+11:002010-03-03T20:29:04.888+11:00古筝的愿望我从小就很喜欢从古筝出来的音乐。 这么多年来都很遗憾没那个机会学,也没向父母提过这个兴趣。<br />
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新的一年已开始了,我就下决心, 提起勇气去找个老师和古筝。在伦敦真的不容易找,而且堂堂课也不便宜,更加不用说买古筝的价钱了!老师说一定要每天在家练习,可是没有古筝的我,怎么练呢? 上第二三堂课都没意思啦!<br />
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我对自己说,反正我会跑去亚洲一堂,就在那边买吧!<br />
去了马来西亚和新加坡,找不到适合的。到了上海好幸运的找到几间,特别有一个的服务非常的好, 价钱也比别的店更真实.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0cMaP-IvdgReDSsHDaINPBpBcAq1oXNMLzJpIex-8eeIFfcEtBLFMVi1_eV_GQ7vuMm9m6E25WAoC6fY-pPkryW9zclzC227tVSoQ6NInKg9nGPSDhjfP8HzHP8ANay6qBKCmGojkFFp/s1600-h/gu+zheng.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0cMaP-IvdgReDSsHDaINPBpBcAq1oXNMLzJpIex-8eeIFfcEtBLFMVi1_eV_GQ7vuMm9m6E25WAoC6fY-pPkryW9zclzC227tVSoQ6NInKg9nGPSDhjfP8HzHP8ANay6qBKCmGojkFFp/s320/gu+zheng.bmp" /></a></div><br />
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本来打算上一堂课,然后买了古筝带回家. 时间就要等两个月因为我的工作不容需我在这几个月能回到家.<br />
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今天就上了第一堂课, 可是我好糊涂,忘了需要练习的时间 , 不然都不能上后堂的课. 真的好烦, 一次以一次的阻碍. 这几个月需要到处跑中国, 背着一个古筝也不会是一件容易的事情. 也不知道航空公司会不会接受古筝当行李. 我真的没办法了!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-56793627127917165092010-03-02T07:18:00.001+11:002010-03-03T19:21:55.850+11:00Shanghai days...<div style="text-align: justify;">A slight drizzle and haze in the sky greeted me in the morning in Shanghai today. Weather has turned colder as well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Was taken out for dinner last night again and we went to a restaurant that has amazing décor. Think ‘20s and ‘30s décor charms with high ceilings enhanced with oriental carvings and furniture. I had to pause and admire the architecture for a while before being led to the table. Food was good, as is the culture here. There was way more food than could have been eaten by our group.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After dinner, went for a massage at a <a href="http://www.greenmassage.com.cn/pages/en_aboutus.html">spa</a> that was recommended. At RMB108 for over an hour traditional massage, it was hard to say no compared to the prices that you will have to pay in London. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">5 minutes into the massage and I had to stop myself from screaming, my muscles have become really tensed. I guess lugging a 10kg bag on one shoulder with all the travelling has created its toll. I could feel all the tender spots on my neck too! Somehow midway through, the muscles have relaxed and I actually fell asleep. I didn’t want it to end. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Can’t wait to make my next appointment even though my back is really sore.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604807277867175745.post-85960361244258754372010-02-28T17:11:00.021+11:002010-03-03T19:27:21.857+11:00Happy Chap Goh Mei!<div style="text-align: justify;">Happy Chap Goh Mei!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am fortunate to be able to celebrate the last day of Chinese New Year in a land where CNY is the biggest festival/event for the year, China!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsud0lr81zY-f8_JJBmxXtGV7dhO2ZKL3dA6hbO4OpKTWFMLpV1z71pmLlRPccM79rVbZrKa7wYirJtr4giEK9jW7yn7MU7CnwJYUR57E1K0fmwqwAduBKbUubBtqq4wZ8sRg6qJz_Prvg/s1600-h/DSC07783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsud0lr81zY-f8_JJBmxXtGV7dhO2ZKL3dA6hbO4OpKTWFMLpV1z71pmLlRPccM79rVbZrKa7wYirJtr4giEK9jW7yn7MU7CnwJYUR57E1K0fmwqwAduBKbUubBtqq4wZ8sRg6qJz_Prvg/s400/DSC07783.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I was even served the much missed 'Yee Sang' which is an annual thing that is done primarily in Singapore/Malaysia. Thanks Singapore Airlines!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCF0opgI392dWoIrjE0zOS7emgTIOxZP45FL7tAvmc9zjAC9_lwCIkhxlNstmK3PyfEBCwuGV3_Q4lOEffx1cOWn8r9nVyQIO7zQiv_r3BXmVAMX_Q73rov6bLJTJnGyG-WdMH7oiE_jPO/s1600-h/DSC07784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCF0opgI392dWoIrjE0zOS7emgTIOxZP45FL7tAvmc9zjAC9_lwCIkhxlNstmK3PyfEBCwuGV3_Q4lOEffx1cOWn8r9nVyQIO7zQiv_r3BXmVAMX_Q73rov6bLJTJnGyG-WdMH7oiE_jPO/s400/DSC07784.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Arrived the day before and red lanterns and banners are everywhere with festive wishes/sayings written on them. I went about looking for one of my favourite food, 汤圆!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was taken by a recently became local for some home made Shanghainese food for lunch and my favourite restaurant for dinner. I am so stuffed I seriously need to squeeze some gym time in. The restaurants also gave complimentary 汤圆 when requested. Review here.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Managed to cover some local tourist highlights as well including getting some tailoring done. Think shirts, trousers, qi pao, cashmere coats. Review here.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's back to work tomorrow now but hope everyone celebrated well.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0