Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland

As much as I don't think I can ever be a "cold" loving person, I could see myself visiting Newfoundland (in Canada) for it's Iceberg Alley! (How cool is this Iceberg Map)

So, Iceberg Alley is this place where one can go iceberg watching during the Canadian spring time. It could be interesting or scary at the same time - imagine seeing this big boulders or buildings of ice blocks heading so close.

Photo seen here http://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/794169/iceberg-alley-newfoundland-canada

Papple at the shops

Last week while shopping, I came across the "Papple" fruit - which I've never seen or heard of prior to this time. I was so curious about it, and with my family being into anything quirky - I took and sent them a photo of this.

Papple at the shops

It was a pricey fruit - so I didn't think of buying it. But after a few days, I was just itching to get them. So I did! I did a bit of research too - apparently this hybrid fruit was first grown in New Zealand in 2012. I guess, now they have it locally in Australia! It's a cross of Nashi Pear and an Apple (my fruit lady said Pink Lady was used-hmmm)

I am waiting a few more days because I like my fruits on the more ripe side. But here are the photos I took of it at home. Looks and feels like an apple, but with the freckles of pear. They say it tastes juicier, more apple-y but softer like pear. 

The Papple

Looks like a freckled apple to me

I have this thing for Quora

I have this thing for Quora. I read Q and A's there every now and then and it is quite entertaining and possibly I learn a few things sometimes (whether they are true or not, well, is another thing).

Today while reading I picked this up:
If you don't appreciate your freedom, you don't learn to appreciate (or make) your good decisions.

Those are in my words and my interpretation of what I read. Growing up, I felt I didn't have much freedom. Being the eldest, like a lot of first borns, I was the guinea pig of my parents. They were more overprotective of me when I was young. And as I grew older I felt they didn't really give me much freedom, which my younger siblings had when it was their turn to be a teenager, a young adult, etc. They were stricter with me- which made me a bit more uptight I think as an adult. I was not 'trained' to think that I could make good decisions. Whether this was because of how I was brought up or my personality, I don't know.

So, when I read the Quora answer it kind of struck a chord in me. Perhaps the reason why I sometimes question my decisions (whether I was making the right choice in life) was because I never appreciated my freedom- because I didn't have one before.

When I moved out of home at 25, and moved to a different country- I was seeking freedom. It was the biggest decision I think I would ever make and have made- in my entire life. It was a life changing decision that would pave way for my future life, the future life of my (immediate) family, my kids and the future generation.

The Jersey way of life

I am always learning about new things and new places to visit (or send clients off to). Today it is all about the fascinating Jersey Channel Islands – which offers a bit of French and English packaged into this warm destination just off the coast of Normandy, France.

As I read more trivia about this Channel Island - the more appealing it is to me, and the photos show she is a looker as well. Apparently a 15mph speed limit applies on this island in order to give priority to pedestrians! Quite interesting to think that two ex-drivers of Formula One currently call Jersey home – must be a lovely place to live or even visit. Mont Orgueil Castle, one of the island’s popular attractions, was once a lookout post back in the world war days. Now, to me it looks like a pretty 'ornament' with the backdrop of the sea and the island. Who knew that this autonomous island have their own law institute and nearly a hundred restaurants to choose from – quite impressive if I may say - a big tick for a big travel foodie. One last trivia that I found – one of my favourite writers of all times, Victor Hugo – who wrote Les Miserables – was exiled in Jersey at some point in his life! Hmm!

Talking about all these new things I’ve come across about Jersey of course naturally led me to researching hotels in Jersey. And if I can just have it my way, luxury hotels Jersey would be the way to go. Browsing through this popular local hotel chain, I am immediately drawn to the property The Golden Sands. The activities near the hotel, the hotel room decor and ambience, sea view – just defines what I am looking for in a holiday. I can literally head off there now. And, perhaps a pit stop for shopping somewhere?!

U2 Way

Have you heard recently that New York's West 53rd Street is now temporarily known as U2 Way. This is to celebrate the release of the U2's new CD. How special is that?! I guess not every celebrity gets to have a street named in their honour! Even if its only for a week.

Oh Anuta!

The other day hubby and I watched a culturally inspiring documentary on BBC about the Anuta tribe. Anuta Island is one of the 900 Solomon Islands that are inhabited with only about a population of 300 persons. The circular island is only 400 metres wide, and the highest point being 65 metres. Based on the documentary (which can be viewed here) we saw how beatiful the white sandy beaches are on this island. The only drawback to this paradise is that, it is frequented by cyclones. Without any hotels, pollution, television, this island can be a good place to see at least once in a lifetime.

The Anutans are physically far from the big civilizations od this world, however what is interesting about this small group of people are their culture. They have songs and rituals for welcoming, songs for washing the carrots, rites for first time fisherman, for the visitor leaving, catching food, etc. The documentary shows the typical islanders' way of life (with the distinct division of labour between men and women, they are very traditional). Restaurants don't exist here, but instead one is welcomed for a meal at the Anutan home. Another thing that doesn't exist here, are clinics,which can be a challenge to a sick or injured islander.

Watching this show just made me appreciate how simple living can be so stress-free. The local Anutan's were always smiling, and happy about life on the island. This music loving people may never set foot on other islands their entire lifetime, but surely this does not stop them from enjoying that small island they have. What a wonderful world!

Photo credit: Rainbowphoto

Again

Officially, I'll be studying again starting this monday! It will be a postgrad course relating to Law and Migration in Australia. So, that means back to reading books, case studies, a lot of research, etc! I am excited as this would open up another possible career for me. (Well, that AND travel). Within the next few years a close friend and I are hoping to help people give Australia a chance, possibly to live here. (Read when I found out about getting offered a space in the program)

We'd be studying part time, in an intensive face to face program (a few weekend seminars), as well as a portion of online courses. I tried to navigate the online student area last night and I was fumbling!! :X As much I don't consider myself a very techie person, I might have to ask hubby later on until I get comfortable enough to navigate the forums, presentations, etc! I'm sure I will learn and feel confident in this later on. For now, I am just looking forward to learning something new, Again!

Best Job offer : Island Caretaker on Hamilton Island

I'm not sure if you've read about that Special Dream job ad sponsored by Tourism Queensland? The one which advertised AUD 150,000 salary to live rent-free (in a 3 bedroom villa with gorgeous views) for six months on one of the Whitsundays Islands. The one which deems to be the Best Island Job ever to be advertised. It is apparently taking applicants from anywhere in the world, with no limit to age, etc. The requirements though is to be able to document by video the daily life on the island, be adventurous, be articulate, must snorkel, interact with locals, etc.

The successful applicant is set to start 'work' on July 1, 2009. For more information on this once in a lifetime job opportunity, see http://www.islandreefjob.com/ (site has crashed recently due to too much interested, but is now up and running again). Application closes by 22 February 2009.

Oh and by the way, whoever gets the job can take partner/children with them to live on this island! I guess I will ask hubby to apply! So he can take me :D

Imagine getting paid a lot, to enjoy this beautiful island. RENT FREE! Cool!

Slumdog Millionaire : Not so much a review

Have you seen the movie Slumdog Millionaire? (subtle spoilers below)

Hubby and I saw it a few days ago, and were quite impressed. Together with the rest of the world (see golden globe news on yahoo news).

Quite inspiring that a non-American inspired film won so much awards. I suppose, the artistic way it has been presented is not your traditional one, unknown characters that were able to deliver (at least most of them, if not the child actors even more). It's so much a reality that some of us may not even be aware, put in a blunt movie plot artistically.

Makes one think, was it really 'written'? Or what? Seemingly leading the main character, Jamal, into where he was meant to be at that time, unfolding series of events that are intertwined and related. All but in a subtle way. Very interesting. Keeps your hands sweaty throughout, thinking what will happen. Not the typical movie we are used to seeing. Heavy artistic drama. Very recommended for a movie night. Kudos to the director and cast.

That Christmas tradition

Spoke with a good friend from Manila last week, and she was telling me about what to give her daughter this Christmas. While on the topic of Santa, I’ve told her that there was this provider or service that would send to their home Letters From Santa himself! We were both sharing about our own experiences on writing Santa letters and receiving gifts that we asked for. It’s just really heartwarming to talk about traditions such as these, that are still being passed on from one generation to the next. I can’t wait to get my own little one to help write Santa letters!

Nasty Stingers Migration

I could not believe it when I saw the photos of Sting rays’ migration! Hundreds and thousands of them apparently migrate from Florida area to the Gulf of Mexico area twice each year.

Having watched a lot of Planet Earth documentation, I am always amazed at how nature takes it course and reflected onto us, by our animal friends migrating. I suppose, humans do migrate too, not necessarily as often as the animals, and maybe not every human specie migrates. I, of course, belong to those who do. Read about it here.

About the man who does not fear heights!

Have you read, watched, heard about the man who tight ropes around the world?

Read about it here.

Artsy Hotel in Copenhagen : Fox Hotel

There are some tourists who particularly like trying out different hotels. Whether the ambiance is different, the food or services they offer are one of a kind, truly there is a market for unique hotels. Hotel Fox is marketed as a carbon dioxide neutral hotel, in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. They have 61 rooms, each uniquely designed by international artists conveying anything from urban to mythical to fantasy. Some done really bright and colorful, while others keeping it simple with a couple of colours. Rates range from EUR 75 per person per night to about EUR 120 per person per night. It is quite interesting that they've got about 4 different room sizes Small, Medium, Large, Xtra Large.

I probably would consider staying at some of the hotel's room types. I guess it depends on whether there are deals available at that time (whenever that is!).

Perth's Air Race in November

Whoever said flying was dangerously fun must have been part of the Red Bull Air Race. There is one happening in Perth, Western Australia on November 1 and 2, 2008. It will be held at the Swan River, visible to spectators from the river banks in the city.

I've watched the Budapest version (on television), and it just caught my eye. I wish they would hold one in Sydney (near or around the city) so my boyfriend and I could see one live. We've thought of flying to Perth but then that would be quite an expensive trip that we can't afford for now. So I should just settle for live tv broadcast and photos from others.

(Image from Hamedog)

P & O Earlybird Cruise Offer

Okay, for a good hour I got all excited about thinking of going on a cruise. Neither me nor hubby's been on a weekend overnight cruise. P & O Cruise has this earlybird offer, wherein we could do 2 nights Sydney - Brisbane or Vice versa, for about AUD 565 per person, for a 2 night cruise in a Room with Private Balcony, on the Pacific Dawn. This rate includes all meals (a la carte or buffet), and afternoon tea, access to various entertainment and activities.

I opted for this coz the price is reasonably cheap, all inclusive, and the fact that it was just for 2 nights would give us a feel of how cruising is like. For all we know we won't like it. So this won't be too bad, if ever. However, when I had a look at the itinerary, the cruise departed from Brisbane at 8PM on Day 1, and arrived into Sydney on Day 3 at 8AM. That's a bit of a rip off, as it would mean the time we board, settle into our cabin it would be night time! So we won't see the view much. And, we'll only have one full day to appreciate the sights before we arrive after sunrise into Sydney Harbour. Well, come to think of it, seeing Sydney at sunrise or early morning would be quite nice. And, a full day to travel the north NSW coast may be good enough.

Of course am planning on my own again and for all we know hubby won't like this idea. We've talked about it before, but not seriously.

Oh, I remembered I get my travel agent rate, so we won't really be paying the published rate!!! Hmm! I suddenly got excited again! I have til September to think about this. I might ring them up tomorrow to check availability and all. Should you be interested to see what I am talking about, click here to see more information!

P.S. I neeeed this for my job! To make me a better travel agent! Think so?!

The bond between babies and mums

I’ve seen a few of my friends with young babies wear Baby Slings. These slings come in different sizes, colours and designs, and I love them. It not only looks stylish but really, it makes one feel so close to one’s child. It looks so comfortable, both for the mother and the child as well. I guess that’s because the material used is cotton, something really soft and non irritating. If one thinks about it, the sling would have been part of our history. The tribes’ women used to carry their young children in these slings while working. It keeps the baby in place, and at the same time is a bonding experience for mom and child (literally and figuratively speaking). Today I spoke with my mom and she’s asked me the big question: whether I wanted to have a child! I said of course yes, and told her I am planning to have one within the next two years (after wedding). She was quite relieved to hear this. I come from a big family and so they do think that children are blessing, and not just a mouth to feed. I was telling her that I am quite excited and looking forward to the day that I became a mom myself. Perhaps I should fast forward my life and imagine how I would be like as a mom, and how exciting it would be to carry my own baby in a baby sling!

Japanese and their Rice

I've read about Japanese and how they come up with art in their rice fields. Isn't it interesting to note that in a seemingly combination of modern and traditional society as Japan, they do know how to create art from something ordinary. I've come across 2 Japanese sites : here and here. They showcase the rice paddies artwork. It is in a town called Inkadate, in the Aomori prefecture. Interesting pieces!

Dreaming Cruising

I have always been fond of cruises, although I have never been on any that lasted more than half a day, on a real luxury liner. I’ve been to a lot of sightseeing cruises. I’ve been on a two night cruise from Manila to Cagayan De Oro, but that was nothing like a luxury cruise. Having said that I have booked so many cruises for passengers. One that I have recently booked is the Azamara Cruises. This somewhat new cruise line commenced operation only about two years ago. They offer quite a number of cruises around Asia, South America, Europe, Mediterranean and even Australia! This means I have more chances of going on one around this vast island continent I live in. Perhaps, my next familiarization tour would be some trip on one of their Mediterranean Cruises! The Azamara cruise ships are quite special. They are more intimate, meaning they only have limited guests onboard, and because of the small ship size they have the advantage of cruising along exotic and unreached ports. Each stateroom on the Azamara ships have private butler service ready to action whatever that you fancy.What else could one ask for from a luxury cruise? I am definitely grabbing a chance to cruise when I get the opportunity!

I'm just wondering whats next??

Recently in my reads I’ve stumbled upon a few interesting that the society/world has put up with! Some are interesting! I wonder who would have thought of them! :D

-- In the news today, I read that Oklahoma’s elected it’s youngest mayor! He’s 19 years old. Can you believe that?!! He’s only just recently received his full drivers license and his permission to buy alcohol! He is a self proclaimed gamer (computer). He’s no other than John Tyler Hammons. Wonder if he’s really capable of running a city. You know the saying that some things you learn through experience. And I believe that.

-- Starwood Hotels has a new position out, and its called “Corporate Director of Fun”! Imagine what responsibilities and duties are included in this? The activities that the person will oversee includes: fireside storytelling, stargazing, outdoor movies among other job attributes. There are a few qualifications that one needs to satisfy to suit the role. One should have been : the class president, cheerleader, bartender, and lifeguard. Do you fit the role?? (Background: this is actually geared towards family friendly marketing)

-- Is your next travel destination the Moon?? Premier Inn is one of the UK’s biggest hotel chain. They have expanded to Ireland, India and Dubai. Their next big purchase is claimed to be a lot on the moon to build the first hotel on the moon!! They are targeting that in the next 25 years they will be accommodating guests out of this world. Imagine paying a premium on your room with Earth View!

-- Ever heard of ‘Heartache leave’? Ever wish you can take a few days off to heal your broken heart? Well, if you were in Japan working for Hime & Co. then you would be eligible. Otherwise, deal with it or take a sickie day off! Hime and Company offers staff under 24 years old one day leave per year and 25 to 29 year olds two days off. If you were older than that then you get three days off. That’s because older people suffer from worst heartaches. I disagree. I think the heartaches hurt as bad no matter how old or young one is.

On Paris, Scarlett and Style

I was thinking about a celebrity who actually embodied fashion, someone with style, a person who just by being their own self have other people going gaga about the clothes their wearing or the hair they have on, or literally anything they have on.

I thought about Paris Hilton. She had everyone wear their hair blond as hers, in that odd looking crop, follow the same type of dress she wore, even carry the same type of pooch in a bag! People loved to hate her. She managed to stir society in a way that you’d either love her or really hate her. But either way, both sets of people share one thing in common, that is, still read about her and talk about her. Amazing.

On the other hand, saying that Paris Hilton’s ways epitomes style is quite off. She may be followed by the youth, but the scope of her reach belongs to a particular market, and so it may not be considered so much really all about style. So, I choose Scarlett Johanssen instead.

Scarlett’s got the aura that endears her to people, and yet she does not dress or speak to be loved by society. She just is. She’s just being herself, minding her own business, carries herself elegantly, and yet still manages to keep her feet on the ground. No pretensions whatsoever about who she is, and who she’s not trying to be. In public, you’d see her proud of her own style. A style that you don’t learn anywhere. She may be wearing something that is currently in fashion, but you know that she wears it naturally to embody her own sense of style. Ordinarily, on days that don’t involve the Oscars, or whatnot, she dons a simple yet classy outfit. She won’t overdo herself, and she’d just manage to pull off anything that she’s in. Scarlett does not intend to change her body type just to please everyone else, she maintains her person just how she likes it.

I suppose in a lot of ways I can relate to her style. I would never compromise myself for the sake of beauty, and so I believe that what a classic style is. Long lasting, uncompromising and just being true to one’s character.

Should you wish to have a say about fashion, style or trend, NBC is accepting personal television commercial opportunities as part of the Dockers contest. This opportunity could land you a television ad on The Tonight Show. I would love to join the Dockers contest if only I was as tech savvy and creative.