Being new to a city... as well as being here for a while

I am not new. But my visitors are. :)

They've been going around the oh so multicultural city of Sydney, seeing people from different backgrounds, all shapes and colours, hearing different languages being spoken, and hearing different accents using the same English language. How does one keep up with conversing with persons whom one can barely understand. Although both persons would be using the same language, accents hide the spelling and meaning of the words. You can both say the word "eight", one means the number but the other was referring to "ate" conjugating the verb to "eat". Well, this happened to a visitor. Both have a well grasp of the English language, but because of the heavy Aussie accent, my brother couldn't understand what the salesman was asking.

In the beginning of my stay here, I found it quite a challenge to get the accent, but then it grows on you. I used to have a heavy American accent when speaking English (coming from Manila does this to you), and told myself I couldn't learn how to speak with an Aussie accent. Now, having lived here half a decade, I am slowly losing my American way of speaking. I find myself adapting to my environment and just rolling the letters "a" and pronouncing less of "--er".

Nothing wrong with this at all. I still speak straight Filipino whenever I can but at work I could not have noticed how or when I've picked up the Oz accent (a bit). Adaptation is good. But realising that each one is different. Some of us may think that other people speak funny English, but who are you to say?

Just recognise that we live in a multicultural world. We should all celebrate our uniqueness. Whether it be the way we speak, or the way we dress, or the way we think. This makes the world a more interesting place to live in! :)

P.S. How fun it is probably to be a great actor and be able to imitate other accents! :) Imagine and English actor doing a Chinese accent!

Easter Break

Everyone's got their own Easter tradition. Whether your family spends the whole day in solitude, or whether you travel to the beach to unwind and spend time with family, or whether you attend religious retreats. Each one may have their own way of celebrating Easter.

When I was younger my siblings and I used to take part in Easter egg hunts. When I was a bit older I was the one commissioned to make and decorate the eggs (boil, paint) and then hide them around the house. Sometimes we'd use chocolate eggs, only to find later on traces of ants because of unfound choco easter eggs!

We'd also travel to the province, passing through a number of churches to do the Way of the Cross. Ocassionally my family would go with a procession. Once we went to Clark ( a couple of hours away from Manila) to see people doing the traditional self-flagellation on Good Friday.

Being in Sydney, I actually haven't identified my personal tradition here. I guess because I don't have family here to spend it with, plus I've spent Easter back home three out of five times since I've lived here. One day I will be able to say. Oh, but last year hubby and I went to the Royal Easter Show at the Olympic Park! This year we are going again!! Hmm! Maybe a start of one tradition?

However or wherever you spent your Easter, I pray that you had a meaningful, solemn and relaxed time.

Happy Easter 2008!

Last thursday they gave us Choco Easter eggs at work! In the past years that I've been working in Sydney, I realised that they love their chockies especially at this time of the year! I think next to Christmas, Easter is the next most celebrated season here. Oh well, who's complaining about all those yummy chocolate eggs?? Not me!

Don't you just love all those colourful and interesting chocolate figures of Easter? Chocolate Bunnies and Eggs are just so yummy. I remember last year I had quite a big Cadbury Easter egg, about the size of a basket ball!

Here's a photo of what's left. The other eggs didn't make it. Wonder why. hehe!

Are you suffering from bad credit?

How bad is it to pick up your reputation from a bad credit? Pretty difficuly I would say, but for those who find themselves in that situation you can search around as there are some companies out there who offer credit cards for bad credit history. Bad credit credit cards offers are out there to give people a second chance at improving their financial status. So for those who are feeling hopeless, fret not because bad credit credit card offers are available out there. Make use of it wisely.

Another QnA

I've picked this up from Sheng. Thanks Sheng!

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS AS HONESTLY AS YOU CAN...

1. Are you happy?
Relatively… Yes!

2. Who are you chatting with right now?
No one.

3. What’s the last thing you bought?
Movie Tickets

4. Who were the last people you hung out with?
Workmates

5. Have you ever broken a promise?
Haven’t we all?

6. Have you ever fallen apart with a friend?
Yes.

7. What are you most excited about?
My family visiting me!

8. What do you usually do when you’re bored?
Surf the net. Or sleep. Or watch DVDs.

9. Who was the last person to text you?
My sister.

10. Who was the last person who gave you a testimonial?
Can’t remember

11. Do you talk to yourself?
Haha! Every once in a while!

12. What do you do when your heart is broken?
I write poems

13. Are you a good friend?
I would like to believe so!

14. What is your hobby?
Writing, surfing the net, trying to be creative (knitting, scrapbooking,etc), photography.

15. Are you artistic?
Sometimes :)

16. Do you wear contact lenses?
Never tried.

17. What is your favorite food?
Anything and everything chocolate

18.Have you ever lost your phone?
Yes, someone took it from my bag while I was doing my grocery shopping!

19. Who do you miss the most?
Friends and family

20. Will you ever admit to your crush that you like him/her?
I have in the past. Hehe!

Fond of theatres and concerts

Every once in a while I find myself wanting to attend concerts, plays or theatre musicals, or other special events. Call it an interest. So far I’ve seen the following at the state theatre: Cyrano de Bergerac, Les Miserables, They’re playing our song, Mamma Mia, Cabaret, and Lion King. I will be watching the Phantom of the Opera in May, and I can’t wait. If I had the choice (and the money of course) I would be going to these events once a month! I’ve watched John Mayer and a few other popular (and great) singers perform live as well!

I would have wanted to see Miss Saigon as well but I missed out on the tickets! I’ve been told that Kylie Minogue will be performing in Belfast towards the end of June 2008. Should you needaticket to see her live, visit needAticket.ie They are a fast, reliable and professional booking service, that offers a good price as well!

Would you choose to visit a Museum or a Bar?

Scenario: You are on your last day in Copenhagen, and are with a group of about 15 people your age (and 4 of them you are actually good friends with). You are spending the last two hours with these people, and are to choose between: visiting a MUSEUM or hanging out at a BAR. Which would you choose?

Note: It won't be wise to do an hour at the museum and an hour at the bar. It's like having a taste chocolate without really having the chance to fully enjoy it. Either you do it or you don't.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
This happened to me about 8 years ago. We were doing a mini tour of Copenhagen. I chose to go to the Bar. Back then I was still trying to be cool and thought two hours at the museum would be a waste of my time. I thought to myself I'd rather have a few drinks with a few of my friends to catch up on each others' stories, rather than walking my tired feet for a couple of hours, looking and reading about some dead person's life story or looking through artifacts which don't mean anything to me.

Looking back at it now, I suppose at that time I would still have done the same thing. But if it happened to me now, at this point in my life I am interested in Museums. At least most museums. They speak of priceless stories and enrich you with the culture of the city like no one can tell. A Bar will give you a few laughs, but it can't buy you history you can see for yourself in a museum.

Having lived in Sydney for almost half a decade now, I've been to quite a few museums in town. I loved the Australian Museum, enjoyed the Powerhouse Museum and the Maritime Museum. I've travelled to Darwin and visited the Northern Territory Museum and Art Gallery, and found this quite a pretty attraction. It was right next to the beach! Overlooking the sea towards Asia! Overseas I've visited Singapore's Asian Civilisation Musem and found that good as well.


Have a look at Darwin's Museum Cafe's view (Cornucopia Cafe). This is enough for me to keep wanting to visit their museum (or cafe??)!

Learning about Fashion

I ask: can one learn everything about fashion, or is one born into fashion? Should one go and study fashion in a fashion school in California? Or should one just practice fashion to be able to learn what it is about? Whether you consider Paris Hilton a fashion icon, or you think Audrey Hepburn still holds the title most fashionable person of all times we are entitled to our opinion. But if one wants to know about the real fashion score, the ins and outs of the business, then one must start searching for good fashion schools in Los Angeles. As much as there are people who are born into fashion, this isn't the case for everyone. Sometimes if not oftentimes, one must study if one wants to specialize and do well in an industry. Most employers would look for a good qualification showing credentials from one of the best fashion schools in California. This makes a whole lot of difference to a prospective employer. This is at least in my opinion, if I were a businesswoman in the fashion industry.

Getting to know me. Complete the ...

All about moi . Tagged by Valerie :)

I AM… waiting for Easter!

I WANT… to go on a Gap Year! (A year doing nothing and everything!)

I HAVE… so many pending things to do. Look for an apartment. Pay bills. Look for accommodation for Gold Coast trip. Finish doing itinerary for family's AU trip. Upload pictures onto my Shutterfly account. Clean my flat. Do my Nails. Plan a party. Etc.

I WISH… I can have 3 more wishes that would really come true.

I HATE… Spideys! (To think AU is Spider country! I think I am at the wrong place)

I FEAR… Earthquakes! Promise. I sometimes think this will happen while I'm in the shower. Buti nalang walang earthquake in Sydney. But then again, the world's natural environment is messed up.. So I'm praying...)

I SEARCH… for an apartment to buy! This is not as easy as it sounds!

I WONDER... about the black hole :) Hihi

I REGRET… not having given someone the chance. But then again, things happen for a reason...

I LOVE… so many things at the moment! Hubby! Sydney! Travel! The weather now! Late night blogging!

I ALWAYS… am polite and poised. Even when I am annoyed and irritated at something/someone. I'm just like that by nature. I couldn't do otherwise even if I tried :D

I AM NOT… as stressed as I used to be. (So far)

I DANCE… with two left feet. And only when: I am alone or in a big big crowd!

I SING… and make up my own lyrics all the time!

I CRY… when I feel frustrated.

I WRITE… poems to express my thoughts and feelings

I WON… a kitchen showcase one time!! To think I didn't have my own place back then!

I AM CONFUSED… about too photo techie things. I just really like to point and shoot. But hey, I have an SLR now :) See how confused I am!?!

I NEED… to go out as much as I need to have my "me" time as well...

I SHOULD… try to exercise more often!

THE LAST THOUGHT I GO TO SLEEP WITH IS… trying to figure out what to wear to work, and then set my alarm for 7AM. (But I get up at 9!).

:) Feel free to grab this if you are in the mood to complete the...

I want to know how I rank

As a student I've always done pretty well (generally speaking). I can remember those long nights while still at university and those happy sunny days spent at the campus makes me smile, thinking about how fussed up my friends, my classmates and I have been over our grades. Comparing our grades amongst ourselves and keeping track of who did well at particular subjects so we know who to approach in times of trouble!

Recently I've discovered a new site, IZEArank which allows me to check my Real Rank. Real rank is an online tool that measures traffic and how much influence a blog has. IZEArank developed this relatively new site which allows me to browse through other blogs and see what my blog rank is in comparison to other sites. I can compare up to ten sites which is really cool. Whoever developed this tool's done me a big favour by making it easier to see my rank. The site is pretty simple and easy to use. All I need to do is join the IZEA network, install the code and a few other steps, and voila! It's fun to fiddle with and see detailed information on my blog traffic. What's good with this system is that they only make use of real and accurate statistics and would only compare authentic blog sites. What's I like about the site as well is that there is an option to keep my statistics hidden from the public, but why would I do that if I am pretty happy with my ranking?!

Browsing through the IZEArank website, they even have a link to the Top 100 blogs! This is another way to blog hop by looking at the most influential and best blogs available on the world wide web! These blogs wouldn't be there if their site was not interesting! I can't wait to see my very own site on their list!

I want to...take up French again!

A couple of summers when I was younger, I think I was in High School then, I took up French lessons at Alliance Francaise de Manille. I was so fond of the language, the way the words rolled in your mouth and just the whole French package : culture, food, fashion, and the great city of love which ez zee Parrieeh (*Paris*)!

At that time, I even would write in my diary (handwritten then) in French. And I wrote one cool poem (at least in my opinion) in Frenglish as well! Hehe! I left my notebook of poems in Manila but I remember the title goes something like this : "..Memoirs de vous avec moi forever.." which translates ..Memories of you are with me forever.. One of those High School sappy lovestruck poems that I came up.

Really, I've been wanting to just be able to converse and express myself in French :) well enough to be be able to call some hotel in France (I often make hotel bookings for work) (I am a Travel Agent), and just be able to speak with the French hoteliers better. *but really I just want to study again*

Anyway, this year I told myself I would enrol in French classes again. Just to refresh myself with the French language and to continue learning as well. After all, one day I will be going to Paris. I still haven't come around in enrolling, especially now that my family will be visiting me next week for a month or so, coz I don't think I will have the time. So for the meantime, I will just satisfy French thirst by having some fries, and doing my online French lessons. C'est la vie!

Stansted is the third busiest airport in the UK

There are more than 32 commercial and charter aircrafts flying into and out of Stansted airport on a daily basis, covering about 150 destinations worldwide and with more than 20 million passengers passing through annually, Stansted Airport is one of UK's busiest airports. Busy airport means vehicle traffic within and around the surrounds of the bustling airport. It is always best to avoid congestion right at the airport, so it is a smart idea to go and leave your vehicle at Stansted Airport Parking.

Located within the boundary of Stansted airport, Discount Stansted airport parking is available 24 hours with transfers to the terminal every 5 to 10 minutes frequency. Come to think of it the terminal is only about 5 minutes away by the transfer, which is really quite a quick way of parking and flying, or even parking and picking up a passenger arriving.

Another service Stansted parking offers is valet parking. If you are rushing for a flight an airport representative can meet you at the terminal ramp and take your car to a secure compound. And upon your return, your car is brought back to you at the terminal. Everything is such an easy process with this UK airport parking facility at Stansted. If only this was available everywhere one went.

Are you a serious traveller?

Many of us say we love to travel.

But are we really cut up to be a serious traveller?

Do you opt to stick to eating Mcdonalds and Burger King when you are in another city, say Beijing?

Do you prefer to go to each and every shopping mall in the city over visiting the local museum or checking out the local park?

Do you prefer to stay stuck in the hotel room as soon as the sun sets, or do you have one glass of wine or beer outside across the street to see and possibly mingle with the local yuppies?

There is nothing wrong at all in being a certain type of tourist. I have learned in one of my Tourism PostGrad lectures that there are different types of tourists. And what makes us fall under a certain type depends on a lot of things.

Perhaps we are single and thus more leaning towards the road less travelled and a lot more sociable. Or we are part of a young family with two kids aged four and six, thus makes us more likely to stay within the conventional tourist areas doing the usual activities. Or maybe, we are more mature now, wanting a relaxed and slow paced tour going to places that we may have been to numerous times, but are just really after spending quality time with our partner.

So many reasons why we are the type of traveller that we are. So do you have what it basically takes to be a traveller? I have so long found out that I was born to be one.

Tough decisions on home loan

Since I've been looking for a property to purchase recently I have been perennially searching for a good home equity loans site. With so much stuff available on the internet it is quite a challenge for a first home buyer as myself to actually understand how home loan and mortgage refinancing works. It is best that I speak with a good and reliable mortgage brokers to help me through the process and find out which type of home loan mortgage works for my circumstance. MyHomeLoanMortgages.com has been quite a big help with mortgage calculators available to me online, I am almost confident to make that first step in purchasing my dream home

At least 5 Things

(At Least) 5 Things
5 Things Found In My Bag
– Mobile
– Purse
– Office ID
– Cologne
- Minties

5 Things Found In My Wallet
– Debit/Credit/ATM Cards
– Receipts
– Medicare Card and other IDs
- Cash Notes
– IATA Card

5 Things Found In My Room
– Bed
– Night Lamp
- Mobile clothes rack
– Pillows
– Radio

5 Things I’ve Always Wanted To Do
– Travel Solo !
– Finish my scrapbook
– Go on a working holiday ? To London or the US
– Organise my photos!
– Start my own (monkey) business

5 Things I’m Currently Into
– Blogging
– Planning itineraries (I've always been into this!)
– Knitting (hehe)
- Taking photos
- Picnics at the Park!!

Wouldn't we all want to do Hawaii?

Isn't Hawaii everyone's dream destination? It sure is one of my dream places to visit, and possibly live for maybe two months just to unwind, detox and destress my life. With a number of islands to choose from which can take one's mind off city skyscrapers and endless traffic jams, Hawaii's just the ultimate getaway. Perhaps one day when I've saved enough moolah to go unemployed that long I could go on this hiatus. I know Poipu beach is considered to be one of the most popular and safest beach on Kauai so I shall be considering this area. Plus of course on top of the list of qualities Poipu beach has got such perfect blue water and great shore line, that makes it such a postcard perfect scene. One day I'd search for Poipu vacation rentals to see whether they've got 1,2 or 3 bedroom units for rent. I'll either be travelling alone or with my family but am sure there are a lot of Poipu condos located on the beach to choose from. I could almost feel the perfect weather condition, waves splashing, sweet breeze at night, etc. I might as well speed up looking for Poipu home rentals as I am getting all dreamy here!

Fashion career for Gorgeous Traveller?

Between Central Park, NYC and the East River lies the Upper crust East Side Manhattan. This area has got to have one of the most expensive apartments and homes in the USA as well as the most fashionable people in town. Strutting their style in Gucci, Chanel, Manolo's and all that, you'd wonder if they ever have gone to New York fashion schools. I have got quite a few friends based in New York now and I've asked one of them about the best fashion schools New York has to offer, in case I decide to shift careers and become a fashion guru. I have always been interested in how the designers come up with real great ensembles! Who knows one day I might just look for a fashion school in New York and just relocate altogether. Not a bad idea at all!

Pride and(/or) Prejudice, the Movie

Don't we all have pride and prejudice issues?!?

I've been eyeing this movie for a while but have only got around to watching it a few days ago. (I had the CD with me for about three months now!)

I'm one of the few who never read Pride and Prejudice in High School. I know that was one of the choices for endless Book Reports in High School, but for some reason I was not really that much into classic love stories then. I always chose to review some other book.

I regret now that I have just watched this movie, or for that matter, that I have never read the book. I'm pretty sure the book might have been more romantic! Nevertheless I enjoyed the film. Keira Knightley belongs to a certain class of actresses. I am partial about her though. She is a good actress but sometimes just lacks a little bit of "it" for me. Maybe its because of the roles that she's given? Or must just be me and my preferences. But, in this movie she looked and acted great!

I love one particular scene when Mr Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen) and Elizabeth Bennett (Keira Knightley) exchanged witty statements about one being Proud and the other Prejudiced (I would say that both characters had a little bit of pride and prejudice in them). Such an engaging scene where I had to close my eyes to understand their heated play of words. Little did they know based on their first meeting that they would later on end up a couple.

A typical classic love story that had the ladies behave in a reserved manner, with of course the exception of a few pretty rebellious one/s. Truly a coming of age story for women who discovered real love. As much as the story had great male figures, I think the way that the film (or even the book) may have been presented, created rich and deep female characters.

Another angle of the story which kept me on my toes was about trying to keep track of the family tree. So many connections and relations among characters which just add to the whole seemingly simple but embracing story line.

Jane Austen's a great writer. Although I have not read the book, I tried to interpret the film as if I was reading the director's script. Watching the film as if I was reading someone's interpretation (or book report) on a great classic. Maybe one day I would read the book and come up with a new perspective. Meanwhile, I just really enjoyed it. So call me a classic girl... Overall, this film made me miss me three sisters..

A noteworthy Cruise booking website

Being a travel agent that I am, I am always watching out for great websites and great finds. However nowadays it is hard to find competent and creditworthy online sites. With so many scams going on in the travel industry, I am delighted to have come across Direct Line Cruises. The company's been in the industry for 12 years since 1995, and they've reached a respectable status of being a provider of good cruise deals online. They have developed their website to facilitate live cruise bookings.

I've experienced a lot of times when I am in a rut wanting to check real time availability. In the Travel Industry it is quite a big advantage when a website offers this facility, as it enables one to capture the booking right there and then. Imagine being able to book your dream cruise in an instant! Popular cruises they offer include: cruising Bermuda on Royal Carribbean Cruises, or expedition cruises to the Galapagos with Celebrity Cruises, or try freestyle cruising with Norweigan Cruise Line. Did you know that Norweigan Cruises Line has the youngest fleet on earth at the moment? Well, this means that state of the art facilities that Norweigan Cruise Line offers are very modern.

There are just so many people now discovering, enjoying and appreciating cruise travel. Travelling on ships used to be a thing of the past, when the past century travelled months to reach a destination. It was never something done at leisure but moreso because there were no alternatives. Now, in spite of air fares hitting all time low (soaring tax rates is another thing though) cruising is gaining popularity. I have always wanted to travel on a cruise to Alaska, Europe and Hawaii, or perhaps even go on a world cruise. Through Direct Line Cruises I am able to plan which cruise I want to take and check availability instantly. They even have very useful guides and information for first time cruise passengers. And what's even great is that travel insurance may be included in their cruise offers, at no cost! I would definitely visit their website when I have my dates and leave organised from work.

Random Facts about, around, within the Travel Industry

.. Did you know that a Pilot and a Co-Pilot could never be served the same type of meal while onboard? If there was something wrong with the meal, the Flight cannot afford to have both pilots' suffer from bad tummy ache. Guess who gets to choose whether its chicken, beef or fish??

.. Did you know that flight attendants get paid really well, especially for the working period that they are flying? More than double than if they were ground attendants. Imagine all the other perks flight attendants get: makeup allowance, hotel accommodation at the destination,etc! But then again compared to the risk..Plus, the time away from family..

Charming Nicaraguan beach resort

One day I am going on my world tour, and South America would definitely be on my itinerary. There are just so many places to visit that I am sure fitting all the places that I want to visit will cost me one year worth of holiday leaves from work!

One that is definitely on my list of places to visit is this one Nicaraguan beach hotel called La Posada Azul Beach. Looking through their website you would think that they are too simple and ordinary. But if you do more research you will find that they are one of the best San Juan del Sur hotels. The property is located just a stone's throw from the beach. And if you read through Tripadvisor visitors to this boutique Nicaragua bed and breakfast, one will surely realise that La Posada Azul charms its way to their guests senses. Having said this, one can never really be captivated by a place without experiencing it first hand. For me to be convinced, I should be able to truly see for myself what the hype is all about. By the looks and feel of the place though I know I have an inkling to want to stay at least a week in that paradise.

Getting to La Posada Azul Beach is quite easy. It is just 2 and a half hours from the capital city, Managua. When I go to Nicaragua, I think I may even ask one of my friends to meet up with me. He is currently stationed in Costa Rica, which borders south Nicaragua. I am sure he would be willing to take a break and share my Nicaraguan experience!

Life Lessons learned while Knitting

I took the night off from blogging last night to Knit! :)

It's been a few years since I've bought my knitting kit. I actually tried to start my scarf a few years ago. But I didn't get to finish it.

Yesterday I saw it in my closet, and picked it up again. Did an hour and a half of knitting. And while doing the craft a few thoughts ran in my head that one could relate to life in general.

Knitting vs. Life Lessons

1. Once in a while we get excited about trying something new, and then the interest fades. We forget about it. Then years later we remember how exciting it was, so we pick it up again and try again. We know may not finish the 'project' again, but then who knows this year we might finish that scarf!

-Sometimes we forget that we should enjoy our lives. When something happens we remember and then we enjoy it again. We slack again. And the cycle continues.

2. In the beginning, the first few rows that we knit are the hardest and most painful ones. The knitting needles prick your fingers. But after the fourth row or so, knitting is a breeze. Your fingers are not as stiff, and you are more relaxed.

-Same with life, the first few steps are the hardest. But when you've jumpstarted it then becomes a walk in the park.

3. In the beginning, you make tight stitches, only to realise that they are not meant to be too tight, otherwise it's harder to connect the stitches through.

-In life, we shouldn't bee to uptight. We should let loose and have fun otherwise we end up miserable.

4. In Knitting one can use as many colour threads as we want, doing our own pattern and our own style.

-Life should be a myriad of colours, there are no set rules as to how we should live our life. We decide that. How much fun we have, is in our hands.

5. Know when to call it a night. When your fingers are tired, and you feel you have done your best and are satisfied, it is time to putting the knitting needles down.

-Too much work is not healthy. Anything, even those that we enjoy doing, should be done in moderation.

I may not finish knitting my scarf again this time. But I know one day I will be able to finish that.

Another sunny afternoon at Bradfield Park

We have only about two weeks left of summer and officially we will be into Autumn at the beginning of April. So for the next couple of weeks we will be taking advantage of the warm weekend days by lazing around in the park. Whichever park that is somewhere in Sydney.

Last Saturday we went to Bradfield Park which is set under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Great views of the City skyline and the Sydney Opera House. Great day with our mat again, and a real estate magazine. Had chips again and soda. The usual company. Perfect.

There was some Jet Boat race going on at the Harbour which added to the spectacular view! Ever since I came to Sydney, Bradfield Park in Milson's Point has always had a special place in me. Every single one of my visitors I take here. And they all love it. Good memories of their holiday in the city. My picture says it all. It's really a fabulous place to go on a lazy picnic mode.

(Photo taken only from my Mobile so it doesn't do much justice to the view)

Quality eyeglass frames and lens

Our eyes need the best care possible at all times. But caring for our eyes need not make us feel unpretty. With a great discovery: Zenni Optical we can still be stylish. At Zenni Optical $8 Rx Glasses are made of high quality frames and lens. And because of extensive online searches, my eyes can be grateful for that one best thing found: Zenni Optical. Plus, they do cater to an international market which is really perfect.

Surprise Wedding Proposal at Canadian Airport

I read this at work today, and it immediately caught my smile. It's not everyday someone proposes like this.

It's good the lady said yes :) Hehe!

I've read here they are set to get married on August 3.

**Clipping taken from Travel Daily.Com.Au 10 March 2008.**

I like reading about unusual things that happen at the airport. See my other post on Gatwick airport and The Terminal.

Have you got any other interesting airport stories? Or interesting wedding proposal stories?

Black friday shopping

I know Christmas is not another nine months away, but it is never to early to keep notes about what can save us a huge deal when doing our Christmas shopping. Did you know that you can actually save a lot by buying items online during black friday ? Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving, and a day we should all mark our calendars off to be at home to purchase Christmas gifts online.This saves you not only money, but your time as well (which of course is invaluable). Black Friday even has an email alert that will send you a message when black friday deals are up online. I've told my sister in law who's based in San Francisco about this, and she's told me she's immediately subscribed to this feature. She says as early as now she's excited to receive an email on the deals her favorite shops may possibly offer. She is such a big fan of Macy's and Radio Shack.

Last year she said she missed out on the Black Friday shopping deals, but she is making sure this year she doesn't miss it. Just writing about all this takes me fast forward into December 2008. I wonder what she will get me this year? Haha! Wishful thinking!

The World joins Sydney this year on Earth Hour

Earth Hour 2007 was a Sydney event. Earth Hour 2008 is a global movement.

Don't be indifferent. Be involved. Mark your calendar March 29, 2008. 8PM.

Country Gem Hideaway

Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado
Accommodation:
You can choose from 12 log cabins, warmly decorated with furnishings that are reminiscent of a real country style home. Activities:
Of course you've got a number of choices of hot springs you can soak up in, plus other activities such as skiing, ice skating, boxing, pilates and yoga, workout at the gym, indulge in their spa treatments, wine tasting and vineyard tours, hiking, biking, horsebackriding, rock climbing, fly fishing, kayaking, lessons on photography, archaelogy, visit their gorgeous library, watch at movie at the screening room, and so much more!

And you thought all you were to do was lie down and enjoy the scenery? Well of course that is the ultimate activity..

Dining:
Meals are set at the long, antique table or brought to you picnic style when fishing or doing some other outdoor activity. Local or regional ingredients are used from the farm and vineyard.

Rates:
2 Night Package Rates start from USD1300 to USD9900 per couple. Dunton Hot Springs is an all inclusive resort. Accommodation and meals are included in the rate, plus other activities depending on your package type.

Getting Here:
Dunton is accessible by driving in, or by air into the following airports Durango, Telluride, Cortez, Montrose. Dunton's staff will be glad to meet and greet you upon arrival at the airport, and take you to your sanctuary. Dunton Hot Springs is located at the San Juan Mountains and the Colorado Rockies.

This luxurious cabin lodging is a ski gem during winter and a refreshing getaway during other seasons. Where else can you find yourself immersed in your private soaking pool? Or, part of a township of a few guests where you've got your own library, movie room, chapel,etc. Plus, there's a glorious waterfall at the other end of town! You can even hire the whole town for your wedding for USD15,000 a day.

Whether you want to be one with nature without the frills, or you would just like to have a bit of a getaway, but still be reached by the outside world (they do have wireless broadband) then Dunton IS the place to be!

One day, this town I will visit! Wonder when?!

Plus Factor: Children are most welcome to visit Dunton together with their parents.
And, your Pets are invited as well!

Studying Business management courses

I think there are people out there who just go out in the world and achieve their goals. As if it's automatic in them to just go for it. While there are people who need and want to study furthermore to be equipped with the necessary skills to be successful. Having said this, the latter is not a bad thing at all. Well, if it allows us to reach our highest potential as a professional then it cannot be bad.

Soon I will need to decide whether I would really want to go ahead and start my own business. And in doing so, I will need to take up a few Business management courses . I would like to be able to know the theory side of running a business because the practical side I will learn along the way.

By becoming a memeber of the Chartered Institue of Professional Management, I will have access to twelve accredited certificates and a great wealth of information on comprehensive business management skills. Theirs is a self study, distance learning program which will allow me work at my own pacing. Before I know it I would already have my Plaque hanging on my wall. If you are in the same boat as I am I would consider signing up and becoming a member. It costs less to join compared to the added value of what their courses may bring to your business.

There's just something about Virgin Atlantic's

Premium Economy! :)

I don't think I'll ever be the type to actually purchase a $10000 business class ticket (EVER - we get them at Agent Discount Rates - hehe), but I see myself buying premium economy. And with Virgin Atlantic (VS to us travel agents)'s premium economy service, that gives you THE works and THE perks of flying Premium with them, I can so sell them all the time.

Imagine the Space. 21 full inch worth of personal space. Seat pitch is 38 inches with an additional two degrees recline. Purple Leather seats (you dont have to be a purple fan to appreciate this). All the new technology put into this seat to make flying PREMIUM comfortable.

Imagine the inflight dining experience. Preflight drinks, three meal choices, dessert, and postmeal wine.

Pure Premium Virgin Atlantic experience such as :

..Dedicated Premium Economy Check In, if you haven't already checked in online and dedicated bag drop.
..Priority boarding and priority disembarkment.
..On the plane you can relax into your seat with a pitch of 38 inches.
..Preflight drink.
..A complimentary newspaper.
..A personal seatback TV offering the latest blockbuster movies, the hottest TV shows, video games and up to 14 audio channels ranging from pop to classical.
..Devoted cabin crew to guarantee prompt and attentive service.
..A delicious menu served on china dinnerware accompanied by stainless steel cutlery.
..An after dinner liqueur.
..A selection of fruit from the fruit bowl.
..And when you land priority baggage reclaim.

I am just excited to visit London! Surely VS Premium economy will be the way for me! Have you tried them? I would like to know your thoughts.

Fabulous!

The Phantom of the Opera @ Lyric Theatre, Star City

I have always liked watching musicals. And the Phantom of the Opera is no exception!

The Phantom of the Opera will be staged in Sydney at the Lyric Theatre from May 11 until July 20 (2008) and is directed by Harold Prince. Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of the Opera is a much acclaimed musical that only the best artists are chosen for the play. In Sydney, 'the' Anthony Warlow is slated to cast as the Phantom who haunts the corners of the Paris Opera house. While Ana Marina and Julie Goodwin (alternate) plays Christine, the young soprano who's talents and beauty captivates the Phantom so deep that the Phantom becomes obssessed with her.

The Phantom of the Opera has been re-made into a film sometime in 2004, but I reckon watching it in the theatre, as a musical would be way better. Imagine and see the characters coming to life, would be just phenomenal! Hubby and I are watching this on its third week's schedule.. And I just can't wait! We have Dress Circle Seats! Woooopeee!

Four things...

I've copied this post from Sheng..

4 Jobs I’ve Had
..Stock Exchange Employee
..Managed our family business (for a while)
..Family Driver! Haha :)
..Travel Consultant

4 Movies Watched Over and Over
..You've got Mail
..Serendipity
..Sweet November
..Milan :)

4 Shows I Watch
..Lost
..Gossip Girl
..Heroes
..Grey's Anatomy

4 Favorite Things To Eat
..Chocolate anything and everything
..Sweet Chilli and Sour Cream Red Rock Deli
..Meat dishes
..Ice Cream

4 Places I Would Rather Be
..Palawan
..New York
..Fraser Island
..Paris

4 Things I Look Forward To This Year
..Family coming over for a visit
..Going back to Manila!
..More travelling
..Buying my own flat..(hopefully)

Garonga Safari Camp - An oasis amidst Africa

I have always wanted to travel to Africa on a Safari. However I actually don't see myself being the type who would like to camp in total wilderness with creatures howling at night, or some other hissing animal sound. Today I have received an email at work about this newly opened (was opened in December 2007) accommodation called Little Garonga which is located at Makalali Conservancy in the Kruger National Park area. It's got only 14 beds, so it is intimate. You can choose between a tent room where its shower area is outside and you can shower under the stars if you wish, our you can have a suite such as the Hambleden Suite, which has its own private deck and pool! What would you choose? I guess its obvious which one I would have. But then again, with comfort and views comes a whopping price, AUD 855 per suite per night! And thats during lean season! Well, I would have to settle for the Tent at AUD 255 per person per night. Even this is quite costly. But then these rates include : All meals, coffee/tea, all drinks, game drives, bush walks, sleep out excursions, bush baths (this is interesting!), laundry. Well, its full board if I may say so it should be quite good.

I hope to be able to travel to Africa in style. Not now, but one day when I do my amazing world tour. When that will be? I suppose I won't be able to do it in the next year as I have so many plans. But surely for now I can dream. And hope that when I am ready to go that Little Garonga would still be there. Not quite new but definitely well tested. :) Haha!

PS. They actually are open to doing weddings at this venue! Interesting! Maybe photos will have giraffes sticking out their necks, or an elephant trying hard to keep its bum away from the photo frame! Cool!

Sydney Mardi Gras 2008

I went and enjoyed the Mardi Gras this year. We were situated at a good vantage point. A lot of people trying to push and shove since we had such a good spot. But what the heck, we got there at 5PM, and so we deserve the front row seats....

Oh well, here are the photos. Enjoy! (BTW, you can catch more juicy and fun photos from my other site. Visit : Coriander Dreams' Mardi Gras and Lemon Iced Tea)

A word of caution to those who's easily offended. Some shots show a lot of skin.

Things do not fall apart. They change.

I read this somewhere on the net while I was surfing one day about a week ago. And today, I remembered the line/s.

Don't you think when a relationship breaks down that it's one persons fault? Really it's no one's fault (sometimes). In reality, all persons grow and change into someone else over time. Today I may be a frisky person but five, ten years from now I may be a calm person.

In a healthy relationship both persons grow together, thus adapting to change steadily. But if to begin with, the relationship is not based on good and effective communication, then it is most likely to happen that one would wake up next to a person they don't know.

Change is good. Change tests real loving relationship. One can survive it all if one is open to changes.

It's been said that the only constant thing in this world is change. Are you ready to face changes in your life? Don't leave out your partner on it. It is best to share the struggles that come with it, and even better to share the happy moments with someone by your side.