Monday, December 29, 2008
My first Christmas Collection
Despite I have plenty of time to stay home due to the heavy snow, my "output" is still low. It seems that most if not all of my energy is gone to the physical exercise of shoveling the snow. Even my brain (I mean creativity) does not want to function much. In fact, all the cards are done in a rush. I don't see them as a really good collection. But whatever, it may not be the best, but it's my first collection.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
這個十二月，停不了的雪
通常暴風雨的前夕，都是風平浪靜。我在十二月的第一個星期還每天在風和日麗的中午跑步，在慶幸十二月還有這樣好天氣的同時，沒想到只是暴風雨的前夕。從十二月十三號的晚上開始，直到現在，差不多每天都與雪鏟為伴。
第一次下的雪已有一吋，之後盡是天晴，卻很冷。到一個星期後，雪是特別的大，晚上回家，雪已經積了至少三吋，從後巷駛進車房，花了一個小時，雪還是繼續的下，不停的下。到星期一，剷了四個小時的雪，才剷出一條車路到大街。
星期三已是平安夜，雪卻只有下得更大，同樣經過四個小時的體力勞動後，才能確保車子能駛出家門。當然，我都不會冒險出門，平安夜是過得特別的寧靜。
是第一次，因為下雪的關係而沒有上班，心裏是過意不去，但想到若花了三小時坐巴士上班，平安夜那天通常都會提早下班的，回去工作四小時，再花三小時回家，我放棄了。當然，我會在週末的時候回去的。
被困在家裏的日子並不好受，跟自己平時選擇留在家裏的感覺不同。終於，在聖誕節的當日，雪停了，晚上可以照原定計劃到朋友家享受一頓和牛排晚餐，總算過了一個溫馨寧靜的聖誕夜。
幸好我並沒有打算在Boxing Day購物，因為一覺醒來，地面盡是積雪，Boxing Day的節目又是剷雪！
27 日，雪停了，還下了一點雨，雪便開始融化，連我昨天堆砌的雪人都倒下來，我便連忙把它的頭放回去，希望能延長它的壽命。之後，我還在下午趁路面情況許可的情況下上班，工作了四個小時呢。
28 日，終於到了派對的日子，渡過了一個歡欣的晚上。從前幾年的派對總是二人世界，一雙一對，到今天要開闢一張兒童桌子，變化很大。
2008 年就只剩下三天，第一個新年願望，一定是希望餘下的冬天沒有雪！
第一次下的雪已有一吋，之後盡是天晴，卻很冷。到一個星期後，雪是特別的大，晚上回家，雪已經積了至少三吋，從後巷駛進車房，花了一個小時，雪還是繼續的下，不停的下。到星期一，剷了四個小時的雪，才剷出一條車路到大街。
星期三已是平安夜，雪卻只有下得更大，同樣經過四個小時的體力勞動後，才能確保車子能駛出家門。當然，我都不會冒險出門，平安夜是過得特別的寧靜。
是第一次，因為下雪的關係而沒有上班，心裏是過意不去，但想到若花了三小時坐巴士上班，平安夜那天通常都會提早下班的，回去工作四小時，再花三小時回家，我放棄了。當然，我會在週末的時候回去的。
被困在家裏的日子並不好受，跟自己平時選擇留在家裏的感覺不同。終於，在聖誕節的當日，雪停了，晚上可以照原定計劃到朋友家享受一頓和牛排晚餐，總算過了一個溫馨寧靜的聖誕夜。
幸好我並沒有打算在Boxing Day購物，因為一覺醒來，地面盡是積雪，Boxing Day的節目又是剷雪！
27 日，雪停了，還下了一點雨，雪便開始融化，連我昨天堆砌的雪人都倒下來，我便連忙把它的頭放回去，希望能延長它的壽命。之後，我還在下午趁路面情況許可的情況下上班，工作了四個小時呢。
28 日，終於到了派對的日子，渡過了一個歡欣的晚上。從前幾年的派對總是二人世界，一雙一對，到今天要開闢一張兒童桌子，變化很大。
2008 年就只剩下三天，第一個新年願望，一定是希望餘下的冬天沒有雪！
Monday, December 15, 2008
I'm feeling lucky!
I'm grateful that there is still salary raise for next year and company x'mas party is still around, despite the bad economy situation. My husband's company x'mas party was indeed got cancelled, even though he has to pay $25/person. And I have heard job cut in lots of places.
I was a bit worried about my performance review since this is my first year in this new position, plus I got a new boss. It's such a relieve to find out that I got a decent raise and the review goes OK.
It was quite a busy day on Saturday. First I was looking for a new dress (since most of my dresses don't fit any more) and then I had an hair appointment in the afternoon. I was planning to get a makeup demo but ran out of time. On the other hand, my poor hubby was working from 9am till 6:30pm. I almost thought we can't make it to the x'mas party.
Usually I don't have high expectation for company x'mas party. All these years I have been to, the venue is usually decent but the food is so-so. This year we had ours in Hyatt hotel in downtown. To my very surprise, we had the best food! There is smoke salmon and king crab legs! Yummy lasagna, turkey, beef and decent cold platter. Even the DJ is much better than before. A few people actually danced!
As far as door prizes and service awards, I am hearing all good reviews. Before, my service awards prizes were just *no comments*. Not useful to me at all. However, this year, we have better prizes like iPod, digital picture frame and stereo systems!
The door prizes are as usual but I'm feeling so lucky that I actually got a door prize, and my husband got another! The new HR drew my name for one of the earlier prizes, which is a gift basket with some chocolate and $50 carpet cleaning coupon. Then I drew Arian's name for the next one, which is a bottle of ice wine. After a while, Arian's husband drew for the next prize and he came up with my hubby's name! What a coincidence! He got a big box from Far West, which is decent winter jacket. I'm definitely feeling lucky to have two door prizes out of the 11! Actually, our table is quite lucky since my neighbour got another prize as well.
The gift basket
The jacket
By the time we leave downtown, it starts snowing. Some of the cars can't make up to the slope on Cambie Street. I can feel the spin even with snow tires.
On Sunday, I have a spa appointment and after that, went to Henry's ex-coworker's baby full month dinner. It's nice to meet others who we used to hang out more in the past few years. But once people got married and started to have kids, we had less gatherings. Good that there's another one coming up after x'mas time.
Will talk more about that "spa" appointment later.
I was a bit worried about my performance review since this is my first year in this new position, plus I got a new boss. It's such a relieve to find out that I got a decent raise and the review goes OK.
It was quite a busy day on Saturday. First I was looking for a new dress (since most of my dresses don't fit any more) and then I had an hair appointment in the afternoon. I was planning to get a makeup demo but ran out of time. On the other hand, my poor hubby was working from 9am till 6:30pm. I almost thought we can't make it to the x'mas party.
Usually I don't have high expectation for company x'mas party. All these years I have been to, the venue is usually decent but the food is so-so. This year we had ours in Hyatt hotel in downtown. To my very surprise, we had the best food! There is smoke salmon and king crab legs! Yummy lasagna, turkey, beef and decent cold platter. Even the DJ is much better than before. A few people actually danced!
As far as door prizes and service awards, I am hearing all good reviews. Before, my service awards prizes were just *no comments*. Not useful to me at all. However, this year, we have better prizes like iPod, digital picture frame and stereo systems!
The door prizes are as usual but I'm feeling so lucky that I actually got a door prize, and my husband got another! The new HR drew my name for one of the earlier prizes, which is a gift basket with some chocolate and $50 carpet cleaning coupon. Then I drew Arian's name for the next one, which is a bottle of ice wine. After a while, Arian's husband drew for the next prize and he came up with my hubby's name! What a coincidence! He got a big box from Far West, which is decent winter jacket. I'm definitely feeling lucky to have two door prizes out of the 11! Actually, our table is quite lucky since my neighbour got another prize as well.
The gift basket
The jacket
By the time we leave downtown, it starts snowing. Some of the cars can't make up to the slope on Cambie Street. I can feel the spin even with snow tires.
On Sunday, I have a spa appointment and after that, went to Henry's ex-coworker's baby full month dinner. It's nice to meet others who we used to hang out more in the past few years. But once people got married and started to have kids, we had less gatherings. Good that there's another one coming up after x'mas time.
Will talk more about that "spa" appointment later.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Birthday weekend
Time flies.
I begin to lose the thrill about birthday celebration. Is this a sign of aging?
Still, I am glad that I had spent some quality time with friends. After all, it's another 'excuse' of getting together.
This is actually the first time to spend my birth day with friends. Usually it's either with family or hubby.
Originally we had plan to go out of town for the weekend. But as we want to save some $ for our January trip, we decided to stay in town. It turned out to be a good decision. I have been so busy with work. The day before (Thursday night) I have to work until 11:30pm. And then I needed to go to work at 8:30am the next day. I can't even remember how long ago I haven't got to work so early in the morning. Anyway, I'm also glad that everything is DONE so I can take my half day off without any lingering emotion about the project.
In the afternoon, we had high tea in Hotel Vancouver. Then go to my friend's house for dinner. My friend was actually born on the same day as me.
On Saturday, my hubby and I have spent whole afternoon playing the new Wii game, Rayman Raving Rabbids TV Party (my birthday present). It's much better than the previous edition. I would totally recommend it! My arms became so sore afterwards!
Sunday, we originally planned to watch the Santa Clause Parade in downtown, but the weather forecast says it's going to rain. And we didn't want to stay up in a cold rainy winter day. So we didn't go at the end. Although, it's actually sunny around that time! How come the forecast is inaccurate most of the time? We did go to downtown, for the high tea (yeah, again) in Shutton Place Hotel. Price-wise it's much better than the Hotel Vancouver one, but the scones, weren't comparable to the Hotel Vancouver one at all. But with this price, it's not bad. After that we shopped around Robson street, didn't buy anything though. Then we had dinner with in-law's family @ Boston Cafe.
This ends my birthday celebration weekend...
I begin to lose the thrill about birthday celebration. Is this a sign of aging?
Still, I am glad that I had spent some quality time with friends. After all, it's another 'excuse' of getting together.
This is actually the first time to spend my birth day with friends. Usually it's either with family or hubby.
Originally we had plan to go out of town for the weekend. But as we want to save some $ for our January trip, we decided to stay in town. It turned out to be a good decision. I have been so busy with work. The day before (Thursday night) I have to work until 11:30pm. And then I needed to go to work at 8:30am the next day. I can't even remember how long ago I haven't got to work so early in the morning. Anyway, I'm also glad that everything is DONE so I can take my half day off without any lingering emotion about the project.
In the afternoon, we had high tea in Hotel Vancouver. Then go to my friend's house for dinner. My friend was actually born on the same day as me.
On Saturday, my hubby and I have spent whole afternoon playing the new Wii game, Rayman Raving Rabbids TV Party (my birthday present). It's much better than the previous edition. I would totally recommend it! My arms became so sore afterwards!
Sunday, we originally planned to watch the Santa Clause Parade in downtown, but the weather forecast says it's going to rain. And we didn't want to stay up in a cold rainy winter day. So we didn't go at the end. Although, it's actually sunny around that time! How come the forecast is inaccurate most of the time? We did go to downtown, for the high tea (yeah, again) in Shutton Place Hotel. Price-wise it's much better than the Hotel Vancouver one, but the scones, weren't comparable to the Hotel Vancouver one at all. But with this price, it's not bad. After that we shopped around Robson street, didn't buy anything though. Then we had dinner with in-law's family @ Boston Cafe.
This ends my birthday celebration weekend...
Monday, November 24, 2008
My Egg Benedict
I'm so lucky to have a few friends who like cooking, and actually cook very good food. And the best of all, they are willing to share their recipe even document the whole process online. Therefore, whenever I ran out of idea of what to cook, I often visit their sites for inspiration.
I have to say, I love McDonald's Egg McMuffin a lot. Too bad it is only served during breakfast hour here. It is indeed served whole day in Hong Kong. So when I saw the egg benedict recipe posted, I quickly gathered the necessary ingredient and tried it out on Saturday morning. To me, egg benedict and egg mcmuffin is similar, although I don't really like the Hollandaise sauce. But I'm so surprised to find a pack of Hollandaise sauce mix on the shelf. So I use that instead of making my own.
Of course, my version can't compare with this one.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Running week
This is my 3rd entry to the Fall Classic Run.
I was hoping that I can get better result than last year, since it was 10% worse than the first time. I was worrying that this time would be another 10% worse than last year.
But still, I didn't practise too much, just once a week for the last two weeks.
Anyway, I was running with my high school friend. The 5K route is a bit better than last year since there is no more steep uphill near the end of the course. And it's a brilliant Autumn day (cloudy but relatively warm: about 9C) and not much wind. It's definitely a perfect day to run. Yet, at one point I have to "walk" for about 5s instead of running continuously.
I thought I did better this year, only later I found out that I am actually 10 seconds slower. Yeah it's not 10% worse but still not getting any better. Oh well.
More motivation to be on diet and improve my run.
2008 Fall Classic Run
Place overall: 178
Time: 35:38.9
2007 Fall Classic Run
Place overall: 161
Time: 35:28.7
2006 Fall Classic Run
Place overall: 152
Time: 33:16.3
Vancouver Sun Run 2008
Place: 22000
Time: 1:16:06
Vancouver Sun Run 2007
Place: 12023
Time: 1:11:27
I was hoping that I can get better result than last year, since it was 10% worse than the first time. I was worrying that this time would be another 10% worse than last year.
But still, I didn't practise too much, just once a week for the last two weeks.
Anyway, I was running with my high school friend. The 5K route is a bit better than last year since there is no more steep uphill near the end of the course. And it's a brilliant Autumn day (cloudy but relatively warm: about 9C) and not much wind. It's definitely a perfect day to run. Yet, at one point I have to "walk" for about 5s instead of running continuously.
I thought I did better this year, only later I found out that I am actually 10 seconds slower. Yeah it's not 10% worse but still not getting any better. Oh well.
More motivation to be on diet and improve my run.
2008 Fall Classic Run
Place overall: 178
Time: 35:38.9
2007 Fall Classic Run
Place overall: 161
Time: 35:28.7
2006 Fall Classic Run
Place overall: 152
Time: 33:16.3
Vancouver Sun Run 2008
Place: 22000
Time: 1:16:06
Vancouver Sun Run 2007
Place: 12023
Time: 1:11:27
Friday, October 31, 2008
Halloween
今年的Halloween，都在blog中渡過。真沒想到，今天晚上非常和暖，白天下的大雨都在黃昏後停止了，簡直是放煙花的好時機。不過因為今年要在網上申請許可證才可買和放煙花，雖然只是回答一些有關放煙花的安全知識問題，但規定只可在私人地方放，我家的後園不大，還不想把自己的家燒掉，所以都沒有申請。還好，現在使我有一些時間把我的blog寫完，總算有點兒建設性。
還記得去年我買了一套Halloween costume, 在office打扮一番。而去年我的supervisor和同事還在本地，今年已是人面全非。自己在這個職位已有一年，不知明年又是如何境況?
還記得去年我買了一套Halloween costume, 在office打扮一番。而去年我的supervisor和同事還在本地，今年已是人面全非。自己在這個職位已有一年，不知明年又是如何境況?
Music week
近來很少去音樂會，不是沒有值得去的，只是歐遊回來，錢包都正值休養生息期，不想不必要的開支。但這個星期竟然在一個星期內去了兩次，真是少有。其中一個是半年前訂下，另外一個卻是舊同事請我去看的。
Orpheum Theater 一直給我的印象都是古典音樂會的理想場地，充滿古典色彩的建築物，配合交響樂團的演出，簡直是絕配。這次我觀賞的演奏會，也是由Vancouver Symphony Orchestra 演奏，只是場內沒有衣香繽影的觀眾，放眼望去，只能看到穿牛仔褲襯衣的年輕人，仿佛身在流行演唱會中，皆因這個音樂會演奏的都是電動遊戲中的伴奏音樂，入場的當然是年輕人啊！
舞台後面放置了一個大屏幕，一邊演奏一邊放出電腦遊戲的片段，觀眾的情緒都非常高漲，加上MC生動的主持，雷射燈光效果，使我都搞不清身在電玩世界中還是音樂會？音樂會的高潮在於鋼琴演奏經典遊戲Super Mario的音樂上，仿如快速播影的彈奏，令人嘆為觀止。Video Games Live 真的非常精彩，值得一看！
雖然經過昨天晚上的另類音樂會，今天的Orpheum已回復正常狀態，氣氛截然不同，因為今天是著名鋼琴家朗朗的鋼琴獨奏會。本來我都沒有打算去的，但前兩天跟舊同事說起，她很早已經買了票，竟然說請我跟她一起看，她說反正先生都不太懂欣賞，倒不如與知音一起觀看。最初我都有點不好意思，而且那個是前排非常好的位置，但恭敬不如從命，我也請了她吃晚飯，並於演奏會後送她回New Westminster 的家，希望算是扯平了。
朗朗的演奏，其實都有點兒誇張。當然，音樂很是動聽，但當看到他在簽名會上那種不太耐煩的樣子，以及有點不可一世的態度，我倒情願去捧李雲迪的場了。
Orpheum Theater 一直給我的印象都是古典音樂會的理想場地，充滿古典色彩的建築物，配合交響樂團的演出，簡直是絕配。這次我觀賞的演奏會，也是由Vancouver Symphony Orchestra 演奏，只是場內沒有衣香繽影的觀眾，放眼望去，只能看到穿牛仔褲襯衣的年輕人，仿佛身在流行演唱會中，皆因這個音樂會演奏的都是電動遊戲中的伴奏音樂，入場的當然是年輕人啊！
舞台後面放置了一個大屏幕，一邊演奏一邊放出電腦遊戲的片段，觀眾的情緒都非常高漲，加上MC生動的主持，雷射燈光效果，使我都搞不清身在電玩世界中還是音樂會？音樂會的高潮在於鋼琴演奏經典遊戲Super Mario的音樂上，仿如快速播影的彈奏，令人嘆為觀止。Video Games Live 真的非常精彩，值得一看！
雖然經過昨天晚上的另類音樂會，今天的Orpheum已回復正常狀態，氣氛截然不同，因為今天是著名鋼琴家朗朗的鋼琴獨奏會。本來我都沒有打算去的，但前兩天跟舊同事說起，她很早已經買了票，竟然說請我跟她一起看，她說反正先生都不太懂欣賞，倒不如與知音一起觀看。最初我都有點不好意思，而且那個是前排非常好的位置，但恭敬不如從命，我也請了她吃晚飯，並於演奏會後送她回New Westminster 的家，希望算是扯平了。
朗朗的演奏，其實都有點兒誇張。當然，音樂很是動聽，但當看到他在簽名會上那種不太耐煩的樣子，以及有點不可一世的態度，我倒情願去捧李雲迪的場了。
Homemade creame puff
Did I mention that I enjoy watching cooking show on TV but never try out the recipe?
Did I mention that I always love cream puff, that I will drive 20 minutes to Aberdeen Centre just for the cream puff from that Japanese store?
Last Sunday, I was a bit tired to head out, so I decided to be the couch potato and browsed through different channels. The cooking show then caught my attention because it's showing how to make cream puff and it seems extremely easy and quick. To me, dessert always seems time consuming to prepare. Therefore, I decided to "testify" the recipe.
The ingredient is simple as well: egg, butter and flour.
Since I'm not having "cream" (in my mind cream is always fatty), I am going to use ice cream (low fat) instead. I also skip the hot fudge sauce this time.
The cream puff turns out fluffy, huge and I considered a success!! Even first timer like ME make decent cream puff!!! Thanks to Everyday Baking.
Here's the recipe @ pbs.org
Cream Puffs with Ice Cream and Hot Fudge Sauce
Serves 8 | Prep time: 35 minutes | Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients:
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus more for baking sheets
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
* 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 teaspoon water, for egg wash
* 2 to 3 pints vanilla ice cream, for serving
* Hot Fudge Sauce (recipe below)
* Hot Fudge Sauce
* 1/4 cup light corn syrup
* 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, broken or cut into small pieces
* 3/4 cup heavy cream
1. Make the dough: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. with racks in upper and lower thirds. Butter two large rimmed baking sheets.
2. Combine butter, 1 cup water, and salt in a 2-quart heavy saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until butter melts. Reduce heat to medium.
3. Add flour; cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball, 30 seconds to 1 minute (see note below). Remove from heat; cool 1 minute.
4. With an electric handheld mixer, beat in eggs, a little bit at a time, until completely incorporated (dough should look shiny and be soft enough to slowly fall off a spoon).
5. Bake the puffs: Drop heaping tablespoons of batter onto baking sheets (you should have 24 to 28), about 2 inches apart. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush puffs with egg wash (do not let it drip on sheets).
6. Bake, rotating sheets between racks halfway through, until puffed and brown, about 25 minutes. Remove from oven; turn oven off.
7. With a toothpick, poke a hole in each puff. Return to oven (still off) for 10 minutes (this helps puffs dry out).
8. Fill the puffs: When cool, halve each puff horizontally with a serrated knife.
9. Working in batches (to prevent ice cream from melting), place a small scoop of ice cream (2 to 3 tablespoons) in each bottom half. Replace tops; press gently. Arrange on one rimmed baking sheet; freeze until firm. Cover with plastic wrap; freeze up to 2 days.
10. Arrange 3 filled puffs in each of eight shallow bowls; drizzle with warm Fudge Sauce. Serve immediately.
Hot Fudge Sauce
1. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup and chocolate. Stir over medium-low heat until smooth, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Serve right away, or let cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. (Sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 weeks. To serve, warm over low heat or in microwave.)
Here's the other batch on the cooling rack.
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Tip: At least put some grease on the baking sheet if not line the baking paper underneath.
Oregon Coast
本來剛剛歐遊回來，都沒準備在短時間內去另一次旅行，但世事往往無絕對。回家之後的兩個星期，便在長週末去了Oregon Coast。其實這幾年間每次去Oregon/Portland，都想到Oregon Coast，享受一下海邊的寧靜舒泰，只可惜每次時間上並不配合，只好作罷。難得這次是Long Weekend，再加上Track Day是在星期一，若在Friday night 開車，還有足夠時間到海邊去，剛好朋友也有興趣，這樣便成行了。
由於之前沒有到過那裏，也不太知道訂哪一間酒店才好。如果是自己去的話反而比較好，反正自己訂的，好與不好自己承受；替朋友訂的，訂得不好還得累人家浪費。當Planning 的時候還是有一點點壓力。幸好最後不負眾望，位於海邊的酒店（其實算是Apartment) 除了清潔舒適外，走出露台, 迎面而來的是陣陣清涼海風，夾雜着太平洋海岸的海浪聲，我們就在這裏欣賞日落，差點忘了晚飯的時間呢。
訂到這間位於Lincoln的酒店，或多或少都因為網上的review有很好的評價。而且這間是我所看過十多二十間酒店review裏面，第一次有Hotel Management 回應顧客的批評。所以我想，這間酒店應該都很重視顧客吧。結果，這間酒店也沒有讓我們失望。我訂的suite有兩間房間，有full size kitchen, 只可惜我的大廚友人沒有來啦。
這幾天的行程如下：
Friday: 開車南下，先在Exit 202的Tulalip Casino來一個自助晚餐。飯後直到Portland.
Saturday: 早餐過後，會合友人，先到Tillamook Cheese 參觀和午膳，那裏的雪糕很香滑, Ice cream cone 更是即賣即做，非常的新鮮和鬆化，值得一試。之後便到Florence 的Sealion Cave。海獅洞的staff倒是非常老實，直告我們今天海獅們都不在洞中，免得我們後來埋怨她欺騙了十元的入場費。但反正開了兩個小時的車程，也不想白來一趟，就到裏面拍了一些照片，便開車往酒店去了。
Sunday: 來到海邊，沒有理由不到沙灘走走吧，於是我們在沙灘走了一會，便繼續我們今天的主要節目： shopping! 我們先到Woodburn Company Stores, 可能經濟不好吧，遊人不是很多，減價的貨品也不是真的十分便宜，但至少節省了稅。之後便到Washington Square的 Cheesecake Factory 吃晚飯, 那裏的portion總是那麼大，難怪美國肥胖的人這麼多。
Monday: 早餐過後，乘坐友人的車，到Washington Square 的 Forever 21繼續搜購，連我自己也不相信，我和女朋友兩人在那裏逗留了差不多兩個半小時。沒辦法啦，那裏的衣服價廉物美，不過我倒是非常節制，只買了兩件衣服，也買了一件外套給H。午餐過後，友人先回Vancouver，而我在酒店lobby等 H 從Track 回來接我，之後我們便到Costco買了一個 1080p 的 LCD TV Monitor，這個款式是本地的沒有的，回到Vancouver, 其實也怕會打稅，但就算打稅，價錢也真的比本地便宜，幸好海關都"放過我們",使我們都鬆一口氣呢！
回到家已是夜深，這次Oregon 之旅亦完結了。
由於之前沒有到過那裏，也不太知道訂哪一間酒店才好。如果是自己去的話反而比較好，反正自己訂的，好與不好自己承受；替朋友訂的，訂得不好還得累人家浪費。當Planning 的時候還是有一點點壓力。幸好最後不負眾望，位於海邊的酒店（其實算是Apartment) 除了清潔舒適外，走出露台, 迎面而來的是陣陣清涼海風，夾雜着太平洋海岸的海浪聲，我們就在這裏欣賞日落，差點忘了晚飯的時間呢。
訂到這間位於Lincoln的酒店，或多或少都因為網上的review有很好的評價。而且這間是我所看過十多二十間酒店review裏面，第一次有Hotel Management 回應顧客的批評。所以我想，這間酒店應該都很重視顧客吧。結果，這間酒店也沒有讓我們失望。我訂的suite有兩間房間，有full size kitchen, 只可惜我的大廚友人沒有來啦。
這幾天的行程如下：
Friday: 開車南下，先在Exit 202的Tulalip Casino來一個自助晚餐。飯後直到Portland.
Saturday: 早餐過後，會合友人，先到Tillamook Cheese 參觀和午膳，那裏的雪糕很香滑, Ice cream cone 更是即賣即做，非常的新鮮和鬆化，值得一試。之後便到Florence 的Sealion Cave。海獅洞的staff倒是非常老實，直告我們今天海獅們都不在洞中，免得我們後來埋怨她欺騙了十元的入場費。但反正開了兩個小時的車程，也不想白來一趟，就到裏面拍了一些照片，便開車往酒店去了。
Sunday: 來到海邊，沒有理由不到沙灘走走吧，於是我們在沙灘走了一會，便繼續我們今天的主要節目： shopping! 我們先到Woodburn Company Stores, 可能經濟不好吧，遊人不是很多，減價的貨品也不是真的十分便宜，但至少節省了稅。之後便到Washington Square的 Cheesecake Factory 吃晚飯, 那裏的portion總是那麼大，難怪美國肥胖的人這麼多。
Monday: 早餐過後，乘坐友人的車，到Washington Square 的 Forever 21繼續搜購，連我自己也不相信，我和女朋友兩人在那裏逗留了差不多兩個半小時。沒辦法啦，那裏的衣服價廉物美，不過我倒是非常節制，只買了兩件衣服，也買了一件外套給H。午餐過後，友人先回Vancouver，而我在酒店lobby等 H 從Track 回來接我，之後我們便到Costco買了一個 1080p 的 LCD TV Monitor，這個款式是本地的沒有的，回到Vancouver, 其實也怕會打稅，但就算打稅，價錢也真的比本地便宜，幸好海關都"放過我們",使我們都鬆一口氣呢！
回到家已是夜深，這次Oregon 之旅亦完結了。
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| Oregon Coast |
My first Europe trip - Day 15 - Finale
回到家中，真的有一種"還是覺得你最好"的感覺。歐洲雖美，要生活，還是這裏（或者香港）好。另外一種體會，就是正所謂 "大國崛起" ， 很多旅遊景點都有中文翻譯，或者是中國人售貨員，在街上已經很少人把我們錯認為日本人，那是好事；但同時間，中國人（特別是大陸團的）還是有很多陋習還沒改變，像隨時隨地大聲喧嘩。當然我會體諒他們可能是沒有受過文明的洗禮，但在外國人看來，也許我們只是野蠻的暴發戶。。。
以後有機會，我會再多寫一點旅途感想。
以後有機會，我會再多寫一點旅途感想。
My first Europe trip - Day 14 of 15 (Windsor Castle, London)
We are going to visit the Windsor Castle, before we head to the airport for our return flight.
I'm surprised that the residency of the Royal family is opened to the public (even though only part of it is opened), but anyway, after viewing the Chateau de Versailles, I would consider Windsor Castle not as "grand". To me it is a huge mansion, but I would not prefer to live there. We have also seen the march of the solider(?) at Windsor.
That concludes our 15 days tour. We are on the way to the airport now...
Since my Mom got me a Priority pass for the airport lounge, I was hoping that we can get in and have some snack. After some searching I found the place but the receptionists are just mean. Some how our cards have problem and authorization fails. Then instead of helping us to sort out the problem with the card, they simply did nothing. Not even let me to use their phone to make a local call to the help center. I should really file a complain to the head office.
I'm surprised that the residency of the Royal family is opened to the public (even though only part of it is opened), but anyway, after viewing the Chateau de Versailles, I would consider Windsor Castle not as "grand". To me it is a huge mansion, but I would not prefer to live there. We have also seen the march of the solider(?) at Windsor.
That concludes our 15 days tour. We are on the way to the airport now...
Since my Mom got me a Priority pass for the airport lounge, I was hoping that we can get in and have some snack. After some searching I found the place but the receptionists are just mean. Some how our cards have problem and authorization fails. Then instead of helping us to sort out the problem with the card, they simply did nothing. Not even let me to use their phone to make a local call to the help center. I should really file a complain to the head office.
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| Europe Trip Day 14 |
My first Europe trip - Day 13 of 15 (London)
We got up very early today since we are going to catch the 10am flight to London.
And it turned out to be a very good decision to get up early. There are just lots of food in the breakfast buffet to choose from, even smoke salmon!
Finally, we are in London! The tour bus is once again older. The driver is a younger but drive super fast. He almost went through a red light!
Today we are touring around the city. The first stop is Chinatown and we are having dim sum lunch in 泉章居. The London Chinatown is not large but very crowded. The Vancouver Chinatown here was once like that, but not any more...
The food is not bad, but price is the same as Vancouver, just that the price tag is in Pounds...
After lunch, we are going to the Royal British Museum. We got a local tour guide lady as well. However, she is no comparison to the Paris one. She even recommended us to buy some pain relief cream in a Chinatown pharmacy. And the same cream (at least with the same name) I saw in a supermarket later on, is selling 1/3 of the prize! Still, I like her translation of the Royal British Museum as 賊竇博物館, which is quite true!
I have seen the real mummy (the inside as well), Greek statues and treasures from around the globe. I can totally imagine that the British Emperor is so powerful at its time. At one point I was thinking if the British didn't take the Chinese treasures they may still get destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. Perhaps it's a good thing that the treasures here are being taken good care?
After the museum tour, we continue with the city tour. Took pictures in Westminster Abby, Tower Bridge and the Buckingham Palace.
We had dinner in 泉章居 once again. After a few days of "no comment" Chinese food, finally we can enjoy some decent dishes.
And it turned out to be a very good decision to get up early. There are just lots of food in the breakfast buffet to choose from, even smoke salmon!
Finally, we are in London! The tour bus is once again older. The driver is a younger but drive super fast. He almost went through a red light!
Today we are touring around the city. The first stop is Chinatown and we are having dim sum lunch in 泉章居. The London Chinatown is not large but very crowded. The Vancouver Chinatown here was once like that, but not any more...
The food is not bad, but price is the same as Vancouver, just that the price tag is in Pounds...
After lunch, we are going to the Royal British Museum. We got a local tour guide lady as well. However, she is no comparison to the Paris one. She even recommended us to buy some pain relief cream in a Chinatown pharmacy. And the same cream (at least with the same name) I saw in a supermarket later on, is selling 1/3 of the prize! Still, I like her translation of the Royal British Museum as 賊竇博物館, which is quite true!
I have seen the real mummy (the inside as well), Greek statues and treasures from around the globe. I can totally imagine that the British Emperor is so powerful at its time. At one point I was thinking if the British didn't take the Chinese treasures they may still get destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. Perhaps it's a good thing that the treasures here are being taken good care?
After the museum tour, we continue with the city tour. Took pictures in Westminster Abby, Tower Bridge and the Buckingham Palace.
We had dinner in 泉章居 once again. After a few days of "no comment" Chinese food, finally we can enjoy some decent dishes.
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| Europe Trip Day 13 |
My first Europe trip - Day 12 of 15 (Holland)
We are once again going to a cooler region. And we are going to see wind mills today!
Our first stop today is still in Belgium, a place where Napoleon was finally defeated. I kinda remember battle of Waterloo but didn't notice that Waterloo is in Belgium. I even thought that it's some where in France at that time! Napoleon statue is standing lonely near the parking lot, the word "Napoleon" is even broken, whereas the mound of earth, the Lion's Hillock, is high up on the plateau. We went inside the visitor center for a while and then leave for our next stop.
On the way to Holland, there are lots of milk cattle farm, the scenery is exactly like the packaging box on the 子母牛奶!
First we passed by some modern windmill (for generating electricity). And after 2 or 3 hours drive, we arrive at a place called zaanse schans. Zaanse schans has a collection of well-preserved historic windmills and houses.
We finally have a taste of authenticated Dutch pancakes! It's like pizza to me! Very greasy though but still yummy!
We had a walk around the village, had a tour of the cheese factory, and of course, a tour of the wooden clog shoe manufacturer. We saw the old machinery and a demo of how the shoes are made. I wish I can stay longer in the gift shop...many wooden shoes to choose from!
Depart from the windmill village, we are going to Amsterdam. First we are having a boat cruise along the canal. The cool breeze makes the tour very relaxing and I can easily fall asleep...We also pass the house where Anne Frank (the author of the Diary of Anne Frank) was hidden during the war time. This book is actually one of the few text books that I am quite interested in within my high school ages. However, I can't recall she's actually hidden in Amsterdam until she's caught. I always thought that she got caught in Austria or Germany.
We arrived at a diamond factory after got off the boat. Once again, the receptionists are all Chinese...mainly Cantonese speaking but also with Mandarin speaking staff. We are presented how the diamond is cut and the machinery. Also, she just put different sizes of diamond on the table and let us know the price...Of course...the main purpose is to sell diamond...But I guess they have wasted their time then, since we are not mainland Chinese tour that bought a lot jewelery.
Chinatown is usually situated in a rather "messy" area and there is no exception here. It's just very close to the "red light district". Finally, I have seen sexy ladies standing as the window display model. The "red light district" is about 2 to 3 blocks and we quickly walked by. But after we walk around the places, we are missing one guy!!! Did he get "attracted" by one of the ladies?? After 5 minutes of the scheduled time...the tour guide also started to get worried and went back to look for him...Finally he's found and he said that he got lost...did he spend too much time looking at the "girls" and then miss us?
Seems like there are quite a lot of Chinese immigrant here. The Chinatown is rather large and there are quite some Chinese restaurants. But I guess our tour doesn't spare too much budget in this place...our dinner is even worse than the one yesterday....
Although I'm not too thrilled about the food here...I just LOVE the hotel (by the airport). It's new, modern, and the most important of all, free wi-fi!!!
Our first stop today is still in Belgium, a place where Napoleon was finally defeated. I kinda remember battle of Waterloo but didn't notice that Waterloo is in Belgium. I even thought that it's some where in France at that time! Napoleon statue is standing lonely near the parking lot, the word "Napoleon" is even broken, whereas the mound of earth, the Lion's Hillock, is high up on the plateau. We went inside the visitor center for a while and then leave for our next stop.
On the way to Holland, there are lots of milk cattle farm, the scenery is exactly like the packaging box on the 子母牛奶!
First we passed by some modern windmill (for generating electricity). And after 2 or 3 hours drive, we arrive at a place called zaanse schans. Zaanse schans has a collection of well-preserved historic windmills and houses.
We finally have a taste of authenticated Dutch pancakes! It's like pizza to me! Very greasy though but still yummy!
We had a walk around the village, had a tour of the cheese factory, and of course, a tour of the wooden clog shoe manufacturer. We saw the old machinery and a demo of how the shoes are made. I wish I can stay longer in the gift shop...many wooden shoes to choose from!
Depart from the windmill village, we are going to Amsterdam. First we are having a boat cruise along the canal. The cool breeze makes the tour very relaxing and I can easily fall asleep...We also pass the house where Anne Frank (the author of the Diary of Anne Frank) was hidden during the war time. This book is actually one of the few text books that I am quite interested in within my high school ages. However, I can't recall she's actually hidden in Amsterdam until she's caught. I always thought that she got caught in Austria or Germany.
We arrived at a diamond factory after got off the boat. Once again, the receptionists are all Chinese...mainly Cantonese speaking but also with Mandarin speaking staff. We are presented how the diamond is cut and the machinery. Also, she just put different sizes of diamond on the table and let us know the price...Of course...the main purpose is to sell diamond...But I guess they have wasted their time then, since we are not mainland Chinese tour that bought a lot jewelery.
Chinatown is usually situated in a rather "messy" area and there is no exception here. It's just very close to the "red light district". Finally, I have seen sexy ladies standing as the window display model. The "red light district" is about 2 to 3 blocks and we quickly walked by. But after we walk around the places, we are missing one guy!!! Did he get "attracted" by one of the ladies?? After 5 minutes of the scheduled time...the tour guide also started to get worried and went back to look for him...Finally he's found and he said that he got lost...did he spend too much time looking at the "girls" and then miss us?
Seems like there are quite a lot of Chinese immigrant here. The Chinatown is rather large and there are quite some Chinese restaurants. But I guess our tour doesn't spare too much budget in this place...our dinner is even worse than the one yesterday....
Although I'm not too thrilled about the food here...I just LOVE the hotel (by the airport). It's new, modern, and the most important of all, free wi-fi!!!
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| Europe Trip Day 12 |
My first Europe trip - Day 11 of 15 (Belgium)
We are leaving Paris and going to Belgium today.
First we are going to Brugge and I haven't even heard of this place before. But it's almost like Venice, there are quite a few caneals among the city. The old city with lots of medieval building is also pretty well maintained. There are carriage ride but just need to beware of the "horse shxx" on the ground...
Since we prefer more time for pictures and perhaps visit go inside the churches, we want to have quick lunch. End up we went to the counter part of "MacDonald" and had the most expensive fast food lunch in my life...The burger is small but still $3 or $4 euro each...oh well.
We did went inside the Basilica of the Holy Blood. It's actually quite dark inside and we didn't stay too long. On the way back to the tour bus, there is a street of clothing store but too bad...not enough time to shop there...even the H&M there has more stylish clothing...
After that, we are going to Brussels to see the "little man pee" statue.
The name says it all: it's small, and it pee!
It's so small but at least there are 30 or 40 people try to get around the statue for pictures and also, maybe there is some special festival going on, there is free beer given to the people passing by. I got one too. But I had a feeling that there is some "special taste"....
Lots of chocolate stores, lots of mainland Chinese tourists...and yeah...I didn't get any chocolate here, I bought a small bag but the taste is just so-so. Besides chocolate, the other famous Belgium food is waffle! Can't wait to get one but to me, it's a bit too sweet and too "sticky" in texture. I guess I still prefer the French crepe...
Dinner is once again Chinese food and it's just....no comments...
However, the good thing with Chinese food...at least there a lot of veggies dishes(coz veggie are relatively cheaper than meat).
First we are going to Brugge and I haven't even heard of this place before. But it's almost like Venice, there are quite a few caneals among the city. The old city with lots of medieval building is also pretty well maintained. There are carriage ride but just need to beware of the "horse shxx" on the ground...
Since we prefer more time for pictures and perhaps visit go inside the churches, we want to have quick lunch. End up we went to the counter part of "MacDonald" and had the most expensive fast food lunch in my life...The burger is small but still $3 or $4 euro each...oh well.
We did went inside the Basilica of the Holy Blood. It's actually quite dark inside and we didn't stay too long. On the way back to the tour bus, there is a street of clothing store but too bad...not enough time to shop there...even the H&M there has more stylish clothing...
After that, we are going to Brussels to see the "little man pee" statue.
The name says it all: it's small, and it pee!
It's so small but at least there are 30 or 40 people try to get around the statue for pictures and also, maybe there is some special festival going on, there is free beer given to the people passing by. I got one too. But I had a feeling that there is some "special taste"....
Lots of chocolate stores, lots of mainland Chinese tourists...and yeah...I didn't get any chocolate here, I bought a small bag but the taste is just so-so. Besides chocolate, the other famous Belgium food is waffle! Can't wait to get one but to me, it's a bit too sweet and too "sticky" in texture. I guess I still prefer the French crepe...
Dinner is once again Chinese food and it's just....no comments...
However, the good thing with Chinese food...at least there a lot of veggies dishes(coz veggie are relatively cheaper than meat).
 |
| Europe Trip Day 11 |
My first Europe trip - Day 10 of 15 (Paris)
Our schedule is pretty tight today: we are visiting Chateau de Versailles, Louvre and also Moulin Rouge.
We start the morning with lots of vitamin C :) There is a juice extractor in the breakfast lounge! So we can't wait to make a fresh orange juice. Seriously, it's quite wasteful to make a small glass of orange juice but not consume the orange itself. It takes 3 oranges to make a glass!
Chateau de Versailles is just huge and grand. You can see golden colour everywhere. The hall of mirror, the water fountain in the garden are both magnificent. However, both the king's and queen's bedroom are quite small, especially the bed. It's definitely smaller than king's size!
There is also a modern art exhibition held inside the chateau, featuring sculptures from Jeff Koons. I just can't understand, a historic building with modern art? A total mismatch!
We had another local tour guide for the Louvre tour. I had no expectation at all, since I had problem understanding his commentary. Maybe he's from other parts of Canton that his Cantonese is some how different from what I can understand!
To my surprise, the other lady local tour guide is just great! She speaks super fast but very clear. Both her Cantonese and Mandarin are excellent and very precise. She picks a few popular drawing and sculpture and explain to us in detail. I just wish I had her as the tour guide for 1 week so that I can fully "examine" every single art pieces!
Finally...shopping time!
We arrived in the Printemps department stores and we are greeted by the Cantonese receptionist! We were given some coupons and were told that we can get instant tax return at the counter here. And of course, the staff are all Cantonese/Mandarin speaking so that our tour, and other Chinese tour, feel comfortable shopping here. Yeah, I can certainly experience the buying power of Chinese now (particularly from mainland China).
I also visit the Galeries Lafayette, as Henry showed me pictures of this department store from his last business trip (yeah he just visited 30 minutes before closing, after he got off work).
Finally, I got myself a nice wallet from Printemps (to go with my new bag...haahaa).
Dinner is all inclusive except tonight, which we are paying on our own. We are going to have sea food feast!
The crab is not too large but it's full of 蟹羔 inside! There are raw oyster, cocktail shrimp, and field snail (they looks raw though). But seriously, I still prefer the Chinese style cooking. Since I don't really like raw oyster (I don't like oyster in general), and I am afraid of the 'raw' snail, so we just leave it and the other tour member took our portion too. yeah, why waste; however, he got sick for almost the rest of the tour....I don't think it's food poisoning, rather may be overate of seafood and got sick.
Most of our tour members paid $120 to watch the Moulin Rough show. But for us, our cash is running out and can't really afford the $120 Euro/person for the show. So we give up...maybe next time then...
Finally, our bus is back and I am so glad! The driver even wash the whole bus both inside and outside. Feel so great especially after being in an old smelly bus...
However, I do feel sorry for the driver because as he back up on the street to drop us off to the hotel, the tour bus hit the flower planter and damage the bumper...the flower planter is very low so can't blame the driver who can't see it...still...I considered him as a very good driver and so as the rest of the tour members. Can tell from the tip he got...
We start the morning with lots of vitamin C :) There is a juice extractor in the breakfast lounge! So we can't wait to make a fresh orange juice. Seriously, it's quite wasteful to make a small glass of orange juice but not consume the orange itself. It takes 3 oranges to make a glass!
Chateau de Versailles is just huge and grand. You can see golden colour everywhere. The hall of mirror, the water fountain in the garden are both magnificent. However, both the king's and queen's bedroom are quite small, especially the bed. It's definitely smaller than king's size!
There is also a modern art exhibition held inside the chateau, featuring sculptures from Jeff Koons. I just can't understand, a historic building with modern art? A total mismatch!
We had another local tour guide for the Louvre tour. I had no expectation at all, since I had problem understanding his commentary. Maybe he's from other parts of Canton that his Cantonese is some how different from what I can understand!
To my surprise, the other lady local tour guide is just great! She speaks super fast but very clear. Both her Cantonese and Mandarin are excellent and very precise. She picks a few popular drawing and sculpture and explain to us in detail. I just wish I had her as the tour guide for 1 week so that I can fully "examine" every single art pieces!
Finally...shopping time!
We arrived in the Printemps department stores and we are greeted by the Cantonese receptionist! We were given some coupons and were told that we can get instant tax return at the counter here. And of course, the staff are all Cantonese/Mandarin speaking so that our tour, and other Chinese tour, feel comfortable shopping here. Yeah, I can certainly experience the buying power of Chinese now (particularly from mainland China).
I also visit the Galeries Lafayette, as Henry showed me pictures of this department store from his last business trip (yeah he just visited 30 minutes before closing, after he got off work).
Finally, I got myself a nice wallet from Printemps (to go with my new bag...haahaa).
Dinner is all inclusive except tonight, which we are paying on our own. We are going to have sea food feast!
The crab is not too large but it's full of 蟹羔 inside! There are raw oyster, cocktail shrimp, and field snail (they looks raw though). But seriously, I still prefer the Chinese style cooking. Since I don't really like raw oyster (I don't like oyster in general), and I am afraid of the 'raw' snail, so we just leave it and the other tour member took our portion too. yeah, why waste; however, he got sick for almost the rest of the tour....I don't think it's food poisoning, rather may be overate of seafood and got sick.
Most of our tour members paid $120 to watch the Moulin Rough show. But for us, our cash is running out and can't really afford the $120 Euro/person for the show. So we give up...maybe next time then...
Finally, our bus is back and I am so glad! The driver even wash the whole bus both inside and outside. Feel so great especially after being in an old smelly bus...
However, I do feel sorry for the driver because as he back up on the street to drop us off to the hotel, the tour bus hit the flower planter and damage the bumper...the flower planter is very low so can't blame the driver who can't see it...still...I considered him as a very good driver and so as the rest of the tour members. Can tell from the tip he got...
 |
| Europe Trip Day 10 |
My first Europe trip - Day 9 of 15 (Cannes, Paris)
We are in Cannes, with warm sunshine, blue sky and nice beach.
I'm imagining I'm the celebrities, walking down the red carpet during the film festival...
From Cannes, we took the TGV train to Paris. In the train station, we saw a "suspect" that constantly look around other people. We all grab our bags very closely.
Unfortunately he is in the same cart as ours. Since I'm the "24" fan, I remembered there's a scene the terrorist carried a suicide bomb and he just looks exactly like this person. That make us not willing to fall asleep during the whole 5 hour journey.
Finally we arrived Paris safely...
Paris
Since our tour bus is still on the way to Paris (10 hours drive from Cannes to Paris but 5 hours by train), we took another bus in Paris. This bus is no comparison to our original one. So old, smelly and I can't hear the local tour guide when I sat at the back because the engine is so loud.
We are driving around Paris city and see the Eiffel Tower, Arch of Triumph etc.
After dinner, we got up to the Eiffel Tower. The good thing with tour is that, we didn't need to go through the lineup which other people are going. I would estimate at least 1 hour to get ticket and 1 hour to take the elevator up the tower if we were going by ourselves.
The view is just spectacular.
Coming down from Eiffel Tower, we are going to a boat cruise along River Seine. We passed a few different bridges and saw the buildings along the river. The cruise is great but would be even better if we don't know that there's a man just jump into the river to commit suicide and died around same time we were cruising around. No wonder there are so many police as we got off the boat.
I'm imagining I'm the celebrities, walking down the red carpet during the film festival...
From Cannes, we took the TGV train to Paris. In the train station, we saw a "suspect" that constantly look around other people. We all grab our bags very closely.
Unfortunately he is in the same cart as ours. Since I'm the "24" fan, I remembered there's a scene the terrorist carried a suicide bomb and he just looks exactly like this person. That make us not willing to fall asleep during the whole 5 hour journey.
Finally we arrived Paris safely...
Paris
Since our tour bus is still on the way to Paris (10 hours drive from Cannes to Paris but 5 hours by train), we took another bus in Paris. This bus is no comparison to our original one. So old, smelly and I can't hear the local tour guide when I sat at the back because the engine is so loud.
We are driving around Paris city and see the Eiffel Tower, Arch of Triumph etc.
After dinner, we got up to the Eiffel Tower. The good thing with tour is that, we didn't need to go through the lineup which other people are going. I would estimate at least 1 hour to get ticket and 1 hour to take the elevator up the tower if we were going by ourselves.
The view is just spectacular.
Coming down from Eiffel Tower, we are going to a boat cruise along River Seine. We passed a few different bridges and saw the buildings along the river. The cruise is great but would be even better if we don't know that there's a man just jump into the river to commit suicide and died around same time we were cruising around. No wonder there are so many police as we got off the boat.
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| Europe Trip Day 9 |
My first Europe trip - Day 8 of 15 (Monaco, Nice)
We continue our tour in the warm moderate climate zone. Monaco is the next stop.
The highway is along the see coast and make me think of the sea to sky highway here in Vancouver. But of course, with a nicer view. The deep blue ocean plus the little houses resemble Greece. As the tour bus approach Monaco, the traffic gets busier.
The architecture is great and well maintained. Of course, Monaco is a wealthy place to able to spent money to keep everything in a decent condition. Many super cars on the street and many brand name boutique. So, there's another chance for me to accomplish my "mission". The staff of the LV store is completely different from the Milan store. They are so friendly and patient. Even though I don't appear to be the "big customer" that will buy tons of bags. The sales lady who served me is still very patient and with a smile on her face. Although I was planning to get the bag in the France LV store, I finally got mine here. Price-wise is the same as other French store (Monte Carlo is physically located in France). The sales lady even escort me out of the store when I left. Such a nice service that I totally didn't expect. Other tour members also did purchase there. This is the store that deserve lots of business!
The Monte Carlo casino is such "high class" that first, there's a paid admission $10 euro plus dress code. So we just take pictures outside.
The traffic is still busy and turns out that we are too late for the perfume factory tour in Nice, I'm so disappointed.
It's not difficult to understand why Nice (Southern France) is a popular place for tourist. The moderate weather, deep blue ocean of the Mediterranean and fine sand beaches all appeal to tourists.
We had dinner just across the beach. I feel like I'm in White Rock. The dinner is relatively small portion (ok for me but not for guys I guess). One of the tour members said he had to head out and search for food after settle in the hotel.
After dinner we had a short walk along the beach and then head back to the hotel in Cannes.
The highway is along the see coast and make me think of the sea to sky highway here in Vancouver. But of course, with a nicer view. The deep blue ocean plus the little houses resemble Greece. As the tour bus approach Monaco, the traffic gets busier.
The architecture is great and well maintained. Of course, Monaco is a wealthy place to able to spent money to keep everything in a decent condition. Many super cars on the street and many brand name boutique. So, there's another chance for me to accomplish my "mission". The staff of the LV store is completely different from the Milan store. They are so friendly and patient. Even though I don't appear to be the "big customer" that will buy tons of bags. The sales lady who served me is still very patient and with a smile on her face. Although I was planning to get the bag in the France LV store, I finally got mine here. Price-wise is the same as other French store (Monte Carlo is physically located in France). The sales lady even escort me out of the store when I left. Such a nice service that I totally didn't expect. Other tour members also did purchase there. This is the store that deserve lots of business!
The Monte Carlo casino is such "high class" that first, there's a paid admission $10 euro plus dress code. So we just take pictures outside.
The traffic is still busy and turns out that we are too late for the perfume factory tour in Nice, I'm so disappointed.
It's not difficult to understand why Nice (Southern France) is a popular place for tourist. The moderate weather, deep blue ocean of the Mediterranean and fine sand beaches all appeal to tourists.
We had dinner just across the beach. I feel like I'm in White Rock. The dinner is relatively small portion (ok for me but not for guys I guess). One of the tour members said he had to head out and search for food after settle in the hotel.
After dinner we had a short walk along the beach and then head back to the hotel in Cannes.
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| Europe Trip Day 8 |
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
My first Europe trip - Day 7 of 15 (Switzerland, Italy)
Mt. Titlis - Switzerland
After viewing the Lion Monument, we are onto the highlight of the trip today: Mt. Titlis. Not going to any snow mountain in Switzerland is like never been to Switzerland. I am looking forward to this place, and I'm not disappointed at all.
First we took one cable car (the Ocean Park type) up to the mid level. Along the foot hill, there are some cattle farm and you can actually hear the bell tie around the neck. The sound of the bell is so calm and relaxing. After a while, we transferred to another larger cable car (Grouse mountain type). And finally, we were inside a 360 degree self spinning cable car to get the full view of the mountain ranges.
The weather is cloudy in the early morning, but once we get closer to the top, we pass through the fog and cloud already, there comes the blue sky and snow mountain caps. The view is so spectacular that it almost feels like another world up here.
After getting off the cable car, obviously there's another tour from mainland China that talked SUPER LOUD. At that time I am so ashamed to be Chinese...But the ironic thing is, I saw 劉嘉玲 poster in the cable car station, Gigi Leung's picture at the ticket office and even Chinese anthem to choose inside the glacier cave. And of course, Chinese sales in the watch stores...
There is a store that I can dress up in Swiss traditional clothing and take pictures. So at the end we spent about half an hour there. After that we had an expensive lunch (but not much food), and went out to take some pictures. It's very windy outside but the view is just like heaven!
On top of the mountain there is a glacier cave. Different colour lighting make it a great place for photograph. But most likely you need to be familiar with your own camera setting since it requires special mode to shoot the colourful lights, as it's quite dark inside.
I bought a few of those cattle bell since I really like the sound...
After a few days of gloomy weather, we are back to Italy, where I would expect warmer climate and also more sunshine.
Milan (Italy)
Milan is the town of fashion, the place for major fashion shows. And you can tell from how the people dress as well. Definitely more stylish than other parts of Italy I have been to.
The famous Milan Cathedral is also different from the rest I have seen. Very sophisticated. I'm also thrilled to come here, because it's the first place that I have been to (within this tour) with an LV store. Yeah I'm not TOO crazy about brand name but knowing that the price is much cheaper to get an LV in Europe than the rest of the world, it becomes my mission to get one bag in the tour. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is certainly one of the best looking shopping malls I have seen. However, I had my worst experienced there. Since it's the first time to come to LV store in the tour, we (with a few other people in the tour) quickly would like to check out the price of the ones we like. First, the one and only one staff is busy helping other customers, which I can understand. So I was patiently waiting. After 15 minutes (our time is so precious since we only get like 45mins in this place), she's still busy, and we don't get even one eye contact. OK, then I try to grab a bag by the window shelf and check out the price. Then I got warning by the cold security guard right away. "This bag is for display only" and do not touch...All LV stores that I have been to, there is no such rules! Also, ever since then, I can feel that his eyes never left me! It's like I'm going to steal the bag. I can't believe it happens here, if not in France. I have heard that LV sales in France is not as friendly because LV is such an popular brand that they got "too many" customers. Anyway, even the Prada store next to it is friendly and I can at least look at the bag without an issue. Too bad then, this particular LV store here did not deserve my business, so as my other tour members. And of course, my shopping mood is a bit disturbed as well.
I thought that I would be cheered up by the 4 (or even 4.5) star hotel that we are staying tonight. This is the most grand hotel in the tour. There are 4 lift as well. Finally we don't have to line up so long to get to our hotel room. Lots of business people; however, I was still disappointed, because a person rather kept talking on the cell phone but did not even try to push the OPEN button in the lift when he saw us with a few luggages. Yeah, not only Chinese without manner.
To me, Milan now officially on the bottom of my re-visit list.
After viewing the Lion Monument, we are onto the highlight of the trip today: Mt. Titlis. Not going to any snow mountain in Switzerland is like never been to Switzerland. I am looking forward to this place, and I'm not disappointed at all.
First we took one cable car (the Ocean Park type) up to the mid level. Along the foot hill, there are some cattle farm and you can actually hear the bell tie around the neck. The sound of the bell is so calm and relaxing. After a while, we transferred to another larger cable car (Grouse mountain type). And finally, we were inside a 360 degree self spinning cable car to get the full view of the mountain ranges.
The weather is cloudy in the early morning, but once we get closer to the top, we pass through the fog and cloud already, there comes the blue sky and snow mountain caps. The view is so spectacular that it almost feels like another world up here.
After getting off the cable car, obviously there's another tour from mainland China that talked SUPER LOUD. At that time I am so ashamed to be Chinese...But the ironic thing is, I saw 劉嘉玲 poster in the cable car station, Gigi Leung's picture at the ticket office and even Chinese anthem to choose inside the glacier cave. And of course, Chinese sales in the watch stores...
There is a store that I can dress up in Swiss traditional clothing and take pictures. So at the end we spent about half an hour there. After that we had an expensive lunch (but not much food), and went out to take some pictures. It's very windy outside but the view is just like heaven!
On top of the mountain there is a glacier cave. Different colour lighting make it a great place for photograph. But most likely you need to be familiar with your own camera setting since it requires special mode to shoot the colourful lights, as it's quite dark inside.
I bought a few of those cattle bell since I really like the sound...
After a few days of gloomy weather, we are back to Italy, where I would expect warmer climate and also more sunshine.
Milan (Italy)
Milan is the town of fashion, the place for major fashion shows. And you can tell from how the people dress as well. Definitely more stylish than other parts of Italy I have been to.
The famous Milan Cathedral is also different from the rest I have seen. Very sophisticated. I'm also thrilled to come here, because it's the first place that I have been to (within this tour) with an LV store. Yeah I'm not TOO crazy about brand name but knowing that the price is much cheaper to get an LV in Europe than the rest of the world, it becomes my mission to get one bag in the tour. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is certainly one of the best looking shopping malls I have seen. However, I had my worst experienced there. Since it's the first time to come to LV store in the tour, we (with a few other people in the tour) quickly would like to check out the price of the ones we like. First, the one and only one staff is busy helping other customers, which I can understand. So I was patiently waiting. After 15 minutes (our time is so precious since we only get like 45mins in this place), she's still busy, and we don't get even one eye contact. OK, then I try to grab a bag by the window shelf and check out the price. Then I got warning by the cold security guard right away. "This bag is for display only" and do not touch...All LV stores that I have been to, there is no such rules! Also, ever since then, I can feel that his eyes never left me! It's like I'm going to steal the bag. I can't believe it happens here, if not in France. I have heard that LV sales in France is not as friendly because LV is such an popular brand that they got "too many" customers. Anyway, even the Prada store next to it is friendly and I can at least look at the bag without an issue. Too bad then, this particular LV store here did not deserve my business, so as my other tour members. And of course, my shopping mood is a bit disturbed as well.
I thought that I would be cheered up by the 4 (or even 4.5) star hotel that we are staying tonight. This is the most grand hotel in the tour. There are 4 lift as well. Finally we don't have to line up so long to get to our hotel room. Lots of business people; however, I was still disappointed, because a person rather kept talking on the cell phone but did not even try to push the OPEN button in the lift when he saw us with a few luggages. Yeah, not only Chinese without manner.
To me, Milan now officially on the bottom of my re-visit list.
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| Europe Trip Day 7 |
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
My first Europe trip - Day 6 of 15 (Germany, Switzerland)
Schloss Neuschwanstein (New Swan Stone Place/Castle), Germany
I was excited because it's the first time to visit a castle. In my impression (which comes from travel TV program), castle is huge, mysterious, with historic character, even haunted (horror stories?).
But this castle that I'm visiting, is completely different from my impression.
We started the tour in a foggy day. The castle is on the hill, so we need to transfer to a smaller shuttle bus to take us to the mid way. After that, we still need to hike (very steep slope) about 20 minutes before we get to the castle. Suddenly I had a feeling of 重陽節, since I would also "hike" uphill to the cemetery in a foggy weather to pay a visit to my ancestors.
Although the inspiration counterpart, the Sleeping Beauty Castle, situated in the Disneyland, a place filled with joy and laughter, the authenticated New Swan Castle is on the other hand standing lonely on the top of the hill, overlooking the city Fussen in South Western part of Germany. It's the palace of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, although he only lived there for about a year. Until his death, the castle is not yet finished constructing. The castle also is also served as a homage to Richard Wagner, a famous opera composer at that time.
We had a guided tour inside the castle, but too bad we aren't allowed to take pictures inside. The mosaic floor in the Throne room is magnificent and took 2 years to complete. The bedroom of the King even contain a running water faucet in the shape of swan. Water comes from a small stream 200 m away from the castle.
While I was lining up for the washroom, there is a Japanese middle-age lady in front of me. She asked, "Are you Japanese?" WOW! Do I look like Japanese? And we also chit-chat a little bit. They join tour to Germany and Switzerland for 8 days and I guess this is the same tour I have met in Fussen. She also travelled quite a lot. Last year she's been to Europe or some other places I can't recall now. Her English is actually quite good. It's the 2nd time that I met Japanese middle age lady, who speaks good English. When I travel to Japan 2 years ago, I have asked a few different young people but none of them could understand/speak English. And finally we met an middle age lady that points us the right direction. Since then I had a feeling that middle age Japanese lady can speak good English. And today in Germany, same applies!
Since we can't get a clear view of the whole castle in a foggy day, we ended up buying quite a few postcards and mouse pad with the castle view.
For more details of the castle, refer to the Wiki page.
After the castle visit, we had lunch in a motel on the way to Switzerland. There I had my first beer in Germany. It tastes great! Even though I don't really like beer.
Lucerne, Switzerland
We arrived Lucerne in the late afternoon. First we are going to a boat cruise around Lake Lucerne. I was a little bit regret that I paid extra for the boat cruise plus losing the time to go shopping. The cruise is relaxing but the view is not as spectacular as I expect. There are a lot of watch shops along the shore. There are at least one or more Chinese sales representatives. And of course there are more Chinese tour as well. I didn't get much chance to go shopping, but at least mission accomplished: I got a Patak Phillip catalogue for my Dad! In the end I bought some souvenir and chocolate (that's what the most famous in Switzerland).
The hotel we stayed is also heritage building but very well preserved, unlike Fussen. The hotel lobby is very stylish. And there is even a Hong Kong flag outside the building! It must be a popular hotel for Hong Kong tourists.
We decided to head out for a walk after dinner in the hotel. We were told that it's relatively safe in Switzerland (even at night time). And it's true. We never met a person that you want to stay away on the street. We just feel so safe even walking at night. We took some pictures of the shoreline, the chapel bridge and had a walk inside the railway station.
Our hotel room is nice and spacious, the only thing I would criticize is that the shower is rather weak.
I was excited because it's the first time to visit a castle. In my impression (which comes from travel TV program), castle is huge, mysterious, with historic character, even haunted (horror stories?).
But this castle that I'm visiting, is completely different from my impression.
We started the tour in a foggy day. The castle is on the hill, so we need to transfer to a smaller shuttle bus to take us to the mid way. After that, we still need to hike (very steep slope) about 20 minutes before we get to the castle. Suddenly I had a feeling of 重陽節, since I would also "hike" uphill to the cemetery in a foggy weather to pay a visit to my ancestors.
Although the inspiration counterpart, the Sleeping Beauty Castle, situated in the Disneyland, a place filled with joy and laughter, the authenticated New Swan Castle is on the other hand standing lonely on the top of the hill, overlooking the city Fussen in South Western part of Germany. It's the palace of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, although he only lived there for about a year. Until his death, the castle is not yet finished constructing. The castle also is also served as a homage to Richard Wagner, a famous opera composer at that time.
We had a guided tour inside the castle, but too bad we aren't allowed to take pictures inside. The mosaic floor in the Throne room is magnificent and took 2 years to complete. The bedroom of the King even contain a running water faucet in the shape of swan. Water comes from a small stream 200 m away from the castle.
While I was lining up for the washroom, there is a Japanese middle-age lady in front of me. She asked, "Are you Japanese?" WOW! Do I look like Japanese? And we also chit-chat a little bit. They join tour to Germany and Switzerland for 8 days and I guess this is the same tour I have met in Fussen. She also travelled quite a lot. Last year she's been to Europe or some other places I can't recall now. Her English is actually quite good. It's the 2nd time that I met Japanese middle age lady, who speaks good English. When I travel to Japan 2 years ago, I have asked a few different young people but none of them could understand/speak English. And finally we met an middle age lady that points us the right direction. Since then I had a feeling that middle age Japanese lady can speak good English. And today in Germany, same applies!
Since we can't get a clear view of the whole castle in a foggy day, we ended up buying quite a few postcards and mouse pad with the castle view.
For more details of the castle, refer to the Wiki page.
After the castle visit, we had lunch in a motel on the way to Switzerland. There I had my first beer in Germany. It tastes great! Even though I don't really like beer.
Lucerne, Switzerland
We arrived Lucerne in the late afternoon. First we are going to a boat cruise around Lake Lucerne. I was a little bit regret that I paid extra for the boat cruise plus losing the time to go shopping. The cruise is relaxing but the view is not as spectacular as I expect. There are a lot of watch shops along the shore. There are at least one or more Chinese sales representatives. And of course there are more Chinese tour as well. I didn't get much chance to go shopping, but at least mission accomplished: I got a Patak Phillip catalogue for my Dad! In the end I bought some souvenir and chocolate (that's what the most famous in Switzerland).
The hotel we stayed is also heritage building but very well preserved, unlike Fussen. The hotel lobby is very stylish. And there is even a Hong Kong flag outside the building! It must be a popular hotel for Hong Kong tourists.
We decided to head out for a walk after dinner in the hotel. We were told that it's relatively safe in Switzerland (even at night time). And it's true. We never met a person that you want to stay away on the street. We just feel so safe even walking at night. We took some pictures of the shoreline, the chapel bridge and had a walk inside the railway station.
Our hotel room is nice and spacious, the only thing I would criticize is that the shower is rather weak.
 |
| Europe Trip Day 6 |
Sunday, October 5, 2008
My first Europe trip - Day 5 of 15 (Austria, Germany)
Since we "wasted" 2 hours on the traffic jam yesterday, we are going back to visit one viewpoint in Salzberg: the Mirabell Garden.
Mirabell Garden
It gains its popularity because an old movie "The Sound of Music" has a famous shot here.
The garden itself has a few fountains and lots of blooming flowers. Not breath taking but a nice place.
Berchtesgaden salt mine
Next, we are crossing Germany border, onto a small town of Berchtesgaden to visit a salt mine. At first I think that salt mine is nothing really special but I was wrong. It turns out to be a remarkable place of our trip.
First, we are provided the worker's suit to put on top of our clothes. Then we are riding on pit train to go inside the mine. After the train ride, we walked through the tunnel and see a few of the early machinery for mining salt. There are also 3D model explaining the structure of the mine.
There is also an education zone which explains about the salt structure and usage, different display of rock salt and the microscopic view of the salt molecules.
Now the fun part begins. There is a smooth-polished wooden rail that goes down about 4 stories high. That's how the miners in the old days go down the mine, just slide down! The person in back wraps his or her arms around the person in front and then pushes off to slide 50-100 feet down the slide deeper into the mine. That's much more exciting than roller coaster. I have to scream at the end.
Next there is a boat ride across an underground salt lake. When we first walked into the room it looked like the boat was floating above the floor because the water was so clear.
During the ride there is music and lighting show. What an incredible trip!
There is another shorter slide and then we go back to the train, which lead us to the elevator. Then we go up the ground level. The exit of the mine leads us to the souvenir shop. And as usual, there is no time for shopping...
Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Next, we are back to Austria: Swarovski Crystal Worlds.
If you expect to see the history of the Swarovski family, or how to make crystal, this is not the place. It's indeed like a contemporary art exhibition. You may not like it, but since it's included in the tour, I won't complain. Especially, I was longing to go to the member lounge. Yeah I got a free drink/snack there plus a free gift from the lounge. There is also a large store. The admission ticket also worth $2 euro of any store purchase.
We are back to Germany once again, to a small town Fussen.
We walked around the small town, saw a few well-preserved medieval buildings. And then back to the hotel for dinner. Going to have 德國鹹豬手 as dinner. yeah!
Our hotel is also an heritage building. A building with history. And that means, it's old and especially our room, we got the smallest (as seen from the floor plan), and oldest. I can't even open the luggage because there is no room after the double bed. Bathroom is small. In fact I was waken up at 5am never can fall asleep. Just imagine, the hotel reception on the ground floor actually closed (no light) after 10pm. We were given a key of the front entrance as we come back after 10pm. On a heritage building, an old room.... I just can't help myself sleep peacefully...However, the next day, I took a peak at the other room (where the other Japanese tour stays) in the newer section. It's totally difference. Newer reno with nice decor. So maybe I"m just the unlucky one to get the worst room.
The dinner is good, huge 德國鹹豬手 and I can't even finish it. Beer (750ml) sells for $4 extra but I don't think I can finish. After dinner a few other tour members and us decided to head out for a walk. With all the medieval surroundings, I feel like walking in the past.
Mirabell Garden
It gains its popularity because an old movie "The Sound of Music" has a famous shot here.
The garden itself has a few fountains and lots of blooming flowers. Not breath taking but a nice place.
Berchtesgaden salt mine
Next, we are crossing Germany border, onto a small town of Berchtesgaden to visit a salt mine. At first I think that salt mine is nothing really special but I was wrong. It turns out to be a remarkable place of our trip.
First, we are provided the worker's suit to put on top of our clothes. Then we are riding on pit train to go inside the mine. After the train ride, we walked through the tunnel and see a few of the early machinery for mining salt. There are also 3D model explaining the structure of the mine.
There is also an education zone which explains about the salt structure and usage, different display of rock salt and the microscopic view of the salt molecules.
Now the fun part begins. There is a smooth-polished wooden rail that goes down about 4 stories high. That's how the miners in the old days go down the mine, just slide down! The person in back wraps his or her arms around the person in front and then pushes off to slide 50-100 feet down the slide deeper into the mine. That's much more exciting than roller coaster. I have to scream at the end.
Next there is a boat ride across an underground salt lake. When we first walked into the room it looked like the boat was floating above the floor because the water was so clear.
During the ride there is music and lighting show. What an incredible trip!
There is another shorter slide and then we go back to the train, which lead us to the elevator. Then we go up the ground level. The exit of the mine leads us to the souvenir shop. And as usual, there is no time for shopping...
 |
| Europe Trip Day 5 - Part 1 |
Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Next, we are back to Austria: Swarovski Crystal Worlds.
If you expect to see the history of the Swarovski family, or how to make crystal, this is not the place. It's indeed like a contemporary art exhibition. You may not like it, but since it's included in the tour, I won't complain. Especially, I was longing to go to the member lounge. Yeah I got a free drink/snack there plus a free gift from the lounge. There is also a large store. The admission ticket also worth $2 euro of any store purchase.
We are back to Germany once again, to a small town Fussen.
We walked around the small town, saw a few well-preserved medieval buildings. And then back to the hotel for dinner. Going to have 德國鹹豬手 as dinner. yeah!
Our hotel is also an heritage building. A building with history. And that means, it's old and especially our room, we got the smallest (as seen from the floor plan), and oldest. I can't even open the luggage because there is no room after the double bed. Bathroom is small. In fact I was waken up at 5am never can fall asleep. Just imagine, the hotel reception on the ground floor actually closed (no light) after 10pm. We were given a key of the front entrance as we come back after 10pm. On a heritage building, an old room.... I just can't help myself sleep peacefully...However, the next day, I took a peak at the other room (where the other Japanese tour stays) in the newer section. It's totally difference. Newer reno with nice decor. So maybe I"m just the unlucky one to get the worst room.
The dinner is good, huge 德國鹹豬手 and I can't even finish it. Beer (750ml) sells for $4 extra but I don't think I can finish. After dinner a few other tour members and us decided to head out for a walk. With all the medieval surroundings, I feel like walking in the past.
 |
| Europe Trip Day 5 - Part 2 |
Saturday, October 4, 2008
My first Europe trip - Day 4 of 15 (Austria: Salzburg)
We finally are able to escape from the hot weather of Italy. It's foggy, cloudy and cool as we approach Austria.
We had lunch in Autogrill again, but this time in Austria. This Autogrill is much bigger, with more food choices and bigger shop. However, the people (both the staff and customer) seems that they did not understand English as much as Italian. So my lunch turn out to be $20Euro but very small portion.
After lunch, we are going to Salzburg. Should be another 2-3 hours drive.
However, after about half an hour, nightmare starts. Traffic jam!
We are almost completely stuck. Can't see the head of the queue.
Some people get off their car, run to the side of the highway. I almost want to do that too if I'm a guy.
I thought there is some road accident but turn out it's the road construction. One lane is closed and there a traffic light to regulate traffic. Green light is on for 1 minute or 2 then 3 minutes red light. But the frustrating thing is, there is NO crew working on the highway at all, so why still use this light to stop the traffic! End up we are stuck on the highway for 5 hours!!! By the time we get to Salzburg, stores are about to close.
We just walk by the birthplace of Mozart, and the old street with many shops. Getreidegasse (also known as Grain Lane) is a busy shopping street in the Old Town section of Salzburg.
As we enter Salzburg, the feeling is so different from Italy. In Italy everything (especially traffic) looks so chaos. Architecture is great but worn down. Traffic is messy, people in general is not as friendly. Graffiti can be seen every where. But Austria is different, the buildings are well maintained. Very clean city. Even the people I met in Autogrill seems more friendly and helpful.
I would definitely say Austria is on top of my re-visit list.
Surprisingly, the Chinese food we had for dinner tonight is good. Much better than the one we had in Italy. Amaze that there is decent Chinese food in Austria too.
I also want to mention the hotel. It's the best so far! Modern, clean and on the 10th floor with view! The breakfast room is even on the 15th floor with the whole view of the city and nice choice of food. It's also quite close to the railway station. Hotel Europa (Rainerstrasse 31 A-5021 Salzburg) I'll remember that!
We had lunch in Autogrill again, but this time in Austria. This Autogrill is much bigger, with more food choices and bigger shop. However, the people (both the staff and customer) seems that they did not understand English as much as Italian. So my lunch turn out to be $20Euro but very small portion.
After lunch, we are going to Salzburg. Should be another 2-3 hours drive.
However, after about half an hour, nightmare starts. Traffic jam!
We are almost completely stuck. Can't see the head of the queue.
Some people get off their car, run to the side of the highway. I almost want to do that too if I'm a guy.
I thought there is some road accident but turn out it's the road construction. One lane is closed and there a traffic light to regulate traffic. Green light is on for 1 minute or 2 then 3 minutes red light. But the frustrating thing is, there is NO crew working on the highway at all, so why still use this light to stop the traffic! End up we are stuck on the highway for 5 hours!!! By the time we get to Salzburg, stores are about to close.
We just walk by the birthplace of Mozart, and the old street with many shops. Getreidegasse (also known as Grain Lane) is a busy shopping street in the Old Town section of Salzburg.
As we enter Salzburg, the feeling is so different from Italy. In Italy everything (especially traffic) looks so chaos. Architecture is great but worn down. Traffic is messy, people in general is not as friendly. Graffiti can be seen every where. But Austria is different, the buildings are well maintained. Very clean city. Even the people I met in Autogrill seems more friendly and helpful.
I would definitely say Austria is on top of my re-visit list.
Surprisingly, the Chinese food we had for dinner tonight is good. Much better than the one we had in Italy. Amaze that there is decent Chinese food in Austria too.
I also want to mention the hotel. It's the best so far! Modern, clean and on the 10th floor with view! The breakfast room is even on the 15th floor with the whole view of the city and nice choice of food. It's also quite close to the railway station. Hotel Europa (Rainerstrasse 31 A-5021 Salzburg) I'll remember that!
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| Europe Trip Day 4 |
Friday, October 3, 2008
My first Europe trip - Day 3 of 15 (Italy: Venice)
Venezia
Still suffering from the hot weather, I was hoping the water surrounded city Venice would be cooler. I was wrong.
It's especially hot around noon time, when we got off the "water taxi". Just by walking from the station to St. Mark's Square (about 10 mins walk), I was all soaked.
The landmark include the St Mark's Basilica and the tall clock tower, looked so familiar. Because they are the "real" version of the one I have seen in the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas and Macau.
St. Mark's Square is filled with millions of pigeon. The tour guide already reminded us that there would be people trying to hand you some corn to feed the pigeon. But if you take it, you would be asked to pay. I was standing still and wait for Henry to take a shot of me and the clock tower, the hawker tries so hard to give me those corn and block my way take the picture!
And of course, he finally gave up.
After a while, the sky started to turn dull and guess what, thunderstorm follows. The rain is so heavily that people all rush back to the covered hallway for shelter. I was a bit worried that I can't take the gondola ride due to the heavy rain. Luckily after a while, rains stop and the air is much cooler now.
The gondola ride does not amaze me any more since I have taken two times already. The person who ride our gondola kept talking to the next "rider" and he didn't even "sing", unlike the one in Las Vegas or Macau. However, the "boat" itself is more pretty, but it's not electric!
After the gondola ride we went to visit a glass factory. There is demo on how to "blow" glass and it's not an easy task! It's extremely hot to work besides the oven. It's quite tempting to purchase the glass product just that they are really expensive...
Dinner is nothing fantastic as well. But it's my first time to try the octopus sauce (with spaghetti). It's not bad.
The hotel tonight is nothing special either. We didn't even take picture...
Still suffering from the hot weather, I was hoping the water surrounded city Venice would be cooler. I was wrong.
It's especially hot around noon time, when we got off the "water taxi". Just by walking from the station to St. Mark's Square (about 10 mins walk), I was all soaked.
The landmark include the St Mark's Basilica and the tall clock tower, looked so familiar. Because they are the "real" version of the one I have seen in the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas and Macau.
St. Mark's Square is filled with millions of pigeon. The tour guide already reminded us that there would be people trying to hand you some corn to feed the pigeon. But if you take it, you would be asked to pay. I was standing still and wait for Henry to take a shot of me and the clock tower, the hawker tries so hard to give me those corn and block my way take the picture!
And of course, he finally gave up.
After a while, the sky started to turn dull and guess what, thunderstorm follows. The rain is so heavily that people all rush back to the covered hallway for shelter. I was a bit worried that I can't take the gondola ride due to the heavy rain. Luckily after a while, rains stop and the air is much cooler now.
The gondola ride does not amaze me any more since I have taken two times already. The person who ride our gondola kept talking to the next "rider" and he didn't even "sing", unlike the one in Las Vegas or Macau. However, the "boat" itself is more pretty, but it's not electric!
After the gondola ride we went to visit a glass factory. There is demo on how to "blow" glass and it's not an easy task! It's extremely hot to work besides the oven. It's quite tempting to purchase the glass product just that they are really expensive...
Dinner is nothing fantastic as well. But it's my first time to try the octopus sauce (with spaghetti). It's not bad.
The hotel tonight is nothing special either. We didn't even take picture...
 |
| Europe Trip Day 3 |
Thursday, October 2, 2008
My first Europe trip - Day 2 of 15 (Italy: Florence, Pisa)
Florence
Turns out that Florence (I would prefer to call it with the proper name "Firenze")is my favourite Italian city. A medieval city full of architecture and arts. And of course, with many shops (especially leather shops). It's definitely on my re-visit list...
Pisa
I may want to revisit Pisa too, just because I really regret that we got not time to go up the leaning tower...
Hotel
The hotel is better tha last night. Brighter and cleaner bathroom. However, there is no shower curtain but a plastic panel which only covers 1/4 of the bath tub. What's the point? I end up need to wipe the whole bathroom floor after shower. And guess what, I need to do that almost 1/3 of the time during the whole trip. Most of the hotel bathroom has this half panel that stops no water!
Turns out that Florence (I would prefer to call it with the proper name "Firenze")is my favourite Italian city. A medieval city full of architecture and arts. And of course, with many shops (especially leather shops). It's definitely on my re-visit list...
Pisa
I may want to revisit Pisa too, just because I really regret that we got not time to go up the leaning tower...
Hotel
The hotel is better tha last night. Brighter and cleaner bathroom. However, there is no shower curtain but a plastic panel which only covers 1/4 of the bath tub. What's the point? I end up need to wipe the whole bathroom floor after shower. And guess what, I need to do that almost 1/3 of the time during the whole trip. Most of the hotel bathroom has this half panel that stops no water!
 |
| Europe Trip Day 2 |
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
My first Europe Trip - Day 1 of 15 (Italy: Rome, Vatican)
To be exact this is not my first landing on the European continent. It was my business trip back in 2004, to Cambridge UK. And I have spared half an hour in London.
That aside, I considered this is my first true travel experience in Europe.
I have joined a 15-day tour hosted by Charming Holidays. The first stop is Rome, Italy.
Flight
Some people may prefer connection flight rather than direct. I guess not me. First we fly to Toronto, which the tour pick up other tour members, and then we go on to Rome.
The flight to Toronto is actually quite enjoyable. We flew on a new Boeing 777, with touch screen in front of each of us. There is also colourful ambient lighting. I heard this is to ease the jet lag? Although there is no "free" food/drink on board, the nice entertainment system (with new movies and different TV shows) make it up.
As the inter-continental flight is comfy and nice; the international flight to Rome should be even better? Also with 777? or at least a 747? That's my wishful thinking. Too bad we are all thrown into "hell" (compare to the Boeing 777) afterward. The plane to Rome is so dated, which looks like it has been in service for more than 20 years and will be broken any time. I was even worried if it's safe to complete a 9 hour journey.
After 5 hours flight to Toronto, 3 hours waiting for connection, and 9 hours flight to Rome, we are finally there.
Rome
Really tired (because it's already mid-night in my own time zone), we landed on Rome international airport. Right away we can sense the warm air.
The airport is not as modern/new as I thought, it looks like our inter-continental airport before renovation. It's rather dated.
We didn't wait too long for the luggage. Still we are stuck in the airport for some time due to missing luggage from our tour guide. Once the automatic door opens, I can sense the true air of Rome. It's HOT! So quickly I have changed to a short-sleeve t-shirt.
Our first stop is LUNCH. We have lunch in a Chinese Restaurant. Surprisingly the BBQ Chicken and duck are not bad. It actually exceeds my expectations. (i.e. but I do lower my expectation in the first place. You know...we are talking about Chinese Food in Europe...)
After lunch we are onto the first tourist attraction: Vatican.
Vatican
St. Peter's Basilica (that's indeed the first time I know the word "Basilica" for Church...) is truly magnificent. Numerous painting and sculpture. Every inch of the Basilica is filled with detail thoughts.
Too bad we are in rush (as always, we are with a tour). We didn't have chance to visit other building in Vatican. That means no chance for souvenir...
Back to our tour bus, we are going to the Colosseum. On the way we have passed by some other great buildings. Too bad I can't recall the names now...
The Colosseum
The Colosseum is so much more shinning in pictures than in real. In real it's just the remain of the once powerful Roman Empire. Much of the outside granite wall has been taken away to build the St. Peter's Basilica. Numerous holes remain. Together with the decayed Roman Forum (which is just besides it), the Colosseum is not a spectacular site. In the old days, it is the site for gladiatorial games (not sure what it is? Rent the movie Gladiator...) where numerous people and animals died in it. I'm glad that we are not around here at night...
There are some booth operated by African immigrants (as the tour guide mentions), selling souvenir. I'm lucky enough to visit that particular booth.
"Is this set of postcard $1 Euro?" I pointed to a set of 5 postcard, with the 1Euro sign next to it.
"One Euro for five? You should go back to China ....."
OK...I get it now.
Trevi Fountain
Anyway, next stop is the another famous tourist attraction: the "make a wish fountain" (that's what I called it). Trevi Fountain is the proper name.
It's so crowded that we aren't able to take a pictures without other people around. In the end, I do toss a coin.
There is a short walk to where we got off the bus to the fountain. On the way, I started to "hunt" for bottle water. My impression is that water is very expensive in Europe. Beer is much cheaper than water. So I found a corner store selling 0.75L for $0.5Euro I quickly stock up 2 bottle.
And there is another incident related to water. Stay tune...
Finally, we are done with the view point. Heading back for dinner. This time, the dinner is rather disappointing...
Hotel
I have indeed lower my expectation regarding hotel. My impression is that European hotel is tiny, dated yet pricey. Well, SEEMS that this is not the case. The hotel reception area is modern (which gives me a false hope that the room would be nice). The room is actually spacious (comparable to our Holiday Inn). The bathroom is small, with no bath tub only shower stand. But the decor is really dated and the bathroom has a little bit of stain. At least, the bedding seems ok clean. What I don't understand is that the bathroom is already small, why still put a "toilet-like feature that used for washing"? What a waste of space!
I don't feel any jet lag, because I'm already super tired...
This is the end of my Day 1.
Pictures here:
That aside, I considered this is my first true travel experience in Europe.
I have joined a 15-day tour hosted by Charming Holidays. The first stop is Rome, Italy.
Flight
Some people may prefer connection flight rather than direct. I guess not me. First we fly to Toronto, which the tour pick up other tour members, and then we go on to Rome.
The flight to Toronto is actually quite enjoyable. We flew on a new Boeing 777, with touch screen in front of each of us. There is also colourful ambient lighting. I heard this is to ease the jet lag? Although there is no "free" food/drink on board, the nice entertainment system (with new movies and different TV shows) make it up.
As the inter-continental flight is comfy and nice; the international flight to Rome should be even better? Also with 777? or at least a 747? That's my wishful thinking. Too bad we are all thrown into "hell" (compare to the Boeing 777) afterward. The plane to Rome is so dated, which looks like it has been in service for more than 20 years and will be broken any time. I was even worried if it's safe to complete a 9 hour journey.
After 5 hours flight to Toronto, 3 hours waiting for connection, and 9 hours flight to Rome, we are finally there.
Rome
Really tired (because it's already mid-night in my own time zone), we landed on Rome international airport. Right away we can sense the warm air.
The airport is not as modern/new as I thought, it looks like our inter-continental airport before renovation. It's rather dated.
We didn't wait too long for the luggage. Still we are stuck in the airport for some time due to missing luggage from our tour guide. Once the automatic door opens, I can sense the true air of Rome. It's HOT! So quickly I have changed to a short-sleeve t-shirt.
Our first stop is LUNCH. We have lunch in a Chinese Restaurant. Surprisingly the BBQ Chicken and duck are not bad. It actually exceeds my expectations. (i.e. but I do lower my expectation in the first place. You know...we are talking about Chinese Food in Europe...)
After lunch we are onto the first tourist attraction: Vatican.
Vatican
St. Peter's Basilica (that's indeed the first time I know the word "Basilica" for Church...) is truly magnificent. Numerous painting and sculpture. Every inch of the Basilica is filled with detail thoughts.
Too bad we are in rush (as always, we are with a tour). We didn't have chance to visit other building in Vatican. That means no chance for souvenir...
Back to our tour bus, we are going to the Colosseum. On the way we have passed by some other great buildings. Too bad I can't recall the names now...
The Colosseum
The Colosseum is so much more shinning in pictures than in real. In real it's just the remain of the once powerful Roman Empire. Much of the outside granite wall has been taken away to build the St. Peter's Basilica. Numerous holes remain. Together with the decayed Roman Forum (which is just besides it), the Colosseum is not a spectacular site. In the old days, it is the site for gladiatorial games (not sure what it is? Rent the movie Gladiator...) where numerous people and animals died in it. I'm glad that we are not around here at night...
There are some booth operated by African immigrants (as the tour guide mentions), selling souvenir. I'm lucky enough to visit that particular booth.
"Is this set of postcard $1 Euro?" I pointed to a set of 5 postcard, with the 1Euro sign next to it.
"One Euro for five? You should go back to China ....."
OK...I get it now.
Trevi Fountain
Anyway, next stop is the another famous tourist attraction: the "make a wish fountain" (that's what I called it). Trevi Fountain is the proper name.
It's so crowded that we aren't able to take a pictures without other people around. In the end, I do toss a coin.
There is a short walk to where we got off the bus to the fountain. On the way, I started to "hunt" for bottle water. My impression is that water is very expensive in Europe. Beer is much cheaper than water. So I found a corner store selling 0.75L for $0.5Euro I quickly stock up 2 bottle.
And there is another incident related to water. Stay tune...
Finally, we are done with the view point. Heading back for dinner. This time, the dinner is rather disappointing...
Hotel
I have indeed lower my expectation regarding hotel. My impression is that European hotel is tiny, dated yet pricey. Well, SEEMS that this is not the case. The hotel reception area is modern (which gives me a false hope that the room would be nice). The room is actually spacious (comparable to our Holiday Inn). The bathroom is small, with no bath tub only shower stand. But the decor is really dated and the bathroom has a little bit of stain. At least, the bedding seems ok clean. What I don't understand is that the bathroom is already small, why still put a "toilet-like feature that used for washing"? What a waste of space!
I don't feel any jet lag, because I'm already super tired...
This is the end of my Day 1.
Pictures here:
 |
| Europe Trip Day 1 |
Monday, September 29, 2008
Back to the reality...
I have been to Europe for the last two weeks. Went to Italy (Rome, Florence , Venice, Milan), Ventican, Switzerland (Lucerne), Germany (Fussen), Austria (Salzburg), France (Paris, Nice, Cannes), Monacco, Netherlands, Belgium (Bruges, Brussels), UK (London). Still in the recovering mode...
Stay turn for the pictures and review...
Stay turn for the pictures and review...
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Lantern Festival
Thanks to my friend who found a good deal on line. We paid $10 admission instead of the $25 original price. While the lantern is quite magnificent, the music just sux...Maybe I am just not used to the old classic country style Chinese song. We have walked 1.5 hour in a rather chilly night. I almost feel like an early preview of the Christmas lighting. Anyway, these lanterns definitely brought back my childhood memory of the Mid-Autumn Festival, in which I would walk around the nearby park with my parents. One hand to hold on to my Mom (or Dad), and the other hand carrying a small lantern. My Dad always light up the lantern for me since I am (still) afraid of light up matches! Although it's chilly around mid-autumn time (even in Hong Kong), my heart is always filled with warm wishes and care from them.
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| From Lantern festival |
Monday, September 1, 2008
More cards (birthday + wedding)
When I read from column writer or author that they always were run after by the editor for the submission, I just can't understand why they can't start working sooner. Now I guess I started to understand them a little bit.
I tried to start my wedding card design last night but I was sitting in front of a pile of patter paper stock, stickers and stamps and stared at them for 3 hours. I thought of thousands of possible combination but can put together none. My DH almost saw me insane just sitting of a pile of paper doing nothing for so long! Finally I gave up at 2am.
Today is the wedding. I got up at 9, try to make at least one wedding card (I need two for today). And surprisingly, not only design but I complete one in 1.5 hour. And I complete another one in an hour, although the second one is a "recycle" of the older design.
So before the deadline, I completed my "task"! Now I understand creativity sometimes like to come at the deadline. Maybe it's just how the "brain" work best??
OK, here are the two wedding cards:
This one is made last week, for my friend's birthday. I remembered that she has a cute fatty cat. So I pick this stamp for her.
Another wedding card from last week.
I tried to start my wedding card design last night but I was sitting in front of a pile of patter paper stock, stickers and stamps and stared at them for 3 hours. I thought of thousands of possible combination but can put together none. My DH almost saw me insane just sitting of a pile of paper doing nothing for so long! Finally I gave up at 2am.
Today is the wedding. I got up at 9, try to make at least one wedding card (I need two for today). And surprisingly, not only design but I complete one in 1.5 hour. And I complete another one in an hour, although the second one is a "recycle" of the older design.
So before the deadline, I completed my "task"! Now I understand creativity sometimes like to come at the deadline. Maybe it's just how the "brain" work best??
OK, here are the two wedding cards:
This one is made last week, for my friend's birthday. I remembered that she has a cute fatty cat. So I pick this stamp for her.
Another wedding card from last week.
Diet log 3
Almost no point to "log" it. Only run once on Tuesday for 36 minutes.
Was planning to run again on Thursday but the night before I got upset stomach. Although things died down on Thursday but definitely not in a good condition to run. Then comes the company lunch on Friday. But I do walk for about half an hour after the lunch.
Saturday night went to lantern festival with friends and walked about 1.5 hours.
Was planning to run again on Thursday but the night before I got upset stomach. Although things died down on Thursday but definitely not in a good condition to run. Then comes the company lunch on Friday. But I do walk for about half an hour after the lunch.
Saturday night went to lantern festival with friends and walked about 1.5 hours.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
My diet log 2
Ok, this week is not really "on diet", but focus on exercise.
So...
Day 1 - Aug 18
Run 20 minutes on treadmill.
Day 2 - Aug 19
Run 20 minutes + walk 40 minutes
Day 3 - Aug 20
Run 30 minutes + walk 30 minutes
Day 4 - Aug 21
None
Excuses: Shopping for grocery...
Day 5 - Aug 22
None
Excuses: Lunch with ex-coworker to celebrate his new born baby
Day 6 - Aug 23
None
Excuses: Friend's wedding which started 7am and ends at 11:30pm. (I was helping out so in fact I got up at 5:30am)
Day 7 - Aug 24
None
Excuses: Too exhausted yesterday...a day to rest...
Sigh...
So...
Day 1 - Aug 18
Run 20 minutes on treadmill.
Day 2 - Aug 19
Run 20 minutes + walk 40 minutes
Day 3 - Aug 20
Run 30 minutes + walk 30 minutes
Day 4 - Aug 21
None
Excuses: Shopping for grocery...
Day 5 - Aug 22
None
Excuses: Lunch with ex-coworker to celebrate his new born baby
Day 6 - Aug 23
None
Excuses: Friend's wedding which started 7am and ends at 11:30pm. (I was helping out so in fact I got up at 5:30am)
Day 7 - Aug 24
None
Excuses: Too exhausted yesterday...a day to rest...
Sigh...
Monday, August 18, 2008
Hiking
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I can't remember if it's the first hiking trip of this year. I always want to go hiking; however, either bad weather or some other plans (or even some excuses) stop me from going.
Finally, since I'm on diet, I am looking for moderate exercise too (to speed up the process). So I am going for easy hike in the UBC Pacific Spirit Park.
Relatively flat, we are just inside a very old growth forest. It's almost 30 degree outside but relatively cool inside the trail. It's definitely good to walk around!
The only thing is, the trail has quite a lot of stones. Quite bumpy to walk on it...
Card for this week...
Not much creativity this week. So this card comes more like a replica of the sample from local store, except I am using different paper stock.
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I usually don't care much about the inside but this time, I have put some design into it. One inside page with paper stock and the other side I use stamp and similar ink colour. And they match quite nicely.
.JPG)
After all, this card should serve two theme: for my ex-coworker's house warming and new arrival of his baby girl.
I usually don't care much about the inside but this time, I have put some design into it. One inside page with paper stock and the other side I use stamp and similar ink colour. And they match quite nicely.
After all, this card should serve two theme: for my ex-coworker's house warming and new arrival of his baby girl.
My diet log 1
Aug 11 - Day 1
-food: veggie soup + fruit
-exercise: jogging for half an hour
Aug 12 - Day 2
-food: veggie soup + vegetable + baked potato for dinner
-exercise: walk about half and hour
Aug 13 - Day 3
-food: veggie soup + fruit + vegetable
-exercise: jogging for half an hour + walk 20 minutes
Aug 14 - Day 4
-food: veggie soup + 2 cup of milk + 2 banana (ok...I confess that I "took" 3/4 piece of biscuit from my coworker...)
-exercise: none
Aug 15 - Day 5
-food: veggie soup + tomato + meat(some beef and fish)
-exercise: jogging for half an hour
Aug 16 - Day 6
-food: veggie soup + meat (1 regular burger patty & 1 ground turkey burger patty) + veggie
-exercise: hiking for 2 hours
Aug 17 - Day 7
-food: veggie soup + rice (rice noodle for lunch and small quantity of rice for dinner) + veggie
-exercise: none
The end of day 7, I have lost about 5 pounds.
It was a bit disappointing because I expect to go down more...
Next week, no diet but more on exercise...
-food: veggie soup + fruit
-exercise: jogging for half an hour
Aug 12 - Day 2
-food: veggie soup + vegetable + baked potato for dinner
-exercise: walk about half and hour
Aug 13 - Day 3
-food: veggie soup + fruit + vegetable
-exercise: jogging for half an hour + walk 20 minutes
Aug 14 - Day 4
-food: veggie soup + 2 cup of milk + 2 banana (ok...I confess that I "took" 3/4 piece of biscuit from my coworker...)
-exercise: none
Aug 15 - Day 5
-food: veggie soup + tomato + meat(some beef and fish)
-exercise: jogging for half an hour
Aug 16 - Day 6
-food: veggie soup + meat (1 regular burger patty & 1 ground turkey burger patty) + veggie
-exercise: hiking for 2 hours
Aug 17 - Day 7
-food: veggie soup + rice (rice noodle for lunch and small quantity of rice for dinner) + veggie
-exercise: none
The end of day 7, I have lost about 5 pounds.
It was a bit disappointing because I expect to go down more...
Next week, no diet but more on exercise...
Monday, August 11, 2008
Weekly challenge
Recently, I have subscribed to Hero Arts Flickr group which people post their handmade greeting cards or scrapbook pages. Those cards/pages need to use at least one of Hero arts products. Hero Arts also host weekly challenges and pick a few winner within the group (with prizes too!). Well, I'm not going to talk about my submission here since, I was almost never in time for any submission that matches the theme.
However, I'm here for a weekly challenge. I'm going to follow the soup diet again. Quite tired of people buzzing about whether I am pregnant. So, I'm going to follow the 1-week soup diet, plus exercise 2-3 time this week. Next week, I'll resume normal meal but exercise 4 times a week. Hopefully by the end of the month I can lose at least 5 - 10 pounds. Now that's challenge.
However, I'm here for a weekly challenge. I'm going to follow the soup diet again. Quite tired of people buzzing about whether I am pregnant. So, I'm going to follow the 1-week soup diet, plus exercise 2-3 time this week. Next week, I'll resume normal meal but exercise 4 times a week. Hopefully by the end of the month I can lose at least 5 - 10 pounds. Now that's challenge.
Finally...
The "production" of the week is out!
For my friend's birthday.
On the way to the restaurant, we saw the beautiful rainbow! Too bad my camera cannot capture the full half circle of the rainbow.
For my friend's birthday.
On the way to the restaurant, we saw the beautiful rainbow! Too bad my camera cannot capture the full half circle of the rainbow.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Weekend gateaway
For the first time, we are on a road trip to Calgary.
We went there to attend my cousin's wedding.
Originally we planned to travel by air, the flight ticket price is decent: $95/one way.
However, the surcharge and tax is another $80! Two return ticket will cost over $700.
Almost able to go back to Hong Kong with this price tag. So we give up, it's our first marathon road trip.
The total driving time is 11 hour including the gas stop and quick lunch. Total gas cost under $300. Not bad eh?
Even though it's 11 hour, we still think that it's a better than the 6-hour drive to Portland. Why? The road is not as bumpy as I5, plus better scenery. On the way to Calgary I have seen two Elk and goat along the highway.
We arrived on Friday night, attended the wedding on Saturday, and went sight seeing on Sunday, then come back on Monday. It's really a short trip! Still, I feel refreshed, from the routine daily chores. Especially, when I saw the green rolling plains without boundaries, paired with blue sky, white clouds, a few cattle/horse here and there, like a picture, to remind us how well the nature is created for us to live.
We stayed in the downtown Marriott hotel, I almost want to bring the bedding back home. The bedding, mattress, and pillow are just too comfy...The only drawback is the parking. It's valet only and costs $30/weekedy (or $25/weekend). And of course, no free internet to us is another hassle. Still, for the price we got, I still won't regret staying there.
We went to Drumheller as well, here are some pictures:
We went there to attend my cousin's wedding.
Originally we planned to travel by air, the flight ticket price is decent: $95/one way.
However, the surcharge and tax is another $80! Two return ticket will cost over $700.
Almost able to go back to Hong Kong with this price tag. So we give up, it's our first marathon road trip.
The total driving time is 11 hour including the gas stop and quick lunch. Total gas cost under $300. Not bad eh?
Even though it's 11 hour, we still think that it's a better than the 6-hour drive to Portland. Why? The road is not as bumpy as I5, plus better scenery. On the way to Calgary I have seen two Elk and goat along the highway.
We arrived on Friday night, attended the wedding on Saturday, and went sight seeing on Sunday, then come back on Monday. It's really a short trip! Still, I feel refreshed, from the routine daily chores. Especially, when I saw the green rolling plains without boundaries, paired with blue sky, white clouds, a few cattle/horse here and there, like a picture, to remind us how well the nature is created for us to live.
We stayed in the downtown Marriott hotel, I almost want to bring the bedding back home. The bedding, mattress, and pillow are just too comfy...The only drawback is the parking. It's valet only and costs $30/weekedy (or $25/weekend). And of course, no free internet to us is another hassle. Still, for the price we got, I still won't regret staying there.
We went to Drumheller as well, here are some pictures:
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| Calgary trip |
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Exhausted
Pretty exhausted these days.
Basically I need to present some document. But to be able to write "something", I need to learn a system in a few days...which is almost impossible. I guess I'm getting old now, learning something new is ok, but be good at it and able to analyse it, is ultra difficult.
I try to put off but still, need to face it.
Finally I'm done now. I don't think I did a good job, though.
I guess my career is done soon, too.
Basically I need to present some document. But to be able to write "something", I need to learn a system in a few days...which is almost impossible. I guess I'm getting old now, learning something new is ok, but be good at it and able to analyse it, is ultra difficult.
I try to put off but still, need to face it.
Finally I'm done now. I don't think I did a good job, though.
I guess my career is done soon, too.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
More complains
I can stop myself from whining; however, I can't stop others from complaining.
For the first time in 9 years, I received my first formal "complains" from someone high above (I mean...from 2nd floor).
And I was pretty upset about how I deal with it. I feel like in the bottom of drain now.
For the first time in 9 years, I received my first formal "complains" from someone high above (I mean...from 2nd floor).
And I was pretty upset about how I deal with it. I feel like in the bottom of drain now.
No more complains
I had a bit "complain" that over the past months the lottery tickets that I bought for the group, seems to have "some" winning but the ones that I bought for myself, got nothing! Absolutely nothing! Not even a free ticket!
Now I'm going to stop whining.
Out of the blue, I got $68.50 from lotto 649!
THANKS!
Now I'm going to stop whining.
Out of the blue, I got $68.50 from lotto 649!
THANKS!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Weekend
It's very sunny and nice weather this weekend.
Saturday, a very relaxing day. Time just flies...
Want to go to the States on Sunday but after seeing the lineup, we give up. It would be about an hour lineup and at that time I really want my Nexus pass.
We could go to Whiterock on the way back but I hesitate to walk under the strong UV. End up just walking around Richmond to "kill" some time before dinner. I bump into 苗僑偉 and his family outside "his" store. But I'm too shy to ask for a picture or autograph. I'm not a big fan of him but I do like to watch his TV series.
Had a bit of headache so I'm not able to make some cards. I feel bad that there is no production this week.
Saturday, a very relaxing day. Time just flies...
Want to go to the States on Sunday but after seeing the lineup, we give up. It would be about an hour lineup and at that time I really want my Nexus pass.
We could go to Whiterock on the way back but I hesitate to walk under the strong UV. End up just walking around Richmond to "kill" some time before dinner. I bump into 苗僑偉 and his family outside "his" store. But I'm too shy to ask for a picture or autograph. I'm not a big fan of him but I do like to watch his TV series.
Had a bit of headache so I'm not able to make some cards. I feel bad that there is no production this week.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Sunday, July 13, 2008
More cards...
Very busy with work lately. Multiple releases to deal with.
During weekend, I tried to bury myself into thoughts of designing cards. In that way I don't have room for other thoughts.
Wedding card:
Trying to use yellow as the main colour to match the wedding theme. Hopefully she likes it.
I like this stamp a lot. It says "Handmake from heart"!
Birthday card:
Inspired by the design in the local craft store. I use the same colour scheme (pink and brown) but different layout and paper source. The bunny is just too cute!
This one...hope it's fun!
It will go in the mail tomorrow...
During weekend, I tried to bury myself into thoughts of designing cards. In that way I don't have room for other thoughts.
Wedding card:
Trying to use yellow as the main colour to match the wedding theme. Hopefully she likes it.
I like this stamp a lot. It says "Handmake from heart"!
Birthday card:
Inspired by the design in the local craft store. I use the same colour scheme (pink and brown) but different layout and paper source. The bunny is just too cute!
This one...hope it's fun!
It will go in the mail tomorrow...
Monday, July 7, 2008
What's the difference?
What's the difference between:
07 16 32 39 41 44 45
and
07 16 31 39 41 43 44
Answer:
The difference is
$109 and $10 MILLION!
The first set is the super 7 draw number from last Friday. The second set is the number on my husband's ticket. 32 vs 31, 44 45 vs 43 44...
We are so close, yet so far!!!
07 16 32 39 41 44 45
and
07 16 31 39 41 43 44
Answer:
The difference is
$109 and $10 MILLION!
The first set is the super 7 draw number from last Friday. The second set is the number on my husband's ticket. 32 vs 31, 44 45 vs 43 44...
We are so close, yet so far!!!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
My creation for this week
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Stamp
-HA: "Warm Wishes"
-Inkadinkado: Quartet (the bird stamp)
Paper
-Twirl Collection: Girly Girl
-Brown Bazzil
Paper flower in a bottle.
Brad with crystal
Another one:
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Stamp:
-Clearly Inspired: Favourite Calligraphies
Paper:
-American Craft: Elegant-First Kiss
-DCWV assorted card
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
不速之客 The uninvited guest on Canada Day
It's a nice and hot day.
I'm about to have my breakfast and enjoy my Canada Day holiday...
And there they are, a troop of ants crawling on my kitchen counter top...
So I quickly grab a tissue paper...try to kill as many as possible...It's just brutal...
And Henry quickly pick up the bug spray to try blocking their entrance from the back door.
I don't know how many I have killed. I just remembered the whole box of tissue is gone...
After all, the suspect is identified: the spilling bottle of vanilla syrup, and the empty can of pineapple chunk placed near the door, which is waiting to be taken out to recycle. The syrup bottle was there for months already. I guess the pineapple can smells too good?
Although the situation seems to be under controlled, it's time to clean up.
Everything located on the counter top needs to be cleaned. And anything that can be removed, goes to garbage, including a few pieces of bread. We just can't be certain whether the ant has tasted those bread before us...
After 3 hours...the counter top is so clean and tidy. And we are sweating, exhausted, and starving...
Today I still see a few ants outside. But none inside the house. Sigh...hopefully they just go away after a while. Or I should still buy some special spray...
I'm about to have my breakfast and enjoy my Canada Day holiday...
And there they are, a troop of ants crawling on my kitchen counter top...
So I quickly grab a tissue paper...try to kill as many as possible...It's just brutal...
And Henry quickly pick up the bug spray to try blocking their entrance from the back door.
I don't know how many I have killed. I just remembered the whole box of tissue is gone...
After all, the suspect is identified: the spilling bottle of vanilla syrup, and the empty can of pineapple chunk placed near the door, which is waiting to be taken out to recycle. The syrup bottle was there for months already. I guess the pineapple can smells too good?
Although the situation seems to be under controlled, it's time to clean up.
Everything located on the counter top needs to be cleaned. And anything that can be removed, goes to garbage, including a few pieces of bread. We just can't be certain whether the ant has tasted those bread before us...
After 3 hours...the counter top is so clean and tidy. And we are sweating, exhausted, and starving...
Today I still see a few ants outside. But none inside the house. Sigh...hopefully they just go away after a while. Or I should still buy some special spray...
2nd Anniversary
Time really flies!
This year we decided to take a day off and took the train tour to Whistler. We have bumped into a TV crew on board. Perhaps we will be on TV show? Urban Rush on Channel 4.
I emailed them and asked about the show time. The air time would be Aug 1st. I'll definitely stay in front of the TV that day!
Pictures here:
2nd Anniversary
This year we decided to take a day off and took the train tour to Whistler. We have bumped into a TV crew on board. Perhaps we will be on TV show? Urban Rush on Channel 4.
I emailed them and asked about the show time. The air time would be Aug 1st. I'll definitely stay in front of the TV that day!
Pictures here:
2nd Anniversary
Bunny and Puppy
I have been to the Minoru Chapel quite a few times to attend my friends wedding. In fact, the Minoru Park also seems to be a popular residence for bunny.
Although I wasn't a big fan of pet, seeing my friend's cute and so well behaved dog, I had a split second to think about keeping a pet.
Although I wasn't a big fan of pet, seeing my friend's cute and so well behaved dog, I had a split second to think about keeping a pet.
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| Bunny & Puppy |
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Getting hitched
The wedding season starts particularly early this year. The first wedding I attended was in mid-May. In fact, I have attended 2 weddings in May, 1 in June already. And there are five more coming, all in August! August must be a very good month to get hitched. Out of the 5 invitations, 4 of them are actually on the same date! I can only choose to attend either the banquet or the ceremony.
The first May wedding took place in a very popular wedding venue: Minoru Chapel.
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Whereas the other wedding took place in a hotel ballroom.
Very pretty decor but of course, I love the dessert buffet the most! haha :D
And it's very nice to meet with some old friends too.
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The 3rd wedding I attend this year. Minoru Chapel as well.
It's a long day for the wedding couple and me too! I was helping out in the wedding and participate in the door game.
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And yeah..the ladies have gone quite "wild" that night. Everybody has fun!
Looking forward to the upcoming 5 weddings in August!
The first May wedding took place in a very popular wedding venue: Minoru Chapel.
Whereas the other wedding took place in a hotel ballroom.
Very pretty decor but of course, I love the dessert buffet the most! haha :D
And it's very nice to meet with some old friends too.
The 3rd wedding I attend this year. Minoru Chapel as well.
It's a long day for the wedding couple and me too! I was helping out in the wedding and participate in the door game.
And yeah..the ladies have gone quite "wild" that night. Everybody has fun!
Looking forward to the upcoming 5 weddings in August!
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