I have finally summarised the actual Tour I was on for 24 days.
I will write up my individual Paris trip soonish...I guess.
I can't believe its only been approximately 3 months since I returned from Europe and to think that on Monday I will be in Malaysia and then Singapore, and when I return from that, it will be 3 months since I returned to work.
I'm not really excited about KL or SG. Even though its my shopping trip. Guess shopping doesn't give me a BIG buzz anymore.
=(
I got really annoyed about 30 minutes ago when the stupid SGAir website wouldn't let me get back into the section to change my seats...that functionality should be revised. And then I called them to check if there was another way of doing so, and the guy TRIED to be helpful but all he could do was F#$%EN write a note to request what TYPE of seat I wanted.
-_-"
Helpful...very helpful.
On another note, HAPPY 2008 to everyone I won't get to see or celebrate with.
I can't believe that the first time I receive 3 wonderful invitations to various NYE parties, I am unable to attend any. Please remember to invite me for 2009.
^_^
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Paris
Day: Wednesday, 26 September 2007
Wellbeing: Decongestant is required!
Weather: Rainy
Highlight: The Lourve and Versailles (Day), Can-can dinner (Night)
It was a struggle to go to Versailles because there was a taxi strike, where all the taxis would literally stop in the middle of the road wherever they are. Fortunately, our bus driver knew in advance and we managed to avoide the strike by 10 minutes of when it was meant to be. We drove past as the taxis as they started to park in the middle of the road.
The rain really dampened the glory of the palace at Versailles. The interiors were lush and obviously covered with lots and lots of gold. I really loved the various themed rooms. The Indian room, the China room, the Glass ballroom...and the garden! Oh I wished my nose wasn't blocked and I could stop to smell the fragrant roses.
After Versailles, we went back to the hotel to get ready for the Can-Can dinner and show at the Nouvelle Eve. When we got to the restaurant, Marese took Lauren and I up the road to a chocolate shop and which is situated between the Nouvelle Eve and Moulin Rouge. The lady who owns it, sells the special chocolate that Juiliette Binoche requested for her movie - Chocolat. So, what else would we do, but buy the same chocolate and the chocolate lady wrapped it up in some special paper and pretty ribbon. I chose the choc hazelnut.
Champagne is good for such a night. And the performances between the actual can-cans and the boobies been thrusted around made it quite an "interesting" night. Most entertaining things were when Craig and Roger got called up on to the stage. Craig was called to help with the jugglers and they barely missed his nose. While Roger was called up to compete in a dancing competition. Mind you, Roger is like over 55 y/o and he only won because our tour group REALLY cheered for him.
It was a brilliant final day and night on the tour. I am SO glad that this tour has gone really well, except for my spending!
I think I have over spent by $1K and there is still 4 nights in Paris...
Wellbeing: Decongestant is required!
Weather: Rainy
Highlight: The Lourve and Versailles (Day), Can-can dinner (Night)
It was a struggle to go to Versailles because there was a taxi strike, where all the taxis would literally stop in the middle of the road wherever they are. Fortunately, our bus driver knew in advance and we managed to avoide the strike by 10 minutes of when it was meant to be. We drove past as the taxis as they started to park in the middle of the road.
The rain really dampened the glory of the palace at Versailles. The interiors were lush and obviously covered with lots and lots of gold. I really loved the various themed rooms. The Indian room, the China room, the Glass ballroom...and the garden! Oh I wished my nose wasn't blocked and I could stop to smell the fragrant roses.
After Versailles, we went back to the hotel to get ready for the Can-Can dinner and show at the Nouvelle Eve. When we got to the restaurant, Marese took Lauren and I up the road to a chocolate shop and which is situated between the Nouvelle Eve and Moulin Rouge. The lady who owns it, sells the special chocolate that Juiliette Binoche requested for her movie - Chocolat. So, what else would we do, but buy the same chocolate and the chocolate lady wrapped it up in some special paper and pretty ribbon. I chose the choc hazelnut.
Champagne is good for such a night. And the performances between the actual can-cans and the boobies been thrusted around made it quite an "interesting" night. Most entertaining things were when Craig and Roger got called up on to the stage. Craig was called to help with the jugglers and they barely missed his nose. While Roger was called up to compete in a dancing competition. Mind you, Roger is like over 55 y/o and he only won because our tour group REALLY cheered for him.
It was a brilliant final day and night on the tour. I am SO glad that this tour has gone really well, except for my spending!
I think I have over spent by $1K and there is still 4 nights in Paris...
Bordeaux & Paris
Day: Tuesday, 25 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy-ish
Highlight: Eiffel Tower and the cruise on the River Seine and the view of Notre Dame at night.
Paris is really a city of lights. The Eiffel sparkled on the hour for 10 minutes, but because of the Rugby World Cup, it was coloured green and gold. We went up to level 2 and took a look at the city as the sun was setting. Need to make my own way to the "Musee de Homme" to take a photo of the Eiffel in its completeness.
Bought a stirling silver charm of the Eiffel for Chloe and Aimee. Need to find a little love heart or flower for myself for the little purse I bought in Leichtenstein.
So tired. The optional excursion finished at 10:30pm.
Got my own room for this last hotel as I am staying on in Paris.
It is Marese birthday today. She was born in 1949. What a shocker!!!
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy-ish
Highlight: Eiffel Tower and the cruise on the River Seine and the view of Notre Dame at night.
Paris is really a city of lights. The Eiffel sparkled on the hour for 10 minutes, but because of the Rugby World Cup, it was coloured green and gold. We went up to level 2 and took a look at the city as the sun was setting. Need to make my own way to the "Musee de Homme" to take a photo of the Eiffel in its completeness.
Bought a stirling silver charm of the Eiffel for Chloe and Aimee. Need to find a little love heart or flower for myself for the little purse I bought in Leichtenstein.
So tired. The optional excursion finished at 10:30pm.
Got my own room for this last hotel as I am staying on in Paris.
It is Marese birthday today. She was born in 1949. What a shocker!!!
Lourdes & Bordeaux
Day: Monday, 24 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay - with a bit of a blocked nose.
Weather: Drizzling
Highlight: Le Chateau fort et son musee Pyreneen.
The fort was a great climb. Following Marese's instructions from the night before, I got the group lost, but we eventually found our way there. There was Bev, Judy, Phuong, Thilaga, and Peter. Lauren was still asleep when I checked up on her at 8:15am. She still felt a little sick and was going to sleep in.
After the fort I visited the underground Basilica and the other 2 churches above it - making it a 3 churches on top of one another. I witnessed a morning mass at Le Grotte, which was filled with many parents and their child who is sick or disabled or terminally ill, with this one last hope that a cure may be found to help their child. It was such a sunny and beautiful day, but I was saddened by what I saw.
After walking away with a heavy heart, I went in search for lunch and found some berets for myself. I bought 1 red and 1 white.
Leaving Lourdes, we headed to Biarritz and when we stopped Lauren and I went for a walk and stopped at a patisserier/chocolatier called Henriet, and we bought some chocolate eclairs. Now after having the choc eclair in Strasbourg, and then 2 in Cannes, and now this one in Biarritz from Henriet...Henriet wins the BEST choc eclair stakes! Lets see what Paris has to offer.
This one from Henriet had a more thicker creme caramel type of centre. It was petite in size and cost 2.50 Euros but worth every cent.
Wellbeing: Okay - with a bit of a blocked nose.
Weather: Drizzling
Highlight: Le Chateau fort et son musee Pyreneen.
The fort was a great climb. Following Marese's instructions from the night before, I got the group lost, but we eventually found our way there. There was Bev, Judy, Phuong, Thilaga, and Peter. Lauren was still asleep when I checked up on her at 8:15am. She still felt a little sick and was going to sleep in.
After the fort I visited the underground Basilica and the other 2 churches above it - making it a 3 churches on top of one another. I witnessed a morning mass at Le Grotte, which was filled with many parents and their child who is sick or disabled or terminally ill, with this one last hope that a cure may be found to help their child. It was such a sunny and beautiful day, but I was saddened by what I saw.
After walking away with a heavy heart, I went in search for lunch and found some berets for myself. I bought 1 red and 1 white.
Leaving Lourdes, we headed to Biarritz and when we stopped Lauren and I went for a walk and stopped at a patisserier/chocolatier called Henriet, and we bought some chocolate eclairs. Now after having the choc eclair in Strasbourg, and then 2 in Cannes, and now this one in Biarritz from Henriet...Henriet wins the BEST choc eclair stakes! Lets see what Paris has to offer.
This one from Henriet had a more thicker creme caramel type of centre. It was petite in size and cost 2.50 Euros but worth every cent.
Lourdes
Day: Sunday, 23 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay - but I overslept on the bus
Weather: Fine, but cool
Highlight: Light Procession in Lourdes at 9pm
After a meagre dinner and settling in the "other" hotel (second hotel owned by the Christina Hotel company) we went out at 8:30pm with a candles, and made our way for the Light Procession.
I'm not religious and at first was hesitant to go, but I thought I should make the effort to see what it was. And I am glad that I went. I'm glad that I got to see the beauty. Its not like it converted me. It was just a sight. It was worth the time and the effort to walk around. It was inspiring, it was hopeful.
It started at Le Grotte and weaved around the statue and stopping in front of the 3 tiered Cathedrals (on above the other) by the river and near the new hospital.
The light illumination (even without the faith) was absolutely breathtaking. All the people with faith who sang with their hearts, moved me. With all the candles lit and this long procession - the sea of all the people, was simply a sight to be seen. Supposedly, tonight was a "quiet" night.
After the Light Procession ended, Bev, Judy, and I went to buy our berets and some glass bottles for the holy water, which we went back to the Grotto to collect. I thought I should bring some holy water back for my friends who are religious. I just hope the customs in Australia will allow me back in the country with it.
I bought 2 red berets for Chloe and Aimee.
Wellbeing: Okay - but I overslept on the bus
Weather: Fine, but cool
Highlight: Light Procession in Lourdes at 9pm
After a meagre dinner and settling in the "other" hotel (second hotel owned by the Christina Hotel company) we went out at 8:30pm with a candles, and made our way for the Light Procession.
I'm not religious and at first was hesitant to go, but I thought I should make the effort to see what it was. And I am glad that I went. I'm glad that I got to see the beauty. Its not like it converted me. It was just a sight. It was worth the time and the effort to walk around. It was inspiring, it was hopeful.
It started at Le Grotte and weaved around the statue and stopping in front of the 3 tiered Cathedrals (on above the other) by the river and near the new hospital.
The light illumination (even without the faith) was absolutely breathtaking. All the people with faith who sang with their hearts, moved me. With all the candles lit and this long procession - the sea of all the people, was simply a sight to be seen. Supposedly, tonight was a "quiet" night.
After the Light Procession ended, Bev, Judy, and I went to buy our berets and some glass bottles for the holy water, which we went back to the Grotto to collect. I thought I should bring some holy water back for my friends who are religious. I just hope the customs in Australia will allow me back in the country with it.
I bought 2 red berets for Chloe and Aimee.
Madrid & Toledo
Day: Saturday, 22 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny and warm
Highlight: Toledo, another enchanting place like Lucca and Vance or Burano.
What I remember the most of today was the shopping I did in Toledo. I bought so many pieces, I've lost count. I bought a pendant for myself, about 4 or 5 necklaces, 2 pair of earrings for my nieces, I bought a hair pin/clip thing - not sure when I would wear it, but its good to have for an occasion.
Toledo is a maze of a city. Our guide admitted that even she, today, would get lost. I got lost trying to find my way back after I roamed off on my own to buy more jewellery.
The jewellery in Toledo that I refer to is gold gilt embossed on blackened steel. There are geometric patterns or flora/fauna themed pieces. I went with the pretty flowers and bird motifs because, well, they were pretty. You can only buy this type of jewellery here in Toledo. Which made every purchase special.
The reason why Toledo is a maze is because the buildings are very hard to distinguish. There are no obvious landmarks to refer to, and its easy to forget that you should turn left not right when you are walking down one of the long winding streets.
Irrespective of whether you will get lost in Toledo or not, its a really special place. We witnessed a wedding and the bridesmaid looked really glamourous in a tangerine coloured, tiered, flamenco inspired design. I think she stood out more than the bride.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny and warm
Highlight: Toledo, another enchanting place like Lucca and Vance or Burano.
What I remember the most of today was the shopping I did in Toledo. I bought so many pieces, I've lost count. I bought a pendant for myself, about 4 or 5 necklaces, 2 pair of earrings for my nieces, I bought a hair pin/clip thing - not sure when I would wear it, but its good to have for an occasion.
Toledo is a maze of a city. Our guide admitted that even she, today, would get lost. I got lost trying to find my way back after I roamed off on my own to buy more jewellery.
The jewellery in Toledo that I refer to is gold gilt embossed on blackened steel. There are geometric patterns or flora/fauna themed pieces. I went with the pretty flowers and bird motifs because, well, they were pretty. You can only buy this type of jewellery here in Toledo. Which made every purchase special.
The reason why Toledo is a maze is because the buildings are very hard to distinguish. There are no obvious landmarks to refer to, and its easy to forget that you should turn left not right when you are walking down one of the long winding streets.
Irrespective of whether you will get lost in Toledo or not, its a really special place. We witnessed a wedding and the bridesmaid looked really glamourous in a tangerine coloured, tiered, flamenco inspired design. I think she stood out more than the bride.
Barcelona & Madrid
Day: Friday, 21 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Cloudy & rainy - Sunny in Madrid
Highlight: Madrid after 5pm
There is a difference between the East side of Madrid and the city centre, especially between where the hotel is located and Plaza Mayor.
We had lunch at a deserted stop between Barcelona and Madrid. Looked and felt like we were in outback Mexico. We were in fact surrounded with arid land. Had a club sandwich in which Judy declared that she wouldn't treat us all if we had food poisoning. This was after I gave my Imodium and Stemitil to Cathy when Toby came down in the morning to tell Marese that Cathy was vomitting.
Madrid is a surprise. I didn't like how i felt about it until the local tour began in the early evening where we visted the Central Park of Madrid and saw the view at the back of the Temple of Debod - the amusement park and zoo inthe centre of the forest/woods. We also saw the old and new cathedral, as well as Palacio Real de Madrid.
For dinner we got Lauren to take a picture with our waiter Nicky as Nicky was flirting with her - like when she asked where the toilets were...he interlocked his arms with hers and walked her into the restaurant. We were having Roast pork in the middle of Plaza Mayor, as Caro (pronounced as Chuaro) recommended the pork at this place and they had a special oven that roasted the pork in about 30 minutes...so we didn't have to pre-order as you usually do.
Dinner was with Lauren and Peter N, and we actually got to speak on a more intimate level. We each revealed a bit more of ourselves and I really enjoyed dinner. It reminded me of having dinner with my friends and catching up after a few months. Pete revealed that Lauren and I had nicknames. Lauren is known as Chuckles and I'm referred to as Happy Eyes.
*^_^*
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Cloudy & rainy - Sunny in Madrid
Highlight: Madrid after 5pm
There is a difference between the East side of Madrid and the city centre, especially between where the hotel is located and Plaza Mayor.
We had lunch at a deserted stop between Barcelona and Madrid. Looked and felt like we were in outback Mexico. We were in fact surrounded with arid land. Had a club sandwich in which Judy declared that she wouldn't treat us all if we had food poisoning. This was after I gave my Imodium and Stemitil to Cathy when Toby came down in the morning to tell Marese that Cathy was vomitting.
Madrid is a surprise. I didn't like how i felt about it until the local tour began in the early evening where we visted the Central Park of Madrid and saw the view at the back of the Temple of Debod - the amusement park and zoo inthe centre of the forest/woods. We also saw the old and new cathedral, as well as Palacio Real de Madrid.
For dinner we got Lauren to take a picture with our waiter Nicky as Nicky was flirting with her - like when she asked where the toilets were...he interlocked his arms with hers and walked her into the restaurant. We were having Roast pork in the middle of Plaza Mayor, as Caro (pronounced as Chuaro) recommended the pork at this place and they had a special oven that roasted the pork in about 30 minutes...so we didn't have to pre-order as you usually do.
Dinner was with Lauren and Peter N, and we actually got to speak on a more intimate level. We each revealed a bit more of ourselves and I really enjoyed dinner. It reminded me of having dinner with my friends and catching up after a few months. Pete revealed that Lauren and I had nicknames. Lauren is known as Chuckles and I'm referred to as Happy Eyes.
*^_^*
Barcelona
Day: Thursday, 20 September 2007
Wellbeing: Fluey
Weather: Cloudy and mild
Highlight: Guell Park and the Tapas dinner and Flamenco Show
We visited Guell Park, saw Casa Batllo (skull looking building), saw La Padrera (first apartment block with an underground carpark). There was a trumpeter at Guell playing "Fly me to the moon" and it lifted my spirits. I can't say it enough, Gaudi is a genius. On the roof of the "Town centre" in the middle of Guell Park, there are benches around the wall that are ergonomically designed. It looks really uncomfortable to sit and lean back on, but its actually very comfy.
We also managed an excursion to Montserrat, which was great, but i napped before we arrived as well as the ride back to our hotel before dinner. Montserrat houses a Cathederal on top of a mountain. Really serene and peaceful. I had a plate of paella in the food court here, wasn't the best, but it was from a food court...so...yeah...
When we got back to the hotel after Montserrat, I rushed to the mall near the "glass penis" and I went hunting for a pair of heels. You know, leather shoes from Spain...but I didn't manage to find heels and ended up buying 4 pairs of flats from Zara. *LoL* The sales girl thoroughly checked my credit card and passport which made me feel confident n the purchase - good on the sales girl!
I'm happy I got to go shopping on my own. A little upset that I couldn't buy the red or the green clutch - but the clasp on both wasn't secure. GDI! Rushed back to the hotel after the sandal purchases to get ready for dinner.
We went to a restaurant off the main strip in Barcelona (like Pitt St, Sydney) and we were entertained with a passionate flamenco show after a buffet style tapas dinner. We managed to find our Mr April. He is from Russia and we made Lauren take a photo with him for our "Calendar". Well, she did think he was cute. *LoL*
Marese taught me how to say "thank you" in Russian, but i can't remember it now. Too much red wine.
After dinner we went outside to wait for the bus and in the mean time Marese got Lucy dressed up as a flamenco and she danced in the middle of La Romdas (?). There were so many of the group standing around her, that the locals thought she was out performing like a local busker. *LoL* She actually had money thrown at her too.
Wellbeing: Fluey
Weather: Cloudy and mild
Highlight: Guell Park and the Tapas dinner and Flamenco Show
We visited Guell Park, saw Casa Batllo (skull looking building), saw La Padrera (first apartment block with an underground carpark). There was a trumpeter at Guell playing "Fly me to the moon" and it lifted my spirits. I can't say it enough, Gaudi is a genius. On the roof of the "Town centre" in the middle of Guell Park, there are benches around the wall that are ergonomically designed. It looks really uncomfortable to sit and lean back on, but its actually very comfy.
We also managed an excursion to Montserrat, which was great, but i napped before we arrived as well as the ride back to our hotel before dinner. Montserrat houses a Cathederal on top of a mountain. Really serene and peaceful. I had a plate of paella in the food court here, wasn't the best, but it was from a food court...so...yeah...
When we got back to the hotel after Montserrat, I rushed to the mall near the "glass penis" and I went hunting for a pair of heels. You know, leather shoes from Spain...but I didn't manage to find heels and ended up buying 4 pairs of flats from Zara. *LoL* The sales girl thoroughly checked my credit card and passport which made me feel confident n the purchase - good on the sales girl!
I'm happy I got to go shopping on my own. A little upset that I couldn't buy the red or the green clutch - but the clasp on both wasn't secure. GDI! Rushed back to the hotel after the sandal purchases to get ready for dinner.
We went to a restaurant off the main strip in Barcelona (like Pitt St, Sydney) and we were entertained with a passionate flamenco show after a buffet style tapas dinner. We managed to find our Mr April. He is from Russia and we made Lauren take a photo with him for our "Calendar". Well, she did think he was cute. *LoL*
Marese taught me how to say "thank you" in Russian, but i can't remember it now. Too much red wine.
After dinner we went outside to wait for the bus and in the mean time Marese got Lucy dressed up as a flamenco and she danced in the middle of La Romdas (?). There were so many of the group standing around her, that the locals thought she was out performing like a local busker. *LoL* She actually had money thrown at her too.
Cannes & Barcelona
Day: Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny, nice breeze
Highlight: Temple de la Sagrada Familia
D'antoni Gaudi, who ended up dying before he could finish the temple was an innovative genius. Mar (our local guide) describes the Sagrada as "organic" as he didn't use straight lines - ever. He was inspired by nature and is absolutely incredible as an architect and designer. The Sagrada is incomplete, and it won't be completed until 2020 (which is when I will be back to see it, in all its glory)!!!
Other architects have tried to complete it but the style is obviously different. Some parts of the monument is art deco, some are contemporary in style. It can hold 55,000 (i think) and it will be the highest monument when it is completed, with the tallest spire standing at 173m (not sure if that sounds right), to represent Jesus.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny, nice breeze
Highlight: Temple de la Sagrada Familia
D'antoni Gaudi, who ended up dying before he could finish the temple was an innovative genius. Mar (our local guide) describes the Sagrada as "organic" as he didn't use straight lines - ever. He was inspired by nature and is absolutely incredible as an architect and designer. The Sagrada is incomplete, and it won't be completed until 2020 (which is when I will be back to see it, in all its glory)!!!
Other architects have tried to complete it but the style is obviously different. Some parts of the monument is art deco, some are contemporary in style. It can hold 55,000 (i think) and it will be the highest monument when it is completed, with the tallest spire standing at 173m (not sure if that sounds right), to represent Jesus.
Cannes & Nice
Day: Tuesday, 18 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Very warm
Highlight: St Paul de Vance.
Vance is a small city/village like Lucca. I also had to buy something in memory of it and couldn't really afford the 2100 Euro pair of antique earrings I saw in the window display of a store next to the church. Ever so grateful that we were visiting Vance early, so the store was closed.
But having that urge to buy earrings, I found a pair of affordable earrings and bought those without a wince! Then I bought an original water colour painting for 25 Euros and 2 replicas that only cost 1.50 Euros each.
Later for lunch, we walked from the coach to the water front restaurant (La Fregate) on the French Riviera (Cote d'Azur). I had a pressed fish soup with crusty bread and aioli which was yum for the entree. I then had a scampi with saffron rice and then for dessert we had profiteroles with ice cream in the centre and melted chocolate on top. If you ever get a chance, I highly recommend the fish soup with the bread and aioli and the profiteroles. I couldn't find the same type of profiteroles anywhere else in France...AND it IS to DIE for!
After lunch we walked back along the promenade in Nice and went to Fragonard for some perfume. We had a tour of the production area and had a personal "smelling" session of their perfumes. They don't sell their perfumes in department stores. They have a couple of boutique stores of their own brand (in France only) and they sell online. But otherwise, you won't be able to buy their fragrance anywhere. I bought two bottles. 1 perfume: Eclat and 1 eau de toilette: Belle du nuit. Perfumes last for about 6-8 hours of wear, while eau de toilette is watered down and therefore lasts for about 3-4 hours of wear.
I realised today that I am running low on cash. GDI! In need of transferring money.
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Very warm
Highlight: St Paul de Vance.
Vance is a small city/village like Lucca. I also had to buy something in memory of it and couldn't really afford the 2100 Euro pair of antique earrings I saw in the window display of a store next to the church. Ever so grateful that we were visiting Vance early, so the store was closed.
But having that urge to buy earrings, I found a pair of affordable earrings and bought those without a wince! Then I bought an original water colour painting for 25 Euros and 2 replicas that only cost 1.50 Euros each.
Later for lunch, we walked from the coach to the water front restaurant (La Fregate) on the French Riviera (Cote d'Azur). I had a pressed fish soup with crusty bread and aioli which was yum for the entree. I then had a scampi with saffron rice and then for dessert we had profiteroles with ice cream in the centre and melted chocolate on top. If you ever get a chance, I highly recommend the fish soup with the bread and aioli and the profiteroles. I couldn't find the same type of profiteroles anywhere else in France...AND it IS to DIE for!
After lunch we walked back along the promenade in Nice and went to Fragonard for some perfume. We had a tour of the production area and had a personal "smelling" session of their perfumes. They don't sell their perfumes in department stores. They have a couple of boutique stores of their own brand (in France only) and they sell online. But otherwise, you won't be able to buy their fragrance anywhere. I bought two bottles. 1 perfume: Eclat and 1 eau de toilette: Belle du nuit. Perfumes last for about 6-8 hours of wear, while eau de toilette is watered down and therefore lasts for about 3-4 hours of wear.
I realised today that I am running low on cash. GDI! In need of transferring money.
Lucca, Pisa & Nice
Day: Monday, 17 September 2007
Wellbeing: Running nose
Weather: Warm & muggy
Highlight: Ria - the local guide we had for Lucca.
Lucca is such a special place, Pisa by no means compared. And the two cities are rivals of each other. And because Lucca was so special, I just had to buy something in memory of it. I happened to come across a store that opened and I bought Mum a pair of leather thongs. Would have bought it for myself, but it was the last pair and it was a size 36, and i'm a 38.
They just had a light festival where the whole town was lit up by candles, but the day we visited they were taking the candles down. Its actually the location of the "real" first colosseum. The town centre is in the circular shape and there are 52 entry ways, exactly like the Colosseum in Rome. It was fortified by Napolean's sister (i think it was his sister, but i could be wrong, because my memory is crap) for a war that never happened, and later she planted heaps of trees around the wall and made it into a park like surround.
Absolutely captivating and i will remember it always. Might go back for a concert in the colosseum shaped town centre. We were informed that Elton John recently had a concert there and so did Van Morrison...if Ria had told me that Michael Buble would be performing there, i would fly from anywhere in the world to attend.
When we got to Pisa I took a token photo of myself leaning on the Tower . And that was basically it for the day in Pisa. I got a slice of pizza in Pisa, but it was pretty crap, so I was pretty disappointed.
As we travelled to Nice, in Genoa Marese advised that our hotel in Nice was completely booked so we have been moved to a hotel in Cannes. I didn't mind where we were going to stay, so long as we got there. Before we would go to Cannes we were going to stop in Monte Carlo (Monaco, France) for the Casino.
I do believe the well dressed and style conscious are in Monte Carlo, if you compare Innsbruck or Lucerne or Vienna (as Marese thinks). Everyone I saw in Monte Carlo were effortlessly beautiful and glamourous. GDI!
Went into the original Casino, but only to use Mrs Murphy. Beautiful interiors, but absolutely no photos allowed. The Mrs Murphy seats were washed once you flushed - talk about poshy!
Really busy tomorrow...
Wellbeing: Running nose
Weather: Warm & muggy
Highlight: Ria - the local guide we had for Lucca.
Lucca is such a special place, Pisa by no means compared. And the two cities are rivals of each other. And because Lucca was so special, I just had to buy something in memory of it. I happened to come across a store that opened and I bought Mum a pair of leather thongs. Would have bought it for myself, but it was the last pair and it was a size 36, and i'm a 38.
They just had a light festival where the whole town was lit up by candles, but the day we visited they were taking the candles down. Its actually the location of the "real" first colosseum. The town centre is in the circular shape and there are 52 entry ways, exactly like the Colosseum in Rome. It was fortified by Napolean's sister (i think it was his sister, but i could be wrong, because my memory is crap) for a war that never happened, and later she planted heaps of trees around the wall and made it into a park like surround.
Absolutely captivating and i will remember it always. Might go back for a concert in the colosseum shaped town centre. We were informed that Elton John recently had a concert there and so did Van Morrison...if Ria had told me that Michael Buble would be performing there, i would fly from anywhere in the world to attend.
When we got to Pisa I took a token photo of myself leaning on the Tower . And that was basically it for the day in Pisa. I got a slice of pizza in Pisa, but it was pretty crap, so I was pretty disappointed.
As we travelled to Nice, in Genoa Marese advised that our hotel in Nice was completely booked so we have been moved to a hotel in Cannes. I didn't mind where we were going to stay, so long as we got there. Before we would go to Cannes we were going to stop in Monte Carlo (Monaco, France) for the Casino.
I do believe the well dressed and style conscious are in Monte Carlo, if you compare Innsbruck or Lucerne or Vienna (as Marese thinks). Everyone I saw in Monte Carlo were effortlessly beautiful and glamourous. GDI!
Went into the original Casino, but only to use Mrs Murphy. Beautiful interiors, but absolutely no photos allowed. The Mrs Murphy seats were washed once you flushed - talk about poshy!
Really busy tomorrow...
Florence
Day: Sunday, 16 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Group photo shot at the highest point of Florence. Lowlight was the fact that the museum staff at the Academia were on strike, so I didn't get to see David in all his glory!
Because of the strike at the Academia, I went nuts shopping. I basically bought everyone in my family a present from Firenze. I bought a leather wallet for my younger brother, which I had his initials embossed with gold (as you do in Florence) and a leather belt for my Dad with his initials embossed with gold as well with 24K gilt. Bought leather bookmarks for my book reading friends, and these really cute keyrings in the shape of a key for my cousins.
Found Mum a handbag and one for myself. I then went over to the "Gold Corner" for a necklace weaved with gold threads like a scarf. The one I really wanted was made with white and yellow gold and is long enough to use as a belt. But that cost over 3500 Euros. There was a thinner, shorter version with a loop on one end (because its too short to knot), but that was 936 Euros. I thought it over, and finally said no. I either buy the one I absolutely love, or nothing at all.
So, I asked the guy to show me some rings! *LoL*
I ended up buying a 18K white gold ring. I have to remember to go to the airport in Paris to claim my duty tax back from the ring.
After spending up big, we went back to the wine country, more specifically Lucca (also known as Monte Carlo) in Tuscany, for some wine tasting at a vineyard.
We tried 3 whites, 2 reds, 1 dessert, a shot of grappa and had olives, sundried tomatoes (which I couldn't get enough of), and olive oil with bread...yum, yum, yum.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Group photo shot at the highest point of Florence. Lowlight was the fact that the museum staff at the Academia were on strike, so I didn't get to see David in all his glory!
Because of the strike at the Academia, I went nuts shopping. I basically bought everyone in my family a present from Firenze. I bought a leather wallet for my younger brother, which I had his initials embossed with gold (as you do in Florence) and a leather belt for my Dad with his initials embossed with gold as well with 24K gilt. Bought leather bookmarks for my book reading friends, and these really cute keyrings in the shape of a key for my cousins.
Found Mum a handbag and one for myself. I then went over to the "Gold Corner" for a necklace weaved with gold threads like a scarf. The one I really wanted was made with white and yellow gold and is long enough to use as a belt. But that cost over 3500 Euros. There was a thinner, shorter version with a loop on one end (because its too short to knot), but that was 936 Euros. I thought it over, and finally said no. I either buy the one I absolutely love, or nothing at all.
So, I asked the guy to show me some rings! *LoL*
I ended up buying a 18K white gold ring. I have to remember to go to the airport in Paris to claim my duty tax back from the ring.
After spending up big, we went back to the wine country, more specifically Lucca (also known as Monte Carlo) in Tuscany, for some wine tasting at a vineyard.
We tried 3 whites, 2 reds, 1 dessert, a shot of grappa and had olives, sundried tomatoes (which I couldn't get enough of), and olive oil with bread...yum, yum, yum.
Rome & Vatican City
Day: Saturday, 15 September 2007
Wellbeing: Really good, except for the perspiration from the roaming around.
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Vatican City - Sistine Chapel and sneaking a photo (without flash)
I know I shouldn't of taken the photo. I know I broke a rule. But I just had to. And although it is blurry, i'm happy I took it. I don't regret it. Its not a famous scene either, its obscure and it was done on the impulse. But its my little bit of the Sistine.
We were first in line to get into the Vatican Museum, we were lining up outside of the walled enclosure at 7am.
The whole day was very intense, but worth every bit the wait.
Had a big lunch and Peter N hooked up with some people from the US, because the waiter sat the Americans with him, thinking they were from the same tour! *LoL*
Dinner was at a place called Tananga (?) - which provided entertainment comprising of opera and comedy acts and a really filling 4 course meal with heaps of wine.
I was extremely tired from all the events that happened today.
Also, Phoung and I were up all night talking.
Wellbeing: Really good, except for the perspiration from the roaming around.
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Vatican City - Sistine Chapel and sneaking a photo (without flash)
I know I shouldn't of taken the photo. I know I broke a rule. But I just had to. And although it is blurry, i'm happy I took it. I don't regret it. Its not a famous scene either, its obscure and it was done on the impulse. But its my little bit of the Sistine.
We were first in line to get into the Vatican Museum, we were lining up outside of the walled enclosure at 7am.
The whole day was very intense, but worth every bit the wait.
Had a big lunch and Peter N hooked up with some people from the US, because the waiter sat the Americans with him, thinking they were from the same tour! *LoL*
Dinner was at a place called Tananga (?) - which provided entertainment comprising of opera and comedy acts and a really filling 4 course meal with heaps of wine.
I was extremely tired from all the events that happened today.
Also, Phoung and I were up all night talking.
Venice & Rome
Day: Friday, 14 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Dinner with Dominico and Peter N making a painting at the restaurant fall, and Fontana di Trevi after dinner.
Today we drove around going from Venice to Rome. As we passed Tuscany (Toscano) it seems even though warned not to open the 2 windows at the back of the coach - someone opened them, causing the air conditioning to shut down. Then it seemed to go kaput!
So, from Tuscany to Rome we sat in a sauna like state to the hotel, but miraculously no one complained audibly - possibly just under their breath. Lauren and I laughed, otherwise we would have cried!!!
About 5 minutes from our hotel seemed to be a "red light" district filled with hookers on the street wearing short dresses or shorts which barely covered the waistband of their g-strings, not lower. The desperation...to work on the streets at 3pm in the afternoon...
Dinner was a riot at Mino (a restaurant on the outskirts of Rome's city centre). We had this really funny waiter - Dominico (like the Republic of Dominico) and his "kissy-kissy" and handing roses out to all the women on the tour. The most funniest thing was when Dominico chose to do his "kissy-kissy" with Peter N, which i happened to film.
After dinner and dessert, we walked to the Trevi fountain and I threw a coin over my left shoulder to make a wish. It was a tiring day after the busy yesterday, but the evening was throroughly enjoyable. Hope tomorrow goes well!
Did I mention that the toilets at Mino were really posh and pretty, and that Dominico gave me a rose too? Well, he did give it to every female there.
Outside of the restaurant, just before we left to get back on to the coach, Sharon (one of the 3 sis-in-laws) was mucking around the outside of a laundromat and was talking to a man who happened to be doing his laundry...she is married and has 3 kids, but is a petite and pretty lady, and as we left, her sis-in-laws were like "out of all places, you bump into another Aussie, at a laundromat in Rome, and he probably thinks you are a pro"...hehehe...she was flirting with him, loudly, she did drink alot during dinner!
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Dinner with Dominico and Peter N making a painting at the restaurant fall, and Fontana di Trevi after dinner.
Today we drove around going from Venice to Rome. As we passed Tuscany (Toscano) it seems even though warned not to open the 2 windows at the back of the coach - someone opened them, causing the air conditioning to shut down. Then it seemed to go kaput!
So, from Tuscany to Rome we sat in a sauna like state to the hotel, but miraculously no one complained audibly - possibly just under their breath. Lauren and I laughed, otherwise we would have cried!!!
About 5 minutes from our hotel seemed to be a "red light" district filled with hookers on the street wearing short dresses or shorts which barely covered the waistband of their g-strings, not lower. The desperation...to work on the streets at 3pm in the afternoon...
Dinner was a riot at Mino (a restaurant on the outskirts of Rome's city centre). We had this really funny waiter - Dominico (like the Republic of Dominico) and his "kissy-kissy" and handing roses out to all the women on the tour. The most funniest thing was when Dominico chose to do his "kissy-kissy" with Peter N, which i happened to film.
After dinner and dessert, we walked to the Trevi fountain and I threw a coin over my left shoulder to make a wish. It was a tiring day after the busy yesterday, but the evening was throroughly enjoyable. Hope tomorrow goes well!
Did I mention that the toilets at Mino were really posh and pretty, and that Dominico gave me a rose too? Well, he did give it to every female there.
Outside of the restaurant, just before we left to get back on to the coach, Sharon (one of the 3 sis-in-laws) was mucking around the outside of a laundromat and was talking to a man who happened to be doing his laundry...she is married and has 3 kids, but is a petite and pretty lady, and as we left, her sis-in-laws were like "out of all places, you bump into another Aussie, at a laundromat in Rome, and he probably thinks you are a pro"...hehehe...she was flirting with him, loudly, she did drink alot during dinner!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Decision made...
My aunt and future uncle left for Vietnam today.
Yesterday, I caught up with them with some of my cousins for lunch at the Summit. I had an in-depth conversation with my future uncle while we waited for the food.
It clarified many things.
For instance, the forms need to be submitted by the end of March. Its a 6-7 month process of forms, evidence and interviews before approval. I don't have to go over right away. I can go over a couple months after my visa is approved. The length of a working visa is 3 years and it can be extended after that. So, long as i am still working and have sponsorship.
This made the final decision easier.
He advised that it would be better if i gained more experience and expertise in my field. To give me an "edge". And i agree that that is the better choice, especially for tomorrow and beyond.
So, although immediately, staying here with my current employer isn't ideal, especially in financial terms, that is, what i will be able to save for Mauritius and NY...but it will have to make do for now.
I'm still going to be open for other opportunities, in the mean time, so long as they strategically work in my favour.
Gosh, the last 2 days have been really stressful.
But things worked out the way they were meant to.
^_^
Yesterday, I caught up with them with some of my cousins for lunch at the Summit. I had an in-depth conversation with my future uncle while we waited for the food.
It clarified many things.
For instance, the forms need to be submitted by the end of March. Its a 6-7 month process of forms, evidence and interviews before approval. I don't have to go over right away. I can go over a couple months after my visa is approved. The length of a working visa is 3 years and it can be extended after that. So, long as i am still working and have sponsorship.
This made the final decision easier.
He advised that it would be better if i gained more experience and expertise in my field. To give me an "edge". And i agree that that is the better choice, especially for tomorrow and beyond.
So, although immediately, staying here with my current employer isn't ideal, especially in financial terms, that is, what i will be able to save for Mauritius and NY...but it will have to make do for now.
I'm still going to be open for other opportunities, in the mean time, so long as they strategically work in my favour.
Gosh, the last 2 days have been really stressful.
But things worked out the way they were meant to.
^_^
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
The urgency of making decisions...
My Aunt from NY came to visit before her Vietnam holiday on Saturday. She will fly to Vietnam on this coming Thursday, in the morning.
So, the whole weekend I spent taking her and her fiance around Sydney.
You know how i have been actively looking for another role or being head hunter for other positions out there? Well, something amazing happened during dinner on Saturday night with my Aunt.
We had a one on one chat. She asked me what i was currently doing? Jnr PM - Telecommunications - Network Security. And she was impressed. And she was ecstatic! Why?
Well, my future uncle, also from NY, is a PM - Telecommunications - Network Security...AND he owns a company. And there is a skills shortage in the US. And his company sponsors skilled professionals from around the world to work as a contractor for a year.
I have always wanted to go o/s. But with the mortgage, unless i could guarantee a job o/s, it would only be a pipe dream. With this opportunity, it can be a reality.
My Aunt will marry in August/September 08. So, my intentions is to go to her wedding and then stay on for a year.
So, where is the urgency?
Well, i went to an interview today. And after the interview, i found out that i was offered the job. Its a 6 mth contract. Great rates. Perfect timing. But its a pure Project Coordinator role. So, its not quite a step backwards, its like a step sidewards, sort of...And i dont know what will be more beneficial for me?
It would be good to earn a lot before i hit NY. But it might be more beneficial to get more experience as a Project Manager, so when i do go to NY, i will get paid higher rates as a Project Manager there.
What to do?
I have 24-48 hours to decide.
>_<
So, the whole weekend I spent taking her and her fiance around Sydney.
You know how i have been actively looking for another role or being head hunter for other positions out there? Well, something amazing happened during dinner on Saturday night with my Aunt.
We had a one on one chat. She asked me what i was currently doing? Jnr PM - Telecommunications - Network Security. And she was impressed. And she was ecstatic! Why?
Well, my future uncle, also from NY, is a PM - Telecommunications - Network Security...AND he owns a company. And there is a skills shortage in the US. And his company sponsors skilled professionals from around the world to work as a contractor for a year.
I have always wanted to go o/s. But with the mortgage, unless i could guarantee a job o/s, it would only be a pipe dream. With this opportunity, it can be a reality.
My Aunt will marry in August/September 08. So, my intentions is to go to her wedding and then stay on for a year.
So, where is the urgency?
Well, i went to an interview today. And after the interview, i found out that i was offered the job. Its a 6 mth contract. Great rates. Perfect timing. But its a pure Project Coordinator role. So, its not quite a step backwards, its like a step sidewards, sort of...And i dont know what will be more beneficial for me?
It would be good to earn a lot before i hit NY. But it might be more beneficial to get more experience as a Project Manager, so when i do go to NY, i will get paid higher rates as a Project Manager there.
What to do?
I have 24-48 hours to decide.
>_<
Monday, December 10, 2007
Lack of time...
I have 3 Christmas parties to go to for work this week.
Wednesday is the Kid's Christmas Party, which i will be bringing both my nieces.
Thursday is the official Christmas Party for the client company, which will be at Luna Park and the theme is "A Dressy Affair" - ie, cocktail frocks.
Friday is the office Christmas Party, just for our floor.
Saturday - my aunt from the US arrives and basically my weekend will be spent with her and the family. She will be leaving on Thursday, but i'll be at work.
Wednesday 19/12 there is a team lunch for the department i work in. It is also my company's Christmas Party at Home Bar in the afternoon from 3pm until late.
My brother and his family (my nieces) will be going to Foster for a family Christmas holiday, so my Christmas will be with Mum, Dad, and my lil brother. Which really means, we won't be celebrating anything at all.
I will hopefully get all of my holiday blog entries up by then.
>_<
Wednesday is the Kid's Christmas Party, which i will be bringing both my nieces.
Thursday is the official Christmas Party for the client company, which will be at Luna Park and the theme is "A Dressy Affair" - ie, cocktail frocks.
Friday is the office Christmas Party, just for our floor.
Saturday - my aunt from the US arrives and basically my weekend will be spent with her and the family. She will be leaving on Thursday, but i'll be at work.
Wednesday 19/12 there is a team lunch for the department i work in. It is also my company's Christmas Party at Home Bar in the afternoon from 3pm until late.
My brother and his family (my nieces) will be going to Foster for a family Christmas holiday, so my Christmas will be with Mum, Dad, and my lil brother. Which really means, we won't be celebrating anything at all.
I will hopefully get all of my holiday blog entries up by then.
>_<
