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!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
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.
>_<
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Why do i feel...
...as though I have lost something, but it was never mine to begin with???
Is it more devasting to feel such a loss, than actually sustaining a true loss of something that is yours?
I guess its warranted if it belonged to you, that you would feel immense sadness when you lose it.
But its not mine. And i do feel sad. But i really shouldn't.
Am i selfish for feeling this way?
I think i'm feeling pangs of jealousy...of it being acquired by someone else...but i need to remind myself...it wasn't yours, you have no claim, you shouldn't even feel sad.
I'm pathetic sometimes.
About the wedding...its over! I have a broken toenail from the Friday night before the wedding. There was torrential rain before and during the wedding ceremony. It was a crying fest. And more about it later.
Is it more devasting to feel such a loss, than actually sustaining a true loss of something that is yours?
I guess its warranted if it belonged to you, that you would feel immense sadness when you lose it.
But its not mine. And i do feel sad. But i really shouldn't.
Am i selfish for feeling this way?
I think i'm feeling pangs of jealousy...of it being acquired by someone else...but i need to remind myself...it wasn't yours, you have no claim, you shouldn't even feel sad.
I'm pathetic sometimes.
About the wedding...its over! I have a broken toenail from the Friday night before the wedding. There was torrential rain before and during the wedding ceremony. It was a crying fest. And more about it later.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Slacker...
I've been extremely slack in blogging. Sorry.
But November is a horrendous month. I have all these farewell parties, birthday parties, gatherings, race, wedding...the whole month is booked out.
And i still need to lose a couple of kilos with only a week left, essentially, before the wedding!
So, updates after Venice will happen in December. That is, if work doesnt take over my life.
I can't wait until i go to KL and SG.
I need to get away again...
But November is a horrendous month. I have all these farewell parties, birthday parties, gatherings, race, wedding...the whole month is booked out.
And i still need to lose a couple of kilos with only a week left, essentially, before the wedding!
So, updates after Venice will happen in December. That is, if work doesnt take over my life.
I can't wait until i go to KL and SG.
I need to get away again...
JP Morgan Corporate Challenge 2007
I finally did the race last night.
Last year got cancelled on both attempts due to the "Strong 80km/h winds" and i was extremely disappointed that after all my training that i would not be able to go for my run.
This year, we got to the park early at 4:30pm and it was threatening rain. It started to drizzle around 5pm and all we could do was wait around anxiously.
By 6pm we all packed up and headed towards the starting line.
Its self seeded and you were expected to line up next to the time where you thought you could run per km.
So there were markings for people who could do a km in under 4.5 mins and then there were markings for those who thought it was take >4.5 mins to run per km. For the elite competitors, they were supposed to stand in the front and walkers were expected to start behind anyone running. This was to keep it fair.
But the signage wasnt clear, or people were blind, or they just didnt care. People walking the race went straight to the front near the elite. I was going to make a serious attempt, but i knew my limits and so i stood after the signage for >4.5 mins/km. But since walkers were crowding around in front of me, my team and i moved forward near the signage that said <4.5 mins/km.
I'm relieved that i moved forward. Next to me was some girls with oversized handbags on their shoulders, some with backpacks...obvious walkers...and it irritated me so much that i just wanted to sound to go off for the start.
The race was late by 10 minutes.
I was getting antsy.
Then the sound went off and when i got to cross the start line 1:15 mins was already lost. The first km was a hill and although i knew that it was going to be there, i didnt know the course well and was surprised. Going down the hill for 500m everyone around me just picked up exceptional speed and so i followed suit.
For some reason, when you have markings telling you how many kms you have just passed, it makes the whole experience feel extremely long. 1km felt like 2kms to me. I had maintained an even pace except for the hill bit, until i hit 3kms and i could feel the burn.
Its funny, i was motivating myself by talking to myself...not out loud, but in my head, i was telling myself to keep running. Things like "you've done 5-6kms before, this is nothing different"..."P is just ahead, keep her in your line of sight"..."you can finish this, c'mon!!!"..."just keep jogging, dont start walking, just keep jogging"...
So, i slumped between 3-5kms, intermittently picking up. I tried to pick it up to a consistent pace...when we hit 5kms, i heard someone in the background telling his team that now was the time to peak. And so i thought "yeah, 600m...i should pick up the pace"...but i was really thirsty. I tried to pick it up. And i did run faster than i had been in the last 2 km, but then i slowed down because i couldnt maintain it.
Then something weird happened. And i'm sure the runners out there will know what i'm referring to.
When i could finally see the clock it displayed 34:59 and i got really peeved because i wanted to do the run in under 35 minutes. And this was the point where i sprinted the last 200 metres and overtook around 20 people to get the time of 35:12, draining every last breath i had in me.
I'm not the fittest looking person. I'm sure the video footage of me, had someone filmed me from start to finish, would have looked extremely funny. I wonder how i looked while running the last sprint overtaking so many people...
My legs were like jelly. I was sooo dehydrated...I was dripping head to toe in sweat...I was pretty red in the face too...But i was so happy that i did 5.6km in 35:12 minutes.
Its in line with my expectations. And if you minus the delay from the start, i reached my goal by getting under 35 minutes.
I'm definitely going to do this race again next year!
Last year got cancelled on both attempts due to the "Strong 80km/h winds" and i was extremely disappointed that after all my training that i would not be able to go for my run.
This year, we got to the park early at 4:30pm and it was threatening rain. It started to drizzle around 5pm and all we could do was wait around anxiously.
By 6pm we all packed up and headed towards the starting line.
Its self seeded and you were expected to line up next to the time where you thought you could run per km.
So there were markings for people who could do a km in under 4.5 mins and then there were markings for those who thought it was take >4.5 mins to run per km. For the elite competitors, they were supposed to stand in the front and walkers were expected to start behind anyone running. This was to keep it fair.
But the signage wasnt clear, or people were blind, or they just didnt care. People walking the race went straight to the front near the elite. I was going to make a serious attempt, but i knew my limits and so i stood after the signage for >4.5 mins/km. But since walkers were crowding around in front of me, my team and i moved forward near the signage that said <4.5 mins/km.
I'm relieved that i moved forward. Next to me was some girls with oversized handbags on their shoulders, some with backpacks...obvious walkers...and it irritated me so much that i just wanted to sound to go off for the start.
The race was late by 10 minutes.
I was getting antsy.
Then the sound went off and when i got to cross the start line 1:15 mins was already lost. The first km was a hill and although i knew that it was going to be there, i didnt know the course well and was surprised. Going down the hill for 500m everyone around me just picked up exceptional speed and so i followed suit.
For some reason, when you have markings telling you how many kms you have just passed, it makes the whole experience feel extremely long. 1km felt like 2kms to me. I had maintained an even pace except for the hill bit, until i hit 3kms and i could feel the burn.
Its funny, i was motivating myself by talking to myself...not out loud, but in my head, i was telling myself to keep running. Things like "you've done 5-6kms before, this is nothing different"..."P is just ahead, keep her in your line of sight"..."you can finish this, c'mon!!!"..."just keep jogging, dont start walking, just keep jogging"...
So, i slumped between 3-5kms, intermittently picking up. I tried to pick it up to a consistent pace...when we hit 5kms, i heard someone in the background telling his team that now was the time to peak. And so i thought "yeah, 600m...i should pick up the pace"...but i was really thirsty. I tried to pick it up. And i did run faster than i had been in the last 2 km, but then i slowed down because i couldnt maintain it.
Then something weird happened. And i'm sure the runners out there will know what i'm referring to.
When i could finally see the clock it displayed 34:59 and i got really peeved because i wanted to do the run in under 35 minutes. And this was the point where i sprinted the last 200 metres and overtook around 20 people to get the time of 35:12, draining every last breath i had in me.
I'm not the fittest looking person. I'm sure the video footage of me, had someone filmed me from start to finish, would have looked extremely funny. I wonder how i looked while running the last sprint overtaking so many people...
My legs were like jelly. I was sooo dehydrated...I was dripping head to toe in sweat...I was pretty red in the face too...But i was so happy that i did 5.6km in 35:12 minutes.
Its in line with my expectations. And if you minus the delay from the start, i reached my goal by getting under 35 minutes.
I'm definitely going to do this race again next year!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
This time today...
...2 whole months ago, I was in Venice.
It all seems like a blur.
It was a whirlwind tour. Didn't feel like it at the time, while i was there, but it definitely seems so now upon reflection.
Venice was the beginning of excitement for me. The start of seeing extremely vibrant colours.
Everywhere i had been to up until Venice was pretty but not plain, and more polite, like conservative.
While in Venice and all the places there after the colours were exuberant and sometimes in your face...wildly exotic...& passionate.
I miss all the vibrancy.
I watched Sabrina (the movie) on the weekend...and there were bits of her in Paris...and i soooo long to be back there.
I can't wait for next year...I can't wait for P's wedding in Mauritius and more of Paris...*sigh*...
It all seems like a blur.
It was a whirlwind tour. Didn't feel like it at the time, while i was there, but it definitely seems so now upon reflection.
Venice was the beginning of excitement for me. The start of seeing extremely vibrant colours.
Everywhere i had been to up until Venice was pretty but not plain, and more polite, like conservative.
While in Venice and all the places there after the colours were exuberant and sometimes in your face...wildly exotic...& passionate.
I miss all the vibrancy.
I watched Sabrina (the movie) on the weekend...and there were bits of her in Paris...and i soooo long to be back there.
I can't wait for next year...I can't wait for P's wedding in Mauritius and more of Paris...*sigh*...
Friday, November 02, 2007
Venice
Day: Thursday, 13 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Warm and fine
Highlights: Glass blower built like a tank @ Murano, Bridge of Sighs, Murano Island, Burano Island, & Romano Restaurant. Canal ride via the gondola and then a cruise via another boat passing the Rialto bridge.
The boat rides were enjoyable...Saw how glass was blown at the Murano glass house. Visited all the main highlights on the island. Walked through the St Marks, Doges Palace and crossed the Bridge of Sighs and saw the jail in which Casanova was said to have stayed in...
Bought a lot of pendants at a Murano Outlet. Bought postcards on Venice city centre and on Burano Island. Also bought a lace fan from Burano - simple badge like piece of lace to add to something.
The food at Romano was delicious and there was a lot to eat!
Venice is busy with tourists, but it is still very enchanting, as i suspected. On the gondola ride through the canals it was apparently smelly, but i had a blocked nose - thankfully! While on the gondola ride i flirted with one of the gondola drivers/steerers by blowing a kiss to him and Lauren joked that had just accepted his proposal of marriage!
Found Mr March for Dianna, he was the captain on the boat ride to Burano through the lagoon.
No choc buying today.
* Lauren and i had drinks at the Danieli Hotel, paid for by our guide, because she wanted us to look after her belongings after the gondola ride. The Danieli is a gorgeous hotel on the island of Venice near the Doges Palace. The interior is really pretty and i am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to sit and just relax inside at the bar.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Warm and fine
Highlights: Glass blower built like a tank @ Murano, Bridge of Sighs, Murano Island, Burano Island, & Romano Restaurant. Canal ride via the gondola and then a cruise via another boat passing the Rialto bridge.
The boat rides were enjoyable...Saw how glass was blown at the Murano glass house. Visited all the main highlights on the island. Walked through the St Marks, Doges Palace and crossed the Bridge of Sighs and saw the jail in which Casanova was said to have stayed in...
Bought a lot of pendants at a Murano Outlet. Bought postcards on Venice city centre and on Burano Island. Also bought a lace fan from Burano - simple badge like piece of lace to add to something.
The food at Romano was delicious and there was a lot to eat!
Venice is busy with tourists, but it is still very enchanting, as i suspected. On the gondola ride through the canals it was apparently smelly, but i had a blocked nose - thankfully! While on the gondola ride i flirted with one of the gondola drivers/steerers by blowing a kiss to him and Lauren joked that had just accepted his proposal of marriage!
Found Mr March for Dianna, he was the captain on the boat ride to Burano through the lagoon.
No choc buying today.
* Lauren and i had drinks at the Danieli Hotel, paid for by our guide, because she wanted us to look after her belongings after the gondola ride. The Danieli is a gorgeous hotel on the island of Venice near the Doges Palace. The interior is really pretty and i am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to sit and just relax inside at the bar.
Vienna & Venice
Day: Wednesday, 12 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay, stuffy nose
Weather: Cloudy, then fine
Highlights: Coming to the hotel in Venice after it was changed on us (error by Tour company).
Park Hotel - Villa Marcello Giustinian (4* Accommodation) was an exceptionally beautiful surprise. King sized bath towels & shower cap (no other hotel has provided this until tonight).
Dinner was at 8:30pm and we had a gorgeous 4 course meal, starting with the local sparkling wine. We then had bruschetta, then i had lasagne (the other option was vege ministrone), then i had a ham/bean/carrot dish and for the main and after main we had a creme caramel for dessert. It was divine!
The foyer of this boutique hotel is beautiful and the garden is suppose to be glorious. I'll check it out tomorrow morning. Although, we do have a jam-packed day.
As we crossed Vienna into Venice, we reached Venice as the sun was setting. The view via the bus was glorious. Frankly, it made me feel as though a chapter in my life had finally come to a close, ready for the new chapter to begin!
If we were still together i would have expected a proposal by now. How ridiculous of me!
No more.
Wellbeing: Okay, stuffy nose
Weather: Cloudy, then fine
Highlights: Coming to the hotel in Venice after it was changed on us (error by Tour company).
Park Hotel - Villa Marcello Giustinian (4* Accommodation) was an exceptionally beautiful surprise. King sized bath towels & shower cap (no other hotel has provided this until tonight).
Dinner was at 8:30pm and we had a gorgeous 4 course meal, starting with the local sparkling wine. We then had bruschetta, then i had lasagne (the other option was vege ministrone), then i had a ham/bean/carrot dish and for the main and after main we had a creme caramel for dessert. It was divine!
The foyer of this boutique hotel is beautiful and the garden is suppose to be glorious. I'll check it out tomorrow morning. Although, we do have a jam-packed day.
As we crossed Vienna into Venice, we reached Venice as the sun was setting. The view via the bus was glorious. Frankly, it made me feel as though a chapter in my life had finally come to a close, ready for the new chapter to begin!
If we were still together i would have expected a proposal by now. How ridiculous of me!
No more.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Vienna
Day: Tuesday, 11 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good - better than the day before
Weather: Rain & rain
Highlights: Schonbrun Palace - Maria Theresia's Summer Palace, Concert at the Palais Autsburg (?)
Violinist made eyes with me - weird. Had a glass of Sekt (Austrian sparkling wine) which came with the ticket for the concert. They had a pair of Opera singers and ballet dancers. Mozart, interval and then Strauss.
Visited the Summer Palace. Walked inside and we weren't allowed to take photos because of the frescoes that are in preservation. The gardens are beautiful!!! Then we visited the Winter Palace, but we didnt go in, but walked around the outside. Bought postcards and bookmarks of both palaces.
I LOVE GARDENS!!!
Inside Schonbrun, we saw the late Baroque and early Rococo designs. Visited the Reception Room, Blue Chinese Room, Black Lacquer Room, the Indian Wood Room, Napoleon's Office, the Tapestry Room, the Servants quarter and the Chandeliers!
Beautiful paintings that used light and shadow!!!
I had a slice of Sacher Torte (Chocolate sponge with apricot jam) at the Rosenberger during lunch. Must have when you are in Vienna.
Schonbrun Palace - Summer Palace
Innsbruck & Vienna
Day: Monday, 10 September 2007
Wellbeing: Pretty good
Weather: Clear/fine
Highlights: Buying up big in terms of souvenirs for everyone...Mozart chocolate cream alcohol bombs, Mozart violin bottles of schnapps, yodelling beaver, and pillboxes.
Rushing around Salzburg and once again being awestrucked at the history and the architecture of the buildings and the garden in Salzburg. I just had to go into the McD when i saw the real "golden" arches for its signage. McD had to conform with the laws in Salzburg and make the signage look consistent with all the other signs in the town. In McD i was intrigued by the deep fried camembert with a berry preserve for dip. It was awesome!!!
After our hit of shopping at a rest stop of a store adjoined to a shell petrol pump, we went to Vienna. Got off the bus at Novotel in Wien West (Vienna West). Then we went to our room and then left to to go the Vienna Woods and had a really fun dinner, with really good Austrian food and unlimited white wine. Good fun and lots of laughs. Dancing and singing on the way home.
The Salzburg trip was for the Sound of Music enthusiasts. We saw the Pegasus fountain (Mirabell Garden), another fountain, the Lake Monsee (Austrian for half moon) as we drove by.
Wellbeing: Pretty good
Weather: Clear/fine
Highlights: Buying up big in terms of souvenirs for everyone...Mozart chocolate cream alcohol bombs, Mozart violin bottles of schnapps, yodelling beaver, and pillboxes.
Rushing around Salzburg and once again being awestrucked at the history and the architecture of the buildings and the garden in Salzburg. I just had to go into the McD when i saw the real "golden" arches for its signage. McD had to conform with the laws in Salzburg and make the signage look consistent with all the other signs in the town. In McD i was intrigued by the deep fried camembert with a berry preserve for dip. It was awesome!!!
After our hit of shopping at a rest stop of a store adjoined to a shell petrol pump, we went to Vienna. Got off the bus at Novotel in Wien West (Vienna West). Then we went to our room and then left to to go the Vienna Woods and had a really fun dinner, with really good Austrian food and unlimited white wine. Good fun and lots of laughs. Dancing and singing on the way home.
The Salzburg trip was for the Sound of Music enthusiasts. We saw the Pegasus fountain (Mirabell Garden), another fountain, the Lake Monsee (Austrian for half moon) as we drove by.
Golden Arches
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Innsbruck
Day: Sunday, 9 September 2007
Wellbeing: Better than yesterday, but throat is drying up
Weather: Cloudy then fine
Highlights: Beautiful Innsbruck city centre, just walking around and then going into Swarovski.
Went into the Swarovski store and bought a bunch of pencils with crystal ends, and for that i got a free gift which was a solitaire brooch.
Seeing the yellow palace of Marie Antoinette's mother (Maria Theresa), the golden roof of Maximillion. Leo (Austrian born, from the tour) was set up to go into a local pub for a free beer!
[Suz, Leo's wife was keen to leave him at the pub so that she could go shopping at the Swarovski store...Leo was keen on having a beer, so when Marese went into the pub and said that she had a local with her that was returning from Australia, the owner of the pub told her to bring him in to catch up and have a beer. So, Leo stayed and Suz went shopping!]
Prior to Innsbruck, we stopped at Leichtenstein. I bought a silver coin purse at a flea market. The store lady wanted 27 Euros but i bargained it down to 25 Euros...not that i made a huge saving and i may have gotten it cheaper but i didnt want to bargain so early in the morning. It was barely 10am.
Went to a Baroque inspired cathedral with a Rococco interior which also took my breath away - again. Just like the Jesuit church in Lucerne. Beautiful!!!
Everything in Innsbruck takes my breath away!
Went on a horse and carriage ride in the valley and up the mountain for gluwein. It was beautifully peaceful and magical as there was snow on the Alps. Which shouldnt have occurred this time of the year, not yet! I felt like standing in the centre of the valley and just soaking it in. Doing a Maria style spin (Sound of Music).
Eaglehawk is cancelled tomorrow due to snow on the Alps.
Diana took photos with Mr January & Mr February. Marese is keeping her act of being the matchmaker.
Diana (pronounced as Deanna) is from South Africa, and looks a little like Angelina Jolie. Marese (tour guide) started this thing of making a calendar with the waiters/bartenders that we thought were worthy. Diana, being an avid photographer is always behind the camera was being forced to model with the chosen guys. So, began the hunt for 12 good looking men to be part of our calendar.
Wellbeing: Better than yesterday, but throat is drying up
Weather: Cloudy then fine
Highlights: Beautiful Innsbruck city centre, just walking around and then going into Swarovski.
Went into the Swarovski store and bought a bunch of pencils with crystal ends, and for that i got a free gift which was a solitaire brooch.
Seeing the yellow palace of Marie Antoinette's mother (Maria Theresa), the golden roof of Maximillion. Leo (Austrian born, from the tour) was set up to go into a local pub for a free beer!
[Suz, Leo's wife was keen to leave him at the pub so that she could go shopping at the Swarovski store...Leo was keen on having a beer, so when Marese went into the pub and said that she had a local with her that was returning from Australia, the owner of the pub told her to bring him in to catch up and have a beer. So, Leo stayed and Suz went shopping!]
Prior to Innsbruck, we stopped at Leichtenstein. I bought a silver coin purse at a flea market. The store lady wanted 27 Euros but i bargained it down to 25 Euros...not that i made a huge saving and i may have gotten it cheaper but i didnt want to bargain so early in the morning. It was barely 10am.
Went to a Baroque inspired cathedral with a Rococco interior which also took my breath away - again. Just like the Jesuit church in Lucerne. Beautiful!!!
Everything in Innsbruck takes my breath away!
Went on a horse and carriage ride in the valley and up the mountain for gluwein. It was beautifully peaceful and magical as there was snow on the Alps. Which shouldnt have occurred this time of the year, not yet! I felt like standing in the centre of the valley and just soaking it in. Doing a Maria style spin (Sound of Music).
Eaglehawk is cancelled tomorrow due to snow on the Alps.
Diana took photos with Mr January & Mr February. Marese is keeping her act of being the matchmaker.
Diana (pronounced as Deanna) is from South Africa, and looks a little like Angelina Jolie. Marese (tour guide) started this thing of making a calendar with the waiters/bartenders that we thought were worthy. Diana, being an avid photographer is always behind the camera was being forced to model with the chosen guys. So, began the hunt for 12 good looking men to be part of our calendar.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Krein and Lucerne
Day: 8 September 2007
Wellbeing: Sore throat/blocked & runny nose
Weather: Fine, 23 degrees
Highlights: Jesuit Church - breathtaking
Swiss Alps - Mount Pilatus - another breathtaking moment. We took a train (furnicular) up the mountain and for the decent, we took a big cable car and then a mini cable car. Caught some footage of some Ibex (type of wild mountain goat with large recurved horns that are transversely ridged in front) crossing my path to go higher up the Alps.
Back in the city I bought some chocs and a magnet for Mon. We had a folk show for lunch and the food was really good! Tracked down a pharmacist for some tissues. It was 2.80 Euros for a 12 pack - which i thought it was really cheap...i mean that would be about $5.00 AUD.
Sat down and did some people watching. Saw a really casually cool woman who looked effortlessly gorgeous. Wish I could be like that.
Soooo many beautiful women around here!!!
=(
At dinner Marese tried to matchmake Mary & Laz' friend David (7th Adventist Preacher?). There was a lot of talking and gossiping with Bev at the table...it was so funny!
Forcefully pushed my roomie to go to drinks with Lucy/Peter/Michelle/Michael/Pauline/Bev and Judy. They were trying to convince her to join, and only went when i gave her that extra nudge.
The Jesuit Church in Lucerne was built with beautiful Rococco interiors that was sooo exquisite, i stopped breathing and i tried to express how i was feeling verbally, but it was caught in my breath...no sound came out. Thats how glorious it is.
After seeing so many cathedrals and churches that were gothic inspired, it was unbelievable to find a church that is a sunny yellow on the outside and bright with white/pink/gold on the inside.
When people ask me which place i liked the most...? My response is a list of places, but Lucerne is definitely one of them. And the reason its one of the places I really liked is because of the Jesuit Church. I would revisit Lucerne simply because of that fact.
I don't know why i didnt mention it in my journal on the day, but we also had a cruise around Lake Lucerne and it was really relaxing and enjoyable and the views of everything was breathtaking...it was sunny with a really cool breeze...just perfect really.
Wellbeing: Sore throat/blocked & runny nose
Weather: Fine, 23 degrees
Highlights: Jesuit Church - breathtaking
Swiss Alps - Mount Pilatus - another breathtaking moment. We took a train (furnicular) up the mountain and for the decent, we took a big cable car and then a mini cable car. Caught some footage of some Ibex (type of wild mountain goat with large recurved horns that are transversely ridged in front) crossing my path to go higher up the Alps.
Back in the city I bought some chocs and a magnet for Mon. We had a folk show for lunch and the food was really good! Tracked down a pharmacist for some tissues. It was 2.80 Euros for a 12 pack - which i thought it was really cheap...i mean that would be about $5.00 AUD.
Sat down and did some people watching. Saw a really casually cool woman who looked effortlessly gorgeous. Wish I could be like that.
Soooo many beautiful women around here!!!
=(
At dinner Marese tried to matchmake Mary & Laz' friend David (7th Adventist Preacher?). There was a lot of talking and gossiping with Bev at the table...it was so funny!
Forcefully pushed my roomie to go to drinks with Lucy/Peter/Michelle/Michael/Pauline/Bev and Judy. They were trying to convince her to join, and only went when i gave her that extra nudge.
The Jesuit Church in Lucerne was built with beautiful Rococco interiors that was sooo exquisite, i stopped breathing and i tried to express how i was feeling verbally, but it was caught in my breath...no sound came out. Thats how glorious it is.
After seeing so many cathedrals and churches that were gothic inspired, it was unbelievable to find a church that is a sunny yellow on the outside and bright with white/pink/gold on the inside.
When people ask me which place i liked the most...? My response is a list of places, but Lucerne is definitely one of them. And the reason its one of the places I really liked is because of the Jesuit Church. I would revisit Lucerne simply because of that fact.
I don't know why i didnt mention it in my journal on the day, but we also had a cruise around Lake Lucerne and it was really relaxing and enjoyable and the views of everything was breathtaking...it was sunny with a really cool breeze...just perfect really.
Lake Lucerne & Krein
Day: 7 September 2007
Wellbeing: Blocked and running nose
Weather: Cloudy and drizzle
Highlights: Strasbourg - Church, design your own pasta, "Chloe" bracelet
I like Switzerland. Feels like its safe and that I have stepped back ino time. Old wooden bridges, that are the original, beautiful architecture, and then there is the "fast food" version of pasta.
Going between Germany and Switzerland border, i take a photo and only after do i get informed that its illegal to take photos at the border...fear of espionage or something.
While in Strasbourg, which is actually a part of France (and the people speak French) there were many French Patisseries. So, Lauren and I got choc eclairs and it was orgasmic. Soooooo...looking forward to Paris!
=)
Earlier in the day I decided to do all the options on the list Marese gave us...which ends up being 1343 Euros...OMG!!! But i know that i'll regret it if i dont go to everything...and it makes everything so darn easier.
Wellbeing: Blocked and running nose
Weather: Cloudy and drizzle
Highlights: Strasbourg - Church, design your own pasta, "Chloe" bracelet
I like Switzerland. Feels like its safe and that I have stepped back ino time. Old wooden bridges, that are the original, beautiful architecture, and then there is the "fast food" version of pasta.
Going between Germany and Switzerland border, i take a photo and only after do i get informed that its illegal to take photos at the border...fear of espionage or something.
While in Strasbourg, which is actually a part of France (and the people speak French) there were many French Patisseries. So, Lauren and I got choc eclairs and it was orgasmic. Soooooo...looking forward to Paris!
=)
Earlier in the day I decided to do all the options on the list Marese gave us...which ends up being 1343 Euros...OMG!!! But i know that i'll regret it if i dont go to everything...and it makes everything so darn easier.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Post 501...
I have stuffed my face with countless amounts of choc bullets and im contemplating about how wrong it would be to die by complete and sheer gluttony.
Why do weddings bring the worst out of me?
In this morbid, self loathing time of my life i see myself wearing a divine wedding dress, covered with all the jewels a girls heart can desire, with a fabulous pair of pumps and matching clutch...but im not at my wedding...no sir! Im just sitting at home, eating all the glorious food my heart desires and slowly die from utter indulgence...sitting in the most luxurious seat you can imagine...
Hey, i can think of many other ways to die that are less pleasant than the one i just described.
Sure I will die a fat pig...but think about it! If i die at an old and lonely age, who gives a fig as to what i look like...i'll just make sure there is enough in the will to supply enough attendants to carry my coffin to the grave. I mean, knowing my luck, all my friends and family would probably die before i do, just to make it more depressing for myself...and as i would be single, there are no kids to mention...my nieces will probably hate me so much that they wouldnt give a sh*t about their only spinster aunt...
If only I wasn't sitting next to my parents this evening, I could have polished the bottle of Verdi on my own...shame the Verdi is only 4.8% alcohol, it has no effect what so ever in numbing one self.
And what is it with the throwing of the bouquet that says that because you are single "you must" go up and stand and try to catch the friggin bouquet!!! I'm single, my prospects dont look good...if i catch a bouquet, it would just give me false hope, only to be dropped to the floor like a tonne of bricks when reality hits me. No thank you. I'll just keep my fat ass glued to my seat.
I went to the ladies and when i got out of my cubicle I got eyed hideously by a bunch of 20's and there was dead silence...it was like i just intruded on the cool kids circle and they were thinking WTF??? Since when was it okay for them to make me feel that sh*t when i obviously should have the upper hand!!! It was so SATC...uno the episode where Carrie and the crew were contemplating the whole 30-something vs 20-something?!?! Well, it was like these f#$%ing 20's thought that they were so "IT" and that i was so "NOT"...If i was a complete b*tch, i would have said "Dolls, i take it as a compliment that you appreciate my assets!"
They sooo don't know what will hit them after 25 and im sure i will be hit with more home truths when im 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, til forever...and you see, this is where i already have an advantage. I accept that i dont know everything...they are at the stage where they actually think that everything begins and ends with them! HA!
I told my Mum about the toilet incident and she said, "Well, they look like a bunch of b*tches!" Go Mum! *claws came out*
I'm getting really sh*tty with being the only competent person in the bridal party for K's wedding. I'm actually putting more time and effort in organising her Hen's party than my actual paid job!!! What's with that? Organising it has been stressing me out. I hate it when K calls and tells me about another incompetent thing the other bridesmaid has said or done. I was soo close to packing up shop the other day and turn around and just tell her that i dont want the honor any more. That it wasnt worth all the time i spent organising her Hen's Party...and basically being her wedding planner for the past 12+ months...
She constantly insists that i do the table decorations during the time in which we are supposed to be taking pictures. The first time she asked, i pointed out that i would be with her assisting in the photo shoot, or actually being in the photo shoot...what did she want me to do? Decorations or be with her during the photos. She says photos. But then a week later the table decorations get brought up yet again. I remind her, she wants the bridal party in some of the photos...i cant be at two places at once. I advise her to get her sisters, who arent doing anything to oversee the table decorations...she goes with the idea, but a week later we revisit the f#$%ing table decorations. This has been going on for a good 5 months now...
The wedding is a month and 6 days away...there is no itinerary...i ask her if i will need to take the Friday before her big day off, she tells me no. A week later she calls and tells me that the wedding coordinator at the gardens has told her that she will need to do a rehersal before the day. So, I might have to take the day off...which actually doesnt work well for my ride...one of the groomsmen as he can't really take the day off due to work commitments.
I ask her, isnt this your wedding? Shouldnt they accommodate you and your guests? So, shouldnt you be able to arrange the rehersal, say at 5pm on Friday instead of allowing the wedding coordinator to say when and your whole bridal party must jump to it???
Its f#$%ing really annoyig me. If it was my wedding, i would try to make it as hassle free for everyone...because i want everyone to be relaxed and enjoy the day/night with me and my imaginery man celebrating our love...tacky, i know...
It seems like she has adopted the "its my wedding, and im going to do whatever i like whenever i like - who gives a f#$% about the people who i invited to be in the bridal party..." type of mentality. Getting close to Bridezilla...
*sigh*
I should really go to bed and sleep all this negative energy off...as i do have a 1 year old's birthday to attend tomorrow...or should i say today. But i've just continued to stuff my face with more choc bullets...the sugar is giving me a buzz...even if its only temporary, its good while it lasts...
Why do weddings bring the worst out of me?
In this morbid, self loathing time of my life i see myself wearing a divine wedding dress, covered with all the jewels a girls heart can desire, with a fabulous pair of pumps and matching clutch...but im not at my wedding...no sir! Im just sitting at home, eating all the glorious food my heart desires and slowly die from utter indulgence...sitting in the most luxurious seat you can imagine...
Hey, i can think of many other ways to die that are less pleasant than the one i just described.
Sure I will die a fat pig...but think about it! If i die at an old and lonely age, who gives a fig as to what i look like...i'll just make sure there is enough in the will to supply enough attendants to carry my coffin to the grave. I mean, knowing my luck, all my friends and family would probably die before i do, just to make it more depressing for myself...and as i would be single, there are no kids to mention...my nieces will probably hate me so much that they wouldnt give a sh*t about their only spinster aunt...
If only I wasn't sitting next to my parents this evening, I could have polished the bottle of Verdi on my own...shame the Verdi is only 4.8% alcohol, it has no effect what so ever in numbing one self.
And what is it with the throwing of the bouquet that says that because you are single "you must" go up and stand and try to catch the friggin bouquet!!! I'm single, my prospects dont look good...if i catch a bouquet, it would just give me false hope, only to be dropped to the floor like a tonne of bricks when reality hits me. No thank you. I'll just keep my fat ass glued to my seat.
I went to the ladies and when i got out of my cubicle I got eyed hideously by a bunch of 20's and there was dead silence...it was like i just intruded on the cool kids circle and they were thinking WTF??? Since when was it okay for them to make me feel that sh*t when i obviously should have the upper hand!!! It was so SATC...uno the episode where Carrie and the crew were contemplating the whole 30-something vs 20-something?!?! Well, it was like these f#$%ing 20's thought that they were so "IT" and that i was so "NOT"...If i was a complete b*tch, i would have said "Dolls, i take it as a compliment that you appreciate my assets!"
They sooo don't know what will hit them after 25 and im sure i will be hit with more home truths when im 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, til forever...and you see, this is where i already have an advantage. I accept that i dont know everything...they are at the stage where they actually think that everything begins and ends with them! HA!
I told my Mum about the toilet incident and she said, "Well, they look like a bunch of b*tches!" Go Mum! *claws came out*
I'm getting really sh*tty with being the only competent person in the bridal party for K's wedding. I'm actually putting more time and effort in organising her Hen's party than my actual paid job!!! What's with that? Organising it has been stressing me out. I hate it when K calls and tells me about another incompetent thing the other bridesmaid has said or done. I was soo close to packing up shop the other day and turn around and just tell her that i dont want the honor any more. That it wasnt worth all the time i spent organising her Hen's Party...and basically being her wedding planner for the past 12+ months...
She constantly insists that i do the table decorations during the time in which we are supposed to be taking pictures. The first time she asked, i pointed out that i would be with her assisting in the photo shoot, or actually being in the photo shoot...what did she want me to do? Decorations or be with her during the photos. She says photos. But then a week later the table decorations get brought up yet again. I remind her, she wants the bridal party in some of the photos...i cant be at two places at once. I advise her to get her sisters, who arent doing anything to oversee the table decorations...she goes with the idea, but a week later we revisit the f#$%ing table decorations. This has been going on for a good 5 months now...
The wedding is a month and 6 days away...there is no itinerary...i ask her if i will need to take the Friday before her big day off, she tells me no. A week later she calls and tells me that the wedding coordinator at the gardens has told her that she will need to do a rehersal before the day. So, I might have to take the day off...which actually doesnt work well for my ride...one of the groomsmen as he can't really take the day off due to work commitments.
I ask her, isnt this your wedding? Shouldnt they accommodate you and your guests? So, shouldnt you be able to arrange the rehersal, say at 5pm on Friday instead of allowing the wedding coordinator to say when and your whole bridal party must jump to it???
Its f#$%ing really annoyig me. If it was my wedding, i would try to make it as hassle free for everyone...because i want everyone to be relaxed and enjoy the day/night with me and my imaginery man celebrating our love...tacky, i know...
It seems like she has adopted the "its my wedding, and im going to do whatever i like whenever i like - who gives a f#$% about the people who i invited to be in the bridal party..." type of mentality. Getting close to Bridezilla...
*sigh*
I should really go to bed and sleep all this negative energy off...as i do have a 1 year old's birthday to attend tomorrow...or should i say today. But i've just continued to stuff my face with more choc bullets...the sugar is giving me a buzz...even if its only temporary, its good while it lasts...
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Koln (Cologne), Germany
Day: Thursday, 6 September 2007
Wellbeing: Sinus problems
Weather: Drizzle and grey
Highlights: Hot Choc from powder...
St Andrews Cathedral, which managed to survive WWII. Heaps of photos and then the cruise down the Rhine River, taking even more snaps of the castles that were everywhere.
Skipped lunch, but dinner made up for it at the Ramada, which is absolute bliss compared to the Amsterdam hotel. The further this trip progresses, the more i feel like tipping the tour guide less. The driver is another thing, he works really hard and puts up with a lot.
After dinner, which was buffet, I caught up with Lucy, Peter and was supposed to catch up with Asian Peter too for a drink. Lucy and i had a drink and thought we should go and find Asian Pete. Lucy thought he was in Room 34? So, we went around that side of the hotel and trying to suss out which room was his by the sounds coming from the door...very childish...but i had a huge laughing fit from it and these are things that makes memories, right?
It sooooo reminded me of high school camps...knock and run...
* Germany, unfortunately i have to admit are still a bunch of racist people...i was walking around St Andrews and a group of young skin heads called me a "Ching-chong"...I dont remember the last time someone called me by a racist name like that...that is how long ago its been...it really ruined the beauty of Koln.
Wellbeing: Sinus problems
Weather: Drizzle and grey
Highlights: Hot Choc from powder...
St Andrews Cathedral, which managed to survive WWII. Heaps of photos and then the cruise down the Rhine River, taking even more snaps of the castles that were everywhere.
Skipped lunch, but dinner made up for it at the Ramada, which is absolute bliss compared to the Amsterdam hotel. The further this trip progresses, the more i feel like tipping the tour guide less. The driver is another thing, he works really hard and puts up with a lot.
After dinner, which was buffet, I caught up with Lucy, Peter and was supposed to catch up with Asian Peter too for a drink. Lucy and i had a drink and thought we should go and find Asian Pete. Lucy thought he was in Room 34? So, we went around that side of the hotel and trying to suss out which room was his by the sounds coming from the door...very childish...but i had a huge laughing fit from it and these are things that makes memories, right?
It sooooo reminded me of high school camps...knock and run...
* Germany, unfortunately i have to admit are still a bunch of racist people...i was walking around St Andrews and a group of young skin heads called me a "Ching-chong"...I dont remember the last time someone called me by a racist name like that...that is how long ago its been...it really ruined the beauty of Koln.
Amsterdam
Day: Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy
Highlights: Clog maker William cracking some funnies while showing us how to make clogs...
Got a show of how to make cheese and clogs. Met William, the clog maker...one of the few left in Holland to do it the traditional way. Got ripped off buying souvenirs here though, could have bought the same things, but cheaper in Volendam (fishing village we visited after the clog making).
The stitching of my umbrella came undone while in Volendam...had to stitch it back up!
Visited a diamond place - Gassan's and saw a beautiful 2.22 carat diamond, D colour, i think VVS1 or 2, and the guy giving the presentation was extremely cute!!! His English was perfect with his accent...hehhe...
Did a canal cruise of Amsterdam through the city centre. Really odd, because if someone said "canal" i would think Venice...you dont associate it with Amsterdam...but it was amazing.
Walked around Amsterdam with Lauren to look for the Rembrandt museum but didnt find it. Found a shopping strip similar to our Pitt Street - very tempted to stop and buy shoes.
Lauren and i stopped for a hot chocolate at a cafe or is it coffee house? *LoL* It took us all day to figure out which was which. The hot chocolate we had was made from powder and we were getting ready to be disappointed, but it was actually really good.
After roaming around, we hopped onto the coach and was driven to the restaurant for our authentic Dutch dinner. I had a pea and sausage soup for entree, Hopsh Kosch (i think thats how you spell it) for main, and fruit salad with ice cream for dessert. Tried a berry gin...not for me.
After dinner, we did a tour of the Red Light District...a lot of girls were either busy or "busy" because the curtains were closed.
Early start tomorrow.
Tipping is required for local guid and driver, not sure how to give.
Unfortunately my overall impression of Amsterdam, city = sleazy...
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy
Highlights: Clog maker William cracking some funnies while showing us how to make clogs...
Got a show of how to make cheese and clogs. Met William, the clog maker...one of the few left in Holland to do it the traditional way. Got ripped off buying souvenirs here though, could have bought the same things, but cheaper in Volendam (fishing village we visited after the clog making).
The stitching of my umbrella came undone while in Volendam...had to stitch it back up!
Visited a diamond place - Gassan's and saw a beautiful 2.22 carat diamond, D colour, i think VVS1 or 2, and the guy giving the presentation was extremely cute!!! His English was perfect with his accent...hehhe...
Did a canal cruise of Amsterdam through the city centre. Really odd, because if someone said "canal" i would think Venice...you dont associate it with Amsterdam...but it was amazing.
Walked around Amsterdam with Lauren to look for the Rembrandt museum but didnt find it. Found a shopping strip similar to our Pitt Street - very tempted to stop and buy shoes.
Lauren and i stopped for a hot chocolate at a cafe or is it coffee house? *LoL* It took us all day to figure out which was which. The hot chocolate we had was made from powder and we were getting ready to be disappointed, but it was actually really good.
After roaming around, we hopped onto the coach and was driven to the restaurant for our authentic Dutch dinner. I had a pea and sausage soup for entree, Hopsh Kosch (i think thats how you spell it) for main, and fruit salad with ice cream for dessert. Tried a berry gin...not for me.
After dinner, we did a tour of the Red Light District...a lot of girls were either busy or "busy" because the curtains were closed.
Early start tomorrow.
Tipping is required for local guid and driver, not sure how to give.
Unfortunately my overall impression of Amsterdam, city = sleazy...
Dover/Calais/Belgium/Holland
Day: Tuesday, 4 September 2007
Wellbeing: Tired from jetlag, otherwise fine
Weather: Fine, some rain
Highlight: Cruise from Dover to Calais
I'm over the idea of being excited about the trip and have decided on just taking things as they come. So tired though and sitting in a comfortable coach doesnt help me. I feel like sleeping every 30 minutes.
A lot of travelling, not much sight seeing today except via the coach looking at the country side which is green and lush. First sights of windmills was exciting but i was slow with taking my camera out of my bag, and didn't take a pic.
People on the tour are generally older...older retired or retiring couples...The singles are 30 and over...ranging from 30-39.
Food has been alright - filling at the least.
Doing an optional extra tomorrow night - a proper authentic Dutch dinner!
=)
Wellbeing: Tired from jetlag, otherwise fine
Weather: Fine, some rain
Highlight: Cruise from Dover to Calais
I'm over the idea of being excited about the trip and have decided on just taking things as they come. So tired though and sitting in a comfortable coach doesnt help me. I feel like sleeping every 30 minutes.
A lot of travelling, not much sight seeing today except via the coach looking at the country side which is green and lush. First sights of windmills was exciting but i was slow with taking my camera out of my bag, and didn't take a pic.
People on the tour are generally older...older retired or retiring couples...The singles are 30 and over...ranging from 30-39.
Food has been alright - filling at the least.
Doing an optional extra tomorrow night - a proper authentic Dutch dinner!
=)
My Travel Journal
I will be copying what i wrote in my travel journal straight to my blog and it will be in italics, if i do add any after thoughts, it will be in the usual text font.
You will notice that i had a tendency to write all the positive things down and omitted the negative. I basically erased the bad things as they happened, because i was unusually patient, tolerant and accepting on my holiday.
I was just riding with the wind...
You will notice that i had a tendency to write all the positive things down and omitted the negative. I basically erased the bad things as they happened, because i was unusually patient, tolerant and accepting on my holiday.
I was just riding with the wind...
