That was how I felt as I tore open the boxes and started digging out the stuffs. Almost every piece of item had been carefully wrapped to ensure safe return. I began with my fingers before finally resorting to scissors to expedite the process. It was a lot of excitement even for my dogs as they began sniffing around, spreading their furs and saliva on my belongings.
There was the souvenir for my sister, the York Minster for my brother, the coffee and herbs, my pots, magnets and most importantly, my shoes! Red, black, pink, beige...all intact.
Tonight, I shall continue with the inspection. This time will be the retrieval of my files and books which are all buried deep down the boxes.
I am glad that shippingtomalaysia did not fail me and it only cost me GBP50.
Thursday, 13 November 2008
Friday, 17 October 2008
Maiden OT
Less than two weeks of getting back into the office and before I have even been assigned a portfolio, I got my first staying back experience. While the urgency of the work definitely required my boss to exercise this option, half of the time was wasted on waiting. My colleague even managed to tidy up the charts numerous times from changing the fonts to aligning the titles. The process finally ended at 10.20pm. Optimistically, I still arrived home before 11pm :P
The result of this is what a friend called "Fast Food Policy" done in less than 48 hours to save the nation. No, I am not that wai tai. It's just a job.
The result of this is what a friend called "Fast Food Policy" done in less than 48 hours to save the nation. No, I am not that wai tai. It's just a job.
Saturday, 11 October 2008
It's a dog's world
Unhappiness is when your dog holds a grudge against you for punishing him.
Happiness is when he finally forgets his grudge.
Happiness is when he finally forgets his grudge.
Sunday, 14 September 2008
Thursday, 11 September 2008
What water?
It's Bourton-on-the-water (Botw), known as the "Little Venice" of Cotswold. I only heard about this place from a friend whose friends went there for a day trip. I thought why not since it's just 1 1/2 hours train ride. And so we managed to gather a group of people, booked the tickets (GBP17.50) yesterday and hopped on the train early this morning at 7.56am. While the trip itself is relatively short, the journey to the village is not as easy. From the Cheltenham Spa train station, we had to get to Royal Wells to catch a Pulham's bus to Botw, which comes every 1 1/2 hours (GBP1.80). The walk to Royal Wells takes 24 minutes, assuming we can navigate our way around. So, we opted for the wiser choice - a cab (since we missed the infrequent bus to city centre due to the 15-minute delayed train to Bristol) shared among 5 persons.
35 minutes later, we arrived in Botw. The journey to this charming village was a joy itself, passing through vast green and brown fields, dotted by white sheeps against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, decorated with fluffy clouds. But the village turned out to be even more enchanting than the ride. The first sight to greet us was the yellow Cotswold stone houses along the banks of river Windrush. I could not help but to keep marvelling at the possibility of the existence of such a heavenly land. Along the river are a total of 5 low bridges, the perfect spot for photography.
As we tried to navigate our way towards the tourist information centre (less than 10 minutes away from the bus stop), our pace was occasionally interrupted by the need to capture the beautiful scenery with our cameras. Sini, sana, sini, sana - that's how our photography steps looked like. Finally, one of us came to her senses and managed to shepherd everyone to the right path. But that was not before we stopped to contemplate entering a flea market. As the village is actually really, really tiny, it was not difficult for us to find the attractions.
Our first stop was the model village, featuring an excellent miniature of Botw in 1937. We had a great time pretending to be Gulliver. Too bad there wasn't any little people to accentuate our gigantism. Nevertheless, those little houses (at 1/9th scale) still managed to do wonders to my height. Some of the prominent buildings I could remember is the Edinburgh Woollen shop (which I think should be decorated with sales sign), post office and Llyod bank. There was also the church, from where we could hear the choir.
Soon it was lunch time. We stopped at Knightsbridge inn for a traditional meal. I ordered a Lanchashire hot pot (made of muttons and potatoes) served with vegetables and new potatoes (I never develop a taste for these). At the end of the meal, I discovered that the shop sells treacle pudding, a favourite English food in Enid Blyton's books. I wished I had room for dessert. Unfortunately, the hot pot was too heavy. I am not sure when and where I will be able to find a shop serving this old dessert.
With renewed strength, it was time for shopping. With good self-control, I constrained myself to a magnet and postcard. With much enthusiam, my friends ended up with some good and satisfying bargains.
We continued to stroll along the river as we headed towards the Dragonfly Maze (GBP2.50). There was a point when we got so distracted that we forgot where we were heading to. And we are talking about a village with less than 10 main attractions, all within walking distance (i.e. less than 20 minutes away).
The maze is not a normal maze. We had to solve a puzzle. According to the sign, the brainy ones will solve the puzzle within 20 minutes. So we had a benchmark. At the entrance, we were given a piece of paper with instructions and space to write down the answers. There were a total of 14 clues which will form into a 14-word sentence. Each clues were placed on flagstones, some pictorial, some words. In the beginning, we were pretty excited, stopping for photography once in awhile. However, after some time, we were turning round and round without any sign of the last two clues. I began to feel like we had been trapped there for more than an hour but of course, this was just an exaggeration. Finally we came to a little round house. We entered to find a frog in a mirrored cylinder in the middle of the house. Our answer was "Place your clock on the friar's keys and stare on the caterpillar and weight". Didn't make much sense to me. After staring at the frog for a good few minutes, we wanted to give up before someone finally spotted a white, miserable-looking dragonfly. We decided that was the answer and left.
At the exit (which was just a short distance away), we met the lady at the counter who helped us to correct the clue. So we returned to the house and tried again. Yet, we did not find anything additional. And so, we left again. The lady asked,"Did you press on the ******?" Oops. Returned to try again. This time, we found the real dragonfly. It was a pretty neat trick. Unfortunately, we were not brainy enough (:P) Paiser...took us an hour to complete this whole task.
We spent the last few minutes on more photographs of the wonderful river. How I love the name windrush. I could sit by the river bank a whole day, enjoying the breeze (if it happens to be a fine day like today) and listening to the water gushing down the river. Every nook and every corner of this village was a pleasure to the lens.
If I were an investment banker in London, I would buy a little cottage in this little village and come by every once in awhile to destress. I would watch the leaves changing colours throughout the different seasons. I would be able to see snow covering the banks, flowers blooming all over the place, ducklings playing on the water and leaves falling onto the ground.
35 minutes later, we arrived in Botw. The journey to this charming village was a joy itself, passing through vast green and brown fields, dotted by white sheeps against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, decorated with fluffy clouds. But the village turned out to be even more enchanting than the ride. The first sight to greet us was the yellow Cotswold stone houses along the banks of river Windrush. I could not help but to keep marvelling at the possibility of the existence of such a heavenly land. Along the river are a total of 5 low bridges, the perfect spot for photography.
As we tried to navigate our way towards the tourist information centre (less than 10 minutes away from the bus stop), our pace was occasionally interrupted by the need to capture the beautiful scenery with our cameras. Sini, sana, sini, sana - that's how our photography steps looked like. Finally, one of us came to her senses and managed to shepherd everyone to the right path. But that was not before we stopped to contemplate entering a flea market. As the village is actually really, really tiny, it was not difficult for us to find the attractions.
Our first stop was the model village, featuring an excellent miniature of Botw in 1937. We had a great time pretending to be Gulliver. Too bad there wasn't any little people to accentuate our gigantism. Nevertheless, those little houses (at 1/9th scale) still managed to do wonders to my height. Some of the prominent buildings I could remember is the Edinburgh Woollen shop (which I think should be decorated with sales sign), post office and Llyod bank. There was also the church, from where we could hear the choir.
Soon it was lunch time. We stopped at Knightsbridge inn for a traditional meal. I ordered a Lanchashire hot pot (made of muttons and potatoes) served with vegetables and new potatoes (I never develop a taste for these). At the end of the meal, I discovered that the shop sells treacle pudding, a favourite English food in Enid Blyton's books. I wished I had room for dessert. Unfortunately, the hot pot was too heavy. I am not sure when and where I will be able to find a shop serving this old dessert.
With renewed strength, it was time for shopping. With good self-control, I constrained myself to a magnet and postcard. With much enthusiam, my friends ended up with some good and satisfying bargains.
We continued to stroll along the river as we headed towards the Dragonfly Maze (GBP2.50). There was a point when we got so distracted that we forgot where we were heading to. And we are talking about a village with less than 10 main attractions, all within walking distance (i.e. less than 20 minutes away).
The maze is not a normal maze. We had to solve a puzzle. According to the sign, the brainy ones will solve the puzzle within 20 minutes. So we had a benchmark. At the entrance, we were given a piece of paper with instructions and space to write down the answers. There were a total of 14 clues which will form into a 14-word sentence. Each clues were placed on flagstones, some pictorial, some words. In the beginning, we were pretty excited, stopping for photography once in awhile. However, after some time, we were turning round and round without any sign of the last two clues. I began to feel like we had been trapped there for more than an hour but of course, this was just an exaggeration. Finally we came to a little round house. We entered to find a frog in a mirrored cylinder in the middle of the house. Our answer was "Place your clock on the friar's keys and stare on the caterpillar and weight". Didn't make much sense to me. After staring at the frog for a good few minutes, we wanted to give up before someone finally spotted a white, miserable-looking dragonfly. We decided that was the answer and left.
At the exit (which was just a short distance away), we met the lady at the counter who helped us to correct the clue. So we returned to the house and tried again. Yet, we did not find anything additional. And so, we left again. The lady asked,"Did you press on the ******?" Oops. Returned to try again. This time, we found the real dragonfly. It was a pretty neat trick. Unfortunately, we were not brainy enough (:P) Paiser...took us an hour to complete this whole task.
We spent the last few minutes on more photographs of the wonderful river. How I love the name windrush. I could sit by the river bank a whole day, enjoying the breeze (if it happens to be a fine day like today) and listening to the water gushing down the river. Every nook and every corner of this village was a pleasure to the lens.
If I were an investment banker in London, I would buy a little cottage in this little village and come by every once in awhile to destress. I would watch the leaves changing colours throughout the different seasons. I would be able to see snow covering the banks, flowers blooming all over the place, ducklings playing on the water and leaves falling onto the ground.
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
An absent-minded friend
Farewell after farewell - that was the theme for the past few weeks. No one knows when our path will cross again. Memories are all that will be left.
Today, I had a farewell dinner with two friends, one of whom was my very first friend here. I still remember clearly the day we met. It was in the van, heading towards the SU. Initially, we were merely acquaintance with me being closer to another friend of hers. As time went by, our sharing of the same dialect brought us closer together.
I have always been impressed by her maturity at such a young age and her vast knowledge on topics outside her field. Her ability to confront conflict far exceeds mine. She has always complained of my inability to deal with annoying people around me. I think it must be a case of short-term memory.
Tonight's meal was amazingly heavy as my friends attempted to finish off all their food before leaving the next day - roast chicken, japanese curry vegetable, stir-fried long beans, eggs and onions (my dish), roast potatoes and roast corns. We almost had ice-cream for dessert till my friend discovered that the tub was missing from the freezer. What's new?
Later in the night, my friend came and looked for me in my room. We talked for awhile. Then she left. I went back to my laptop. Before long I heard a knock. It was my friend again. She forgot her room key. It was her second time coming back to my room. The first time, she forgot her camera case. And she was telling me how often she forgot to take her keys with her whenever she left a friend's room. I think this will be the final time she forgot her keys in Heronbank. We had a good laugh that night.
Then it was time to say "zhai jien"...
Today, I had a farewell dinner with two friends, one of whom was my very first friend here. I still remember clearly the day we met. It was in the van, heading towards the SU. Initially, we were merely acquaintance with me being closer to another friend of hers. As time went by, our sharing of the same dialect brought us closer together.
I have always been impressed by her maturity at such a young age and her vast knowledge on topics outside her field. Her ability to confront conflict far exceeds mine. She has always complained of my inability to deal with annoying people around me. I think it must be a case of short-term memory.
Tonight's meal was amazingly heavy as my friends attempted to finish off all their food before leaving the next day - roast chicken, japanese curry vegetable, stir-fried long beans, eggs and onions (my dish), roast potatoes and roast corns. We almost had ice-cream for dessert till my friend discovered that the tub was missing from the freezer. What's new?
Later in the night, my friend came and looked for me in my room. We talked for awhile. Then she left. I went back to my laptop. Before long I heard a knock. It was my friend again. She forgot her room key. It was her second time coming back to my room. The first time, she forgot her camera case. And she was telling me how often she forgot to take her keys with her whenever she left a friend's room. I think this will be the final time she forgot her keys in Heronbank. We had a good laugh that night.
Then it was time to say "zhai jien"...
Tuesday, 9 September 2008
Boots, book, toys
I have finally come to the realisation that I am a shopaholic. I am not sure when it started but it did. Why else did I buy a pair of boots which I don't need but was the last available pair in my size? Or why would I be buying a signed book on Artemis Fowl even as I have never heard of the book? And how bout the little toy dog which bears no significance of UK nor the county I was visiting? Someone, stop me!!!!
Bright and sunny in York
After the horrible experience from LD, I was wary of travelling by train. However, one day later, I found myself on a train once again, heading up north to York to visit a friend. Surprisingly, the further up I went, the better the weather became. Soon, all that was left of the bad weather was drizzle with the sun peeping out from behind the clouds, occasionally. Unfortunately, for the passengers heading to Manchester airport, they were not so lucky as the track was flooded. From Manchester Piccadilly, I changed to another train to York.
At about 1.30pm, I arrived in a city I know nothing about (except that a friend did some charity work there). Very quickly, I got on the no. 10 bus (GBP1), heading towards the city centre. My stop was on Lawrence Street, close to Nicholas Street where my friend's place is. She came to pick me up from the stop and we left my bag in her house before heading out for lunch.
The walk to the city centre took about 10 - 15 minutes. The first sight to greet me was the city wall at Walmgate. We took a stroll on the wall (feels like Great Wall of China but of course this is just a miniature in comparison) and got down at another gate. We walked and walked and walked, aimlessly. There wasn't really much time for me to visit any of the attractions as most of them closed at around 5pm. The city was bustling with excitement - the traditional folk dance festival was on during this weekend. We passed by two groups of dancers, performing in two separate squares.
As none of us were really hungry, we just bought a steak pie from one of the sandwich shop. More time was spent on strolling around the city before we finally decided to stop for dinner at Betty's tea room, the oldest tea room in York (probably a hundred years old or so). The tea room was certainly popular as the crowd never seemed to cease. We had to queue up to get into the tea room. 15 minutes later, we were taken to our table. I ordered Yorkshire sausages and ice-cream milkshake (banana flavour) while my friend got the salmon dish of the day and tea. The food was pretty good but my favourite was really the ice-cream milkshake. Although we went in for dinner pretty early, we only left at past 8pm due to the long wait for the food. Can't be helped given the crowd.
Our final stop for the day was the University of York. Not that it was my intention to visit the campus, rather I required the use of a PC and internet to fulfill my promise to a friend to read her dissertation. We spent more than an hour there before heading back home.
The following day was a hectic day. Our original plan was to visit the York Maze. Unfortunately, the previous day was the final opening day of the year. So, I settled for the Clifford's Tower, Castle Museum and York Minster. My favourite place had to be the Castle Museum. Photography was allowed. Hence, I was able to take photos of the old Victorian street, where we got to experience day and night (with sound of raindrops) and walked into some of the stores (I should mention at this point that the actors here did a better job than the chit-chatting actors in Shakespeare's birthplace).
Once again, we paid a visit to Betty's tea room (I know I am a bit crazy about that place) to have tea. While my friend got the afternoon tea set (tea + scones), I opted for the Fat Rascal (house specialty - scones with raisins, nuts and cherries) and hot chocolate with cream. The meal cost me almost GBP7 (imagine that!). Due to the heaviness of the meal, both of us were unable to have dinner that day. We reached home rather early today and spent the night watching the "Big Bang Theory".
On my last day in York, we visited Jorvik, a viking centre. First, we had to get into a "time machine" where we attempted to go back to the year 866 till the machine went into the error and started shaking violently (actually not that violent, more like shaking thru and fro). Then, we got into a "car" which took us around the viking village. The faces of the mannequins in the village were all reconstructed based on the skulls found in this village (i.e. York). I thought the place was truly interesting. The only drawback was that no photography allowed.
By the time we left Jorvik, we still had another 2 hours to kill. So, we headed towards the Treasurer's house. And then, it happened. A simple window-shopping became a guilt trip. I bought stuffs which will be of no use in the immediate future. Great...whatever. We spent so much time shopping that we only had enough time to take lunch at La Vecchia, an Italian restaurant with a courtyard view of the Minster. We finished our meal at around 1pm and had to rush to the train station to catch my train at 1.25pm. Thankfully, we were on time. I bid my friend farewell, not knowing when will we meet again. It was a truly good trip except for a few hiccups.
At about 1.30pm, I arrived in a city I know nothing about (except that a friend did some charity work there). Very quickly, I got on the no. 10 bus (GBP1), heading towards the city centre. My stop was on Lawrence Street, close to Nicholas Street where my friend's place is. She came to pick me up from the stop and we left my bag in her house before heading out for lunch.
The walk to the city centre took about 10 - 15 minutes. The first sight to greet me was the city wall at Walmgate. We took a stroll on the wall (feels like Great Wall of China but of course this is just a miniature in comparison) and got down at another gate. We walked and walked and walked, aimlessly. There wasn't really much time for me to visit any of the attractions as most of them closed at around 5pm. The city was bustling with excitement - the traditional folk dance festival was on during this weekend. We passed by two groups of dancers, performing in two separate squares.
As none of us were really hungry, we just bought a steak pie from one of the sandwich shop. More time was spent on strolling around the city before we finally decided to stop for dinner at Betty's tea room, the oldest tea room in York (probably a hundred years old or so). The tea room was certainly popular as the crowd never seemed to cease. We had to queue up to get into the tea room. 15 minutes later, we were taken to our table. I ordered Yorkshire sausages and ice-cream milkshake (banana flavour) while my friend got the salmon dish of the day and tea. The food was pretty good but my favourite was really the ice-cream milkshake. Although we went in for dinner pretty early, we only left at past 8pm due to the long wait for the food. Can't be helped given the crowd.
Our final stop for the day was the University of York. Not that it was my intention to visit the campus, rather I required the use of a PC and internet to fulfill my promise to a friend to read her dissertation. We spent more than an hour there before heading back home.
The following day was a hectic day. Our original plan was to visit the York Maze. Unfortunately, the previous day was the final opening day of the year. So, I settled for the Clifford's Tower, Castle Museum and York Minster. My favourite place had to be the Castle Museum. Photography was allowed. Hence, I was able to take photos of the old Victorian street, where we got to experience day and night (with sound of raindrops) and walked into some of the stores (I should mention at this point that the actors here did a better job than the chit-chatting actors in Shakespeare's birthplace).
Once again, we paid a visit to Betty's tea room (I know I am a bit crazy about that place) to have tea. While my friend got the afternoon tea set (tea + scones), I opted for the Fat Rascal (house specialty - scones with raisins, nuts and cherries) and hot chocolate with cream. The meal cost me almost GBP7 (imagine that!). Due to the heaviness of the meal, both of us were unable to have dinner that day. We reached home rather early today and spent the night watching the "Big Bang Theory".
On my last day in York, we visited Jorvik, a viking centre. First, we had to get into a "time machine" where we attempted to go back to the year 866 till the machine went into the error and started shaking violently (actually not that violent, more like shaking thru and fro). Then, we got into a "car" which took us around the viking village. The faces of the mannequins in the village were all reconstructed based on the skulls found in this village (i.e. York). I thought the place was truly interesting. The only drawback was that no photography allowed.
By the time we left Jorvik, we still had another 2 hours to kill. So, we headed towards the Treasurer's house. And then, it happened. A simple window-shopping became a guilt trip. I bought stuffs which will be of no use in the immediate future. Great...whatever. We spent so much time shopping that we only had enough time to take lunch at La Vecchia, an Italian restaurant with a courtyard view of the Minster. We finished our meal at around 1pm and had to rush to the train station to catch my train at 1.25pm. Thankfully, we were on time. I bid my friend farewell, not knowing when will we meet again. It was a truly good trip except for a few hiccups.
Sunday, 7 September 2008
Friday, 5 September 2008
Rain, rain, go away
Unfortunately, the rain did not go away. And it nearly spoiled my first trip to Stratford-upon-Avon. I know it's hard to believe but it's true. After almost a year here, this is only my first trip there.
On Tuesday morning, I left for the town early in the morning (well, probably not that early but still earlier than my friends). The journey was supposed to be almost an hour ride but having to change bus in Leamington Spa managed to lengthen the trip by half an hour. As I got onto the bus, I realised that even though I know my stop is Bridge Street, I had no idea where the stop is! So, I sat in the bus quietly, hoping someone will stop at the same place. Luckily, it was not hard to spot. Once we pass the river Avon, we arrived on the main road, bustling with activites. I knew then that that was my stop.
I arrived in Stratford around noon. The first thing I did was to stop at the tourist information centre, before heading to High Street for some shopping. This marked the beginning of my guilt trip down the retail therapy lane. I am really not sure what had gotten into me. Anyway, enough said on this matter. Having made some quick satisfactory purchases, my friends finally arrived. Good timing I must say.
We began our trip by touring Shakespeare's birthplace. It was just a very old house in its original form. Still interesting to note the tininess of the one-bedroom house to fit the family, their apprentices and servants. When we left the house, it was pouring cats and dogs. We had no choice but to stop for lunch. Soon, the rain was reduced to drizzles and we were able to continue to our next destination - Anne Hathaway's cottage, 1 1/2 miles away from town. We walked and walked and walked. It felt neverending but it did. The thatched-roof cottage was set in the middle of a pretty, little garden. We were only allowed to take photos of the exterior but not the interior. What a pity!
While I think that Stratford is a beautiful town, the main reason for its attraction is Shakespeare. Without him, it will not be as popular as it is now. More effort needs to be poured into making the visit a memorable one.
The following day, my friends and i caught a train to Windermere, Lake District. We had to change train 3 times (Cov-Birmingham-Crewe-Windermere)! With the delay of our first train, the whole journey ended up being delayed by two hours. Two whole hours were wasted in the train stations. I began to question the efficiency of the UK's train system.
Upon arrival, we began to find a way to reach town. There were limited information available. Hence, we had to call the hotel to ask for direction. At that point, I realised my second mistake. I knew the name of the road we had to find but I did not know the direction! Luckily, the map navigator did a good job and we found the hotel even as we had to walk under the rain. Seriously bad weather. The owner of the hotel was a very friendly man. He chatted with us for awhile before taking us to our room. There were a double bed with two single beds in the room. The so-called ensuite bathroom was situated outside our room. The reason it is ensuite was because we were the only ones with the key to enter. Brilliant! We spent some time in the room waiting for the rain to subside while drying our jeans with the dryer. It didn't take that long though. Phew.
The walk to Bowness was about 30 - 45 minutes, depending on our pace. The plan was to catch a ferry to Ambleside. The journey took 30 minutes, during which we moved up and down to the open top of the ferry whenever the rain stopped. The view was breathtaking (If Botw is the epitome of sugar sweet beauty, then LD is the wild beauty) especially when we arrived at the pier of Ambleside. We spent so much time there that we were left with little time to reach the town. In the end, we never made it to the town centre and we were only two blocks away.
Dinner was at a restaurant recommended by the hotel owner - Carvery at GBP3.95, a good deal for students like us. Due to the wet weather condition, we were unable to get any sunset photos. I can only imagine how it will look like.
On the following day, we woke up early to take a walk around Windermere. The town was so small that it took us probably half an hour to finish the tour. So, we headed back to the hotel to take breakfast which was only ready at 8.30am. After that, we checked out and asked for permission to leave our bags at the guest living room as we wanted to head back to Bowness.
This time, our mission was to visit Beatix Potter's World of Peter Rabbit. It was the time to reignite any childhood dreams or perhaps to bring out the child in a person. Admission cost GBP6 but it was worth the price. We were able to snap loads of photos of the adventures of Peter Rabbit and his friends. It was a truly wonderful experience. Of course, the trip will not be complete without a purchase from the Peter Rabbit's shop. More time was spent around the pier, both to enjoy the wilderness and to take more photos.
And then it was time to leave. The trip was really too short. I didn't have enough time to digest the beauty of the place. We boarded the train at 1.24pm. While the trip began smoothly, soon we encountered some obstacles. At the stop in Lancaster, we were informed that the track between Lancaster and Preston was flooded, halting all train services using that track. The train we were on had to head back to Scotland. We waited and waited before a train finally arrived to bring us to Preston. Initially, we were informed of the possibility to stay overnight in Lancaster as the tickets remained valid for the next day travelling. Luckily the train came. From Preston, we had to figure another way to get back to Coventry. After awhile, bright light shone upon my friends as they were able to switch to the London Euston train with an additional GBP6.
I decided against following them to London due to my tight schedule in the next few days. With their departure, I found myself waiting hopefully for the Birmingham train alone. It was not a long wait. 10 minutes later, I found myself on my way to Birmingham New Street. The rest of the journey went smoothly. I was back in my room by 9pm.
Interestingly, a commotion caused by a drunkard in the London Euston train led the train to detour to Coventry. I believed both my friends' and my train stopped in Coventry at almost the same time. What a coincidence! It was a blessing that everything worked out fine for us in the end.
On Tuesday morning, I left for the town early in the morning (well, probably not that early but still earlier than my friends). The journey was supposed to be almost an hour ride but having to change bus in Leamington Spa managed to lengthen the trip by half an hour. As I got onto the bus, I realised that even though I know my stop is Bridge Street, I had no idea where the stop is! So, I sat in the bus quietly, hoping someone will stop at the same place. Luckily, it was not hard to spot. Once we pass the river Avon, we arrived on the main road, bustling with activites. I knew then that that was my stop.
I arrived in Stratford around noon. The first thing I did was to stop at the tourist information centre, before heading to High Street for some shopping. This marked the beginning of my guilt trip down the retail therapy lane. I am really not sure what had gotten into me. Anyway, enough said on this matter. Having made some quick satisfactory purchases, my friends finally arrived. Good timing I must say.
We began our trip by touring Shakespeare's birthplace. It was just a very old house in its original form. Still interesting to note the tininess of the one-bedroom house to fit the family, their apprentices and servants. When we left the house, it was pouring cats and dogs. We had no choice but to stop for lunch. Soon, the rain was reduced to drizzles and we were able to continue to our next destination - Anne Hathaway's cottage, 1 1/2 miles away from town. We walked and walked and walked. It felt neverending but it did. The thatched-roof cottage was set in the middle of a pretty, little garden. We were only allowed to take photos of the exterior but not the interior. What a pity!
While I think that Stratford is a beautiful town, the main reason for its attraction is Shakespeare. Without him, it will not be as popular as it is now. More effort needs to be poured into making the visit a memorable one.
The following day, my friends and i caught a train to Windermere, Lake District. We had to change train 3 times (Cov-Birmingham-Crewe-Windermere)! With the delay of our first train, the whole journey ended up being delayed by two hours. Two whole hours were wasted in the train stations. I began to question the efficiency of the UK's train system.
Upon arrival, we began to find a way to reach town. There were limited information available. Hence, we had to call the hotel to ask for direction. At that point, I realised my second mistake. I knew the name of the road we had to find but I did not know the direction! Luckily, the map navigator did a good job and we found the hotel even as we had to walk under the rain. Seriously bad weather. The owner of the hotel was a very friendly man. He chatted with us for awhile before taking us to our room. There were a double bed with two single beds in the room. The so-called ensuite bathroom was situated outside our room. The reason it is ensuite was because we were the only ones with the key to enter. Brilliant! We spent some time in the room waiting for the rain to subside while drying our jeans with the dryer. It didn't take that long though. Phew.
The walk to Bowness was about 30 - 45 minutes, depending on our pace. The plan was to catch a ferry to Ambleside. The journey took 30 minutes, during which we moved up and down to the open top of the ferry whenever the rain stopped. The view was breathtaking (If Botw is the epitome of sugar sweet beauty, then LD is the wild beauty) especially when we arrived at the pier of Ambleside. We spent so much time there that we were left with little time to reach the town. In the end, we never made it to the town centre and we were only two blocks away.
Dinner was at a restaurant recommended by the hotel owner - Carvery at GBP3.95, a good deal for students like us. Due to the wet weather condition, we were unable to get any sunset photos. I can only imagine how it will look like.
On the following day, we woke up early to take a walk around Windermere. The town was so small that it took us probably half an hour to finish the tour. So, we headed back to the hotel to take breakfast which was only ready at 8.30am. After that, we checked out and asked for permission to leave our bags at the guest living room as we wanted to head back to Bowness.
This time, our mission was to visit Beatix Potter's World of Peter Rabbit. It was the time to reignite any childhood dreams or perhaps to bring out the child in a person. Admission cost GBP6 but it was worth the price. We were able to snap loads of photos of the adventures of Peter Rabbit and his friends. It was a truly wonderful experience. Of course, the trip will not be complete without a purchase from the Peter Rabbit's shop. More time was spent around the pier, both to enjoy the wilderness and to take more photos.
And then it was time to leave. The trip was really too short. I didn't have enough time to digest the beauty of the place. We boarded the train at 1.24pm. While the trip began smoothly, soon we encountered some obstacles. At the stop in Lancaster, we were informed that the track between Lancaster and Preston was flooded, halting all train services using that track. The train we were on had to head back to Scotland. We waited and waited before a train finally arrived to bring us to Preston. Initially, we were informed of the possibility to stay overnight in Lancaster as the tickets remained valid for the next day travelling. Luckily the train came. From Preston, we had to figure another way to get back to Coventry. After awhile, bright light shone upon my friends as they were able to switch to the London Euston train with an additional GBP6.
I decided against following them to London due to my tight schedule in the next few days. With their departure, I found myself waiting hopefully for the Birmingham train alone. It was not a long wait. 10 minutes later, I found myself on my way to Birmingham New Street. The rest of the journey went smoothly. I was back in my room by 9pm.
Interestingly, a commotion caused by a drunkard in the London Euston train led the train to detour to Coventry. I believed both my friends' and my train stopped in Coventry at almost the same time. What a coincidence! It was a blessing that everything worked out fine for us in the end.
Monday, 1 September 2008
This is how the end looks like
RED!
I discover a disadvantage of staying on-campus. Binding takes longer than usual! If it takes only 15 minutes outside, on-campus binding takes a minimum of 5 hours. Today took 7 hours because of high demand. Good thing I did it a few days before deadline.
I discover a disadvantage of staying on-campus. Binding takes longer than usual! If it takes only 15 minutes outside, on-campus binding takes a minimum of 5 hours. Today took 7 hours because of high demand. Good thing I did it a few days before deadline.
Merdeka! Merdeka!
Today marks my country's 51 years of independence. Being away from home means there will be no national holiday. But since it falls on a Sunday and I am a student completing her dissertation, it does not actually make a difference to me. Nevertheless, it is still a special day.
A Malaysian friend called me yesterday to invite me to a small, informal gathering. I was told to dress down. Little did I know that when I turned up, they were in their baju kurung, batik and qipao. The lunch spread consists of nasi lemak, sambal ikan bilis, prawn sambal and roast chicken (courtesy of a Taiwanese friend) contributed by various chefs. I know I will be going home soon but it still feels nice to have these food on a national day.
For a moment, it felt strange. All those years in Malaysia, I can't remember celebrating national day like today. To me, it means holiday. Holiday means either stay at home to watch tv or to go out shopping. But today is different. With the efforts of several friends, we had a great time.
A Malaysian friend called me yesterday to invite me to a small, informal gathering. I was told to dress down. Little did I know that when I turned up, they were in their baju kurung, batik and qipao. The lunch spread consists of nasi lemak, sambal ikan bilis, prawn sambal and roast chicken (courtesy of a Taiwanese friend) contributed by various chefs. I know I will be going home soon but it still feels nice to have these food on a national day.
For a moment, it felt strange. All those years in Malaysia, I can't remember celebrating national day like today. To me, it means holiday. Holiday means either stay at home to watch tv or to go out shopping. But today is different. With the efforts of several friends, we had a great time.
Wednesday, 27 August 2008
Smarties doughnuts
I have passed by the bakery section numerous times but often, I never end up with anything. With just roughly 3 more weeks to go, I thought "what the heck". I should be more adventurous. Will never know when I will step foot here again. And so, the smarties doughnuts found its way into my basket. I must say "never judge a book by its cover". The same applies to food. If you ask me to describe the doughnuts in 3 words, this is my reply - pretty, normal, sweet. But at least I tried :)
Sunday, 24 August 2008
Kitchen devil
I am sure a lot of us are familiar with the kitchen god, whom we bribe every year with "nian gao" to ensure he puts in good words to the Jade King. If you think a tell-tale god is scary, then you haven't meet the kitchen devil.
She is the one who always leave a trail of mess behind her. It's hard not to notice her presence in the kitchen even when she is not physically there. Her cabinet door will always be left half open. Perhaps she want to air it. Must be pretty smelly inside. Then there is the dark stain around the cookers. I saw her messing up the cooker just by cooking noodles. No one but her is capable of that. Hats off to Miss Mess. Sometimes, she will leave chopped food on the floor and on the counter. Today I found grains of rice, scattered all over the counter. Interesting...I have heard of jumping beans but jumping rice? Oh yeah, not forgetting the stuffs spilling from her section in the fridge onto my section. How else do I explain the sticky stuffs on my plastic containers?
The best part of this devil is that once she dirtied one spot, she will move on to another. There is no stationarity in her action. How can such a person exist certainly baffles me.
She is the one who always leave a trail of mess behind her. It's hard not to notice her presence in the kitchen even when she is not physically there. Her cabinet door will always be left half open. Perhaps she want to air it. Must be pretty smelly inside. Then there is the dark stain around the cookers. I saw her messing up the cooker just by cooking noodles. No one but her is capable of that. Hats off to Miss Mess. Sometimes, she will leave chopped food on the floor and on the counter. Today I found grains of rice, scattered all over the counter. Interesting...I have heard of jumping beans but jumping rice? Oh yeah, not forgetting the stuffs spilling from her section in the fridge onto my section. How else do I explain the sticky stuffs on my plastic containers?
The best part of this devil is that once she dirtied one spot, she will move on to another. There is no stationarity in her action. How can such a person exist certainly baffles me.
Thursday, 21 August 2008
Case closed
Happiness is when you finally know the truth.
Well, not exactly the whole truth but knowing part of the truth is sufficient for me in this case.
Today, my flatmate gave us a pleasant surprise. The kitchen thief had been found. We only know that the culprit is an undergraduate boy. But this information is sufficient for us to quit doubting one of us. He admitted to another boy, his friend who caught him red-handed, that he stole food from kitchens. His targets were kitchens with door facing the exit to the staircase (i.e. my flat). Another target is the kitchen at the corner of the connecting row between north and west bank. This design of this kitchen is such that the door is hidden from the view of the occupants even if they walk along the corridor. I must say he is pretty smart and has great attention to details.
His friend took pity on him and never reported. Hence, we will never know his identity. I do wish to ask him why did he eat all the sausages in the fried rice.
Well, not exactly the whole truth but knowing part of the truth is sufficient for me in this case.
Today, my flatmate gave us a pleasant surprise. The kitchen thief had been found. We only know that the culprit is an undergraduate boy. But this information is sufficient for us to quit doubting one of us. He admitted to another boy, his friend who caught him red-handed, that he stole food from kitchens. His targets were kitchens with door facing the exit to the staircase (i.e. my flat). Another target is the kitchen at the corner of the connecting row between north and west bank. This design of this kitchen is such that the door is hidden from the view of the occupants even if they walk along the corridor. I must say he is pretty smart and has great attention to details.
His friend took pity on him and never reported. Hence, we will never know his identity. I do wish to ask him why did he eat all the sausages in the fried rice.
Saturday, 16 August 2008
A day in London
Almost a year had passed before I finally get to do the "tourist" thing in London. After some careful planning by my friend, I was pretty much looking forward to seeing the major attractions beside Oxford Street.
While most of the week were wet and gloomy, we were blessed with a glorious sunny day on Friday. Our first stop was Big Ben. Somehow, I felt let down by the first sight of it. Then, we took a short stroll along Thames River to get some photos of London Eye which was on the other side of the river. As I wanted to see the "Changing of the Guard", our route was directed towards the Buckingham Palace. Along the way, we passed by Westminster Abbey and St. James park. We missed Downing Street but did not bother to turn around. There wasn't really much to do except to take photos. None of us were keen on visiting the interior of any of the attractions. The reason being the steep admission fee, which was not student-friendly at all.
Hence, we arrived pretty early at the Buckingham Palace. Yet, the crowd was already overwhelming. The ceremony began at 11.30am. I couldn't really see much of it. After awhile, it became boring and we decided to break for lunch. Destination was Pizza Hut (don't ask why) on Victoria Street. While the pizzas were just normal, I was impressed by the hospitality shown by the crew. One of them even offered to help us with our direction upon seeing my friend taking out the London map. That has got to be the best restaurant service I have seen so far in this past year.
After lunch, we headed towards Tower Bridge. Of the four bridges I saw, Tower Bridge has got to the prettiest. London Bridge was boring. Millennium Bridge was rather interesting especially having read about its closure following the unsteadiness of the structure. Besides bridges, we saw St. Paul Cathedral and went into Tate.
We ended the day with a musical - The Wizard of Oz at Southbank Centre. My friend managed to get very good seats at amazing prices because of our student status. While I love the songs from the show, it is not the most impressive musical I have seen. I thought it was more suitable for kids. The best part of the show has to be Toto, played by a really cute white dog who kept looking for food. At some point in the show, it sat down. I presumed it's getting tired and couldn't really understand why it had to do this every night.
To wrap up, I think London is over-rated as a city of attractions. My biasedness could be a result of too many trips around Europe, seeing almost similar structures. In addition, it is a very expensive city to visit. Most attractions cost around GBP10. This is in contrast with attractions in other European cities, which cost below EUR10 most of the time. Sometimes, the entry is even free for students (e.g. Athens). But not all is bad. At least this time, everything is in a language I can comprehend.
While most of the week were wet and gloomy, we were blessed with a glorious sunny day on Friday. Our first stop was Big Ben. Somehow, I felt let down by the first sight of it. Then, we took a short stroll along Thames River to get some photos of London Eye which was on the other side of the river. As I wanted to see the "Changing of the Guard", our route was directed towards the Buckingham Palace. Along the way, we passed by Westminster Abbey and St. James park. We missed Downing Street but did not bother to turn around. There wasn't really much to do except to take photos. None of us were keen on visiting the interior of any of the attractions. The reason being the steep admission fee, which was not student-friendly at all.
Hence, we arrived pretty early at the Buckingham Palace. Yet, the crowd was already overwhelming. The ceremony began at 11.30am. I couldn't really see much of it. After awhile, it became boring and we decided to break for lunch. Destination was Pizza Hut (don't ask why) on Victoria Street. While the pizzas were just normal, I was impressed by the hospitality shown by the crew. One of them even offered to help us with our direction upon seeing my friend taking out the London map. That has got to be the best restaurant service I have seen so far in this past year.
After lunch, we headed towards Tower Bridge. Of the four bridges I saw, Tower Bridge has got to the prettiest. London Bridge was boring. Millennium Bridge was rather interesting especially having read about its closure following the unsteadiness of the structure. Besides bridges, we saw St. Paul Cathedral and went into Tate.
We ended the day with a musical - The Wizard of Oz at Southbank Centre. My friend managed to get very good seats at amazing prices because of our student status. While I love the songs from the show, it is not the most impressive musical I have seen. I thought it was more suitable for kids. The best part of the show has to be Toto, played by a really cute white dog who kept looking for food. At some point in the show, it sat down. I presumed it's getting tired and couldn't really understand why it had to do this every night.
To wrap up, I think London is over-rated as a city of attractions. My biasedness could be a result of too many trips around Europe, seeing almost similar structures. In addition, it is a very expensive city to visit. Most attractions cost around GBP10. This is in contrast with attractions in other European cities, which cost below EUR10 most of the time. Sometimes, the entry is even free for students (e.g. Athens). But not all is bad. At least this time, everything is in a language I can comprehend.
Monday, 11 August 2008
Roasted in Greece
Being back in London feels good. The nice cool weather overcomes any urge to complain about the drizzling afternoon. Nevertheless, the trip to Greece is an experience I will never want to reverse.
It was only last sunday when I remember setting out early in the morning to catch our flight to Athens. It was a bad start with the plane delayed by almost an hour, leading to our late arrival to the Hermes Hotel. Then, we found out that one of us had been arranged to stay in Plaka Hotel, which is a few minutes away. We arranged to meet in the lobby to head out for dinner in Byzantino, recommended by Lonely Planet. With the help of a free map from the airport, we managed to navigate our way around Plaka, arriving at the tavern safely. Along the way, we were fascinated by the liveliness of the atmosphere, reminiscence of the pasar malam back home. Dinner that night cost slighly over EUR30 (expensive!).
The next morning, we set out early to walk to Syntagma Square, led by our tour guide (AJ) from Contiki to catch the bus to Piraeus Port. Although it was still early in the morning, the port was already busy with passengers from the last cruise leaving and us waiting in line to get in. It was a really long wait. Luckily, we had AJ, explaining the processes and procedures to us and ensures that everything runs smoothly. A strange procedure is the handing over of our passport to the crews for entry in various islands. The only proof of identity we had were our ship boarding card in which my name was spelt wrongly. Just great. The ship we were to board was Aquamarine, carrying approximately 2000 passengers with close 2000 crews. My cabin was M157, quadsharing. The cabin was comfortable enough, although there was a lack of space to move around given that two of our roomies had really huge luggages. At 11.15pm, we participated in an emergency lifeboat drill. This is to ensure that we know how to put on our lifejacket and knowing which boat to take (number 11). The process was a strict one. According to a crew, in some ships, if we don't follow the instructions properly, we could be fined. We were only allowed to leave after the Captain's inspection.
The first stop of the day was Mykonos. We arrived at the island late in the afternoon, leaving us with little time to explore the place. As the ship was unable to get close to the port due to strong wind, we had to use a tender boat to get there. The boat can carry probably around 30 - 40 passengers at one time. Getting in was not easy as the wind was blowing strongly, rocking the boat all the time. Then, we had to take a bus to get into town. AJ gave us a walking tour around the main town area. Some of the interesting attractions include the island's mascot i.e. pelicans (we spotted several along our way) and the windmills. We managed to snap a few photos and bought our souvenirs before boarding the ship to head to Patmos.
Unlike Mykonos, known for its whitewashed buildings, Patmos is more known for the Monastery of St. John. AJ took us up the mountain, explaining to us the significance of the attractions as we approached some of the places. The journey was a long and difficult one. One false step and we will tumble down the mountain. Adding to our misery was the extreme heat of a summer day.
In the afternoon, we stopped in Kusadasi, the only Turkish island in our itinerary. As we didn't participate in any of the optional excursions, we had to move around by ourselves. We decided to see Ephesus which is located about 20 minutes away from town by car. So, we got ourselves a cab, costing EUR70 return. The entry cost us 20 lira each (about GBP9), without any concession price. Having seen the magnificent Roman forum, the Ephesus pales in comparison. 45 minutes was all we took to finish the tour. We got back to town earlier to do some shopping. Interestingly, it was on this Turkish island that we spent a lot.
Tuesday was Greek night where passengers were encouraged to dress in white and blue for dinner. We were served with traditional Greek cuisine and later, at 11pm, treated to a Greek show with dancing and singing.
Wednesday was a free and easy day, spent entirely in Rhodes. We used the morning to walk around town and spent the afternoon taking nap! Later in the evening, we had Captain's night where by we get to meet the captain and his crews. It was also a formal dinner.
On Thursday, the ship docked at Heraklion, Crete. We only arrived in Santorini at about 4pm in the afternoon. Of all the islands, Santorini has to be the most beautiful. Once again, we had to use a tender boat to get to the island. The whitewashed buildings were all perched on top of the mountain. So, we had to get up there either by cable car (cost EUR4), donkey ride (same cost) or walk up the zigzag path, shared with the donkeys. We opted for the cable car which took only about 4 minutes. The view from atop was breathtaking. There wasn't really any significant attractions in Thira, the town we visited in Santorini because the whole town itself is THE attraction. This time, we decided to descend by walking. It was not a very nice experience as we had to walk past a whole line of donkeys waiting at the side for their customers. The step itself was rather dangerous with 588 steps! Some of the stones were slippery. I couldn't help imagining myself missing a step and tumbling all the way down. All I could do to ensure my own safety was to concentrate on the steps. It wasn't that wise a decision when I realised that I had lost my friends at the bottom of the stairs. I had missed the turning! There was not a soul in sight. I told myself not to panic and that I will find my way out. Luckily, there were other tourists who missed the step too. So I followed them to the way out. Thus, reuniting with my friends.
That night, we were told to leave our luggages at the doorway to be collected by the crews at midnight. As we were part of Contiki, our guide took the responsibility of collecting all the luggages for us early in the morning (around 6am) to avoid confusion later. This is one of the plus point of being a part of a tour group.
The last 3 days was spent in Athens. The weather was burning hot, leaving us all with very tanned skin. As we can only check in at Athens Backpackers at 1.30pm, we took the opportunity to see a bit of Athens. Our first stop was the Acropolis. To our delight, as students in EU, we were exempted from any entry fees. We received the same privilege at other cultural sites, making Athens the most student-friendly city by far. Later, at the hostel, we got a free upgrade from a 6-person dorm ensuite to a 3-person studio! We were only charged EUR25 per person per night. There's a kitchen (complete with cutlery and cooking utensils), living room with tv, air-conditioner, bathroom and balcony. We were reluctant to leave such a heavenly place. Hence, our afternoon was spent watching the opening of Olympics in Beijing and taking a nap on the cosy sofa.
Later in the afternoon, we dragged ourselves out again to look for food. We decided to look for Bairaktaris, a restaurant popular for souvlaki. It was recommended in the Athens booklet we got from the hostel. It took us awhile to find the said square as the square doesn't look much like a square after all. The restaurant has a very interesting feel with its walls decorated with photos of the owner with famous people. Unfortunately, their service was a let-down. Perhaps I am not accustomed to being "ignored". The food was just alright. I couldn't really finish the souvlaki I ordered. One, the weather was too hot, spoiling my appetite. Two, the meat was too dry even with the sauce.
We began the following day by first visiting the Ancient Agora. Situated on top of the hill is the Temple of Hephaetus and Athena. Our next stop was the Parliament, near Syntagma Square to watch the changing of the guards. The most interesting I noticed was the uniform of the guards. They wear fustanella, a traditional skirt-like garment, matched by a pair of pompom shoes (I am not sure of the actual name). The changing of the guard happens every hour throughout the day. The guards perform a slow dance-like march to switch positions with the newly-arrived guards. The afternoon was spent indoor in the National Archaeological Museum. Main purpose was to avoid the afternoon heat. Our final stop for the day was Hadrian's Arch and the Temple of Zeus.
Having completed our Athens tour, we headed to Plaka for souvenirs and dinner. This time, we passed by Byzantino again. A friendly waiter stopped us to try to promote the restaurant to us. After some thoughts, we gave the restaurant another go. This time, I managed to get my "fish soup". It's actually fish with a bowl of soup (most likely vegetable soup). Nevertheless, I had minimal complaint of this dish.
Greece is our last Europe tour for the year. What an amazing finale it is. What do I like about the country? The beautiful islands which are beyond imagination. The student-friendly admission fees in all the major attractions. Of course not all is wonderful. I conclude that I am not a fan of Greek cuisine. And their hospitality is an eye-opener. Not forgetting the organisation of the airport, unlike the other airports I have been to. My biggest disappointment is of course my failure to remember sending the postcards I bought from Athens. My last chance and I blew it. Oh well, I suppose not everything will always go smoothly.
It was only last sunday when I remember setting out early in the morning to catch our flight to Athens. It was a bad start with the plane delayed by almost an hour, leading to our late arrival to the Hermes Hotel. Then, we found out that one of us had been arranged to stay in Plaka Hotel, which is a few minutes away. We arranged to meet in the lobby to head out for dinner in Byzantino, recommended by Lonely Planet. With the help of a free map from the airport, we managed to navigate our way around Plaka, arriving at the tavern safely. Along the way, we were fascinated by the liveliness of the atmosphere, reminiscence of the pasar malam back home. Dinner that night cost slighly over EUR30 (expensive!).
The next morning, we set out early to walk to Syntagma Square, led by our tour guide (AJ) from Contiki to catch the bus to Piraeus Port. Although it was still early in the morning, the port was already busy with passengers from the last cruise leaving and us waiting in line to get in. It was a really long wait. Luckily, we had AJ, explaining the processes and procedures to us and ensures that everything runs smoothly. A strange procedure is the handing over of our passport to the crews for entry in various islands. The only proof of identity we had were our ship boarding card in which my name was spelt wrongly. Just great. The ship we were to board was Aquamarine, carrying approximately 2000 passengers with close 2000 crews. My cabin was M157, quadsharing. The cabin was comfortable enough, although there was a lack of space to move around given that two of our roomies had really huge luggages. At 11.15pm, we participated in an emergency lifeboat drill. This is to ensure that we know how to put on our lifejacket and knowing which boat to take (number 11). The process was a strict one. According to a crew, in some ships, if we don't follow the instructions properly, we could be fined. We were only allowed to leave after the Captain's inspection.
The first stop of the day was Mykonos. We arrived at the island late in the afternoon, leaving us with little time to explore the place. As the ship was unable to get close to the port due to strong wind, we had to use a tender boat to get there. The boat can carry probably around 30 - 40 passengers at one time. Getting in was not easy as the wind was blowing strongly, rocking the boat all the time. Then, we had to take a bus to get into town. AJ gave us a walking tour around the main town area. Some of the interesting attractions include the island's mascot i.e. pelicans (we spotted several along our way) and the windmills. We managed to snap a few photos and bought our souvenirs before boarding the ship to head to Patmos.
Unlike Mykonos, known for its whitewashed buildings, Patmos is more known for the Monastery of St. John. AJ took us up the mountain, explaining to us the significance of the attractions as we approached some of the places. The journey was a long and difficult one. One false step and we will tumble down the mountain. Adding to our misery was the extreme heat of a summer day.
In the afternoon, we stopped in Kusadasi, the only Turkish island in our itinerary. As we didn't participate in any of the optional excursions, we had to move around by ourselves. We decided to see Ephesus which is located about 20 minutes away from town by car. So, we got ourselves a cab, costing EUR70 return. The entry cost us 20 lira each (about GBP9), without any concession price. Having seen the magnificent Roman forum, the Ephesus pales in comparison. 45 minutes was all we took to finish the tour. We got back to town earlier to do some shopping. Interestingly, it was on this Turkish island that we spent a lot.
Tuesday was Greek night where passengers were encouraged to dress in white and blue for dinner. We were served with traditional Greek cuisine and later, at 11pm, treated to a Greek show with dancing and singing.
Wednesday was a free and easy day, spent entirely in Rhodes. We used the morning to walk around town and spent the afternoon taking nap! Later in the evening, we had Captain's night where by we get to meet the captain and his crews. It was also a formal dinner.
On Thursday, the ship docked at Heraklion, Crete. We only arrived in Santorini at about 4pm in the afternoon. Of all the islands, Santorini has to be the most beautiful. Once again, we had to use a tender boat to get to the island. The whitewashed buildings were all perched on top of the mountain. So, we had to get up there either by cable car (cost EUR4), donkey ride (same cost) or walk up the zigzag path, shared with the donkeys. We opted for the cable car which took only about 4 minutes. The view from atop was breathtaking. There wasn't really any significant attractions in Thira, the town we visited in Santorini because the whole town itself is THE attraction. This time, we decided to descend by walking. It was not a very nice experience as we had to walk past a whole line of donkeys waiting at the side for their customers. The step itself was rather dangerous with 588 steps! Some of the stones were slippery. I couldn't help imagining myself missing a step and tumbling all the way down. All I could do to ensure my own safety was to concentrate on the steps. It wasn't that wise a decision when I realised that I had lost my friends at the bottom of the stairs. I had missed the turning! There was not a soul in sight. I told myself not to panic and that I will find my way out. Luckily, there were other tourists who missed the step too. So I followed them to the way out. Thus, reuniting with my friends.
That night, we were told to leave our luggages at the doorway to be collected by the crews at midnight. As we were part of Contiki, our guide took the responsibility of collecting all the luggages for us early in the morning (around 6am) to avoid confusion later. This is one of the plus point of being a part of a tour group.
The last 3 days was spent in Athens. The weather was burning hot, leaving us all with very tanned skin. As we can only check in at Athens Backpackers at 1.30pm, we took the opportunity to see a bit of Athens. Our first stop was the Acropolis. To our delight, as students in EU, we were exempted from any entry fees. We received the same privilege at other cultural sites, making Athens the most student-friendly city by far. Later, at the hostel, we got a free upgrade from a 6-person dorm ensuite to a 3-person studio! We were only charged EUR25 per person per night. There's a kitchen (complete with cutlery and cooking utensils), living room with tv, air-conditioner, bathroom and balcony. We were reluctant to leave such a heavenly place. Hence, our afternoon was spent watching the opening of Olympics in Beijing and taking a nap on the cosy sofa.
Later in the afternoon, we dragged ourselves out again to look for food. We decided to look for Bairaktaris, a restaurant popular for souvlaki. It was recommended in the Athens booklet we got from the hostel. It took us awhile to find the said square as the square doesn't look much like a square after all. The restaurant has a very interesting feel with its walls decorated with photos of the owner with famous people. Unfortunately, their service was a let-down. Perhaps I am not accustomed to being "ignored". The food was just alright. I couldn't really finish the souvlaki I ordered. One, the weather was too hot, spoiling my appetite. Two, the meat was too dry even with the sauce.
We began the following day by first visiting the Ancient Agora. Situated on top of the hill is the Temple of Hephaetus and Athena. Our next stop was the Parliament, near Syntagma Square to watch the changing of the guards. The most interesting I noticed was the uniform of the guards. They wear fustanella, a traditional skirt-like garment, matched by a pair of pompom shoes (I am not sure of the actual name). The changing of the guard happens every hour throughout the day. The guards perform a slow dance-like march to switch positions with the newly-arrived guards. The afternoon was spent indoor in the National Archaeological Museum. Main purpose was to avoid the afternoon heat. Our final stop for the day was Hadrian's Arch and the Temple of Zeus.
Having completed our Athens tour, we headed to Plaka for souvenirs and dinner. This time, we passed by Byzantino again. A friendly waiter stopped us to try to promote the restaurant to us. After some thoughts, we gave the restaurant another go. This time, I managed to get my "fish soup". It's actually fish with a bowl of soup (most likely vegetable soup). Nevertheless, I had minimal complaint of this dish.
Greece is our last Europe tour for the year. What an amazing finale it is. What do I like about the country? The beautiful islands which are beyond imagination. The student-friendly admission fees in all the major attractions. Of course not all is wonderful. I conclude that I am not a fan of Greek cuisine. And their hospitality is an eye-opener. Not forgetting the organisation of the airport, unlike the other airports I have been to. My biggest disappointment is of course my failure to remember sending the postcards I bought from Athens. My last chance and I blew it. Oh well, I suppose not everything will always go smoothly.
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
Learning how to cook
Clockwise from top left - tea eggs with stuffing, 3 cups chicken, stir-fry squid and chicken in korean BBQ sauce, tomyam, tapioca, fruits
Tuesday, 29 July 2008
B & B in B & B
It was not an easy journey. Funnily, it began with me going to the wrong bus-stop and ended with me almost missing the bus.
I set off early on Saturday morning to ensure that I don't miss the bus. The walk itself was a joy with wonderful scenery of houses and fields. At almost 9.15am, I spotted national express but it was on the other side of the road! I quickly dashed across the road, hoping that the bus driver saw his lone passenger. He did! And what a jolly driver he turned out to be. Told myself to write in to natex to compliment such a nice driver (which I have yet to do).
The bus was slightly delayed by the Saturday traffic. Upon arrival, my friend whisked me off to her home to have lunch. After that, we left for Clarks Village, which was an hour away from Bristol. I had fun just looking around while my friend and her family did some serious shopping. Shops closed at 6pm. As the sky was still bright, we took the opportunity to take a walk around the Clifton suspension bridge. The view was amazing. Unfortunately, the sun was shining too gloriously for us to be able to get good photos.
On the following day, we tried to set out early to get to the car boot sale in Bath. It was my first car boot sale. What an amazing experience that was! All kind of knickknacks were on sale. Happily, I got myself the dvd of BBC's Pride & Prejudice (for a total cost of GBP0.20!!!), some of David Attenborough's wonderful filming of nature and a Beano Annual 2004. I could have ended up with more stuffs had the weather been friendlier. Two hours later, we were on our way into Bath, the city known for its Roman bath. At first there were hardly anybody in sight. However, when we reached the city centre, the roads were brimming with tourists. All eager for a glimpse of the bath house. I paid GBP9 (concession price) to go in. The posters turned out to be prettier than the real thing. And the wonderful spring water tasted awful. However, I was rather thirsty and managed to gulp down the whole glass of warm spring water.
We left Bath late in the afternoon. After a brief stop at home to refresh, we headed out again in the evening to the port. We spent our time, strolling along the port and stopping to snap photos once in awhile. Seagulls can be heard calling from above. How I love their voices. They do give one a very sea-like feeling. On our way back, we detoured to a large field some distance away from the city centre. We were in luck as the sun was about to set. Probably one of those rare moments where I don't have to freeze to wait for the sun set.
Monday was Bristol day. My friend brought me to see the University of Bristol and around town. We climbed the Brandon Hill when the sun was right above our head to have a closer look of the famous Cabot Tower. Unfortunately, the tower was closed to public at the moment. Nevertheless, the view from the hill was still something not to be missed. The last stop I made was the SS Great Britain, UK's museum of the year in 2006. For only GBP5.65 (concession price), I can make numerous visit back to the museum for the next 12 months. Too bad my stay here is ending soon. Having seen the ship for myself, I can understand the charm it has on its visitors.
I almost missed my bus because of this visit. Luckily the bus was slightly delayed. Having bid my friend farewell, I boarded the bus for my 3 1/2-hour journey back to Warwick. These 3 days had been rather well-spent in the company of my friend and her family. Their hospitality made the trip more fulfilling.
I set off early on Saturday morning to ensure that I don't miss the bus. The walk itself was a joy with wonderful scenery of houses and fields. At almost 9.15am, I spotted national express but it was on the other side of the road! I quickly dashed across the road, hoping that the bus driver saw his lone passenger. He did! And what a jolly driver he turned out to be. Told myself to write in to natex to compliment such a nice driver (which I have yet to do).
The bus was slightly delayed by the Saturday traffic. Upon arrival, my friend whisked me off to her home to have lunch. After that, we left for Clarks Village, which was an hour away from Bristol. I had fun just looking around while my friend and her family did some serious shopping. Shops closed at 6pm. As the sky was still bright, we took the opportunity to take a walk around the Clifton suspension bridge. The view was amazing. Unfortunately, the sun was shining too gloriously for us to be able to get good photos.
On the following day, we tried to set out early to get to the car boot sale in Bath. It was my first car boot sale. What an amazing experience that was! All kind of knickknacks were on sale. Happily, I got myself the dvd of BBC's Pride & Prejudice (for a total cost of GBP0.20!!!), some of David Attenborough's wonderful filming of nature and a Beano Annual 2004. I could have ended up with more stuffs had the weather been friendlier. Two hours later, we were on our way into Bath, the city known for its Roman bath. At first there were hardly anybody in sight. However, when we reached the city centre, the roads were brimming with tourists. All eager for a glimpse of the bath house. I paid GBP9 (concession price) to go in. The posters turned out to be prettier than the real thing. And the wonderful spring water tasted awful. However, I was rather thirsty and managed to gulp down the whole glass of warm spring water.
We left Bath late in the afternoon. After a brief stop at home to refresh, we headed out again in the evening to the port. We spent our time, strolling along the port and stopping to snap photos once in awhile. Seagulls can be heard calling from above. How I love their voices. They do give one a very sea-like feeling. On our way back, we detoured to a large field some distance away from the city centre. We were in luck as the sun was about to set. Probably one of those rare moments where I don't have to freeze to wait for the sun set.
Monday was Bristol day. My friend brought me to see the University of Bristol and around town. We climbed the Brandon Hill when the sun was right above our head to have a closer look of the famous Cabot Tower. Unfortunately, the tower was closed to public at the moment. Nevertheless, the view from the hill was still something not to be missed. The last stop I made was the SS Great Britain, UK's museum of the year in 2006. For only GBP5.65 (concession price), I can make numerous visit back to the museum for the next 12 months. Too bad my stay here is ending soon. Having seen the ship for myself, I can understand the charm it has on its visitors.
I almost missed my bus because of this visit. Luckily the bus was slightly delayed. Having bid my friend farewell, I boarded the bus for my 3 1/2-hour journey back to Warwick. These 3 days had been rather well-spent in the company of my friend and her family. Their hospitality made the trip more fulfilling.
Saturday, 19 July 2008
What will you do?
Today I met someone who experienced the Chengdu earthquake on May 12. This is his story...
"Suddenly, my room began to shake. I looked out the window and saw the other buildings swaying through and fro. As I was on the 8th floor, I may not be able to run down in time before the building came crumbling down. I realised at that moment that I was going to die. I called my family to tell them I love them. But my parents wouldn't believe that a strong quake would occur in Chengdu. I called my girlfriend and got a scolding for making up stories. When the news came on the television minutes later, they all knew I was telling the truth. But by that time, the phone was already disconnected, leaving my family distraught."
"Suddenly, my room began to shake. I looked out the window and saw the other buildings swaying through and fro. As I was on the 8th floor, I may not be able to run down in time before the building came crumbling down. I realised at that moment that I was going to die. I called my family to tell them I love them. But my parents wouldn't believe that a strong quake would occur in Chengdu. I called my girlfriend and got a scolding for making up stories. When the news came on the television minutes later, they all knew I was telling the truth. But by that time, the phone was already disconnected, leaving my family distraught."
Wednesday, 9 July 2008
Surviving Spain
Hot weather, crowded streets, stingy hotel owner, slow service, fairytale Gaudi...that pretty much summarises my idea of Barcelona.
Arriving late in the afternoon did not stop us from beginning to explore Barcelona thanks to the longer daylight. Our first stop was Port Vell. We busied ourselves enjoying the seabreeze and taking photos. Our first night was completed with a meal in Gloria Restaurant serving tapas and paella. Not bad.
The following day, we set off early to explore Port Olympic, further down from Port Vell, with a beach. There is really nothing much to see though and the beach isn't that great. The rest of the day was spent on a vineyard tour which cost €85 per person. Not sure if that is considered overcharged. We were driven into the countryside of Barcelona and made a stop at one of the vineyard as the guide wanted to explain some of the growing process involved. Don't think his explanation was that interesting. Then we headed to the wine factory to have lunch in the wine cellar (pretty cool) and to "make" our own bottle of cava. We were served five type of wines - white, red, rosey (?), cava and maskat (?). The food was terrific, served with a local potato pie (?), a myriad of iberian hams and some breads (something like bruschetta). I think we enjoyed the dessert the most, made of sweet, fresh peaches (grown from the host's farm) topped with some syrup.
Next, we moved on to the wine-making. Wasn't that difficult except for the uncorking part where we had to use our thumb to prevent the cava from spilling out. That's the cleansing process to get rid of the "mother". Nevertheless, it takes a lot of skill to be able to prevent minimal spillage and to repeat the process hundred/thousand times in a day. The day was ended with a shopping trip. Couldn't resist with all the sales going on...haha.
On the third day, we began the morning with a stop at the Arc de Triomf. Our initial plan was to be the early bird in the line to enter Picasso Museum. However, we were too early (there were hardly anyone around) and hence took a detour. By the time we got back to the museum (half an hour before opening), there was already a long line! Luckily, we were still considered early. Lucky still, it was the first sunday of the month and therefore, entry was free. The museum features some of Picasso's early work. An interesting attraction was his many interpretation of Las Meninas. Later, we took the furnicular and cable car up to Montjuic, a hill located near the centre of Barcelona. While there are many attractions up on the hill, our main purpose was to get a bird eye's view of the city (as usual). With some time (and money from the 10-trip train ticket) left, we headed to Parc Guell, the first of many of Gaudi's design which we were going to explore the following day. The walk from the station to the park proved to be a long one - about 1.5km and up the hill! But it was not wasted as the park proves to be one of a kind. We were greeted by the two gingerbread houses at the entrance. Inside were more interesting freatures such as a big lizard.
I think our theme for the fourth day was "Chasing Gaudi". Everything we saw on that day was designed by Gaudi, beginning with Sagrada Familia, followed by Casa Mila and completed by Casa Batllo. All his designs incorporate the nature theme. For example, the attic in Casa Mila is built to resemble the shape of a snake with it's spines serving as support for the roof. The view on the roof was even more interesting, surrounded by alien-looking chimneys! We did not go into Casa Batllo because of the steep entrance fee. Nevertheless, the exterior itself was worth the stop.
Dinner was a platter of seafood in a restaurant along the port. The spread was humongous. There was an overdose of mussels which we couldn't finish in the end. We also ordered a plate of paella in squid ink. Despite the blackish colour of the dish, it was oishii. I can't believe I ate it without knowing what's exactly inside.
While Barcelona did not appeal to me initially, towards the end, I am fascinated by it's creative occupants. Their form of arts are most peculiar, yet enchanting. I would love to have a Gaudi-styled home.
p/s: Love the photos taken by my friend.
Arriving late in the afternoon did not stop us from beginning to explore Barcelona thanks to the longer daylight. Our first stop was Port Vell. We busied ourselves enjoying the seabreeze and taking photos. Our first night was completed with a meal in Gloria Restaurant serving tapas and paella. Not bad.
The following day, we set off early to explore Port Olympic, further down from Port Vell, with a beach. There is really nothing much to see though and the beach isn't that great. The rest of the day was spent on a vineyard tour which cost €85 per person. Not sure if that is considered overcharged. We were driven into the countryside of Barcelona and made a stop at one of the vineyard as the guide wanted to explain some of the growing process involved. Don't think his explanation was that interesting. Then we headed to the wine factory to have lunch in the wine cellar (pretty cool) and to "make" our own bottle of cava. We were served five type of wines - white, red, rosey (?), cava and maskat (?). The food was terrific, served with a local potato pie (?), a myriad of iberian hams and some breads (something like bruschetta). I think we enjoyed the dessert the most, made of sweet, fresh peaches (grown from the host's farm) topped with some syrup.
Next, we moved on to the wine-making. Wasn't that difficult except for the uncorking part where we had to use our thumb to prevent the cava from spilling out. That's the cleansing process to get rid of the "mother". Nevertheless, it takes a lot of skill to be able to prevent minimal spillage and to repeat the process hundred/thousand times in a day. The day was ended with a shopping trip. Couldn't resist with all the sales going on...haha.
On the third day, we began the morning with a stop at the Arc de Triomf. Our initial plan was to be the early bird in the line to enter Picasso Museum. However, we were too early (there were hardly anyone around) and hence took a detour. By the time we got back to the museum (half an hour before opening), there was already a long line! Luckily, we were still considered early. Lucky still, it was the first sunday of the month and therefore, entry was free. The museum features some of Picasso's early work. An interesting attraction was his many interpretation of Las Meninas. Later, we took the furnicular and cable car up to Montjuic, a hill located near the centre of Barcelona. While there are many attractions up on the hill, our main purpose was to get a bird eye's view of the city (as usual). With some time (and money from the 10-trip train ticket) left, we headed to Parc Guell, the first of many of Gaudi's design which we were going to explore the following day. The walk from the station to the park proved to be a long one - about 1.5km and up the hill! But it was not wasted as the park proves to be one of a kind. We were greeted by the two gingerbread houses at the entrance. Inside were more interesting freatures such as a big lizard.
I think our theme for the fourth day was "Chasing Gaudi". Everything we saw on that day was designed by Gaudi, beginning with Sagrada Familia, followed by Casa Mila and completed by Casa Batllo. All his designs incorporate the nature theme. For example, the attic in Casa Mila is built to resemble the shape of a snake with it's spines serving as support for the roof. The view on the roof was even more interesting, surrounded by alien-looking chimneys! We did not go into Casa Batllo because of the steep entrance fee. Nevertheless, the exterior itself was worth the stop.
Dinner was a platter of seafood in a restaurant along the port. The spread was humongous. There was an overdose of mussels which we couldn't finish in the end. We also ordered a plate of paella in squid ink. Despite the blackish colour of the dish, it was oishii. I can't believe I ate it without knowing what's exactly inside.
While Barcelona did not appeal to me initially, towards the end, I am fascinated by it's creative occupants. Their form of arts are most peculiar, yet enchanting. I would love to have a Gaudi-styled home.
p/s: Love the photos taken by my friend.
Monday, 23 June 2008
Satisfaction is when...
After more than a week being stuck with a model, I finally solved the whole thing today. Not entirely by myself but with a few pointers here and there from some really smart people. The feeling upon solving the whole thing is indescribable. I guess this is just pure joy of having a burden lifted. Best part is getting congratulated by my supervisor at 12.20am after I sent him the solutions :)
I just want to remember this moment...
I just want to remember this moment...
Thursday, 19 June 2008
To catch a thief
Kitchen 117 had been invaded! At first, it was brushed off as a mistake by a member of their own. But now, via some sharing of info, they discovered the truth. There was a break-in. Among the things missing were a bar of kitkat, a bag of spinach and sausages from a pan of fried rice left on the counter.
SM: I think we should set up a bait.
PC: How to catch the person?
SM: Maybe we should put a "junk" wrapped in choc outfit and store inside the fridge.
PC: Right.
SM: I wonder why they stole LR's spinach but not my tomato...
PC: My bell peppers are still in the fridge too...
SM: So the question is what kind of person prefers spinach to tomato and bell pepper.
PC: The person also ate all the sausages from fah's fried rice which was lying on the counter.
SM: Right.
PC: And likes sweet things (kitkat bar)
SM: That's universal.
PC: Erm...ok
SM: The next question is if we do catch the thief, what do we do? Take photos?
PC: Hit him...real hard.
SM: You sure? Bout the hitting.
PC: I have an umbrella.
SM: Maybe we should yell loudly: thief! thief!
PC: I suppose...
SM: Or throw water?
PC: Good idea. I need a bucket.
At the same time...
FP: I think I am gonna leave some poison food outside.
JC: Good idea.
FP: I was really shocked. If they ate everything, it's alright. But they ate only the sausages!
JC: That is seriously shocking.
FP: I should have asked my friend to buy some laxatives pill from T***.
JC: Yeah, we can marinate your sausages in laxative pills.
PC: I am gonna keep my ears open from now on especially at night.
SM: Alright. I will keep an ear open as well. I don't mind since I sleep at 2am.
PC: I sleep at 1am. Maybe the thief comes at 3...
SM: ...
And so the member of kitchen 117 are on a mission now. To be continued...
SM: I think we should set up a bait.
PC: How to catch the person?
SM: Maybe we should put a "junk" wrapped in choc outfit and store inside the fridge.
PC: Right.
SM: I wonder why they stole LR's spinach but not my tomato...
PC: My bell peppers are still in the fridge too...
SM: So the question is what kind of person prefers spinach to tomato and bell pepper.
PC: The person also ate all the sausages from fah's fried rice which was lying on the counter.
SM: Right.
PC: And likes sweet things (kitkat bar)
SM: That's universal.
PC: Erm...ok
SM: The next question is if we do catch the thief, what do we do? Take photos?
PC: Hit him...real hard.
SM: You sure? Bout the hitting.
PC: I have an umbrella.
SM: Maybe we should yell loudly: thief! thief!
PC: I suppose...
SM: Or throw water?
PC: Good idea. I need a bucket.
At the same time...
FP: I think I am gonna leave some poison food outside.
JC: Good idea.
FP: I was really shocked. If they ate everything, it's alright. But they ate only the sausages!
JC: That is seriously shocking.
FP: I should have asked my friend to buy some laxatives pill from T***.
JC: Yeah, we can marinate your sausages in laxative pills.
PC: I am gonna keep my ears open from now on especially at night.
SM: Alright. I will keep an ear open as well. I don't mind since I sleep at 2am.
PC: I sleep at 1am. Maybe the thief comes at 3...
SM: ...
And so the member of kitchen 117 are on a mission now. To be continued...
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
First official personal meeting
Believe it or not, I went through most the papers I was supposed to go through for my first meeting with my supervisor only this morning. Around 5 hours before the appointed time. That's the level of my laziness now (I call it post-exam trauma). Luckily, I survived after following him round the dept in search of empty room for our next group meeting and having a cup of tea at his insistence in the staff lounge.
To get into business, I think I might finally have a dissertation title. Quite a departure from the original idea. Now he is looking for "intellectual sketch", whatever that means. So, my works for these next few days are to try to solve Shin's model of two assets (in which he said a copy will be given to Dr. Rocket-Science-with-monotonous-tone to have a look and I am to send him a copy of my answer, darn) and to come up with a plan for my proposal to be presented on Thursday. The main theme is to analyse the difference between two very different models between Shin's marking-to-market problem and Foster & Young's faking alpha model. My contribution could be to find the link or the evidence supportive of either one model to tip the balance.
So, let's start sketching intellectually!
To get into business, I think I might finally have a dissertation title. Quite a departure from the original idea. Now he is looking for "intellectual sketch", whatever that means. So, my works for these next few days are to try to solve Shin's model of two assets (in which he said a copy will be given to Dr. Rocket-Science-with-monotonous-tone to have a look and I am to send him a copy of my answer, darn) and to come up with a plan for my proposal to be presented on Thursday. The main theme is to analyse the difference between two very different models between Shin's marking-to-market problem and Foster & Young's faking alpha model. My contribution could be to find the link or the evidence supportive of either one model to tip the balance.
So, let's start sketching intellectually!
Saturday, 14 June 2008
Second meeting
Today is the second meeting of the consortium. 4 students presented their dissertation proposal. One of them came ready with presentation charts, complete with a model and results!!! At that moment, I feel that I should just sink into a hole and disappear. Too depressed with their apparent strong grasp of their subjects and their ability to modify models. Each of their stories seems to link together and weave into one final tale.
At the end of the presentations, me and 3 other students were asked to stay behind to have further discussion with our supervisor. He wanted us to come together to build a story of the credit crunch. He kept insisting on us working together. As a result of this, I am without a dissertation topic anymore. I wasn't sure how to move on with his continuous stream of new ideas. I need a certain topic by monday. Seriously...
Preliminary thoughts after listening to my prof and his argument with another student...
In Shin's model, moral hazard is not seen as a cause of the banking crisis, rather it's largely due to active balance sheet management. AH thinks that moral hazard is still part of the story because banks can gamble via SPV. What struck me is that we may be able to assume that banks were gambling without knowing it. There's a lot of talks bout the complexity of the structured financial assets that no one understands them. In the beginning, these sound like pretty good ideas for risk-sharing and most investors believed they had bought high quality assets given the perceived AAA ratings. So, it does sound as if no one was gambling if we agree to take this side of the argument. I am not sure how convincing the argument will be. Need to look into it further.
At the end of the presentations, me and 3 other students were asked to stay behind to have further discussion with our supervisor. He wanted us to come together to build a story of the credit crunch. He kept insisting on us working together. As a result of this, I am without a dissertation topic anymore. I wasn't sure how to move on with his continuous stream of new ideas. I need a certain topic by monday. Seriously...
Preliminary thoughts after listening to my prof and his argument with another student...
In Shin's model, moral hazard is not seen as a cause of the banking crisis, rather it's largely due to active balance sheet management. AH thinks that moral hazard is still part of the story because banks can gamble via SPV. What struck me is that we may be able to assume that banks were gambling without knowing it. There's a lot of talks bout the complexity of the structured financial assets that no one understands them. In the beginning, these sound like pretty good ideas for risk-sharing and most investors believed they had bought high quality assets given the perceived AAA ratings. So, it does sound as if no one was gambling if we agree to take this side of the argument. I am not sure how convincing the argument will be. Need to look into it further.
Friday, 13 June 2008
Punctuality
I used to think it's a Malaysian problem. Now I realise it's a global problem. Everybody comes late, regardless of the occasion; late for class, late for meeting, late for appointment, late for anything that you and I can name in this world.
Our final class was held yesterday. The business school organised a class photography session and stressed in the email, asking us to be punctual. Yet, after we had taken our photo, a small group of my coursemates started appearing and we were asked to stay on for a second round. I do not know what was the reason for their lateness. In KL, we can blame the traffic jam. In a campus university where most of us stay 10 minutes away from the piazza, what kind of creative excuses can anyone conjure up? I can probably think of a few:
1. I stepped on bird shit when I walked out and had to run back to my room to change to a new pair of shoes.
2. The wind was blowing too hard that it's stopping me from moving forward.
3. A group of ducks were crossing the road and I am afraid of them. Hence, I let them crossed first.
I am not saying I have never committed this offense before. I just wish to say that if ever you are late, you do not expect people to turn back time for you.
Our final class was held yesterday. The business school organised a class photography session and stressed in the email, asking us to be punctual. Yet, after we had taken our photo, a small group of my coursemates started appearing and we were asked to stay on for a second round. I do not know what was the reason for their lateness. In KL, we can blame the traffic jam. In a campus university where most of us stay 10 minutes away from the piazza, what kind of creative excuses can anyone conjure up? I can probably think of a few:
1. I stepped on bird shit when I walked out and had to run back to my room to change to a new pair of shoes.
2. The wind was blowing too hard that it's stopping me from moving forward.
3. A group of ducks were crossing the road and I am afraid of them. Hence, I let them crossed first.
I am not saying I have never committed this offense before. I just wish to say that if ever you are late, you do not expect people to turn back time for you.
Such an idiot
I can't believe I missed the last class of my course!!! I did not overslept. I merely thought the class was being held at the same hour when it was actually moved to the morning. My friends did wonder where I went when I did not turn up. Largely because, they knew I never miss a class no matter how boring it will be.
This does not mean I am free. I still have two more projects to hand in by end of the month and I have yet to decide which topics to do. I am definitely going along with CAPM (since I have wasted my printing quota on the papers). I was planning on doing ARCH effect in stock prices till I missed the class (that's the final class) for this chapter. I am doomed. But having said that, I am qualified for my MSc already even if I failed this paper. Rules said we are allowed to fail one paper. Of course if I can help it, I will try not fail any.
This does not mean I am free. I still have two more projects to hand in by end of the month and I have yet to decide which topics to do. I am definitely going along with CAPM (since I have wasted my printing quota on the papers). I was planning on doing ARCH effect in stock prices till I missed the class (that's the final class) for this chapter. I am doomed. But having said that, I am qualified for my MSc already even if I failed this paper. Rules said we are allowed to fail one paper. Of course if I can help it, I will try not fail any.
Tuesday, 10 June 2008
Reverse of the law of large numbers
I found this fascinating piece of news on FT today. Summarising the idea:
In general, the law of large numbers states that large sample size leads to convergence towards expected value. Reverse LLN, on the other hand, describes the reverse effect of LLN. In a market where there are many participants, herding behaviour reverses the LLN effect, moving the probability distribution away from normal towards the extreme tail end. Therefore, market views become unbalanced, tipping on either end of the extreme. This has implication on market prices, enabling prices to move away from equilibrium and hence, driving bubbles formation in the markets.
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/2005e96a-33f1-11dd-869b-0000779fd2ac,s01=1.html?nclick_check=1
In general, the law of large numbers states that large sample size leads to convergence towards expected value. Reverse LLN, on the other hand, describes the reverse effect of LLN. In a market where there are many participants, herding behaviour reverses the LLN effect, moving the probability distribution away from normal towards the extreme tail end. Therefore, market views become unbalanced, tipping on either end of the extreme. This has implication on market prices, enabling prices to move away from equilibrium and hence, driving bubbles formation in the markets.
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/2005e96a-33f1-11dd-869b-0000779fd2ac,s01=1.html?nclick_check=1
Sunday, 8 June 2008
Mwy nag a welwch...
Ringggg....my alarm went off. A thought crossed my mind. What if I text my friends now to tell them I have decided to skip the trip to Llandudno because I am too lazy to wake up? Didn't take me long to conclude that I do not want to waste the GBP12 I paid for the trip. The next thing I know, I was already on the way to Llandudno, the name of a place in Wales which I can't quite pronounce.
Wales greeted us with its stunning view of houses perched on top of mountains, a mine and a castle hidden among the trees. LLandudno offered us a nice, pure traditional town by the rocky seaside, the very epitome of timeless beauty. According to the owner of a souvenir shop (where I bought a cute little fishing boat magnet), the town has not changed since she was a little girl. That is really a long long time ago.
We began our journey by looking for a place to lunch and found a simple-looking restaurant offering fish and chips. Actually most of the shops there (except KFC) sell fish and chips. Next, we headed to the beautiful seaside to stroll along the rocky beach on the North Shore. Sea larks were everywhere. It was a joy to hear them calling out every now and then. Part of our mission of the day was to capture a proper photo of the sea lark. I have to confess that it's my first encounter with them.
After making a stop at the pier, we went up to Happy Valley to catch the cable car to the Great Orme (679 feet). The Llandudno cable car is the longest passenger cable car system in Britain, which is about 2 miles. The ride costs GBP6.50 for return and GBP6 for a single journey. The ride was nothing like the ride up Genting Highlands i.e. not scary. As our cable car glided up smoothly to the summit, we had the most amazing view of Llandudno, covering both the North and West Shore. Our photos will never be able to do justice to the view we saw nor explain my feeling at that point in time.
We continued to be amazed by the breath-taking view of this little resort town upon reaching the summit of the Great Orme. Had we had the time, we could have spent the day, lying on the big field, enjoying nature or take a hike down the mountain. But time was a luxury. By 3.40pm, we had to leave the summit. On our way down, we spotted some of the feral Kashmir goats, enjoying themselves under the bright, sunny day, chewing grasses. They were such pretty creatures.
The last few hours were spent on looking for souvenir shops and walking by the seaside once more. By then, the sun was glaring at us, making it difficult to take photos properly. We were glad we spent the best part of the day on the Great Orme and not in the castle. One regret was missing out the chance to see the West Shore where Alice Liddell's family own a house in the 1860's. There's still so much we wanted to do that we began looking at the prices of hotel. Thus far, we found mainly GBP30 per night per person for B&B.
If there's one place I am willing to depart with a coin to ensure my return, Llandudno will be it.
More than meets the eye...
Wales greeted us with its stunning view of houses perched on top of mountains, a mine and a castle hidden among the trees. LLandudno offered us a nice, pure traditional town by the rocky seaside, the very epitome of timeless beauty. According to the owner of a souvenir shop (where I bought a cute little fishing boat magnet), the town has not changed since she was a little girl. That is really a long long time ago.
We began our journey by looking for a place to lunch and found a simple-looking restaurant offering fish and chips. Actually most of the shops there (except KFC) sell fish and chips. Next, we headed to the beautiful seaside to stroll along the rocky beach on the North Shore. Sea larks were everywhere. It was a joy to hear them calling out every now and then. Part of our mission of the day was to capture a proper photo of the sea lark. I have to confess that it's my first encounter with them.
After making a stop at the pier, we went up to Happy Valley to catch the cable car to the Great Orme (679 feet). The Llandudno cable car is the longest passenger cable car system in Britain, which is about 2 miles. The ride costs GBP6.50 for return and GBP6 for a single journey. The ride was nothing like the ride up Genting Highlands i.e. not scary. As our cable car glided up smoothly to the summit, we had the most amazing view of Llandudno, covering both the North and West Shore. Our photos will never be able to do justice to the view we saw nor explain my feeling at that point in time.
We continued to be amazed by the breath-taking view of this little resort town upon reaching the summit of the Great Orme. Had we had the time, we could have spent the day, lying on the big field, enjoying nature or take a hike down the mountain. But time was a luxury. By 3.40pm, we had to leave the summit. On our way down, we spotted some of the feral Kashmir goats, enjoying themselves under the bright, sunny day, chewing grasses. They were such pretty creatures.
The last few hours were spent on looking for souvenir shops and walking by the seaside once more. By then, the sun was glaring at us, making it difficult to take photos properly. We were glad we spent the best part of the day on the Great Orme and not in the castle. One regret was missing out the chance to see the West Shore where Alice Liddell's family own a house in the 1860's. There's still so much we wanted to do that we began looking at the prices of hotel. Thus far, we found mainly GBP30 per night per person for B&B.
If there's one place I am willing to depart with a coin to ensure my return, Llandudno will be it.
More than meets the eye...
Friday, 6 June 2008
First meeting
As soon as my lecture ended, I ran or rather walked hastily to the social science building. My first meeting with my supervisor was starting at 4pm and according to the email from him, he can't postpone the session any longer as he had already did it once to accommodate the business school students. Upon arrival, he had just started handing out some forms for the students to fill in. There are more than 10 students in the room. I looked for a seat. He saw me and gestured me to the front row. Great.
He began the session by explaining to us the 3 big grouping of all our dissertation topics. Each of us was assigned to one of the supervisors who formed the consortium of three. "We want your help", he said. The meetings were designed to help one another, between students and supervisors and among students. We were encouraged to hold our own group discussion. I like that idea.
So, yesterday, he just went round the table asking each student to brief the group on his/her ideas. The ideas range from global macro to credit crunch to the oil market. When it came to my turn, I couldn't believe my own nervousness as if I wasn't prepared even though I had mindmaps and slides ready to be distributed. In the end, I did not distribute any as I was caught by surprise. Initially he said only students who had discussed with him will be speaking. Hence, I thought I won't need to say anything this round. I was wrong. Nevertheless, it was helpful to let him know my plan, allowing him to suggest papers to check out and to speak to another student working on similar topic.
For the next meeting, 3 students will be allocated 20 - 25 minutes each to present their ideas to the whole class. I am not one of the first three yet. Phew.
He began the session by explaining to us the 3 big grouping of all our dissertation topics. Each of us was assigned to one of the supervisors who formed the consortium of three. "We want your help", he said. The meetings were designed to help one another, between students and supervisors and among students. We were encouraged to hold our own group discussion. I like that idea.
So, yesterday, he just went round the table asking each student to brief the group on his/her ideas. The ideas range from global macro to credit crunch to the oil market. When it came to my turn, I couldn't believe my own nervousness as if I wasn't prepared even though I had mindmaps and slides ready to be distributed. In the end, I did not distribute any as I was caught by surprise. Initially he said only students who had discussed with him will be speaking. Hence, I thought I won't need to say anything this round. I was wrong. Nevertheless, it was helpful to let him know my plan, allowing him to suggest papers to check out and to speak to another student working on similar topic.
For the next meeting, 3 students will be allocated 20 - 25 minutes each to present their ideas to the whole class. I am not one of the first three yet. Phew.
Friday, 30 May 2008
No more salmon
When I went to tesco to get my groceries today, I found that the salmon price reduction had ended. So no more salmons for me till the next sale :(
On another note, price of milk went up by 5.3% to GBP0.80 (the last time I bought milk was mid-May). Meanwhile, 2 kg rice went up in price by 25% to GBP4.99. That's a massive increase. I am pretty sure the little asian shop in Cannon Park is maximixing it's monopoly position by "stealing" from students. And their failure to provide price tags for all the items on sale annoys me even more. I thought UK is pretty strict bout these things but I am so wrong.
On another note, price of milk went up by 5.3% to GBP0.80 (the last time I bought milk was mid-May). Meanwhile, 2 kg rice went up in price by 25% to GBP4.99. That's a massive increase. I am pretty sure the little asian shop in Cannon Park is maximixing it's monopoly position by "stealing" from students. And their failure to provide price tags for all the items on sale annoys me even more. I thought UK is pretty strict bout these things but I am so wrong.
Thursday, 22 May 2008
Steam fish
8 months later, I tried steam fish for the first time in UK. All I did was put the fish into the bowl, add some soy sauce and oil. Then I figured that I can't be bothered with cooking vegetables and ended up dumping the mushrooms in. And then, I needed to use up my tomato which was showing signs of expiring. Left the whole thing in a steamer for about 30 minutes and it's done. I think I could actually reduce the time since salmon can be eaten raw. Heavenly...
Friday, 16 May 2008
Post-exam pre-final celebration
I have been wondering how it feels to be finally completing the whole examination process. Will I be elated? How will I react upon stepping out of the exam hall?
6 weeks had gone by since I began my exam prep. 6 long weeks, trapped within the four walls of my room, only to step out occasionally for survival and to fulfil my destiny (i.e. sit for the exam). I don't think many people can understand how painful and demotivating those times were. Many times, one began to question one's existence and purpose. But with each exam paper being completed, the painful journey became shorter. Yet, the agony continued to increase further. Towards the end, the spirit had already reached a new low. It was getting more and more difficult to memorise anything. Looking back, I couldn't understand now how I manage to cram in all those stuffs or how I can remember numerous equations and pages and pages of essays.
Day in, day out, I stuck to the same routine, 24/7. Sleep at 2am. Sometimes 3am. Wake up before 9am. Try to study each day with properly set out targets though I seldom meet my target of course.
The final paper had to be the most depressing paper I have taken throughout the whole process. Had the paper been held from the very beginning, my spirit will be destroyed to bits and there will be no more hope for the rest. It was not like I didn't read for it. I have been reading those stuffs at least thrice. Given more time, I still wouldn't be able to do it. So, what went wrong? Till now, I cannot figure it out. But it's over. That's a fact which I cannot change. I only hope that what I wrote did actually made sense despite not being sure of the final answer. Oh, and I had a paper cut on my wrist. That must have been a sign...
Unhappiness aside, having completed the final paper, a burden was lifted. Suddenly I found myself with time again in hand. Time to do proper, normal human things. Like shopping for grocery, taking a walk, lunching with friends etc. However, at that very moment, my whole body began to ache. I have been telling myself that I cannot fall sick during the exam period and it cooperated. Now, it's telling me I have to stop the strainous activity. Yet, here I am writing at 2am in the morning. Staying up late had became a habit which I will get rid of soon. Tomorrow.
And now some nice post-exam pictures. I know...it's always about food with me. I dunno why.
Gammon steak, Salmon
Lamb kebab
6 weeks had gone by since I began my exam prep. 6 long weeks, trapped within the four walls of my room, only to step out occasionally for survival and to fulfil my destiny (i.e. sit for the exam). I don't think many people can understand how painful and demotivating those times were. Many times, one began to question one's existence and purpose. But with each exam paper being completed, the painful journey became shorter. Yet, the agony continued to increase further. Towards the end, the spirit had already reached a new low. It was getting more and more difficult to memorise anything. Looking back, I couldn't understand now how I manage to cram in all those stuffs or how I can remember numerous equations and pages and pages of essays.
Day in, day out, I stuck to the same routine, 24/7. Sleep at 2am. Sometimes 3am. Wake up before 9am. Try to study each day with properly set out targets though I seldom meet my target of course.
The final paper had to be the most depressing paper I have taken throughout the whole process. Had the paper been held from the very beginning, my spirit will be destroyed to bits and there will be no more hope for the rest. It was not like I didn't read for it. I have been reading those stuffs at least thrice. Given more time, I still wouldn't be able to do it. So, what went wrong? Till now, I cannot figure it out. But it's over. That's a fact which I cannot change. I only hope that what I wrote did actually made sense despite not being sure of the final answer. Oh, and I had a paper cut on my wrist. That must have been a sign...
Unhappiness aside, having completed the final paper, a burden was lifted. Suddenly I found myself with time again in hand. Time to do proper, normal human things. Like shopping for grocery, taking a walk, lunching with friends etc. However, at that very moment, my whole body began to ache. I have been telling myself that I cannot fall sick during the exam period and it cooperated. Now, it's telling me I have to stop the strainous activity. Yet, here I am writing at 2am in the morning. Staying up late had became a habit which I will get rid of soon. Tomorrow.
And now some nice post-exam pictures. I know...it's always about food with me. I dunno why.
Gammon steak, Salmon
Lamb kebab
Tuesday, 13 May 2008
A moment to ponder
It's been more than a month now since I started preparing for my exam. When was that? 4 April to be exact. The day I came back from London. The preparation has stretched so long that I am reaching my point of saturation. It doesn't help to see more and more of my friends who started the exam at the same time or some who started later, completing the whole process and are moving on with their life. Most of the postgraduates I know are in the final stage of the masters i.e. writing a dissertation. They have their titles in place, met their supervisors and did the presentation. While I am only beginning the process when the exam is over (it's still not over by the way).
At the same time, my course requires us to attend one more module which is "Research Technique in Finance". Nothing can be even more depressing than getting the email from the professor in the middle of the exam period, providing us with reading lists for the first two lectures, together with his lecture slides and the course outline which states that we have to complete two projects by 30 June, with around 3,000 words each! I finally understand why my dissertation length is shorter than most people. I did not get a better deal at all in this case.
Despite my unhappiness with the intensity of the course (I believe they are attempting to cramp too much in a one year program), I am glad that these 8 months had been a very fruitful time. Although I struggled day by day, I knew that not a moment was left idle for me to engage in empty activities. Time had become something really precious that every second counts. I have never had so much fun in learning, discovering new things every day or suddenly understanding a diagram my professor had drawn 45 minutes before the exam.
Lesson of the day: If you stare at something long enough or you keep reading the same material over and over again, you are bound to learn something new.
That's exactly what I am going to do for my final paper on Thursday.
At the same time, my course requires us to attend one more module which is "Research Technique in Finance". Nothing can be even more depressing than getting the email from the professor in the middle of the exam period, providing us with reading lists for the first two lectures, together with his lecture slides and the course outline which states that we have to complete two projects by 30 June, with around 3,000 words each! I finally understand why my dissertation length is shorter than most people. I did not get a better deal at all in this case.
Despite my unhappiness with the intensity of the course (I believe they are attempting to cramp too much in a one year program), I am glad that these 8 months had been a very fruitful time. Although I struggled day by day, I knew that not a moment was left idle for me to engage in empty activities. Time had become something really precious that every second counts. I have never had so much fun in learning, discovering new things every day or suddenly understanding a diagram my professor had drawn 45 minutes before the exam.
Lesson of the day: If you stare at something long enough or you keep reading the same material over and over again, you are bound to learn something new.
That's exactly what I am going to do for my final paper on Thursday.
Monday, 12 May 2008
Post-exam plan!
A list of things I wanna do immediately after exam:
1. Have a Japanese-theme dinner party
2. Picnic by the lake in Kenilworth
3. Have a long walk on the field behind HB
4. Fox and deer-watching
5. Take photos of ugly ducklings before they disappear
6. Shopping for summer clothes
And finally, prepare for dissertation (yeah right!)
1. Have a Japanese-theme dinner party
2. Picnic by the lake in Kenilworth
3. Have a long walk on the field behind HB
4. Fox and deer-watching
5. Take photos of ugly ducklings before they disappear
6. Shopping for summer clothes
And finally, prepare for dissertation (yeah right!)
Friday, 9 May 2008
"Unofficial ritual"
It's official. Driving out for a good dinner after a long tough exam has become our unofficial ritual to treat ourselves for the hardship we went through. Well...it's only our second time. The first time was after IFM in which we drove out to Kenilworth, looking for a nice pub for dinner. The second time was yesterday when we drove out to Coventry to have some persian food. Now we are ready for a third outing, immediately after the final paper on 15 May.
These outings represent the only time I can get away from my room for more than a km. For 7 days, the furthest I had been away from my room was the kitchen which is a door away. I shall repeat this same pattern for the next 4 days and I am certainly not looking forward to it. This will also mean I have not been grocery shopping for more than 2 weeks. How did I survive? Mainly on frozen food and instant noodles. In between, I found some angels, who offers me fresh cooked food and who buys me grocery. I am truly grateful for their help. Without them, I would not have the energy to carry on. Mom must have been praying real hard for someone to ensure that her daughter does not return thinner than she was.
If working is hazardous, try doing a master.
These outings represent the only time I can get away from my room for more than a km. For 7 days, the furthest I had been away from my room was the kitchen which is a door away. I shall repeat this same pattern for the next 4 days and I am certainly not looking forward to it. This will also mean I have not been grocery shopping for more than 2 weeks. How did I survive? Mainly on frozen food and instant noodles. In between, I found some angels, who offers me fresh cooked food and who buys me grocery. I am truly grateful for their help. Without them, I would not have the energy to carry on. Mom must have been praying real hard for someone to ensure that her daughter does not return thinner than she was.
If working is hazardous, try doing a master.
Friday, 2 May 2008
A spoonful of coffee
Music: Spoonful of coffee helps to keep you up all night. To keep you up all night. Keep you up all night...
Tiramisu making-process
Left: Preparing the coffee using an Italian coffe-making "machine"
Right: The breads (not really "savoiardi")
Left: Arranging breads soaked in coffee into the tray
Right: Pouring the cream (made of mascarpone cream, sugar, eggs)
Sprinkling cocoa powder onto the tiramisu as a final touch. Keep in fridge.
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
Halfway thru the nightmare!
Today, I have officially completed all my papers for the finance side after having nightmares bout it! Well, no, I didn't dream of being chased by exam papers, or failing every single tests or arriving late or any kinds of nightmares related to exam that I can think of. It's just an expression to say I have been under tremendous stress. I can't remember CFA being this difficult. Burning the midnight oil...fill up my room with notes all over...my friend was shocked when she came by yesterday...she thought I have gone crazy...of coz I am still sane...else, I won't be writing now.
Next paper will be on 8 May. Econometrics which i haven't touch at all. I thought I have been having a bad time with the exam but now I am consoled having found out that students from FM had to finished 6 papers in a week. I think that's crazy and am blessed not to have chosen that course.
Time for some relaxation before the next round of battle....
Next paper will be on 8 May. Econometrics which i haven't touch at all. I thought I have been having a bad time with the exam but now I am consoled having found out that students from FM had to finished 6 papers in a week. I think that's crazy and am blessed not to have chosen that course.
Time for some relaxation before the next round of battle....
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
New look
Today is the start of my final exam. Two subjects compressed into one 3-hour paper, to answer 6 questions. A total of 20 weeks worth of lecture. I think it's crazy. I cannot understand the rationale for compressing two subjects in one paper especially given that there's minimal link between these two subjects.
The intensity has led me to re-decorate my room. Yes, re-decorate.
The intensity has led me to re-decorate my room. Yes, re-decorate.
Monday, 21 April 2008
Panic!
I began to panic yesterday when I realised I had misunderstood an exam question while preparing a sample answer for it. Today, I am seriously panicking when I looked at past papers on macroeconomics! I thought it should be relatively easy since I had done a round of studying for it before the Easter break. But I am soooo soooooo wrong. I can't answer the question at all!!! What's wrong??? I need to calm down...deep breath...inhale, exchale...need to clear my mind...
Thursday, 17 April 2008
Kimchi fried rice
My modified recipe (more like simplified) for kimchi fried rice:
First, stir-fry some diced onions in oil. Then add in the kimchi. Stir-fry for awhile. After that, remove the kimchi from the pan and put in the rice. Add egg. Fry the rice till the egg is well mixed with the rice. Finally, add back the kimchi and fry for a while more. The kimchi fried rice is ready to be served :)
First, stir-fry some diced onions in oil. Then add in the kimchi. Stir-fry for awhile. After that, remove the kimchi from the pan and put in the rice. Add egg. Fry the rice till the egg is well mixed with the rice. Finally, add back the kimchi and fry for a while more. The kimchi fried rice is ready to be served :)
Tuesday, 15 April 2008
My first kimchi soup
Running low on fresh food. Hence, had to open my bag of kimchi. Found a recipe from internet. Check it out:
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 teaspoon Korean sesame oil 1 cup cabbage pickle (Kimchi) 1 garlic clove, crushed
1/4 pound boneless pork, sliced thin 3 cups water 1 scallion, cut into 3-inch pieces
1 firm chinese soybean curd, cut into 9 cubes 6-8 small clams, optional but recommended
1 Put the sesame oil in a saucepan and stir-fry the kimchi over moderate heat for 1/2 minute. Add the garlic and pork and continue to fry as the meat changes color.
2 Now add the water, bring to a boil, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the scallion, bean curd, and clams if used, and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes more.
3 Serve warm with rice.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Amor.iQn08olH_u8z5nTvZR56xR.;_ylv=3?qid=20080212121130AAMhTaA
Result: Love it. Although it's not as spicy as I hope it would be. Probably I put too much water as I did not follow the recipe closely. Pardon the soup in the rice as I was too lazy to use extra bowl as it will mean I need to wash another bowl :P
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 teaspoon Korean sesame oil 1 cup cabbage pickle (Kimchi) 1 garlic clove, crushed
1/4 pound boneless pork, sliced thin 3 cups water 1 scallion, cut into 3-inch pieces
1 firm chinese soybean curd, cut into 9 cubes 6-8 small clams, optional but recommended
1 Put the sesame oil in a saucepan and stir-fry the kimchi over moderate heat for 1/2 minute. Add the garlic and pork and continue to fry as the meat changes color.
2 Now add the water, bring to a boil, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the scallion, bean curd, and clams if used, and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes more.
3 Serve warm with rice.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Amor.iQn08olH_u8z5nTvZR56xR.;_ylv=3?qid=20080212121130AAMhTaA
Result: Love it. Although it's not as spicy as I hope it would be. Probably I put too much water as I did not follow the recipe closely. Pardon the soup in the rice as I was too lazy to use extra bowl as it will mean I need to wash another bowl :P
Saturday, 12 April 2008
A tub of Ben and Jerry
It was on sale again! But not as good as the last one. Still...it's a good bargain. I checked the RRP. It's GBP4.39 now! That's a 10% inflation from the price I last saw in the beginning of the year at GBP3.99. My friend said it could be a gimmick to give the illusion of higher discount. I wonder what's the true explanation. Will know once the sale is off. I managed to finish a whole 500ml tub of Bohemian Raspberry. This was rather unexpected as I was not meant to step out from my flat for two weeks.
Sunday, 6 April 2008
Snow and curry
It snowed again early this morning. I was awaken by the ringing from my handphone. It was my flatmate, telling me to look out the window. I checked the clock. It was 3am. I dragged myself out from bed, still half-asleep and true enough, the snow was falling rather heavily. By that time, there's probably an inch or more on the ground. Someone was out there having some fun. I grabbed my camera and started recording but it was too dark to see anything.
About half an hour ago, I saw specks of snow again. Unfortunately, this time, it stayed for only 5 minutes before the sun started shining brightly again. According to weather forecast, we will be getting snow again tonight. I thought it's spring now. If I am a flower, I will be so confused by the weather. Did I spring up from my slumber too early?
Got inspired by a friend to cook curry today. It's only my second try in my 7 months here. Turned out pretty well I must say though it's not hot enough.
Moving clouds
I just spent more than a minute watching the clouds moved by. Is it just my imagination or clouds do move faster here? If these thick, grey clouds stayed for awhile, the weather forecast might be right - that we will be getting sleet showers tonight and hopefully snow tomorrow. But tonight is still not here yet as the sky is still bright out there eventhough it's already 7.30pm. Quite a contrast from the beginning of the year when I had to walk back from class in the dark at 5 plus. How I dread those days.
Wednesday, 2 April 2008
Murano in Venice, Food in Florence and Culture in Rome
8 hours later, we returned to our comfort zone...The past 10 days had been extremely hectic but not without it's worth.
Chasing the sunset in Venezia
Our arrival in Venice was greeted by a sight almost reminiscent of Penang. Fear not as the view within the island was actually too charming for words. Knowing that most first-timers will get lost in Venice even with a map, we set out to search for our hostel, hoping that we can find it quickly to waste no time of catching a proper sight of the city. And we were lucky. The hostel was family-run with an extremely beautiful interior design. Having dropped off our luggages, we went to the owner to get direction on places of interest only to be told not to ask for road names as the road names changes every few steps. No wonder people get lost.
We spent most of our time walking around, locating important landmarks, finding the perfect murano gifts and chasing the sunset. The weather was quite a let-down as there seemed to be more gloom than sunshine. Nevertheless, the chase for murano glass gave us most of the fun. I believe we visited at least half of the murano glass shop in Venice. The best part was me passing the same store thrice. The first time, having spotted some EUR0.21 postcards, I decided to wait before making my purchase. The second time was to buy the postcard and the last time was to get some murano glass jewellery. We never got onto any gondola due to its price tag (EUR80 for an hour ride). That was a big too much.
Unimpressed in Firenze
We got lost in Florence!!! Only because we were given a useless map. In the end, we had to turn back to the train station to purchase a map (the next day we discovered that we were cheated as we could have gotten a free map from one of the tourism office nearby some attractions).
2. Old Italian men are so impatient. In Venice, we were looking at some murano glass plates and the owner came out to tell us to hurry as he doesn't have all day (it was only 11 plus in the morning!). In Florence, the waiter in Marione tried to hurry us too. Geez. Went into a tabachi to ask for direction only to be chased away by the owner when he found that we are not interested in buying anything.
3. Entry to toilets are expensive! In Venice, we have a choice to buy a Venice card which allows us to get discounts for certain attractions, unlimited ride for the water taxi and best of all TWO toilet entry per day. We opted to walk back to our motel during midday as we stayed on the island.
While there's more attractions here, the place is not as tourist-, student-, and foreigner-friendly as in Germany. If I ever go back, it will be to Venice for its small town charm and generally nicer people and also back to Mercato Centrale in Florence for the super amazing food.
Chasing the sunset in Venezia
Our arrival in Venice was greeted by a sight almost reminiscent of Penang. Fear not as the view within the island was actually too charming for words. Knowing that most first-timers will get lost in Venice even with a map, we set out to search for our hostel, hoping that we can find it quickly to waste no time of catching a proper sight of the city. And we were lucky. The hostel was family-run with an extremely beautiful interior design. Having dropped off our luggages, we went to the owner to get direction on places of interest only to be told not to ask for road names as the road names changes every few steps. No wonder people get lost.
We spent most of our time walking around, locating important landmarks, finding the perfect murano gifts and chasing the sunset. The weather was quite a let-down as there seemed to be more gloom than sunshine. Nevertheless, the chase for murano glass gave us most of the fun. I believe we visited at least half of the murano glass shop in Venice. The best part was me passing the same store thrice. The first time, having spotted some EUR0.21 postcards, I decided to wait before making my purchase. The second time was to buy the postcard and the last time was to get some murano glass jewellery. We never got onto any gondola due to its price tag (EUR80 for an hour ride). That was a big too much.
Unimpressed in Firenze
We got lost in Florence!!! Only because we were given a useless map. In the end, we had to turn back to the train station to purchase a map (the next day we discovered that we were cheated as we could have gotten a free map from one of the tourism office nearby some attractions).
Our sunset chase in Venice continued in Florence. This time, the weather was better. However, the wait on top of the bell tower was just crazy and my friend, being so engrossed in capturing the perfect sunset moment, forgot to enjoy the moment itself.
On the very next day, we met the famous David for the first time after lining up for half an hour. He was magnificent. Such a huge sculptor. For the next few hours of the day, we met David (a copy) again in a piazza and later a green David at the Piazale Michaelangelo. But the first David is the grandest among them all.
The best thing ever happened to us in Florence was the food. First was the stop for dinner in Marione (via della spada). Our original plan was to eat in the highly-recommended Il Latini. However, upon arrival, we found a whole group of people waiting for the restaurant to open. That's how famous the restaurant is. Due to our hunger and also the slightly more expensive price tag, we decided to eat in the other recommendation, Marione which turns out to be amazing. First, we shared a plate of pecorino with pink mustard which had a fruity taste. Our next course was ribollita, a local soup which was amazing (I can't describe the taste but it remains in my mind). Finally, we were served the juicy, crispy house special bistecca, Florentine-style beef steak. It was totally worth the price we had to pay.
This dinner cost us most of our allowances for the rest of the trip that we had to survive on free breakfast from the hostel and cheap dinner also from the hostel everyday. No lunch. But it wasn't that bad. For the morning breakfast, we were given a choice to pick from a range of set menu ranging from french toast to scrambled eggs and toast to croissant. On top of that, we get buffet consisting of pasta, fruits, cakes, chips, salads and biscuits. The most wonderful breakfast I had for the entire trip. For dinner, we opted for the super menu consisting of pasta, pollo arrosto and a dessert for EUR6. It was rather surprising to have such delicious food coming from a cheap youth hostel. 
On our final day in Florence, we finally managed to find a lampredotto stall (largely because we spotted a sign saying roti perut lembu. I was wondering how I suddenly managed to understand those words. anyway...). We ordered one to be shared and it turned out to be one of the most amazing roti perut lembu I have ever tried (actually the only one I have ever tried). Cost us EUR3. Why are we being so cheapo? That was because we just spent almost our entire allowance on food again when we stumbled upon a market selling local specialties. The owner from a stall named perrini was such a great salesman. He kept stuffing us with free samples till we couldn't resist from falling into his trap and ended up with pecorino and fruity mustard. Further strolling took us into some pasta shop with us emerging out with pasta sauce and italian monument pasta.
Free in Roma
Rome was...huge and uphill with lotsa people and dangerous drivers. We checked into Alessandro Downtown which is on facebook and situated in an area with lotsa asian shops. We thought we were in chinatown. Our first stop in Rome was the Spanish steps which was hardly visible amid the sea of humans. That was rather disappointing. The same phenomena was spotted at the Fontana di Trevi. There were just TOO MANY tourists in Rome, tainting our first impression of Rome. Luckily, our trip turned out better later when we found out from our roommate that due to the cultural week, we could go into any museums for free!!! It was then we realised our free entry into Galleria dell'Accademia was not because we were early. So, our mission for the next few days was to hop on, hop off any museums (including the Coliseum) along our way.
On sunday, following the daylight saving thing, we overslept and arrived pretty late at the Vatican City, causing us 1 1/2 hours wait before we could enter. Nevertheless, the trip was another saving as entry is free every last sunday of the month. The place is really huge as we had to walk past many rooms before finally reaching the Sistine Chapel to see Michaelangelo's great painting. By about 1.30pm, we were done and ready to leave when I felt a sudden urge to grab a postcard and send back home. It felt like once in a lifetime chance at that moment to get something sent from within the city. And the guard was kind enough to let me in even though they had already put up a barrier to prevent entry into the post office. I conclude that people from the Vatican City are very nice (also from experience on the following day).
Monday was our final day to roam around Rome and we just did a bit of walking as we overwalked the previous day. The main itinerary was to see St Peter Basilica. It was also the final day of the cultural week which started on 25 May. We ended the day early to take proper rest before our long journey back to London on April's Fools. Also, to wait for the free pasta party offered by the hostel i.e. rock bun (known as rosetta) and overcooked pasta.
Wrapping up
There's been ups and downs on our trip to Italy. Some general observations:
2. Old Italian men are so impatient. In Venice, we were looking at some murano glass plates and the owner came out to tell us to hurry as he doesn't have all day (it was only 11 plus in the morning!). In Florence, the waiter in Marione tried to hurry us too. Geez. Went into a tabachi to ask for direction only to be chased away by the owner when he found that we are not interested in buying anything.
3. Entry to toilets are expensive! In Venice, we have a choice to buy a Venice card which allows us to get discounts for certain attractions, unlimited ride for the water taxi and best of all TWO toilet entry per day. We opted to walk back to our motel during midday as we stayed on the island.
While there's more attractions here, the place is not as tourist-, student-, and foreigner-friendly as in Germany. If I ever go back, it will be to Venice for its small town charm and generally nicer people and also back to Mercato Centrale in Florence for the super amazing food.
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