Sunday 28th November
Checked out from the Best Western Victor Hugo Hotel, brought my final Parisian souviners, had lunch at one of the restaurants in Champs Elysees then headed to the Charles de Gaulle Etoile Metro Station to transfer to Gare du Nord. Caught one of the bullet trains from Paris to Lille, a city in the north of France. It was only a 1 hour train ride, which felt like a 30 minute ride (well duh it's a bullet train, it zoom, zoom, zooms!) The train arrived at Lille-Europe Station...."Viv - Welcome to Lille!" Waited outside for Céline and Seb to pick us up. Whoa, for a girl who is accostumed to warmer temperature, it was like a temperature shock to be in a place which was 2°c and windy...BRRR! When it is cold, it is okay-ish, but when its windy, it is icy cold. I think since I touched down in Paris, I have lost count on how many times I habe said F"_- it's cold!
Céline and her husband qarrived and picked us up and a 30 minute or so drive from the station their parent's place in a small town. Unpacked our gear and settled down in the kitchen chatting for a while and then they left. Rémy and I rested for a while and then got ready to head to Céline and Seb's place for drinks, watching football, chatting with them and then later on their parents arrived to visit before heading back home. Rémy and I stayed a little bit more and then just before midnight went back home.
Le Ch'tis as seen in the French movie Welcome to the Sticks, Céline; Seb and Rémy told me some ch'tisque that I may see or hear during my stay here in the north of France. The movie was based round the area, a little further than Lille, but I guess it covers part of Lille. Making me intrigued about the Ch'tis.
Monday 29th November
A cold Monday and while Rémy went off to uni mid-morning, I had a very lazy Monday morning. It was cold and some snow outside, tucked myself back to bed on facebook (of course) and watching French programmes, even dubbed American soap opera Days of our Lives. Trying to grasps some words or even try to understand, however I only managed to hear verbs I recognised (d'oh!) Towards the evening had lovely dinner and then went to Rémy's sisters place to watch Barcelona vs. Real Madrid. OMG.... I haven't seen so much close up of Cristiano Ronaldo, since the FIFA 2010 World Cup! Had to laugh at Real Madrid's goalkeeper and Captain Iker Casillas because he was so pissed off that his team was losing. So the score was 5 - 0, Barcelona won. During the game things were heating up as some kind of punch up with the players from both team and then on another part, Ronaldo pushing one of the men in the opposing team (Barcelona)....I think he got a yellow card for that. After the game chatted and drank somemore and just before 1am left their place and headed back home.
Tuesday 30th November
Still fighting off my friggen jetlag, stayed at home while Rémy went to class till 5pm. Nothing, just ate, showered, watched télé, facebook then ZZZZzzzzzz... . Oh and inbetween stared outside the window seeing the snow topped fields....ZZZzzzzzz!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Pretty Paris
Saturday 27th November
Our second last day in Pretty Paris. We missed out on our petit dejuner because we got up late. We got ready and just headed straight to Avenue des Champs Elysees, through to the marchés there and had our vin chaud and I had my crepe with sugar while Rémy had his waffle.We looked at some things in the marché de noel before heading out to the Place de la Concorde and through to the Jardin des Tuileries. I could imagine how life could have been in the 1800s; walking through this huge garden just before the Lourve (or is it the Louvre? I still get it muddled up).
The Louvre
An enormous place, where I cannot imagine how King Louis or Napoleon can live in there! Its HUGE!!!! Its as if they have combined the Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital together side by side! Now that's huge! The famous glass pyramids at the front of the Louvre (yes another photo opportunity) and then went downstairs to enter the Museum. Rémy and I did not cover all the places inside the Louvre, you have to have at least 2 or 3 days to be dedicated in walking through all the artwork with your trusty walkman - talking you through all the artworks either in Japanese, Spanish, Russian, or Arabic, just to name a few. We only covered a small part and only got to see the world famous Leonardo De Vinci's Mona Lisa. Small, yet a dozen of people stand from afar to catch a glimpse of it. (Yes I was *add sarcasm* so interested!)... . Just like every other tourist, took a photo of it. The paintings of certain people or just paintings of certain events qre magnificent. It is amazing in those days, people have a lot of talent. When it comes to portraits they paintings are real and the colours, shadings oh gosh I sound like a critic! A few paintings are large and I always wonder how artists back then had the patience and dedication to finish a piece of artwork. Some have been painted over 3 years or more. WHOA! Unlike nowadays someone would probably chuck a tantrum!
Even the ceilings are covered with religious themed paintings with golden borders and then the French windows outlooking the many statues, lining up the palace and then overlooking the garden. Wonderful. Well words at times cannnot express how magnificent the Louvre is. After seeing what we wanted to see it was au revoir to the Louvre and headed near the pont neuf for dejuner. The difference with Australian Cafés/restaurant and French is that the staff of the place finds the time to talk to their customers. Rémy had a short conversation with the manager of the restaurant and then asked directions to get to certain places for our next galavanting. With thanks we then headed outise to the little island where the Conciergerie and Notre Dame is.
Notre Dame on the Island
Another famous building where we all know Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame. Takes place. Magnificent church with lovely interior and stained-glassed windows, again I had to pinch myself as I still couldn't believe I step foot in the Notre Dame. I also put 2Euros donation so I could light a tea-candle and then Rémy and I sat down on one of the seats. I prayed a little just saying 'thank you etc...' Then took more photos before heading out to another Church - Basilique du Sacré Coeur.
Went to the Métro from Notre Dame to Monmartre. Below the Sacré Coeur it was a tad messy than say the Champ Elysees, guess the older part of Paris (so yes I saw a bit of dirtiness in Paris). Walked through so many souviner stores (yes I am a sucker for those) till Rémy and I saw the Basilique du Sacré Coeur. *Jaw drop*
Basilique du Sacré Coeur
Another beautiful church; built later than the Notre Dame in the 1800s. High on the hill, you see an outlook of parts of Paris and what I say the only skyscraper in Paris (probably not, but I say it is) a tall building from afar (which was probably close to La Defense- the financial section of Paris). Speaking of skyscrapers, if you haven't been to Paris, you don't see many, unlike ifyou were in New York. Walking on more stairs (and I swear that is one of the reason as to why French people are slim - a lot of stairs to walk up and down!) towards the Sacré Coeur, before the entrance, there was a crowd around 4 men dancing - pop n locking, old and new hip hop and breakdancing. Luckily I managed to see some and cheered them on. They were great! Afterwards step foot into the church. No photos allowed inside, but again it was wonderful interior; statues and all. Beautiful. Then we walked outside to Monmartre to see the many cute cobbled streets and stores surrounding the Sacré Coeur, an area where artists displayed and drew pictures and alas! I finally saw an accordian player! Walked down further and headed to Pigalle.
Pigalle
Guess it is like the Valley in Brisbane and King's Cross in Sydney. A mixture of sinner and saint in this area of Paris. The famous windmill of what is the Moulin Rouge - if I had the time I would have loved to see a show and have dinner there... Next time....next time. Walked through the main street and looked at some interesting stores then before heading to the Musée de L'erotisme. Seven levels of everything erotic past and present all over the world. It was very interesting place and I would recommend it to of course people over 18 years of age!
After, we had dinner at French equivalent of MacDonalds 'Quick' and then headed back to our hotel for a last stay.
Until then
A Bientot
V x
Our second last day in Pretty Paris. We missed out on our petit dejuner because we got up late. We got ready and just headed straight to Avenue des Champs Elysees, through to the marchés there and had our vin chaud and I had my crepe with sugar while Rémy had his waffle.We looked at some things in the marché de noel before heading out to the Place de la Concorde and through to the Jardin des Tuileries. I could imagine how life could have been in the 1800s; walking through this huge garden just before the Lourve (or is it the Louvre? I still get it muddled up).
The Louvre
An enormous place, where I cannot imagine how King Louis or Napoleon can live in there! Its HUGE!!!! Its as if they have combined the Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital together side by side! Now that's huge! The famous glass pyramids at the front of the Louvre (yes another photo opportunity) and then went downstairs to enter the Museum. Rémy and I did not cover all the places inside the Louvre, you have to have at least 2 or 3 days to be dedicated in walking through all the artwork with your trusty walkman - talking you through all the artworks either in Japanese, Spanish, Russian, or Arabic, just to name a few. We only covered a small part and only got to see the world famous Leonardo De Vinci's Mona Lisa. Small, yet a dozen of people stand from afar to catch a glimpse of it. (Yes I was *add sarcasm* so interested!)... . Just like every other tourist, took a photo of it. The paintings of certain people or just paintings of certain events qre magnificent. It is amazing in those days, people have a lot of talent. When it comes to portraits they paintings are real and the colours, shadings oh gosh I sound like a critic! A few paintings are large and I always wonder how artists back then had the patience and dedication to finish a piece of artwork. Some have been painted over 3 years or more. WHOA! Unlike nowadays someone would probably chuck a tantrum!
Even the ceilings are covered with religious themed paintings with golden borders and then the French windows outlooking the many statues, lining up the palace and then overlooking the garden. Wonderful. Well words at times cannnot express how magnificent the Louvre is. After seeing what we wanted to see it was au revoir to the Louvre and headed near the pont neuf for dejuner. The difference with Australian Cafés/restaurant and French is that the staff of the place finds the time to talk to their customers. Rémy had a short conversation with the manager of the restaurant and then asked directions to get to certain places for our next galavanting. With thanks we then headed outise to the little island where the Conciergerie and Notre Dame is.
Notre Dame on the Island
Another famous building where we all know Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame. Takes place. Magnificent church with lovely interior and stained-glassed windows, again I had to pinch myself as I still couldn't believe I step foot in the Notre Dame. I also put 2Euros donation so I could light a tea-candle and then Rémy and I sat down on one of the seats. I prayed a little just saying 'thank you etc...' Then took more photos before heading out to another Church - Basilique du Sacré Coeur.
Went to the Métro from Notre Dame to Monmartre. Below the Sacré Coeur it was a tad messy than say the Champ Elysees, guess the older part of Paris (so yes I saw a bit of dirtiness in Paris). Walked through so many souviner stores (yes I am a sucker for those) till Rémy and I saw the Basilique du Sacré Coeur. *Jaw drop*
Basilique du Sacré Coeur
Another beautiful church; built later than the Notre Dame in the 1800s. High on the hill, you see an outlook of parts of Paris and what I say the only skyscraper in Paris (probably not, but I say it is) a tall building from afar (which was probably close to La Defense- the financial section of Paris). Speaking of skyscrapers, if you haven't been to Paris, you don't see many, unlike ifyou were in New York. Walking on more stairs (and I swear that is one of the reason as to why French people are slim - a lot of stairs to walk up and down!) towards the Sacré Coeur, before the entrance, there was a crowd around 4 men dancing - pop n locking, old and new hip hop and breakdancing. Luckily I managed to see some and cheered them on. They were great! Afterwards step foot into the church. No photos allowed inside, but again it was wonderful interior; statues and all. Beautiful. Then we walked outside to Monmartre to see the many cute cobbled streets and stores surrounding the Sacré Coeur, an area where artists displayed and drew pictures and alas! I finally saw an accordian player! Walked down further and headed to Pigalle.
Pigalle
Guess it is like the Valley in Brisbane and King's Cross in Sydney. A mixture of sinner and saint in this area of Paris. The famous windmill of what is the Moulin Rouge - if I had the time I would have loved to see a show and have dinner there... Next time....next time. Walked through the main street and looked at some interesting stores then before heading to the Musée de L'erotisme. Seven levels of everything erotic past and present all over the world. It was very interesting place and I would recommend it to of course people over 18 years of age!
After, we had dinner at French equivalent of MacDonalds 'Quick' and then headed back to our hotel for a last stay.
Until then
A Bientot
V x
Monday, November 29, 2010
Paris
Not a certain heiress but the city. Paris! It has been one of my many destination dreams to come to Paris. Seen the city in many movies and of course Travel shows and I cannot believe that I have made it to the city of lights! Before moving on cutting long story short, returned to Kléber for the remainder of our stay in Paris, unfortunately still couldn't stay there so they transferred us to the Best Western Victor Hugo Hotel (which I have to admit was better) and with free wi-fi!
Paris, when thinking of Paris its the Eiffel Tower, the Lourve, Moulin Rouge and of course the cliché of rude people, dog poo, people wearing stripes etc... . Okay you may get the odd rudeness (which I have had my share of rudeness), all in all it has been fantastique!
I am in awe of everything here in Paris. The streets, architecture, monuments, food, mulled wine and people. Sometimes I think I have stepped onto a postcard or movie set, but no, it's the real deal. Seeing Paris is amazing. People here are so stylish and even if it doesn't match, they find a way to match it! Crazy hats that look like fluro green road kill, still looks stylish.
L'Arc de Triomphe is a huge monument built during Napoleon era (and not going any further to anymore history, look up on wikipedia ha!). It is in the middle of a very busy roundabout and to get to the middle is underground to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You have to be fou to cross the road to the middle. It looks nice during the evening with the lights on and the lights along the Avenue des Champs Elysees.
Eiffel Tower according to my Lonely Planet Paris book (thank gosh for lonely planet books) over 250 million have ascended the tower to date. I got goosebumps when I saw the tower from crossing a bridge, over the River Seine. Walking through the beautiful streets/Rues in Invalides Rémy and I were getting closer and closer to the Tower. Finally got there and WOW! Two options to get up there - 1: Elevator or 2: The Stairs. We opt to climb the stairs, the reason was that the line was shorter than the elevators. LOL. Paid about 9 something Euros to climb the stairs. Tough work, huffing and puffing to the top, partial top. Six hundred and sixty-nine steps and during that it was getting dark, cloudy and then finally snowed! Beautiful view from the top and even more when it snowed. The rooftops of building covered by the white powder, despite it being cold at the top, it was brilliant! I can tick off my list that I have visited the Eiffel Tower.
Afterwards, more walking then the métro then walked back to our hotel to rest for another day of Parisian adventure.
Until then
à bientot
V
Paris, when thinking of Paris its the Eiffel Tower, the Lourve, Moulin Rouge and of course the cliché of rude people, dog poo, people wearing stripes etc... . Okay you may get the odd rudeness (which I have had my share of rudeness), all in all it has been fantastique!
I am in awe of everything here in Paris. The streets, architecture, monuments, food, mulled wine and people. Sometimes I think I have stepped onto a postcard or movie set, but no, it's the real deal. Seeing Paris is amazing. People here are so stylish and even if it doesn't match, they find a way to match it! Crazy hats that look like fluro green road kill, still looks stylish.
L'Arc de Triomphe is a huge monument built during Napoleon era (and not going any further to anymore history, look up on wikipedia ha!). It is in the middle of a very busy roundabout and to get to the middle is underground to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You have to be fou to cross the road to the middle. It looks nice during the evening with the lights on and the lights along the Avenue des Champs Elysees.
Eiffel Tower according to my Lonely Planet Paris book (thank gosh for lonely planet books) over 250 million have ascended the tower to date. I got goosebumps when I saw the tower from crossing a bridge, over the River Seine. Walking through the beautiful streets/Rues in Invalides Rémy and I were getting closer and closer to the Tower. Finally got there and WOW! Two options to get up there - 1: Elevator or 2: The Stairs. We opt to climb the stairs, the reason was that the line was shorter than the elevators. LOL. Paid about 9 something Euros to climb the stairs. Tough work, huffing and puffing to the top, partial top. Six hundred and sixty-nine steps and during that it was getting dark, cloudy and then finally snowed! Beautiful view from the top and even more when it snowed. The rooftops of building covered by the white powder, despite it being cold at the top, it was brilliant! I can tick off my list that I have visited the Eiffel Tower.
Afterwards, more walking then the métro then walked back to our hotel to rest for another day of Parisian adventure.
Until then
à bientot
V
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Touch down in Paris
The flight from Incheon Seoul to Charles de Gaulle Paris was an 11-hour flight. Ate, slept, listened to music on my iPad-seque screen and watched movies (in between slept while watching Inception, then watched it again since I missed the other part). Once the plane touched down in Paris a mixture of excitement and nervousness crossed my mind. Happy to be here and see Rémy, since 5 months ago, Paris, the food, scenery, the monuments and nervous as I only know "un petit peu français."
Touch down at Charles de Gaulle Airport, Thursday evening of Nov 25th, went through customs (woo hoo got my passport stamped!) and then got my suitcase and then information center about how to get to Paris via A. the taxi, B. Bus or C. Train. I took the cheaper option and took the train. Took about 1 hour to Chatelet Les Halles to change over to next train. Oh gosh, I found myself below the métro lost through the winding maze to the next train.... Yea spot the lost tourist! Finally got on the next train thanks with the help of the train staff member reached Charles de Gaulle Etoile stop. More stairs up to the wonderful Champs Elysees Avenue and L'Arc de Triomphe. I am in awe! AMAZING.
Now, the challange to catch a taxi. Hailed one, unfortunately he finished his shift, tried hailing another one, til a man told me to catch it on the other side of the road. Thanked him kindly then went to the direction he told me to go and caught one to the hotel I booked called Kléber Hotel Champs Elysees Tour Eiffel Paris. Unfortunately was not able to stay there and for their reason "water issues/pipes." They kindly made me un café, while I waited for Rémy to come. The staff member explained it again to Rémy what happened and then they transferred us to another hotel for the night. Went to the other hotel and lets just say it was a down grade to what i stayed at Incheon. Couldn't complain much, at least it we had a place to stay. The view from the window of the room, is wht I expected though, very French - the window balcony, the buildings, streets, trés belle!
Until then,
à bientot
V
Touch down at Charles de Gaulle Airport, Thursday evening of Nov 25th, went through customs (woo hoo got my passport stamped!) and then got my suitcase and then information center about how to get to Paris via A. the taxi, B. Bus or C. Train. I took the cheaper option and took the train. Took about 1 hour to Chatelet Les Halles to change over to next train. Oh gosh, I found myself below the métro lost through the winding maze to the next train.... Yea spot the lost tourist! Finally got on the next train thanks with the help of the train staff member reached Charles de Gaulle Etoile stop. More stairs up to the wonderful Champs Elysees Avenue and L'Arc de Triomphe. I am in awe! AMAZING.
Now, the challange to catch a taxi. Hailed one, unfortunately he finished his shift, tried hailing another one, til a man told me to catch it on the other side of the road. Thanked him kindly then went to the direction he told me to go and caught one to the hotel I booked called Kléber Hotel Champs Elysees Tour Eiffel Paris. Unfortunately was not able to stay there and for their reason "water issues/pipes." They kindly made me un café, while I waited for Rémy to come. The staff member explained it again to Rémy what happened and then they transferred us to another hotel for the night. Went to the other hotel and lets just say it was a down grade to what i stayed at Incheon. Couldn't complain much, at least it we had a place to stay. The view from the window of the room, is wht I expected though, very French - the window balcony, the buildings, streets, trés belle!
Until then,
à bientot
V
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Seoul Sleepover
Twenty hour wait for next flight to Paris is not fun at all. I can stay up for 10 hours (the fact that I can stay up that long thanks to shift work!), but when its at the Airport it won't be fun when duty free stores will be closed till morning. I could obviously do an a la Tom Hanks from the movie The Terminal, nah.
A huge thanks to Korean Air I have a layover at a hotel. I am lucky enough to stay in a 4 star hotel ' Hyatt Regency Incheon. I was in awe when the staff member at Incheon Korean Air Service Desk told me. SCORE!!
After getting a hotel voucher and sat down next to the other people waiting for the Hyatt Bus to take us. Followed one of the ladies outside the airport for the bus..brr outside was 9 degrees but it was nice and refreshing... . Guess it was making me accustome to the cold weather in Paris *LOL.*
Got onto the bus and a 10min drive to our hotel. Wow! The entrance is nice. Filled in form like the rest of the people then headed to the hotel receptionist to get my swipe access card to my room. Just like work had to swipe into the elevator to get to level 12. I stayed in Room 1205. Whoa the room nice and I was stoked I even have a phone in the bathroom and even a speaker so I can hear the TV (and have it on MTV ) so I can dance while having a shower :P.
Settled myself down in my room and of course had to go straight onto Facebook :P. Had to sign in on a couple of things and then bam internet for 24hrs (only 20,000korean wons, equivalent to $18 Aus). Wireless (How I love you!)
Felt a bit peckish so headed downstairs to have my dinner. Handed my dinner voucher to the restaurant staff member and asked me what I wanted - either Italian or Korean dinner. I opt for the second.
Had kim-chi and anchovies for side dish then followed with rice, miso soup and beef. Delicious. Unfortunately I couldn't finish because I was still full from the food off the plane! Grr. Finished with fruits for dessert. It was nice. Afterwards, went outside just to be all touristy and take photos at the front of the hotel
. Later headed back to my room, channel tv surfing, facebook, blogging and just resting it up in my 'free stay.'Next morning, woke up 30mins before my alarm set off (1. my iPhone alarm and 2. the 'wake up call' system on my personalised
Hyatt phone!). Did the usual get ready and then went downstair for my free Buffet Breakfast. Ate cereals, bacon, traditional Korean food and then fruit and yoghurt (mango yoghurt that is, which was more like mango smoothie).
With my trust Sony Camera went outside to take a few shots by day (FCK it was cold!) then back here to blog and get my gear ready before heading back to Incheon Airport.
Next stop Paris.
Until then
A bientot!
V x
On a Big Jet Plane
Okay so it's not the current A380 plane. But a 330 plane. Only a 9hour or so flight to Seoul, South Korea. Firstly at the start.... I set my alarm at 4am and didn't get up till 4:45am. Got ready and ate breakfast. In between compulsive obessively checking in my handbag for my passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance and money, finally got everything and then family and I went on the way to Brisbane International Airport.
Some may not know or have heard a bit, but North Korea and South Korea are on some kinda biff up about something. I didn't hear much on the news, but read online (more like scan through the article), however Mum was frantically saying "Don't go they are at War," "Change your flight to Hong Kong instead..." bla bla bla...Didn't hear anything else.
Apologies to Mum, but actually snapped at her saying that I was getting annoyed about the "war this; war that." Anyway haven't heard much, except for the up-coming royal wedding of Prince Williams and Katie Middleton. BORING.
On a funny note, Dad goes to me..."Well if so, that means you can be part of history." Then I go into a 100 year old granny impression saying..."Back in my day....." Then Mum added "Well take pictures if they are missilling each-other." XD. Reached the Interanational section of the Brisbane Airport and family decided to come along with me just in case it got delayed. So I go and check in my bag, then ask at the service counter if I have a complimentary overnight stay in Seoul (as I have a 20hr layover there before heading to Paris), and yes I have. Yay! Thank you Korean Air.
When that was organised we all sat down to have something to eat. Can't get enough of Red Rooster Chips. It seems that I always have it whenever I head over to the airport (and remincising back in the days). Have 45mins till boarding said a quick farewell to family and then headed downstairs to customs and boarding flight. Never got the chance to have a look at the Duty Free because I had less than 10mins before boarding.
Went through to Gate80 and headed to the concourse connecting to the plane into Row 50C. Yes! I have an aisle seat. I prefer aisle seats now than windows. A good thing about window seat is the view you see when you take off and touch down (unless your flight takes off at night). Then the hassel of saying "sorry/excuse me" to head to the restroom or just walking round the aisle so you don't get DVT (deep vein thrombosis)... and that the aisle you get access to the food and drinks cabin hosts bring around tehehe.
Korean Air - I have been on Korean Air 8 years ago and personally, I like Korean Air. The Ecomony (regardless you get premium economy or not) I feel you have more space and I the seats have very nifty screen to watch movies, cartoons (currently watching Despicable Me), games and seeing how far the plane is travelling etc... .
The plug for the headset suits any earphones i.e. apple earphones and not the 2 plug outlet back in the days....hrm I think I'm going to watch Inception again...I'll just have a look at my 'in-flight' programs. The screens also touch screen..whoaaa technology nowadays :P and the firstclass looks soooooooooooooooooooo awesome and spacious. :P If I had the extra money yes. There is an empty seat next to me and the other two are occupied with a couple. I mean I could use it, unfortunately the lady has hogged it and used it as a bed..but not too long.
Food on airplanes can be good or bad but the thing I like about airplane food is how compact and organised it is set in front of you. Either way you can start at the dessert and work your way to the main or just do it the normal way.
Ha! Now I'm watching a French film called L' Arnacoeur. Looks interesting ooh and theres Romain Duris (from Spanish Apartment). Learing my 'listening' skills in French. It feels as if I have been on this flight for a long time and it's only been 2 hours of sitting on my 'cul.' About time I move about now. Do those leg stretches, deep breathing exercises, just like patients at work..Work???I shouldn't be thinking about work!
"D'accord, a bientot tout le monde." V.
Some may not know or have heard a bit, but North Korea and South Korea are on some kinda biff up about something. I didn't hear much on the news, but read online (more like scan through the article), however Mum was frantically saying "Don't go they are at War," "Change your flight to Hong Kong instead..." bla bla bla...Didn't hear anything else.
Apologies to Mum, but actually snapped at her saying that I was getting annoyed about the "war this; war that." Anyway haven't heard much, except for the up-coming royal wedding of Prince Williams and Katie Middleton. BORING.
On a funny note, Dad goes to me..."Well if so, that means you can be part of history." Then I go into a 100 year old granny impression saying..."Back in my day....." Then Mum added "Well take pictures if they are missilling each-other." XD. Reached the Interanational section of the Brisbane Airport and family decided to come along with me just in case it got delayed. So I go and check in my bag, then ask at the service counter if I have a complimentary overnight stay in Seoul (as I have a 20hr layover there before heading to Paris), and yes I have. Yay! Thank you Korean Air.
When that was organised we all sat down to have something to eat. Can't get enough of Red Rooster Chips. It seems that I always have it whenever I head over to the airport (and remincising back in the days). Have 45mins till boarding said a quick farewell to family and then headed downstairs to customs and boarding flight. Never got the chance to have a look at the Duty Free because I had less than 10mins before boarding.
Went through to Gate80 and headed to the concourse connecting to the plane into Row 50C. Yes! I have an aisle seat. I prefer aisle seats now than windows. A good thing about window seat is the view you see when you take off and touch down (unless your flight takes off at night). Then the hassel of saying "sorry/excuse me" to head to the restroom or just walking round the aisle so you don't get DVT (deep vein thrombosis)... and that the aisle you get access to the food and drinks cabin hosts bring around tehehe.
Korean Air - I have been on Korean Air 8 years ago and personally, I like Korean Air. The Ecomony (regardless you get premium economy or not) I feel you have more space and I the seats have very nifty screen to watch movies, cartoons (currently watching Despicable Me), games and seeing how far the plane is travelling etc... .
The plug for the headset suits any earphones i.e. apple earphones and not the 2 plug outlet back in the days....hrm I think I'm going to watch Inception again...I'll just have a look at my 'in-flight' programs. The screens also touch screen..whoaaa technology nowadays :P and the firstclass looks soooooooooooooooooooo awesome and spacious. :P If I had the extra money yes. There is an empty seat next to me and the other two are occupied with a couple. I mean I could use it, unfortunately the lady has hogged it and used it as a bed..but not too long. 
Food on airplanes can be good or bad but the thing I like about airplane food is how compact and organised it is set in front of you. Either way you can start at the dessert and work your way to the main or just do it the normal way.Ha! Now I'm watching a French film called L' Arnacoeur. Looks interesting ooh and theres Romain Duris (from Spanish Apartment). Learing my 'listening' skills in French. It feels as if I have been on this flight for a long time and it's only been 2 hours of sitting on my 'cul.' About time I move about now. Do those leg stretches, deep breathing exercises, just like patients at work..Work???I shouldn't be thinking about work!
"D'accord, a bientot tout le monde." V.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Packing
Okay packing for an overseas trip is not my forte. I know I have been a jet setter several years now, and you would think I have got it under control. I'm a girl...come on...us girls (and yes I am generally speaking) would LOVE to pack the whole closet, BUT with limited kilograms and shopping overseas for MORE souviners, clothes etc..., its the crunch time as to what to bring and what not to bring. How to fold or roll it up? Suitcase or backpack or no 'check-in' luggage at all.
Okay sometimes I don't mind packing but the dilemma I am having is what clothes to bring and that will it match with each attire day-by-day as well as how often will I wear it before it starts becoming icky and covered with alcohol. Bare in mind I will be heading to a cooler climate and the chances it will snow!
Yes common sense of course! Well I would be stupid to wear a halter neck dress when outside is -2 degrees celcius regardless it's a beautiful sunny day!
Currently I am staring at my clothes I have unpacked out of my suitcase (packed it 2 days ago, however it was just clothes 'I would think' will be wearing while in France, but since it felt more than 20kgs, I have to really take a look at what I will be packing. Also importantly the souviners and new clothes and/or accessories I buy over there..I need space.
I have had in the past packed things I 'thought' I was going to wear, but never did, packed too much and obviously didn't have anymore space for my new items! Yes its a big no-no. I am not too fashion concious, obviously can't wear the same clothes for 3 days...mix and match (as long as its clean! Ha!).
Yes I do have that voice saying to me "but you might need it..just pack it..." I must bite my tongue and live without it, for that time being.
Until then...
Adios
Vx
Okay sometimes I don't mind packing but the dilemma I am having is what clothes to bring and that will it match with each attire day-by-day as well as how often will I wear it before it starts becoming icky and covered with alcohol. Bare in mind I will be heading to a cooler climate and the chances it will snow!
Yes common sense of course! Well I would be stupid to wear a halter neck dress when outside is -2 degrees celcius regardless it's a beautiful sunny day!
Currently I am staring at my clothes I have unpacked out of my suitcase (packed it 2 days ago, however it was just clothes 'I would think' will be wearing while in France, but since it felt more than 20kgs, I have to really take a look at what I will be packing. Also importantly the souviners and new clothes and/or accessories I buy over there..I need space.
I have had in the past packed things I 'thought' I was going to wear, but never did, packed too much and obviously didn't have anymore space for my new items! Yes its a big no-no. I am not too fashion concious, obviously can't wear the same clothes for 3 days...mix and match (as long as its clean! Ha!).
Yes I do have that voice saying to me "but you might need it..just pack it..." I must bite my tongue and live without it, for that time being.
Until then...
Adios
Vx
Friday, November 12, 2010
Lady Gaga
No matter whether she is a hermaphrodite or not, Lady Gaga is amazing. Love or loathe her, she is a very creative artist in the music scene. Of course Madonna, Elton John, David Bowie, Cher, Britney and others before her, have entertained people with their dazzling shows and costume changes, Lady Gaga just goes a step further... . Well would you be wearing a Red PVC dress when meeting the Queen of England???
She burst into the music scene round end of 2008 with "Just Dance." At first I wasn't interested thinking "oh great another pop star!" But listening to it over and over started liking her music.
She then toured around Australia with the Pussycat Dolls concert and she was great and her costume OMG I wanted to wear that bubble attire!
She's just amazing!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Accommodation searching..eenie meanie minie mo...
Right! I've got my flights book...now...where to stay?
Searching for a place to stay for overseas (or domestic) holiday is frustrating at times. Where ever you go to a place you make sure its: -
A) close to the main city and its sites
B) close to transport
C) you get a good view (sometimes)
D) the accommodation is good for relaxation and rest after a long days tour of the place.
E) Fits your budget
F) No bed bugs!
Of course its not alway the perfect (or chosen) accommodation, as long as it's a place to rest your head.
Of course there are plenty of places you can go to such as hotel, motels, backpacking, hostels, house, apartments, couch surfing (?), renting or staying with friends and family.
Staying with friends or family, is an added bonus. One you don't need to pay for your stay (probably a little for your share of the food they cook you) or helping around the place. You get to chat about "What's new with you?" or "My gosh you've grown from this short to this tall!" You get to annoy your cousins (well as long as they are under 18yrs). Sometimes its a con, because you have to work around their schedule at times and then later at the end of your holiday with them (depending how long you stay with them) you'll get sick of them..until you say you will miss them a lot! But hey, don't get me wrong, you do enjoy staying with family, especially when you haven't seen them for a long time.
Backpacker/hostels are of course cheap and good experience in ways, as you get to mingle with every one from around the world, who has the same idea as you - Travel! You get word-of-mouth of certain backpackers, searching the internet or heading to the place to have a look, for approval.
A few know I'm a bit of princess, but when back-packing in New Zealand....it wasn't too bad. Apart from some drunken people coming through the hallway to their room was 'inconsiderate,' I can't speak, because I probably did do that too! Ha! I'm bad as them. Like I said, I prefer to stay in luxury.
Right now I am have a dilemma where to stay in Paris. AirBnB, which I have heard from a few friends is an alternative to hotels, where its 'vacation rentals' of people's apartment during your stay. I haven't used it yet, but can be cheaper I guess than hotels. Just sign up and start searching for places to stay, however need to contact the host in regards to what date you wish to stay. Sometimes they say 'yes' and other times its already occupied...*sigh*...keep searching.
Then I'm also a member of HotelClub, hotels at discounted prices. Hrm, perhaps I'll mix it up..for my first stay, a hotel and then on the way back airbnb?
Decisions, decisions indeed. I will eventually find one.
V x
Searching for a place to stay for overseas (or domestic) holiday is frustrating at times. Where ever you go to a place you make sure its: -
A) close to the main city and its sites
B) close to transport
C) you get a good view (sometimes)
D) the accommodation is good for relaxation and rest after a long days tour of the place.
E) Fits your budget
F) No bed bugs!
Of course its not alway the perfect (or chosen) accommodation, as long as it's a place to rest your head.
Of course there are plenty of places you can go to such as hotel, motels, backpacking, hostels, house, apartments, couch surfing (?), renting or staying with friends and family.
Staying with friends or family, is an added bonus. One you don't need to pay for your stay (probably a little for your share of the food they cook you) or helping around the place. You get to chat about "What's new with you?" or "My gosh you've grown from this short to this tall!" You get to annoy your cousins (well as long as they are under 18yrs). Sometimes its a con, because you have to work around their schedule at times and then later at the end of your holiday with them (depending how long you stay with them) you'll get sick of them..until you say you will miss them a lot! But hey, don't get me wrong, you do enjoy staying with family, especially when you haven't seen them for a long time.
Backpacker/hostels are of course cheap and good experience in ways, as you get to mingle with every one from around the world, who has the same idea as you - Travel! You get word-of-mouth of certain backpackers, searching the internet or heading to the place to have a look, for approval.
A few know I'm a bit of princess, but when back-packing in New Zealand....it wasn't too bad. Apart from some drunken people coming through the hallway to their room was 'inconsiderate,' I can't speak, because I probably did do that too! Ha! I'm bad as them. Like I said, I prefer to stay in luxury.
Right now I am have a dilemma where to stay in Paris. AirBnB, which I have heard from a few friends is an alternative to hotels, where its 'vacation rentals' of people's apartment during your stay. I haven't used it yet, but can be cheaper I guess than hotels. Just sign up and start searching for places to stay, however need to contact the host in regards to what date you wish to stay. Sometimes they say 'yes' and other times its already occupied...*sigh*...keep searching.
Then I'm also a member of HotelClub, hotels at discounted prices. Hrm, perhaps I'll mix it up..for my first stay, a hotel and then on the way back airbnb?
Decisions, decisions indeed. I will eventually find one.
V x
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Get off your Ass and work it!
To those people who know me, I like to dance. I love dancing. I cannot stay still and if you try to catch me and tell me to 'be still,' I just can't. Three years ago, when I started Mad Dance House, I was addicted to dancing.
All I thought of was dancing. During work - dancing, during mealtimes - dancing, being with friends - dancing. Dancing was my life. Being active, especially doing something I enjoy led me to do other activities, such as an "All Girls Boot Camp" with the lovely (and engaged) Jools Purchase, other dances like flamenco and yoga - Bikram yoga, adrenaline was kicking in. BUT....for the past year I have gradually ceased these activities (or not doing them frequently) as I should, hence I have been inactive for days/months/year(s).
Asides from the usual walking from patient to patients, nurse's station/reception as such, I feel I have become a lazy ass being on Facebook almost 24/7. If not, eating a lot, watching a lot of DVDs, to the point I swear I could be a walkin' & talkin' movie quotes (Go ask my brother Ray)... .
I know I can do 'at home' exercises i.e. housecleaning, just kicking the football round the backyard with Ray (which I still need to!), a stroll round Redcliffe's Sutton's Beach or a brisk walk but I'm LAZY! I have no dog to take walking with...although I have cats...hmm lets not go there.
Then there's work. I really should use a pedometre while walking, so I would know how many steps (and if I had a super hi-tech pedometre counting the kilojoules/calories I've lost while working 8 - 10hr shifts) I have been doing. Pushing, assisting in the handling of patient's transfers etc, guess can be classified as an 'activity,' but really its work and you don't normally count work as 'exercise?'
Why I stopped?
There are several factors. Factors being: -
WORK: being busy at work can be exhausting. Being a nurse means 'shift work' so I tend to work crazy hours and its either no spaces in the class or its closing time. ARGH! Work shouldn't really impend on the activities I do, but heck I use "work" as an excuse. "To bloody busy to do something," which is probably 99% of everyone's excuses.
MONEY: too little (can't do it), too much (do as much but is it worth all the money for a certain amount of time?), 'opportunity costs' and of course wanting to spend my money on 'all-you-can-eat-buffet,' equating to a dance class! What to choose, what to choose????
MOTIVATION: procrastination of heading to class and all other classic excuses "don't have time," " I can't be bothered..." I need the motivation to get up and do something sometimes. Yes I need someone to kick me on my rear-side and do something. It's good doing dance classes, because you have dance buddies who are doing it, so you go and do classes with them and chat in between.
PROCRASTINATING: In relation to motivation...and just being lazy. Period.
Yes its easier to say things than doing it. But actually doing it will be a good sense of acheivement and keeping your body in shape. Yes I'm a tad lanky, slim, but I swear I feel fat inside, being inactive for a certain period. Summer is around the corner. Need to get out of hibernation and get my ass into gear!
V x
All I thought of was dancing. During work - dancing, during mealtimes - dancing, being with friends - dancing. Dancing was my life. Being active, especially doing something I enjoy led me to do other activities, such as an "All Girls Boot Camp" with the lovely (and engaged) Jools Purchase, other dances like flamenco and yoga - Bikram yoga, adrenaline was kicking in. BUT....for the past year I have gradually ceased these activities (or not doing them frequently) as I should, hence I have been inactive for days/months/year(s).
Asides from the usual walking from patient to patients, nurse's station/reception as such, I feel I have become a lazy ass being on Facebook almost 24/7. If not, eating a lot, watching a lot of DVDs, to the point I swear I could be a walkin' & talkin' movie quotes (Go ask my brother Ray)... .
I know I can do 'at home' exercises i.e. housecleaning, just kicking the football round the backyard with Ray (which I still need to!), a stroll round Redcliffe's Sutton's Beach or a brisk walk but I'm LAZY! I have no dog to take walking with...although I have cats...hmm lets not go there.
Then there's work. I really should use a pedometre while walking, so I would know how many steps (and if I had a super hi-tech pedometre counting the kilojoules/calories I've lost while working 8 - 10hr shifts) I have been doing. Pushing, assisting in the handling of patient's transfers etc, guess can be classified as an 'activity,' but really its work and you don't normally count work as 'exercise?'
Why I stopped?
There are several factors. Factors being: -
WORK: being busy at work can be exhausting. Being a nurse means 'shift work' so I tend to work crazy hours and its either no spaces in the class or its closing time. ARGH! Work shouldn't really impend on the activities I do, but heck I use "work" as an excuse. "To bloody busy to do something," which is probably 99% of everyone's excuses.
MONEY: too little (can't do it), too much (do as much but is it worth all the money for a certain amount of time?), 'opportunity costs' and of course wanting to spend my money on 'all-you-can-eat-buffet,' equating to a dance class! What to choose, what to choose????
MOTIVATION: procrastination of heading to class and all other classic excuses "don't have time," " I can't be bothered..." I need the motivation to get up and do something sometimes. Yes I need someone to kick me on my rear-side and do something. It's good doing dance classes, because you have dance buddies who are doing it, so you go and do classes with them and chat in between.
PROCRASTINATING: In relation to motivation...and just being lazy. Period.
Yes its easier to say things than doing it. But actually doing it will be a good sense of acheivement and keeping your body in shape. Yes I'm a tad lanky, slim, but I swear I feel fat inside, being inactive for a certain period. Summer is around the corner. Need to get out of hibernation and get my ass into gear!
V x
Monday, August 2, 2010
Nothingness...so good.
Nothingness; the definition according to the "freedictionary.com":-
1. the condition or quality of being nothing; nonexistence
2. empty space; a void.
3. lack of consequence; insignificance and
4. something inconsequential or insignificant.
Well my blog today is about nothing...well actually SOMEthing about NOthing. Nothing in regards to not having a plan of 'what to do today, throughout the day.' I guess I am just prodding along there on a beautiful Monday. I would like to say I am doing nothing...nothing? Deeper thinking..?Nothing to do today, I have no plans on my day off, just feeling free and not tied to anything for the time being.
I'm in a state of nothingness...wait I think its more of 'laziness' than nothingness.
Gah!
It is good once in a while to do nothing on your day off.
Nothing that is of any significant.
Vx
1. the condition or quality of being nothing; nonexistence
2. empty space; a void.
3. lack of consequence; insignificance and
4. something inconsequential or insignificant.
Well my blog today is about nothing...well actually SOMEthing about NOthing. Nothing in regards to not having a plan of 'what to do today, throughout the day.' I guess I am just prodding along there on a beautiful Monday. I would like to say I am doing nothing...nothing? Deeper thinking..?Nothing to do today, I have no plans on my day off, just feeling free and not tied to anything for the time being.
I'm in a state of nothingness...wait I think its more of 'laziness' than nothingness.
Gah!
It is good once in a while to do nothing on your day off.
Nothing that is of any significant.
Vx
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Itchy Feet...need to travel...Again
At the moment I am watching "Hitch," settings in NYC (New York City) and it is reminding me how much I miss and love NYC! In general I love travelling. Of course I've travelled when I was young, however after 2001, I haven't stop travelling whether it is domestically or internationally. There are many places I have yet to conquer...."hot places...." "....cold places..." (Rolando accent). I will eventually get to as many continents as I can.
Yes my feet are really itchy to go travellin' round the place. First head to Europe then South America (fingers cross that I can go and watch the FIFA World Cup in 2014!)
With friends, family or solo....heck I'm not sure if I will even own my own place because travelling around *LOL.*...then again need a place to fit in all the souviners I bring along....
Until then (with my very itchy feet)
Adios
Vx
Yes my feet are really itchy to go travellin' round the place. First head to Europe then South America (fingers cross that I can go and watch the FIFA World Cup in 2014!)
With friends, family or solo....heck I'm not sure if I will even own my own place because travelling around *LOL.*...then again need a place to fit in all the souviners I bring along....
Until then (with my very itchy feet)
Adios
Vx
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
FIFA World Cup - a Month of Sleepless nights.
I have blood shot, lost concentration at work (borderline actually), panda eyes and sleepless nights for at least 2 weeks. If there wasn't any time difference then I wouldn't be having these symptoms and marking the sofa with my body shape. This year is the 2010 FIFA World Cup, held in South Africa. Thirty-two (32) countries competing to see which team will be the best for the world cup (and probably a good door stopper!).
I am not going to lie to you, I don't always follow soccer; nor do I have a favourite team. Don't get me wrong, I like watching the game (not just always the obvious when women like footballers (!)) I like watching a good match. However when that 4 years of the FIFA World Cup comes around; I go all gaga and wooo hooo! If the Socceroos are in the cup. I support Australia...and a few other teams may I add. When one of the teams I cheer for is eliminated I go for the next team....don't we all?
"The sport that stops the nation...." Whoops that's Melbourne Cup. Guess the FIFA World Cup stops a nation when your team country is playing a match. Generally die-hard fans go to the local sports bar/club and watch the games while drinking a tasty cold beer; or just gathering with friends and family watching it in their 50inch plasma screen at home. If there is no time difference then the fans are probably ordering take-away food instead of cooking because they are glued to the screen. Well since Australia watches the football in midnight well er its probably just a cuppa coffee and snacks that are left in the pantry and left-over meals. *Ho hum.*
People who aren't a huge fan of football (soccer for the non-european countries and the point a few dislike calling it soccer), trust me you will turn to be a temporary die-hard fan for a month! *Fingers point at Vivian* Regardless how much knowledge you know about football; you instantly become God in understanding the game (bullshitting or not) you just feel as if you do. Tehehehe.
The games so far have been good. Only a few drove me insane and the referees!!! What's the deal with them. Some have given poor judgements in some games i.e the recent goal England 'supposedly' scored against Germany recently and giving straight red card to Australia's Harry Kewell when they where playing against Ghana week ago. Wasn't happy Jan!
Another insane thing are the vuvuzelas.
At the beginning to the end it just drives me insane. GRRRR, but if you're into watching the game (on tv) guess it just doesn't bother you with selective hearing - the referees, players, Les Murray and the other commentators. At least theres not much to go till the cup is over in a couple of weeks.Sam, Santo and Ed Cup Fever has been following the World Cup since it started, the middle and of course the end. It's such a crack up. If you don't know what it is, its just a 30min show where they discuss about the previous games, take a mickey out of certain players, matches, have 'interviews' with a few of the world's greatest former soccer players and coaches. Hilarious. That's what TV's suppose to be!
Now girls, don't get too excited... yes being shallow for a bit sometimes girls just like to watch the match because of the soccer players. Yes i.e Ronaldo, Messi, Villa, er the whole Spanish and Argentian team, South Americans, USA, Germany..err whatever tickles your fancy. A month of perve-fest. No hard feelings there guys......I'm sure when there's women playing sports you perve as well. HA!
Right now it's close to crunch time as each group are playing towards the quarter/semi and then the finals. I wonder who will be going to the finals? I will go for Spain, Germany, Japan, Brazil, Netherlands and Argentina. GO teams GO!It'd be a tad depressing for me when the cup is over. OH well...another 4 years in Brazil next. I just hope Australia gets in the next world cup. Guess I just wait for the next world cup - the Rugby Union World Cup in New Zealand....at least the time difference is only 3hours :).
V x
Monday, June 14, 2010
AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy Jump
Orginally Remy and I were only to do the Nevis Arc Swing, nevertheless, we both decided to to the Bungy Jumping. (Don't know what possessed us to do it!). It's not Queenstown unless you get to do bungy (or equivalent). It's not for the faint hearted, and even the last time I went to Queenstown with Lani and Neil, there was no way to do it. 1. It was winter wonderland in Queenstown = FREEZING 2. Were on a schedule to just snowboard and 3. Didn't in a million years think of doing it.
Now that million years have come....I have decided in my crazy mind to "DO IT!" Nike style. So Friday 7th of May we went to the Bungy Shop to book for our jump on Saturday 8th of May. Lucky we didn't pay full price as it was 20% off if you've done a jump/swing with A.J.Hackett...once paid...no turning back. Yikes!
The eve of the jump, Remy and I were at the Altitude Bar @ the Base Queenstown Backpackers and I get a missed call from my brother Ray. I call back......
{viv} "Hey Ray, What's up?"
{ray}"Are you in hospital?"
{viv}"What? Errr..I'm in a club" (doof doof noise in the background)
{ray} " Oh, cause there was a news in Yahoo about an Australian falling from bungy"
{viv} "Huh? Nope. (Ray reads the article to me).
{viv} "No because I'm in Queenstown, not in Christchurch"
{ray} "Oh that's good, because we were worried."
{viv} "Remy and I are all good; we are bungy jumping tomorrow"
{ray}"Okay....(and can't remember what else we talked but then say bye).
*Sigh*
The night before, we went on a Pub Crawl. The Pub Crawl was good, however after the 5th pub we lost the group so Remy and I ended up at the World Bar for a while before heading back to our room to sleep..ready for the next day ahead.
8th of May we will never forget. Read on the site about the accident that happened to an Australian lady and who was in the Christchurch Hospital recovering from her bungy fall. There are risk taking these activities, however I was rather annoyed by the news..honestly (and quietly) it made me nervous because it could happen to anyone who does it. About 130pm was our jump; again the bus with other 'jumpers' to the Nevis Bungy place.
Drove past the Kawana Bridge Bungy, which is the very first commerical bungy jump - 43m and then 15mins was our destination. Firstly checked in and weighed again with the harness and then followed one of the staff member to the platform; gawking at the place where people were jumping off; a cable wired platform..the only way to get there was a cable transporter thingy....4 of us got onto the cable transport thingy, Remy, 2 Swedish girls and me. Got to the platform and I was extremely nervous and shaky. My hands were tremoring while I hear scream after scream of the people jumping off and then seeing them through the glass view on the floor.
A very long way to the bottom..how about 143m??? Remy and I made our own bet to see, who out of us to was to jump first. Paper, scissors and Rock game out of 3. I lost so I was planning on jumping first. Unfortunately they went by weight so I had to be the last..and him the first again.
Lots of picture taking *click click*. I stand at the viewing area, cheering on Remy (Cheering?). The staff member asked Remy "Are you ready?" Remy: "Non"...counting down 3,2,1..JUMP..nope. The he jumped. I just heard a faint "arghhhhhhhhhh!"....after 2 jumps from other people, I was the lucky last. Can't describe how I felt sitting on the dentist-seque chair having my legs bounded together. Guess pissed off, excited and nervousness.
Shuffling like a Geisha to that 'plank' I look down thinking "I cannot believe I'm doing this!" My stomach had butterflies....oh my gosh, oh my gosh...! Waved and posed for photos then the guy counted down...3,2,1..JUMP...then all over. Whoosh! Such a breathtaking view of the lake and mountains...8.5seconds its over. Between those second yes I screamed my head of, I think I may have shut my eyes for a split second.
Wow! What a jump. Sense of accomplishment that I can tick it off my list to 'things to do when travelling'
Afterwards back onto the Cable Transporter back to the base, brought the dvd and photo and then headed back to Queenstown centre back to our place and saying to each other "OMG; can't believe what we just did!"
Would I do it again? Yes...scare myself all over again.
Until then...
Adios
Vxx
Now that million years have come....I have decided in my crazy mind to "DO IT!" Nike style. So Friday 7th of May we went to the Bungy Shop to book for our jump on Saturday 8th of May. Lucky we didn't pay full price as it was 20% off if you've done a jump/swing with A.J.Hackett...once paid...no turning back. Yikes!
The eve of the jump, Remy and I were at the Altitude Bar @ the Base Queenstown Backpackers and I get a missed call from my brother Ray. I call back......
{viv} "Hey Ray, What's up?"
{ray}"Are you in hospital?"
{viv}"What? Errr..I'm in a club" (doof doof noise in the background)
{ray} " Oh, cause there was a news in Yahoo about an Australian falling from bungy"
{viv} "Huh? Nope. (Ray reads the article to me).
{viv} "No because I'm in Queenstown, not in Christchurch"
{ray} "Oh that's good, because we were worried."
{viv} "Remy and I are all good; we are bungy jumping tomorrow"
{ray}"Okay....(and can't remember what else we talked but then say bye).
*Sigh*
The night before, we went on a Pub Crawl. The Pub Crawl was good, however after the 5th pub we lost the group so Remy and I ended up at the World Bar for a while before heading back to our room to sleep..ready for the next day ahead.
8th of May we will never forget. Read on the site about the accident that happened to an Australian lady and who was in the Christchurch Hospital recovering from her bungy fall. There are risk taking these activities, however I was rather annoyed by the news..honestly (and quietly) it made me nervous because it could happen to anyone who does it. About 130pm was our jump; again the bus with other 'jumpers' to the Nevis Bungy place.
Drove past the Kawana Bridge Bungy, which is the very first commerical bungy jump - 43m and then 15mins was our destination. Firstly checked in and weighed again with the harness and then followed one of the staff member to the platform; gawking at the place where people were jumping off; a cable wired platform..the only way to get there was a cable transporter thingy....4 of us got onto the cable transport thingy, Remy, 2 Swedish girls and me. Got to the platform and I was extremely nervous and shaky. My hands were tremoring while I hear scream after scream of the people jumping off and then seeing them through the glass view on the floor.
A very long way to the bottom..how about 143m??? Remy and I made our own bet to see, who out of us to was to jump first. Paper, scissors and Rock game out of 3. I lost so I was planning on jumping first. Unfortunately they went by weight so I had to be the last..and him the first again.
Lots of picture taking *click click*. I stand at the viewing area, cheering on Remy (Cheering?). The staff member asked Remy "Are you ready?" Remy: "Non"...counting down 3,2,1..JUMP..nope. The he jumped. I just heard a faint "arghhhhhhhhhh!"....after 2 jumps from other people, I was the lucky last. Can't describe how I felt sitting on the dentist-seque chair having my legs bounded together. Guess pissed off, excited and nervousness.
Shuffling like a Geisha to that 'plank' I look down thinking "I cannot believe I'm doing this!" My stomach had butterflies....oh my gosh, oh my gosh...! Waved and posed for photos then the guy counted down...3,2,1..JUMP...then all over. Whoosh! Such a breathtaking view of the lake and mountains...8.5seconds its over. Between those second yes I screamed my head of, I think I may have shut my eyes for a split second.
Wow! What a jump. Sense of accomplishment that I can tick it off my list to 'things to do when travelling'
Afterwards back onto the Cable Transporter back to the base, brought the dvd and photo and then headed back to Queenstown centre back to our place and saying to each other "OMG; can't believe what we just did!"
Would I do it again? Yes...scare myself all over again.
Until then...
Adios
Vxx
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Te Anau..rest.eat.go.
Still relling a hangover from the night before, Remy and I went for another 2hr or so ride to Te Anau; a stop over to go to Milford Sounds.
What's there in Te Anau? Of course there is activities to do like Milford, rafting, sightseeing, walking in the forest/parks...but seriously I find it BORING. OMG Remy and I are bored out of our minds. We just can't wait to go to Milford Sounds then back to Queenstown.
Dead boring and even the backpacker place we are staying is dead quiet. T___T
Adios
Vx
What's there in Te Anau? Of course there is activities to do like Milford, rafting, sightseeing, walking in the forest/parks...but seriously I find it BORING. OMG Remy and I are bored out of our minds. We just can't wait to go to Milford Sounds then back to Queenstown.
Dead boring and even the backpacker place we are staying is dead quiet. T___T
Adios
Vx
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Adrenaline Freak
So today was a rather THRILLING day. Of course it was hard to get up early - round 845am; had a not-so-warm shower, quick drink of lemon tea, miso soup and Toffee Pop biscuits; and then Remy and I left our room round 950am, grabbed a hot drink on-the-go then headed to the Station to wait for the bus to head to the place for the Shotover Jet. Once we went there, got over to wear the long black jacket and safety jacket and then a 'souvenir photo shot' from the Shot over Photographer, before heading to the Jet boat.
I don't know how long we were on the jet boat, but sure it was an amazing hair-raising ride. Our driver/pilot Glenn is crazy. Travelling at 85km/hr and when Glenn did the 360degree turns, the people on the sides of the jet boat got rather wet, as well as some people in the middle of the boat.
Gosh I'm mean, I let Remy sit at the side. *insert evil laugh*
After all the jet boating and some interesting historical info from Glenn, stepped off the jet boat, back on the bus to the Station. Afterwards went back to our place to just get changed to other jeans/socks/shoes and then hurriedly went to Subways for a quick lunch before heading back the Station for our Nevis Arc swing. Went to the Station to get 'checked-in' and weigh and waited for 1pm to get on another bus. Our friendly dread-lockin' driver took us for a 40min drive to our destination. Even starring at the window, seeing the Hanging platform I was already nervous. Feeling, excited, scared and shit-scared at the same time. I just love scaring myself...even to death.
Once we got to the destination, need to make a 'pit stop' and then went back to get re-weighed and checking in etc before 2 of the crew members took us to the 70m walkway thing (can't remember ) to the platform to have our safety gear on. Remy went first and he was upside down. I was nervous for him. The crew member didn't do much of a countdown, instead just push the button then ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. It's a very high swing indeed. My gosh my turn next.....
...So I just sat up facing the cliffs meters away from me, I give 2 of the cameras a smile before the lady pushed the button and I screamed. Words cannot really express how scared and fun it was. Being suspended for a couple of minutes before going back up, I looked down still was so high up, probably another 80meters from the rushing river, mountains and grass area. Shit I just had to do it again.
Remy and I did the swing again, this time Remy was facing forward sitting while I was facing backwards. Personally facing backwards scared the hell out of me that I screamed more than Remy (and probably made his left hear just a tad deaf!)
Its such an amazing activity. Got footage and photos of it which I will share at some stage via Facebook.
Next adrenaline rush probably Bungy Jump @ the Nevis Bungy 134m. I"m already scared.....SHIT!
Until then
Adios
Vx
I don't know how long we were on the jet boat, but sure it was an amazing hair-raising ride. Our driver/pilot Glenn is crazy. Travelling at 85km/hr and when Glenn did the 360degree turns, the people on the sides of the jet boat got rather wet, as well as some people in the middle of the boat.
Gosh I'm mean, I let Remy sit at the side. *insert evil laugh*
After all the jet boating and some interesting historical info from Glenn, stepped off the jet boat, back on the bus to the Station. Afterwards went back to our place to just get changed to other jeans/socks/shoes and then hurriedly went to Subways for a quick lunch before heading back the Station for our Nevis Arc swing. Went to the Station to get 'checked-in' and weigh and waited for 1pm to get on another bus. Our friendly dread-lockin' driver took us for a 40min drive to our destination. Even starring at the window, seeing the Hanging platform I was already nervous. Feeling, excited, scared and shit-scared at the same time. I just love scaring myself...even to death.
Once we got to the destination, need to make a 'pit stop' and then went back to get re-weighed and checking in etc before 2 of the crew members took us to the 70m walkway thing (can't remember ) to the platform to have our safety gear on. Remy went first and he was upside down. I was nervous for him. The crew member didn't do much of a countdown, instead just push the button then ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. It's a very high swing indeed. My gosh my turn next.....
...So I just sat up facing the cliffs meters away from me, I give 2 of the cameras a smile before the lady pushed the button and I screamed. Words cannot really express how scared and fun it was. Being suspended for a couple of minutes before going back up, I looked down still was so high up, probably another 80meters from the rushing river, mountains and grass area. Shit I just had to do it again.
Remy and I did the swing again, this time Remy was facing forward sitting while I was facing backwards. Personally facing backwards scared the hell out of me that I screamed more than Remy (and probably made his left hear just a tad deaf!)
Its such an amazing activity. Got footage and photos of it which I will share at some stage via Facebook.
Next adrenaline rush probably Bungy Jump @ the Nevis Bungy 134m. I"m already scared.....SHIT!
Until then
Adios
Vx
Friday, April 30, 2010
Stop, photos, drive, stop,photos, drive,eat,drive.....
Hrm I think I'll skip the Kaikoura section. Making long story short, went and saw the dolphins in the Delphinidae boat, some swam with the dolphins and others just watched. Remy and I just watched and it was good. A pity I was feeling rather sea sick, as it was rather rough sea to get to the dusky dolphins. They are pretty cool close up...I slept most of the way back to the wharf.
So Hanmer Springs after Kaikoura, searched round for a place to stay, with thanks to Remy he found a place called Hanmer Backpacker. A very comfortable alpine style place, that was like your own home, and what backpacker doesn't give you FREE ICE CREAM!!??? Lol. Yes they owner gave out free ice cream, yes 10 different kinds of flavours too! That's the first. Our room was small but cosy.
The next day got up just before lunch time, ate Mi Goreng Noodles then headed to the Thermal Spa and Pools.
It was wonderful. Of course it was cool and the breeze was even colder, but it didn't matter, because the thermal pools were wonderful. Temperatures ranging from 35degrees celsius to 41degree celsius, hot but wonderful. Later we booked 30mins in a steam room then 30mins in a private pool. It was nice...then back in the 40degree pool. Great view of the moutains, tree tops and the sound of birds chrip and the lovely kiwi accent.
Afterwards, went and had the great ol' tucker of fish and chips @ a place called Captain Mike's Fish and Chips. The shop keeper was cool, because she gave us a pen and we wrote on the store's window, yes we vandalised the window, but don't worry because plenty more people did the same thing :).
Then back to our temporary place for free ice cream then sleep.
Left Hanmer Springs round 10am for our trip to Fox Glacier. Stopped over at Greymouth for lunch before embarking for more driving, stopping for photos, more driving, photos for the beautiful scenery of Arthur's Pass, more scenic road sides then finally at Fox Glacier. Cold but nice.
Next...Fox Glacier walkin.
Until then
Adios
V x
So Hanmer Springs after Kaikoura, searched round for a place to stay, with thanks to Remy he found a place called Hanmer Backpacker. A very comfortable alpine style place, that was like your own home, and what backpacker doesn't give you FREE ICE CREAM!!??? Lol. Yes they owner gave out free ice cream, yes 10 different kinds of flavours too! That's the first. Our room was small but cosy.
The next day got up just before lunch time, ate Mi Goreng Noodles then headed to the Thermal Spa and Pools.
It was wonderful. Of course it was cool and the breeze was even colder, but it didn't matter, because the thermal pools were wonderful. Temperatures ranging from 35degrees celsius to 41degree celsius, hot but wonderful. Later we booked 30mins in a steam room then 30mins in a private pool. It was nice...then back in the 40degree pool. Great view of the moutains, tree tops and the sound of birds chrip and the lovely kiwi accent.
Afterwards, went and had the great ol' tucker of fish and chips @ a place called Captain Mike's Fish and Chips. The shop keeper was cool, because she gave us a pen and we wrote on the store's window, yes we vandalised the window, but don't worry because plenty more people did the same thing :).
Then back to our temporary place for free ice cream then sleep.
Left Hanmer Springs round 10am for our trip to Fox Glacier. Stopped over at Greymouth for lunch before embarking for more driving, stopping for photos, more driving, photos for the beautiful scenery of Arthur's Pass, more scenic road sides then finally at Fox Glacier. Cold but nice.
Next...Fox Glacier walkin.
Until then
Adios
V x
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
From Yestersday's Post
From yesterday (27 April 2010) Obviously didn't get up from the alarm, which was set at 930am; instead lazed round the bed til about 1045am, got ready before having a brunch at the What Restaurant downstairs. Again a NZ$12 brunch of *Fush end Chups* yes beloved fish and chips, which was really good! Instead of wondering round the town centre, we headed straight to our hired Toyota car on the way to Akaroa. About a 3hr drive from Christchurch. Driving up and down the paddocked landscapes, zig-zagging through more paddocks, past cows and of course sheeps. HA! Remy and I spotted some on the road; as we were approaching them, Remy honked the horn and boy oh boy can they run so fast! ZOOM! Zooming to the hill and then gwaking at us as if we were so rude to them.
Finally reaching Akaroa, it is a small habour-side town. It is a cute place and the places there reminds me of movie sets. English and French Settlement in the heydays (talking about 1800s!) and nowadays, Akaroa still has its French influence, from 'Rue Jolie'; the French Flag, buildings and the 'Boulangerie du village.' Had a delicious hot chocolate, while Remy had his cappuccino and a yummy caramel biscuit. Chatted for a while then off to another 2hour drive (someone tell me why its faster driving back than driving to the place?) back to Christchurch to our hotel.
Went back to our room then watched some TV (I was watching Angels and Demons, unfortunately didn't get to finish the whole movie..) before heading to the sauna, yes trying out the hotel amenities.Stayed and chatted for about 20mins before heading back upstairs for a shower then out to the town for dinner. HRM for dinner didn't know what to have so we wondered about saying ..."how about this? how about that?" And then later ended up having Chinese food. Then back to the Hotel So lobby for our fix of free wi-fi then back up to the room for sleep. -__-
*****************
Finally reaching Akaroa, it is a small habour-side town. It is a cute place and the places there reminds me of movie sets. English and French Settlement in the heydays (talking about 1800s!) and nowadays, Akaroa still has its French influence, from 'Rue Jolie'; the French Flag, buildings and the 'Boulangerie du village.' Had a delicious hot chocolate, while Remy had his cappuccino and a yummy caramel biscuit. Chatted for a while then off to another 2hour drive (someone tell me why its faster driving back than driving to the place?) back to Christchurch to our hotel.
Went back to our room then watched some TV (I was watching Angels and Demons, unfortunately didn't get to finish the whole movie..) before heading to the sauna, yes trying out the hotel amenities.Stayed and chatted for about 20mins before heading back upstairs for a shower then out to the town for dinner. HRM for dinner didn't know what to have so we wondered about saying ..."how about this? how about that?" And then later ended up having Chinese food. Then back to the Hotel So lobby for our fix of free wi-fi then back up to the room for sleep. -__-
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Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Travelling again
Hello my fellow friends,
Another up-date to my travelling bug er bug!?!?! Bahahaha. It should have been yesterday, but after all the travel, checking out the stuff in Christchurch, was too tired to blog about yesterdays events! So here it goes....
MONDAY 26th APRIL
..Off goes my Daft Punk alarm to 6:00am. I turn my head to the left and reach for my iPhone alarm, "right snooze" 9mins later Daft Punk's "harder, better, faster, stronger" goes back on, snooze, then repeat, then 6:30ish I go to Remy "aight get up and get ready" We get ready and get all our gear packed and finalised. Mum seems to be excited more than Remy and I, (guess its just because we're still tired). So off we all go, yes my whole family - Mum, Dad and Ray come with us to the Brisbane International Airport. Once we reached the 'departures' section, dropped our bags off, "Have a safe trip, enjoy (in between with hugs and kisses)" Remy and I go to the check-in section to well check -in our luggage as well as our flight stuff, then off to the custom/secturity section before having some breakfast of Red Rooster goodness.
9:40am is our flight to Christchurch, flying Pacific Blue. We get in and the cabin crew make a mickey of their names; when they are introducing themselves to us "So welcome to flight DJ80 and taking care of you are Sandy, Mandy and Candy...." Most of the trip I was catching up on snooze, awkwardly sleeping on the side, giving my left side a very good stretch! (ouch!) Woke up in between, listening to music, my frenchPod and then chomping some Burger Ring chips. Our flight was about 2hrs and 30mins, as we were 20mins early than the expected arrival time...not too bad.
Arrived in Christchurch Airport, yet again through customs to get my passport scanned (unfortunately not stamped :() and bags off the conveyor belt then back to security to check no food etc, (cause you know NZ is angst if bringing something that ain't legal!) so I just checked in my Chips! Yes my Doritos chips because I didnt want to dis 'em. Later Remy went to check out the car hires. Went to Budget but they wanted like $1000 something for hiring a car for 16 days so we went to the Britz section, Remy negotiated with the guy and got it for about $542NZ for 16days, so then got a free shuttle to the place where we go and hired a car. After that finally got our car, small/medium white car and with my Dad's trusty GPRS (Thanks Dad for lending it to us) we headed off to Christchurch city to our hotel - Hotel So. It's such a small and trendy hotel with free gym, sauna and of course Wi-Fi! So I recommend you all check out this hotel when staying in Christchurch; not a bad area, as its close to city centre.
After settling down in our hotel room, Remy and I ventured downstairs for Dinner, very cheap from 5pm its $NZ12 Dinner, it was cheap and had steak with chips and salad, YUM! Then we headed out to Oxford Tce and took some tourist photos before heading to another restaurant/bar to have a beer. A bummer I had a throbbing headache, I didn't get to finish having it (:() then after went to the 24hr store to buy some Neurofen (which funnily enough the Korean or Japanese Shop-keeper was suggesting to me 'it was very good to have') well er I'm a nurse lol but I just agreed with what she said. Then back to the hotel, watched a bit of tv before falling asleep. zzzzzzzz
Thursday, January 28, 2010
WOW! First blog of the year!
A very belated HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL! Mind you, it's Janurary 28th...so quick it's going to be February and then again this year will go fast! Some exciting and boring bits have happened with me in the first month of 2010....
WORK
New graduate nurses are coming through the ward I work at....I welcome all of them who have joined our crew. It'd be a very busy year for all of them, yet I'm sure they'll enjoy their time. It's been such an overwhelming month so far at work. Won't say as its confidential, but just MUY LOCO!!!!! 3 days time it will be 4 years since I have worked! A few more digits before I get long service leave Hahaha!
TORTILLA de PATATAS
I have to give credit to my boyfriend Rémy as he made one for me on New Years Eve, since then I observed how he made it and then made my own. I have to admit the first time wasn't much of a success but still was good....so far I have made probably 5 tortillas. It's bloody addicting. Tortillas has potatoes and eggs as like an omellette but looks more like a frittata. Pretty easy to cook and tasty as well! Will make anyone of yous one..and I'm sure you'll be hooked with it.
FOLKS BACK FROM THEIR USA TRIP
So it's my brother Ray and my end of our 'little break from parents.' Our folks came back from their epic USA trip. From freezing temperatures to sweltering hot Brisbane weather. No matter how much fun Ray and I had while they were away, it was good to see them back. Yes Mum, it's back to reality...yet time to save more for another trip somewhere else.
UNIVERSITY
Funny story, sort of...anyway I got an OFFER letter from QUT for summer semester classes - pre-requiste for Psychology. Yes I (did) plan on studying psychology. So 'summer classes' started on January 18th, so here I go to uni, late though (class started at 930am, and I rock up @ Kelvin Grove campus at 1040am!) so I went to look for the class...it was another hot day and looking for the class was making me annoyed so I decided to go to the student service and ask about summer semester.
For some reason I just had this feeling I really wasn't enrolled. And indeed I was right..lol and I am such an idiot to go all the way to university; however driving back home I was having second thoughts of postgrad psychology. I guess it'd come in handy in my nursing, but then at the same time didn't want to spend more on HECS for it or moneywise....so I decided that I will learn a language. Spanish and French @ University of Queensland for a year. Since it was part of my resolution aim to become fluent or understand more of both languages by the end of the year.
So yes I have scrapped the Psychology part to do languages which I feel I am passionate about.
BLACK
Been to the beach with Rémy and his friends to Noosa; and the following weekend Rémy and I went to Byron Bay. It was a beautiful time but a pity we didn't swim much, because stupid bluebottles in the ocean and people got stung by them. Instead we just roasted under the sun, hence 'black' for me because I was friggen dark! Dark with bikini mark ha! Though we did have a bit of a dip in the water to cool off for a bit went straight back to our towels to sunbake
more....Later we went up to Byron Bay Lighthouse, seeing the beautiful view as well as being a photographer for Rémy =)WHAT'S NEXT? more beach, work, dancing, tortillas and just chilling out with friends and family....and music festivals.....can't wait for that! Until then, Adios V x
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