Today we had to back track a bit.
We had planned to go to the Treetops walking and then finishing at a country club to swim in the pool with one of Ilisha's good friends Shelby. Really upsetting, but Ilisha seems to have gotten sick with something, fever and dizzy.
Instead she sent me to Singapore National Museum. It was good - I understood why Daddy told me to go to Raffles to have gin sling. Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles discovered Singapore in 1892. Not sure about the gin sling. The opium problems was an interesting point. It was all very interactive, each person with a kindle of sorts, press the number and it tells the story of the area. Each picture is numbered to read the descriptions as well (no one peering over one another to try and see it).
Though, when I first went, I didn't realise how big it actually was. By the time that I got to the war in 1940s I had a sudden feeling of that was enough. I couldn't take in any more and try to absorb it. So I basically walked through the rest and missed the independence era.
That's okay though, as this evening I went out with Ilisha's younger brothers Harsha and Akash and her mother to the East Coast for sea food, which was incredibly educational. Not only is Sumati so kind, she is fascinating to listen to, knowledgable but opinionated. I loved it.
The food was so delicious. Though Harsha believes Singapore's national dish is chicken and rice, Sumati said people don't come to Singapore to eat it, they come to eat the crab. And that we did.
We had black pepper crab then chili crab and then prawns pan fried in oats (cereal prawns) (which sounds weird but was delicious) all overlooking what is a beautiful night view, from all of the ships and tankers out at sea... I'd never seen so many in one place, there must have been over 50, all of them glowing.
On the way back I learnt that the casinos in Singapore are what is bringing in so much money at the moment. Though they only opened two years ago, they are doing better than the 52 in Las Vegas combined. Isn't that amazing! Sumati puts it to the fact that Chinese/Asians in general love to gamble, it's in their blood.
Now Ilisha doesn't look to good for tomorrow... I am so hoping she is better, but if not I will still go out in the afternoon, Harsha has promised to guide me.
Wednesday 26 June 2013
Tuesday 25 June 2013
Singapore 2- Zoos!
Last night Ilisha's Dad picked us up and we headed to the temple. His mother was very strictly hindu, and since she died last year, on the last Monday of every month he goes and gets a coconut of some sort blessed to put in front of her picture. I would explain it more, but he honestly didn't really know much more about it. I found it very interesting though, holding my hands over the smoke and pouring the water on my face.
We then went to dinner at his cousins house which was very funny, and nice to just be in a home environment for delicious Indian food. Thankfully there was cutlery.
Afterwards we went to Arab Street where Ilisha's Dad treated us to a drink and shisha.
Now, I don't smoke. It really just doesn't interest me. But shisha tastes nice usually and I'll share with a big group. Three of us were sharing one, and boy was it too much. It was SO strong, I felt woozy from the tobacco/nicotine/whatever within 5 minutes and had to leave it to the pros. Don't regret it. Even so, it was so much fun. Chilled, fun chatting. I loved it.
I WENT TO THE ZOO TODAY!
I've been to the zoo before, I think. It was in London, but all I remember are snakes and Aunty Pippa. I've seen a few in theme parks in Florida. But this zoo is rated one of the best in the world and I can see why. It's very open, very natural. The animals are so close. The three shows we watched were wonderful (I got to see elephants again :) a sea lion performance, and a orangutan with its baby). Walking was quite exhausting though. I saw SO many things it's overwhelming to think of what to mention... the bats were astonishing. The lions, tigers, pumas, cheetahs, leopards... The polar bear was a bit sad to see so confined.
After we had dinner and went to the Night Safari. It is very close, but for the nocturnal animals. The show as better than the ones at the zoo (funniest bit was when a Korean guy unexpectedly ended up with a Boa Constrictor (Maggie) around his shoulders and was FREAKING out, in a good natured way of course).
The Sugar Glider, the Wallaby's, the otters... there were many amazing animals again. But by this point I was a rather exhausted and just enjoyed taking the tram and glancing at everything. Ten full hours looking at amazing creatures is quite enough for a newbie.
It's all so nice just to be doing it with one of your closest friends, just sitting and watching tigers pace is an experience. I'm so lucky.
We then went to dinner at his cousins house which was very funny, and nice to just be in a home environment for delicious Indian food. Thankfully there was cutlery.
Afterwards we went to Arab Street where Ilisha's Dad treated us to a drink and shisha.
Now, I don't smoke. It really just doesn't interest me. But shisha tastes nice usually and I'll share with a big group. Three of us were sharing one, and boy was it too much. It was SO strong, I felt woozy from the tobacco/nicotine/whatever within 5 minutes and had to leave it to the pros. Don't regret it. Even so, it was so much fun. Chilled, fun chatting. I loved it.
I WENT TO THE ZOO TODAY!
I've been to the zoo before, I think. It was in London, but all I remember are snakes and Aunty Pippa. I've seen a few in theme parks in Florida. But this zoo is rated one of the best in the world and I can see why. It's very open, very natural. The animals are so close. The three shows we watched were wonderful (I got to see elephants again :) a sea lion performance, and a orangutan with its baby). Walking was quite exhausting though. I saw SO many things it's overwhelming to think of what to mention... the bats were astonishing. The lions, tigers, pumas, cheetahs, leopards... The polar bear was a bit sad to see so confined.
After we had dinner and went to the Night Safari. It is very close, but for the nocturnal animals. The show as better than the ones at the zoo (funniest bit was when a Korean guy unexpectedly ended up with a Boa Constrictor (Maggie) around his shoulders and was FREAKING out, in a good natured way of course).
The Sugar Glider, the Wallaby's, the otters... there were many amazing animals again. But by this point I was a rather exhausted and just enjoyed taking the tram and glancing at everything. Ten full hours looking at amazing creatures is quite enough for a newbie.
It's all so nice just to be doing it with one of your closest friends, just sitting and watching tigers pace is an experience. I'm so lucky.
Monday 24 June 2013
Singapore 1- India
Ilisha is Indian, really. Her Mum is from the North of India. Her dad is from the south (though her Great Grandfather moved to Singapore, so that's about as Indian-Singaporean as it gets).
So the first place we went was the Little India District/ Serangoon Road.
We had Indian food at Murgans where I ate with my hands for the first time. Full on eating thosai and idli with four different sauces dipping and making a mess. It was fun. And yummy :D
We then went to Mustafa shopping centre. It's all owned by one family, all connecting but basically the size of a mall. As it's owned by a Muslim family, the only things you can't buy there are pork and alcohol. So Ilisha's Mum said when we were driving there, 'Say anything, and I will tell you that they have it.' My response was 'Traffic Lights'. Well, they have everything but pork, alcohol and traffic lights apparently.
I even got a little henna on the back of my left shoulder.
This afternoon Ilisha and I rode bikes to the nearby Botanical Gardens, lay down in the grass and covered the time we've missed since not being together. I didn't realize until I got here that there was a haze problem. I have never heard of the psi reading/level until today. If it's over 60, no tennis. We have masks incase it gets too bad. But they're those heavy duty circular masks that don't look very comfortable, so I really hope not.
We took a dip in the pool and now we're about to go to the Temple with her father and friends.
I can't believe I've actually caught up with my blog up to this point! Whoop!
So the first place we went was the Little India District/ Serangoon Road.
We had Indian food at Murgans where I ate with my hands for the first time. Full on eating thosai and idli with four different sauces dipping and making a mess. It was fun. And yummy :D
We then went to Mustafa shopping centre. It's all owned by one family, all connecting but basically the size of a mall. As it's owned by a Muslim family, the only things you can't buy there are pork and alcohol. So Ilisha's Mum said when we were driving there, 'Say anything, and I will tell you that they have it.' My response was 'Traffic Lights'. Well, they have everything but pork, alcohol and traffic lights apparently.
I even got a little henna on the back of my left shoulder.
This afternoon Ilisha and I rode bikes to the nearby Botanical Gardens, lay down in the grass and covered the time we've missed since not being together. I didn't realize until I got here that there was a haze problem. I have never heard of the psi reading/level until today. If it's over 60, no tennis. We have masks incase it gets too bad. But they're those heavy duty circular masks that don't look very comfortable, so I really hope not.
We took a dip in the pool and now we're about to go to the Temple with her father and friends.
I can't believe I've actually caught up with my blog up to this point! Whoop!
Bangkok 6- The Filler Day
My last full day in Bangkok was aimed at doing everything I hadn't done.
Sadly the first aim was to go to the Floating Market. We went, but there was nothing floating... It was a Friday and apparently it's only good on the weekends. It was a bit of waste of time.
We then went to Golden Mountain, where I saw a view of the whole city which was nice. Then went and got pedicures in the Mall.
That evening we took a ferry to Asiatique where we met up with Lalita for dinner and drinks.
The place we were at was wonderful, live singing (Lady Boy but I refused to believe them). At about midnight before we went back to Mint's apartment there was one last thing I needed to do. I had the fish eat the dead skin on my feet. At first I was freaking out! But if you concentrated on talking to the person beside you and didn't look down- it wasn't so bad. I don't feel it made any difference - but I did it!
Bangkok was packed. I know already I want to go back and do other things I missed this time. Go to the South beaches. Go back to JJ Market. Go partying, properly. It really was a wonderful city.
Just the way people say thank you with their hands together and head bowed made me smile.
Sadly the first aim was to go to the Floating Market. We went, but there was nothing floating... It was a Friday and apparently it's only good on the weekends. It was a bit of waste of time.
We then went to Golden Mountain, where I saw a view of the whole city which was nice. Then went and got pedicures in the Mall.
That evening we took a ferry to Asiatique where we met up with Lalita for dinner and drinks.
The place we were at was wonderful, live singing (Lady Boy but I refused to believe them). At about midnight before we went back to Mint's apartment there was one last thing I needed to do. I had the fish eat the dead skin on my feet. At first I was freaking out! But if you concentrated on talking to the person beside you and didn't look down- it wasn't so bad. I don't feel it made any difference - but I did it!
Bangkok was packed. I know already I want to go back and do other things I missed this time. Go to the South beaches. Go back to JJ Market. Go partying, properly. It really was a wonderful city.
Just the way people say thank you with their hands together and head bowed made me smile.
Sunday 23 June 2013
Bangkok 5- Christel
On the Thursday Mint had to work so I spent the day with Christel, my lovely Firstie who was in my house and half Thai, half French.
We started by going and having tea at the Erawan Tea room. I'm not quite sure why it is So popular, but the tea was nice and company was better.
From there we went to Jim Thompsons House. He was basically an American guy that helped revive the Thai Silk Trade. Though the tour guide didn't really explain the whole process of how to actually make silk etc. which I had hoped she would. The house was gorgeous. Traditional. Dark woods.
http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com/
Since we were by a river, we decided to take a ferry of sorts to our next location which was the Siam Museum. I knew I was going to learn about Thai culture in the museum. But it's probably the first time I've been so oblivious to even the name of the museum. A low point when I realized that Siam actually is Thailand. Siamese Cats. Siamese Twins. All Thai first.
I love museums, they are always so well put together. This one began with a video of ancient Thailand compared to present. The video related everyone back to their past life and what their role would have been. Then walking through the museum we watched a more in depth video of the witch doctor, the elephant warrior, the tradesman. I loved the way it ended, a room full of televisions in a confusing way to to describe, of all different events and finishing with TVs with local news. From the past to the present.
Christel and I then went to lunch in Siam Mall where I really was craving pizza. No noodles, for just one meal, please. After I we three went to watch the new Superman movie. The movie was good (I enjoy most movies to be honest). The theatre was wonderful. It was cool because it was the first night it was out, but because we were 12 hours ahead of the US, we were seeing it far before that audience.
But the best bit was right before the movie came on and we had to stand up for the Kings song and watch a clip of all the wondrous things that he has done for the country. I really wanted to do that.
We started by going and having tea at the Erawan Tea room. I'm not quite sure why it is So popular, but the tea was nice and company was better.
From there we went to Jim Thompsons House. He was basically an American guy that helped revive the Thai Silk Trade. Though the tour guide didn't really explain the whole process of how to actually make silk etc. which I had hoped she would. The house was gorgeous. Traditional. Dark woods.
http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com/
Since we were by a river, we decided to take a ferry of sorts to our next location which was the Siam Museum. I knew I was going to learn about Thai culture in the museum. But it's probably the first time I've been so oblivious to even the name of the museum. A low point when I realized that Siam actually is Thailand. Siamese Cats. Siamese Twins. All Thai first.
I love museums, they are always so well put together. This one began with a video of ancient Thailand compared to present. The video related everyone back to their past life and what their role would have been. Then walking through the museum we watched a more in depth video of the witch doctor, the elephant warrior, the tradesman. I loved the way it ended, a room full of televisions in a confusing way to to describe, of all different events and finishing with TVs with local news. From the past to the present.
Christel and I then went to lunch in Siam Mall where I really was craving pizza. No noodles, for just one meal, please. After I we three went to watch the new Superman movie. The movie was good (I enjoy most movies to be honest). The theatre was wonderful. It was cool because it was the first night it was out, but because we were 12 hours ahead of the US, we were seeing it far before that audience.
But the best bit was right before the movie came on and we had to stand up for the Kings song and watch a clip of all the wondrous things that he has done for the country. I really wanted to do that.
Bangkok 4- Siam Square Outdoor Market
Backtracking a bit. Need to finish what happened in Bangkok!
That morning Sheena and I went to get our hair done. It was quite funny, as we had to have Mint on the phone, explain what we wanted in English and then hand the phone over to the hair dresser so she would say it in Thai. This form of communication happened about 4 times for me alone. Poor, sweet Mint
I ended up with a very Asian haircut and curled ends, instead of poker straight something I would never ask for, but hey, it was an experience. Hair grows. And the heat makes it grow faster ;)
We then went to lunch at another restaurant where I worried about the hygiene, but loved the food.
After we walked around Siam Square Outdoor Market. By this point I was prepared for the bargaining and lovely (darn, One Size Fits All) clothes. Sheena was less prepared, so it took a bit of time.
http://kampungboycitygal.com/2011/12/best-shopping-experience-in-bangkok-siam-square-outdoor-market/
Before leaving the mall we went to some Japanese photo booth called Purikura. I thought it was just a traditional photo booth which would have been fun enough. However this version is beyond fake. Mint and Sheena wanted to show me how funny it was. You go in and decide how white you want to be. How big your eyes should be. And various other "enhancing" devices. After taking the photos you can decorate them with glitter and glamour to the extent at seven I would have been going crazy. Since I wasn't as used to it, I let Mint and Sheena do their magic though.
Photos in hand we went to Health Land where I had a thai massage with aromatherapy. Sheena and I were in the same room and I had this old Thai lady who was stretching me and putting me into all of these strange positions until, magically, something would crack. It was interesting... Then they starting patting us down with warm, wonderful smelling balls of some sort. I don't really know. It was something I will remember, but if I have the choice I would choose the Swedish massage for sure.
After we rushed (in Bangkok traffic, haha) to Siam Mall to get dinner before everything closed. We didn't really make it for the hot pot that Mint wanted to take us to... I had soup instead. However, we made it to After You.
Wow.
Wow.
http://www.afteryoudessertcafe.com/menu.php?n=1
I don't know why it was so yummy. It was similar to French Toast, but not quite. It had Ice Cream You put syrup over it. Basically. It was diabetes on a plate. We shared two (excessive) between three of us. One Green Tea Ice Cream and one Nutella. Yum.
That evening was Sheena's last night so we stayed in the apartment and chatted until well past midnight.
That morning Sheena and I went to get our hair done. It was quite funny, as we had to have Mint on the phone, explain what we wanted in English and then hand the phone over to the hair dresser so she would say it in Thai. This form of communication happened about 4 times for me alone. Poor, sweet Mint
I ended up with a very Asian haircut and curled ends, instead of poker straight something I would never ask for, but hey, it was an experience. Hair grows. And the heat makes it grow faster ;)
We then went to lunch at another restaurant where I worried about the hygiene, but loved the food.
After we walked around Siam Square Outdoor Market. By this point I was prepared for the bargaining and lovely (darn, One Size Fits All) clothes. Sheena was less prepared, so it took a bit of time.
http://kampungboycitygal.com/2011/12/best-shopping-experience-in-bangkok-siam-square-outdoor-market/
Before leaving the mall we went to some Japanese photo booth called Purikura. I thought it was just a traditional photo booth which would have been fun enough. However this version is beyond fake. Mint and Sheena wanted to show me how funny it was. You go in and decide how white you want to be. How big your eyes should be. And various other "enhancing" devices. After taking the photos you can decorate them with glitter and glamour to the extent at seven I would have been going crazy. Since I wasn't as used to it, I let Mint and Sheena do their magic though.
Photos in hand we went to Health Land where I had a thai massage with aromatherapy. Sheena and I were in the same room and I had this old Thai lady who was stretching me and putting me into all of these strange positions until, magically, something would crack. It was interesting... Then they starting patting us down with warm, wonderful smelling balls of some sort. I don't really know. It was something I will remember, but if I have the choice I would choose the Swedish massage for sure.
After we rushed (in Bangkok traffic, haha) to Siam Mall to get dinner before everything closed. We didn't really make it for the hot pot that Mint wanted to take us to... I had soup instead. However, we made it to After You.
Wow.
Wow.
http://www.afteryoudessertcafe.com/menu.php?n=1
I don't know why it was so yummy. It was similar to French Toast, but not quite. It had Ice Cream You put syrup over it. Basically. It was diabetes on a plate. We shared two (excessive) between three of us. One Green Tea Ice Cream and one Nutella. Yum.
That evening was Sheena's last night so we stayed in the apartment and chatted until well past midnight.
The end of Bali
Saturday I spent reading at the beach of the villa and then Marvin, his Mum her Australian best friend Leanne and her son Camo went to lunch at the Gourmet Cafe and then to the beach for the afternoon.
That evening we had dinner at Cafe Bali where I had delicious pumpkin gnocchi and I went out that night with Marvin's French friend Andrea to Rumours, where I watched a lot of pool and added it to my mental list of things I need to learn to do decently in the near future. Seriously. After we went to Mint where I was obviously the most under dressed person - but oh wellzz.
Sunday was spent much the same as Saturday, Kuta beach where I got pinkish and finished The Beach.
There was only a slight panic 5 minutes before we were meant to leave for the airport when we realized my passport was too safe. It was in the safety box in Tina's room which was locked. Which she was the sole owner of the key for. And Tina was out for the afternoon, about 25 minutes away. I think Marvin was more frantic than me, hopping on his motorbike and retrieving the key. I got to the airport with my two hours before the departure anyways. (Something, that with the more flights I'm doing, seems less than necessary).
Finitooo!
Though I probably only did half of what Bali had to offer- I still am so grateful to have had the opportunity to go, experience what I did, and meet the people I did.
In the airport I couldn't stop smiling though. Giddy. Singapore, where I am now, it exciting for the destination, but it is also the first place where I feel completely comfortable around Ilisha, as she is one of my dearest friends from AC - simply seeing her has made the trip wonderful already.
That evening we had dinner at Cafe Bali where I had delicious pumpkin gnocchi and I went out that night with Marvin's French friend Andrea to Rumours, where I watched a lot of pool and added it to my mental list of things I need to learn to do decently in the near future. Seriously. After we went to Mint where I was obviously the most under dressed person - but oh wellzz.
Sunday was spent much the same as Saturday, Kuta beach where I got pinkish and finished The Beach.
There was only a slight panic 5 minutes before we were meant to leave for the airport when we realized my passport was too safe. It was in the safety box in Tina's room which was locked. Which she was the sole owner of the key for. And Tina was out for the afternoon, about 25 minutes away. I think Marvin was more frantic than me, hopping on his motorbike and retrieving the key. I got to the airport with my two hours before the departure anyways. (Something, that with the more flights I'm doing, seems less than necessary).
Finitooo!
Though I probably only did half of what Bali had to offer- I still am so grateful to have had the opportunity to go, experience what I did, and meet the people I did.
In the airport I couldn't stop smiling though. Giddy. Singapore, where I am now, it exciting for the destination, but it is also the first place where I feel completely comfortable around Ilisha, as she is one of my dearest friends from AC - simply seeing her has made the trip wonderful already.
Nusa Lembongan
That evening at we to a Japanese restaurant for dinner called Dahana.
On Thursday morning we woke up and left by 8am for Nusa Lembongan.
http://wikitravel.org/en/Nusa_Lembongan
The boat ride was only half an hour, so we arrived by 11am. At which point we found a two very cheap rooms (though, they didn't have Air Conditioning, so I wouldn't say it was wrongly priced). The dive operation that we were going to be with was called Dive Concepts, and they were all French. I have met so many people in Bali that speak French, it is making me more and more regretful I really have never been able to pick up the language in a school setting. Maybe one summer I will do an intensive French course to make up for it.
The rest of Thursday was spent on motorbikes touring the small island. We went to Dream Beach (which finally had acceptable sand). The guys wanted to go snorkeling in the mangroves but the men who were going to sell them the boat were trying to rip them off. It's funny, in Bali I was reading The Beach by Alex Garland. Ironically one of the lines in the book said one of the characters "Boycotted Indonesia because of Bali" and basically the touristy unauthentic scene. I laughed at that, but supposed I was far less of a ''traveller" than on "holiday" in Richard's eyes.
Though one thing he spoke of is very apparent. The uneasy feeling of buying things from locals who are clearly making it overpriced because you're a tourist but also need the few extra dollars far more than you do. Haggling with poverty. Anyways, since the guys couldn't go snorkeling they decided to watch a Cock Fight which we had passed on the way.
It will undoubtedly be the worst experience of my travels.
As a young teenager I had an irrational fear of chickens and roosters in Cayman. They roam around the town centre and are just so... so... well they made my skin crawl so I would give them a wide berth. Turns out my fears were actually fully rational.
Cock Fights happen in Hindu religion after some kind of ceremony that was lost on me. So they're held in a temple. Which means, we had to pay money to put on sari's to go and watch rooster's being forced to fight the other to the death, out of respect and all. Read that sentence again. I seemed to be the only one of the five of us who found this nauseating. I suppose I was the only girl.
There must have been 60 men there, the men who seem to be struggling for money but are all shouting and bidding over $50 for each fight. It was confusing. Thankfully I didn't see too much of the fight. I saw dead roosters on one side, and others in woven cages on the other, waiting. I saw a moment when two of the roosters had given up fight one another and were put in a small cage that they were forced to jump up on one another in attempt to escape...
Basically it was all very horrible for me.
Once we returned we went to the beach (yay) and met with other guys for dinner (the ratio of guys to girls ever increasing). After we sat around and I watched one of the surfer dudes do some cool smoke tricks and play his ukulele to Bob Marley songs.
Early sleep.
Remember the Cock Fighting? Well my sleep in the stuffy, hot room was not that great, but at 5am the roosters started to crow. There were dozens, incessantly. I couldn't get the images out of my mind so up I was at 5:30am, reading The Beach. Waiting for my 7:30am dive.
We went to Crystal Bay and Manta Point. The two attractions which were our main goal were Manta-rays and Sunfish (Mola mola). Sadly we actually didn't see either. I was less disappointed the the three Thai guys, for it was the only reason they went diving.
The boat ride was seriously rough (managing to put on a wetsuit was quite an ordeal) and two of the guys were actually sick before our first dive. Diving was a lot harder than it is in Cayman because the currents were so strong I had to really fight to move around, and restrain from using my arms frantically and looking like a n00b. It also made me really miss my parents. I only ever go diving with them, and coming up between dives there is so much chat and laughter, on this dive there was just a loud silence and rocking.
Other than those things, the dive was lovely, I'm glad I managed to do it. The corals were far more colourful than in Cayman (we were much shallower to at about 50 feet max, so that helped), and less damage than what I imagine has been inflicted on our reefs over the decades.
I saw a baby lobster and so many wicked Clown Trigger Fish. There was one stingray and a turtle as well - but I've been spoiled into thinking they're commonplace.
By time we got back I took a nap and chilled in the sun for awhile before we left by 4 for the boat back to Bali.
That night I stayed in. I was exhausted and knew I would be struggling to keep my eyes open, so let the boys go out and try and find those chicks they were always talking about.
On Thursday morning we woke up and left by 8am for Nusa Lembongan.
http://wikitravel.org/en/Nusa_Lembongan
The boat ride was only half an hour, so we arrived by 11am. At which point we found a two very cheap rooms (though, they didn't have Air Conditioning, so I wouldn't say it was wrongly priced). The dive operation that we were going to be with was called Dive Concepts, and they were all French. I have met so many people in Bali that speak French, it is making me more and more regretful I really have never been able to pick up the language in a school setting. Maybe one summer I will do an intensive French course to make up for it.
The rest of Thursday was spent on motorbikes touring the small island. We went to Dream Beach (which finally had acceptable sand). The guys wanted to go snorkeling in the mangroves but the men who were going to sell them the boat were trying to rip them off. It's funny, in Bali I was reading The Beach by Alex Garland. Ironically one of the lines in the book said one of the characters "Boycotted Indonesia because of Bali" and basically the touristy unauthentic scene. I laughed at that, but supposed I was far less of a ''traveller" than on "holiday" in Richard's eyes.
Though one thing he spoke of is very apparent. The uneasy feeling of buying things from locals who are clearly making it overpriced because you're a tourist but also need the few extra dollars far more than you do. Haggling with poverty. Anyways, since the guys couldn't go snorkeling they decided to watch a Cock Fight which we had passed on the way.
It will undoubtedly be the worst experience of my travels.
As a young teenager I had an irrational fear of chickens and roosters in Cayman. They roam around the town centre and are just so... so... well they made my skin crawl so I would give them a wide berth. Turns out my fears were actually fully rational.
Cock Fights happen in Hindu religion after some kind of ceremony that was lost on me. So they're held in a temple. Which means, we had to pay money to put on sari's to go and watch rooster's being forced to fight the other to the death, out of respect and all. Read that sentence again. I seemed to be the only one of the five of us who found this nauseating. I suppose I was the only girl.
There must have been 60 men there, the men who seem to be struggling for money but are all shouting and bidding over $50 for each fight. It was confusing. Thankfully I didn't see too much of the fight. I saw dead roosters on one side, and others in woven cages on the other, waiting. I saw a moment when two of the roosters had given up fight one another and were put in a small cage that they were forced to jump up on one another in attempt to escape...
Basically it was all very horrible for me.
Once we returned we went to the beach (yay) and met with other guys for dinner (the ratio of guys to girls ever increasing). After we sat around and I watched one of the surfer dudes do some cool smoke tricks and play his ukulele to Bob Marley songs.
Early sleep.
Remember the Cock Fighting? Well my sleep in the stuffy, hot room was not that great, but at 5am the roosters started to crow. There were dozens, incessantly. I couldn't get the images out of my mind so up I was at 5:30am, reading The Beach. Waiting for my 7:30am dive.
We went to Crystal Bay and Manta Point. The two attractions which were our main goal were Manta-rays and Sunfish (Mola mola). Sadly we actually didn't see either. I was less disappointed the the three Thai guys, for it was the only reason they went diving.
The boat ride was seriously rough (managing to put on a wetsuit was quite an ordeal) and two of the guys were actually sick before our first dive. Diving was a lot harder than it is in Cayman because the currents were so strong I had to really fight to move around, and restrain from using my arms frantically and looking like a n00b. It also made me really miss my parents. I only ever go diving with them, and coming up between dives there is so much chat and laughter, on this dive there was just a loud silence and rocking.
Other than those things, the dive was lovely, I'm glad I managed to do it. The corals were far more colourful than in Cayman (we were much shallower to at about 50 feet max, so that helped), and less damage than what I imagine has been inflicted on our reefs over the decades.
I saw a baby lobster and so many wicked Clown Trigger Fish. There was one stingray and a turtle as well - but I've been spoiled into thinking they're commonplace.
By time we got back I took a nap and chilled in the sun for awhile before we left by 4 for the boat back to Bali.
That night I stayed in. I was exhausted and knew I would be struggling to keep my eyes open, so let the boys go out and try and find those chicks they were always talking about.
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Bangkok 3 Ayutthaya
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayutthaya_(city)
On Tuesday Mint's driver picked us up and we went to what used to be the biggest city in Thailand.
The first place we went was the Fifth King's home, well one of them. Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, also known as the Summer Palace. It was very Western. Manicured gardens and serene ponds.
http://manonthelam.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Bang-Pa-In-Palace-Ayutthaya-Thailand.jpg
We then had lunch at a delicious restaurant on the river. We always let Mint order, it turned out well.
Finally we went to see the elephants!! It was something I had been desperate to do as soon as I booked the flight to Bangkok.
It's a controversial issue as of course we can't be positive that these elephants are truly happy. But Mint said that of the touristy places she thinks this is one of the best that we went to. Each elephant (and there were over 100 apparently) had a personal trainer, and it takes 6 years to become a trainer.
I sat on an Elephants crossed legs and it wrapped it's trunk around me for a picture. How touristy does it get? Still, I love the picture.
Sheena and I then took a 7 minute ride on an umbrella bench while the trainer steered. It was fine, quite bumpy, I wouldn't have enjoyed it for much longer.
We then went to various older temples.
Our next stop is Wat Phra Maha Trat – site of one of the most photographed icons in all of Thailand – the Buddha head engulfed in the roots of a banyan tree. This was interesting because all of the Buddha's heads were cut off when the Burmese had invaded to take them back to Burma. This particular head, was probably to heavy and was left behind.
We also went to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, but it wasn't much to me.
We went to two other temples but I cannot remember their names. One had many Buddha's and the other was ancient and beautiful.
That evening we fell asleep pretty early. Ordered in some Indian food and chilled. Good times.
On Tuesday Mint's driver picked us up and we went to what used to be the biggest city in Thailand.
The first place we went was the Fifth King's home, well one of them. Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, also known as the Summer Palace. It was very Western. Manicured gardens and serene ponds.
http://manonthelam.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Bang-Pa-In-Palace-Ayutthaya-Thailand.jpg
We then had lunch at a delicious restaurant on the river. We always let Mint order, it turned out well.
Finally we went to see the elephants!! It was something I had been desperate to do as soon as I booked the flight to Bangkok.
It's a controversial issue as of course we can't be positive that these elephants are truly happy. But Mint said that of the touristy places she thinks this is one of the best that we went to. Each elephant (and there were over 100 apparently) had a personal trainer, and it takes 6 years to become a trainer.
I sat on an Elephants crossed legs and it wrapped it's trunk around me for a picture. How touristy does it get? Still, I love the picture.
Sheena and I then took a 7 minute ride on an umbrella bench while the trainer steered. It was fine, quite bumpy, I wouldn't have enjoyed it for much longer.
We then went to various older temples.
Our next stop is Wat Phra Maha Trat – site of one of the most photographed icons in all of Thailand – the Buddha head engulfed in the roots of a banyan tree. This was interesting because all of the Buddha's heads were cut off when the Burmese had invaded to take them back to Burma. This particular head, was probably to heavy and was left behind.
We also went to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, but it wasn't much to me.
We went to two other temples but I cannot remember their names. One had many Buddha's and the other was ancient and beautiful.
That evening we fell asleep pretty early. Ordered in some Indian food and chilled. Good times.
Bangkok 2 Temples
The Monday, my co-year and Hailee's room mate in her Second Year at UWC USA from Hong Kong arrived for a few days. She was going to do a Eurotrip and the flights somehow worked out cheaper to go from Bangkok to Finland.
Sheena was absolutely lovely. Since Mint was an amazing host we ended up sharing the double bed and she slept on the sofa.
That afternoon we went to Temples. WOW WOW WOW WOW.
I just can't get over how truly beautiful they all are.
We started by going to the biggest and most known, the Grand Palace.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Palace
Inside was the Emeral Buddha, which we couldn't take pictures of. All of the buildings were so elaborate and colourful. I was in awe. I also really liked the skirt I had to wear to be respectful, and how we took off our shoes inside. Also, in each room there is a ledge that you have to step over, and be sure not to step on. This is to stop bad spirits from following you from room to room. I really liked all of these traditions. There were so many stories that I couldn't keep up with. Many monks too.
The next temple we went to was the one with the Biggest Reclining Buddha.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Pho
On the way their Mint and I had an interesting discussion about how now the Buddha is becoming so commercialised and losing the respect it deserves. Like Buddha heads as candles. I felt rather guilty at this as 1) I never knew the buddha looked like anything other than the fat jolly sitting guy and 2) Only last year I went to a club with Chlo and Heidi in Monaco actually called the Buddha Bar.
The final temple of the day was Wat Arun. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Arun
We had to cross a river on a rickety boat and climb up many steep steps. But I thought it was wonderful nevertheless.
That evening we went to Chinatown. On Monday's though - China town is closed. This is because the street vendors aren't allowed out. We still had some DELICIOUS seafood in a restaurant where I have never felt so 'Western' in my life. Or worried about food poisoning. But Mint told it like it is 'It's not authentic good if it's not like this.' So I braved it and here I am to tell the story my friends.
Then we went out back to Khao San Road where it poured with rain. The few hours that we were their were fun even so.
From Monks to Lady Boys - Bangkok was many firsts. It was an joke between the three of us that I struggled SO much with telling them apart from actual girls. I would also feel guilty sometimes, because what if it was just a masculine looking girl? How mean of me would it be if I assumed it was a boy playing dress up? It the week I was sure of about 6 though.
Sheena was absolutely lovely. Since Mint was an amazing host we ended up sharing the double bed and she slept on the sofa.
That afternoon we went to Temples. WOW WOW WOW WOW.
I just can't get over how truly beautiful they all are.
We started by going to the biggest and most known, the Grand Palace.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Palace
Inside was the Emeral Buddha, which we couldn't take pictures of. All of the buildings were so elaborate and colourful. I was in awe. I also really liked the skirt I had to wear to be respectful, and how we took off our shoes inside. Also, in each room there is a ledge that you have to step over, and be sure not to step on. This is to stop bad spirits from following you from room to room. I really liked all of these traditions. There were so many stories that I couldn't keep up with. Many monks too.
The next temple we went to was the one with the Biggest Reclining Buddha.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Pho
On the way their Mint and I had an interesting discussion about how now the Buddha is becoming so commercialised and losing the respect it deserves. Like Buddha heads as candles. I felt rather guilty at this as 1) I never knew the buddha looked like anything other than the fat jolly sitting guy and 2) Only last year I went to a club with Chlo and Heidi in Monaco actually called the Buddha Bar.
The final temple of the day was Wat Arun. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Arun
We had to cross a river on a rickety boat and climb up many steep steps. But I thought it was wonderful nevertheless.
That evening we went to Chinatown. On Monday's though - China town is closed. This is because the street vendors aren't allowed out. We still had some DELICIOUS seafood in a restaurant where I have never felt so 'Western' in my life. Or worried about food poisoning. But Mint told it like it is 'It's not authentic good if it's not like this.' So I braved it and here I am to tell the story my friends.
Then we went out back to Khao San Road where it poured with rain. The few hours that we were their were fun even so.
From Monks to Lady Boys - Bangkok was many firsts. It was an joke between the three of us that I struggled SO much with telling them apart from actual girls. I would also feel guilty sometimes, because what if it was just a masculine looking girl? How mean of me would it be if I assumed it was a boy playing dress up? It the week I was sure of about 6 though.
Bali
Bali is beautiful.
As soon as I arrived Marvin had a flower necklace over my neck and off we went into the crazy traffic. Not even in Bangkok did I experience young girls about 11 years old knocking on our windows with a baby at her side. I'd seen it happen many times in movies, but it was sad to just ignore.
Tina, Marvin's Mum, has been here for 7 years as an interior designer and they have just moved into a new villa which she designed. Wow. It is amazing. The kind you see in magazines and think.. if only...
One thing about Bali is the currency is incredibly confusing. So many 0's. 1USD is 1000 Rupiah. So I took out 1 million Rupiah on my first night to the island - it sounded a lot cooler than it actually turned out to be. I was also warned quite early on about Bali Belly. Be careful what you eat.
On our first night Marvin and I went to W where we met some of his French friends. After that we went to Mint and then we got back to the villa.
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3221
http://www.indomint.com/home.php
On Sunday Marvin picked up three friends he went to school with in Thailand when he was 14. They're all Thai but speak perfect English which is good. Sadly, their idea of a week in Bali is different to my own, which means I've been slightly lonely. I've also come to realise they're not my UWC boys or Cayman old friends. They're just guys commenting on hot chicks and really interested in shroomng.
Sunday we went to a beach at Kuta.
I still hold to it that the beaches in Cayman are better. The sand is yellow, whereas this sand because of the volcanos is grey with sparkles. The waves are too rough for leisurely swimming (okay, if you like to surf they would be good) and every 10 minutes a vendor tries to sell you coconut milk... a kite.. a bracelet... it's not as peaceful. You also have to pay for a beach chair, and depending on if you're a tourist or not you have the potential to be extremely rip-offed. But there was sun. That, at least, there was.
Afterwards we went to a pool party called Splash at Cocoon. It happens every Sunday and was a great vibe and venue. Many beautiful girls, a bubble machine and a live DJ- pretty perfect Sunday.
http://cocoon-beach.com/cocoon-extras/cocoon-gallery/splash-party/
Now, there are a lot of Australians in Bali. The ones I met on Sunday night were all incredibly friendly, if not loud and drunkenly. They also all seem to have sleeves of tattoos. Of meaningless things. Maybe it's the trend in Australia... We went out after that but I was salt-ified and far too tired to enjoy myself.
On Monday we went to Ubud. The guys rented motorbikes and I went on the back of Marvin's. There and back we must have done about 80k. For the first time on a motorbike, it was exhausting. Though some parts were sooo beautiful, rice paddies for miles on end.
The monkeys were used to tourists feeding them bananas. However I was too frightened to actually let them crawl up my body and take one from my hand. I still got to get really close to them and see the babies with their mothers. The area itself was beautiful, an old temple with a rapid river going through it.
Once we got home Tina was lovely to us and made us a delicious dinner of pasta and salad.
http://www.monkeyforestubud.com
Yesterday I went to Seminyak on my own. I walked through the stores and drooled on the beautiful boho clothes by local designers. Sadly the prices here are far too expensive to make it worth buying anything. Instead I indulged in some banana pancakes, the food, at least, is cheap. I went to the beach for a few hours and enjoyed the sun. That night I went with the guys to a restaurant called Rumours for dinner and watched them play pool - again, a bit lonely.
This morning I took another excursion on my own. I went to two temples. I was at a major disadvantageous as my cab driver didn't speak much English and I don't understand Hindu temples. I didn't have lovely Mint to explain it all to me.
http://wikitravel.org/en/Tanah_Lot
Tanah Lot was about a 45 minute drive and worth the drive. It was beautiful, a rock surrounded by water with a temple on top. We couldn't actually go into the temple but that's fine. I gave an offering and was blessed with a hibiscus-like flower, water drizzle and rice on my forehead. I'm telling you- between Budhism in Thailand, Hinduism in Bali and Catholicism in Budapeszt - I've become quite the religious goer.
It was quite funny when I was there 3 school kids asked to take a photo with me. I looked nothing special, but of course, I agreed.
After I went to Taman Ayun Royal Temple. It was less impressive and I felt a bit cheated by my cab driver for taking me there as it took only 20 minutes to walk around.. but oh well. It would have meant a lot more if I had someone to explain it all to me. At least now I can read about it and then say I went there.
http://www.balistarisland.com/Bali-Interesting-Place/Taman-Ayun-Temple.htm
Now I'm just back in the AC watching in the distant yard a painter make wall art for the bedrooms. He is incredible.
Tomorrow I will join the boys once again. We are waking up early and taking an hour boat to another island where the diving is meant to be good and staying the night there so we can dive the next morning as well. I am very excited and will talk all about it.
Friday night we will go out. Saturday we will go and get some sensational Jimbaran Seafood... and we shall see what else!
As soon as I arrived Marvin had a flower necklace over my neck and off we went into the crazy traffic. Not even in Bangkok did I experience young girls about 11 years old knocking on our windows with a baby at her side. I'd seen it happen many times in movies, but it was sad to just ignore.
Tina, Marvin's Mum, has been here for 7 years as an interior designer and they have just moved into a new villa which she designed. Wow. It is amazing. The kind you see in magazines and think.. if only...
One thing about Bali is the currency is incredibly confusing. So many 0's. 1USD is 1000 Rupiah. So I took out 1 million Rupiah on my first night to the island - it sounded a lot cooler than it actually turned out to be. I was also warned quite early on about Bali Belly. Be careful what you eat.
On our first night Marvin and I went to W where we met some of his French friends. After that we went to Mint and then we got back to the villa.
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3221
http://www.indomint.com/home.php
On Sunday Marvin picked up three friends he went to school with in Thailand when he was 14. They're all Thai but speak perfect English which is good. Sadly, their idea of a week in Bali is different to my own, which means I've been slightly lonely. I've also come to realise they're not my UWC boys or Cayman old friends. They're just guys commenting on hot chicks and really interested in shroomng.
Sunday we went to a beach at Kuta.
I still hold to it that the beaches in Cayman are better. The sand is yellow, whereas this sand because of the volcanos is grey with sparkles. The waves are too rough for leisurely swimming (okay, if you like to surf they would be good) and every 10 minutes a vendor tries to sell you coconut milk... a kite.. a bracelet... it's not as peaceful. You also have to pay for a beach chair, and depending on if you're a tourist or not you have the potential to be extremely rip-offed. But there was sun. That, at least, there was.
Afterwards we went to a pool party called Splash at Cocoon. It happens every Sunday and was a great vibe and venue. Many beautiful girls, a bubble machine and a live DJ- pretty perfect Sunday.
http://cocoon-beach.com/cocoon-extras/cocoon-gallery/splash-party/
Now, there are a lot of Australians in Bali. The ones I met on Sunday night were all incredibly friendly, if not loud and drunkenly. They also all seem to have sleeves of tattoos. Of meaningless things. Maybe it's the trend in Australia... We went out after that but I was salt-ified and far too tired to enjoy myself.
On Monday we went to Ubud. The guys rented motorbikes and I went on the back of Marvin's. There and back we must have done about 80k. For the first time on a motorbike, it was exhausting. Though some parts were sooo beautiful, rice paddies for miles on end.
The monkeys were used to tourists feeding them bananas. However I was too frightened to actually let them crawl up my body and take one from my hand. I still got to get really close to them and see the babies with their mothers. The area itself was beautiful, an old temple with a rapid river going through it.
Once we got home Tina was lovely to us and made us a delicious dinner of pasta and salad.
http://www.monkeyforestubud.com
Yesterday I went to Seminyak on my own. I walked through the stores and drooled on the beautiful boho clothes by local designers. Sadly the prices here are far too expensive to make it worth buying anything. Instead I indulged in some banana pancakes, the food, at least, is cheap. I went to the beach for a few hours and enjoyed the sun. That night I went with the guys to a restaurant called Rumours for dinner and watched them play pool - again, a bit lonely.
This morning I took another excursion on my own. I went to two temples. I was at a major disadvantageous as my cab driver didn't speak much English and I don't understand Hindu temples. I didn't have lovely Mint to explain it all to me.
http://wikitravel.org/en/Tanah_Lot
Tanah Lot was about a 45 minute drive and worth the drive. It was beautiful, a rock surrounded by water with a temple on top. We couldn't actually go into the temple but that's fine. I gave an offering and was blessed with a hibiscus-like flower, water drizzle and rice on my forehead. I'm telling you- between Budhism in Thailand, Hinduism in Bali and Catholicism in Budapeszt - I've become quite the religious goer.
It was quite funny when I was there 3 school kids asked to take a photo with me. I looked nothing special, but of course, I agreed.
After I went to Taman Ayun Royal Temple. It was less impressive and I felt a bit cheated by my cab driver for taking me there as it took only 20 minutes to walk around.. but oh well. It would have meant a lot more if I had someone to explain it all to me. At least now I can read about it and then say I went there.
http://www.balistarisland.com/Bali-Interesting-Place/Taman-Ayun-Temple.htm
Now I'm just back in the AC watching in the distant yard a painter make wall art for the bedrooms. He is incredible.
Tomorrow I will join the boys once again. We are waking up early and taking an hour boat to another island where the diving is meant to be good and staying the night there so we can dive the next morning as well. I am very excited and will talk all about it.
Friday night we will go out. Saturday we will go and get some sensational Jimbaran Seafood... and we shall see what else!
Saturday 15 June 2013
Bangkok 1 JJ Market
Dreading how much I want to write for the amazing 6 days I spent in Bangkok. Wow.
However I'm in Bali right now, and simply don't have the time. And my German friends keyboard is very confusing. The y's and z's are in the wrong place - for a touch typist it gets frustrating.
So, Aunty Kathy, it will all come. Later. xxo
Okay. Here goes the start.
It always takes longer when I leave these things to later as I can't remember the names of anything.
The first day I was Saturday afternoon. The flight was easy, there was a spare seat next to me so I managed to get about 6 hours of sleep.. so lucky.
Mint's family driver took us the 40 minute drive to her apartment. The ride, the first time actually speaking to Mint, went by incredibly fast - a sign that the week was going to go well as it was so easy to chat to Mint.
Where she lives is very central which is lucky. It's a small place but very clean with nice furniture so it didn't feel overwhelming.
I already did a blog entry of that evening about Khao San Road.
The next morning Mint had a German test and I settled into the apartment. She brought me back Bubble tea. Interesting.
http://www.arborteas.com/pages/a-quick-recipe-for-thai-boba-tea.html
We went to JJ Market that afternoon.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatuchak_Weekend_Market
We walked for 5 hours around the stalls and Mint claims we didn't even cover a quarter of the area. Mz motto was that if the store had AC, the prices would be higher. I still found a bunch of really cute tops. Sadly, everything was One Size Fits All so I won't be comfortable in a few of the things until I get back into shape. If not... well I have many tiny friends and cousins. Darn Asian bodies.
The funniest part was when, being me, I didn't see a ditch and slipped my left left right down the side. This hurt quite a bit, but I was able to ignore it. Annoyingly two small cuts were bleeding quite profusely and sweet Mint insisted we go to the First Aid station to get it cleaned. The lady didn't speak any English so I let Mint explain the situation. Apparently most people go to the Air Conditioned room because they faint in the heat. I can see how. Anyways while the lady cleaned my leg with iodine solution I was quite the spectacle - at least 10 people were around the area enjoying the scene. It was a bit strange to me.
The lady was talking and Mint's eyes were growing bigger and bigger and I imagined it was a pretty cool story being told until Mint asked ''Do you have health insurance?''
Apparently the lady was going on about how I had to go and get 3 tetanus shots successively at the hospital and Mint was freaking out. I assured her that I had my shots awhile ago and that anyways - I hadn't actually touched any metal in my little slip. It was all quite amusing to me.
That evening we went back to Mint's, she had a conference call to make for the internship she was currently doing and I relaxed.
However I'm in Bali right now, and simply don't have the time. And my German friends keyboard is very confusing. The y's and z's are in the wrong place - for a touch typist it gets frustrating.
So, Aunty Kathy, it will all come. Later. xxo
Okay. Here goes the start.
It always takes longer when I leave these things to later as I can't remember the names of anything.
The first day I was Saturday afternoon. The flight was easy, there was a spare seat next to me so I managed to get about 6 hours of sleep.. so lucky.
Mint's family driver took us the 40 minute drive to her apartment. The ride, the first time actually speaking to Mint, went by incredibly fast - a sign that the week was going to go well as it was so easy to chat to Mint.
Where she lives is very central which is lucky. It's a small place but very clean with nice furniture so it didn't feel overwhelming.
I already did a blog entry of that evening about Khao San Road.
The next morning Mint had a German test and I settled into the apartment. She brought me back Bubble tea. Interesting.
http://www.arborteas.com/pages/a-quick-recipe-for-thai-boba-tea.html
We went to JJ Market that afternoon.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatuchak_Weekend_Market
We walked for 5 hours around the stalls and Mint claims we didn't even cover a quarter of the area. Mz motto was that if the store had AC, the prices would be higher. I still found a bunch of really cute tops. Sadly, everything was One Size Fits All so I won't be comfortable in a few of the things until I get back into shape. If not... well I have many tiny friends and cousins. Darn Asian bodies.
The funniest part was when, being me, I didn't see a ditch and slipped my left left right down the side. This hurt quite a bit, but I was able to ignore it. Annoyingly two small cuts were bleeding quite profusely and sweet Mint insisted we go to the First Aid station to get it cleaned. The lady didn't speak any English so I let Mint explain the situation. Apparently most people go to the Air Conditioned room because they faint in the heat. I can see how. Anyways while the lady cleaned my leg with iodine solution I was quite the spectacle - at least 10 people were around the area enjoying the scene. It was a bit strange to me.
The lady was talking and Mint's eyes were growing bigger and bigger and I imagined it was a pretty cool story being told until Mint asked ''Do you have health insurance?''
Apparently the lady was going on about how I had to go and get 3 tetanus shots successively at the hospital and Mint was freaking out. I assured her that I had my shots awhile ago and that anyways - I hadn't actually touched any metal in my little slip. It was all quite amusing to me.
That evening we went back to Mint's, she had a conference call to make for the internship she was currently doing and I relaxed.
Saturday 8 June 2013
Khao San Road
A lot of people in one place overwhelm me. Well.
I arrived to Mint's apartment by 5pm and we went to dinner to meet up with AC friends who were on a Thailand summer project saving elephants in the North. This was my first experience actually caught in Rush Hour traffic in a big city. We spent 40 minutes in the car, barely moving. Nonetheless, it's an experience.
It was so nice seeing everyone [about 10 of us] though the table was long and narrow so I didn't manage to converse with everyone.
I had forgotten what it felt like to be in a hot country. To be sticky. To be shiny. It's probably more humid here than in Cayman. Oh wellz. We took the BTS line and a cab to Khao San Road.
I'd never heard of it before, but this morning I'm reading my Lonely Planet [total tourist] and Andrew Burke summarized it so well.
That wasn't a very good screen-shot but took me far too long on this Mac- seriously, read it though. They are my words, but far better.
''One of these days I' going to find one of those Lonely Planet writers and I'm going to ask him, what's so fucking lonely about Khao San Road?''
Very true.
Anyways, saying goodbye to AC people is always sad- I'm getting better though.
Mint and I have made magnificent plans for the next 6 days- I am total-tourist-excited.
Off to the market! Then sushi. Wheyyyo!
Abs
I arrived to Mint's apartment by 5pm and we went to dinner to meet up with AC friends who were on a Thailand summer project saving elephants in the North. This was my first experience actually caught in Rush Hour traffic in a big city. We spent 40 minutes in the car, barely moving. Nonetheless, it's an experience.
It was so nice seeing everyone [about 10 of us] though the table was long and narrow so I didn't manage to converse with everyone.
I had forgotten what it felt like to be in a hot country. To be sticky. To be shiny. It's probably more humid here than in Cayman. Oh wellz. We took the BTS line and a cab to Khao San Road.
I'd never heard of it before, but this morning I'm reading my Lonely Planet [total tourist] and Andrew Burke summarized it so well.
That wasn't a very good screen-shot but took me far too long on this Mac- seriously, read it though. They are my words, but far better.
''One of these days I' going to find one of those Lonely Planet writers and I'm going to ask him, what's so fucking lonely about Khao San Road?''
Very true.
Anyways, saying goodbye to AC people is always sad- I'm getting better though.
Mint and I have made magnificent plans for the next 6 days- I am total-tourist-excited.
Off to the market! Then sushi. Wheyyyo!
Abs
Thursday 6 June 2013
Budapeszt 4 (:
Today Adriano took the day off and we went to Szechenyi Baths.
The building was very pretty and (besides the lack of sun) very true to the pictures. I suppose I am a bit spoiled considering I have been 'jacuzzi hopping' since about 8, but the water was lovely and warm. The best part was watch the old men, balding but extremely tan, playing chess in the shallow end. It made my day I would say.
I don't quite understand how the hot water spring makes it's way to the chlorinated pool... but oh well. I'm sure the minerals of calcium and magnesium have healed any ailments that were coming on.
We left with a delicious cinnamon ice-cream in hand [fahej]. Adriano then went to waterpolo training. And I managed to get use public transport and my terrible sense of direction back to his house, and then this cafe using the wi-fi for the last few hours.
It's been a wonderful few days. Travelling to new places is always exciting. I know it really does make a difference who you are with. Maybe if I had come with other AC friends and stayed in a hostel I would have been going out and meeting Uni Erasmus students in the early hours of the morning. But instead I'm going back to his house for a wonderful home-cooked meal and incredibly comfortable bed. I'm fortunate that this is just as satisfying to me, and I feel just as lucky to be doing it. Who would have imagined I would be sitting at a dinner table with a Hungarian family, and they would all be speaking in English just for me. I really am spoiled.
Anyways, tomorrow I am going to lunch in Buda one last time and then heading to the airport an hour earlier than I would have a few days ago as the flooding means the traffic isn't too good.. Hopefully it should all be okay! In total it's over 18 hours leaving Adriano's house until getting to Mint's in Bangkok.
I will blog in a few more days!
Love,
Abi
The building was very pretty and (besides the lack of sun) very true to the pictures. I suppose I am a bit spoiled considering I have been 'jacuzzi hopping' since about 8, but the water was lovely and warm. The best part was watch the old men, balding but extremely tan, playing chess in the shallow end. It made my day I would say.
I don't quite understand how the hot water spring makes it's way to the chlorinated pool... but oh well. I'm sure the minerals of calcium and magnesium have healed any ailments that were coming on.
We left with a delicious cinnamon ice-cream in hand [fahej]. Adriano then went to waterpolo training. And I managed to get use public transport and my terrible sense of direction back to his house, and then this cafe using the wi-fi for the last few hours.
It's been a wonderful few days. Travelling to new places is always exciting. I know it really does make a difference who you are with. Maybe if I had come with other AC friends and stayed in a hostel I would have been going out and meeting Uni Erasmus students in the early hours of the morning. But instead I'm going back to his house for a wonderful home-cooked meal and incredibly comfortable bed. I'm fortunate that this is just as satisfying to me, and I feel just as lucky to be doing it. Who would have imagined I would be sitting at a dinner table with a Hungarian family, and they would all be speaking in English just for me. I really am spoiled.
Anyways, tomorrow I am going to lunch in Buda one last time and then heading to the airport an hour earlier than I would have a few days ago as the flooding means the traffic isn't too good.. Hopefully it should all be okay! In total it's over 18 hours leaving Adriano's house until getting to Mint's in Bangkok.
I will blog in a few more days!
Love,
Abi
Budapeszt 3
Yesterday Balint and I went to the Great Synagogue. I've never actually been in a Synagogue... Well I still haven't. But it was quite a pretty building I suppose. I managed to send some post cards which always makes me feel accomplished, like doing laundry.
We then met up with my First Year from Adriatic, called Cindy, who is also on scholarship from the Hungarian National Committee. I told her of all the things I've done/seen and she said quite simply 'Well you've done all the touristy things'. Duh... Anyways, since we were in the Jewish District she took us to what is called a Ruined Pub. SO COOL.
I wish I had gone at night time because I'm sure it would be a lot more interesting. But basically they're outdoor pubs that everything is is reused. I'm talking cars being shelled out and made into benches, with skis as the floor. To bird cages hanging from the ceiling next to gnomes on swings.
From there we went to lunch where I finally tried something traditional - borsó főzelék - essentially a creamy soup with peas. Pretty good nonetheless.
We then went to a Beer Garden that again would be really cool at night, and again has been undisturbed in furniture since the 1970s. Low Maintenance at least. Comparing UWCs and hilarious stories I tried my second type of Hungarian alcohol. It was a shot of cranberry-honey Palinka. Much better than the day befores Unicum anyways.
Basically another great day. Adriano had Waterpolo training (national sport in Hungary) so I spent the evening with his younger sisters and Step-Mum.
We then met up with my First Year from Adriatic, called Cindy, who is also on scholarship from the Hungarian National Committee. I told her of all the things I've done/seen and she said quite simply 'Well you've done all the touristy things'. Duh... Anyways, since we were in the Jewish District she took us to what is called a Ruined Pub. SO COOL.
I wish I had gone at night time because I'm sure it would be a lot more interesting. But basically they're outdoor pubs that everything is is reused. I'm talking cars being shelled out and made into benches, with skis as the floor. To bird cages hanging from the ceiling next to gnomes on swings.
From there we went to lunch where I finally tried something traditional - borsó főzelék - essentially a creamy soup with peas. Pretty good nonetheless.
After lunch we went to one of the coolest places I have been in Europe, which is going to sound so meagre when I tell you it's a tea room. Basically you go in a take off your shoes and there are dozens of little alcoves/cocoons with pillows and incense and so chill. You choose from at least 40 teas and ring a bell to order. Above us in like a tree house were a bunch of Australian Uni students. I would come back to Budapest just for the tea rooms, I'm quite sure. It really is the simple things my friends...
Basically another great day. Adriano had Waterpolo training (national sport in Hungary) so I spent the evening with his younger sisters and Step-Mum.
Budapeszt 2!
Okay my first full day.
Adriano works in the morning so my other Firstie from Hungary promised to meet up with me. He knows a lot more about the city and is a good travel buddy. I basically did 6 hours of walking all around Peszt with Balint. We started at Hero's Square. I appreciated the statues. We walked and I looked at the Opera House. I've never been to an Opera. Yet.
The best buildings of every European city are their Churches. It's where all of the money went, so it makes sense. In St Stephens Basilica we sat and I just enjoyed the splendour (and the relief from my feet) for quite a while. It's always quiet, with a certain glow. I think so anyways. The ceilings are always beautiful too, though it's a strain on the neck. This was the first time we went up about 500 spiralling steps to the top where we could look at the city from up high. Man, am I unfit, Insanity days are officially over.
The next best building in an the city is the Parliament, which from Buda looks magnificent. One of the best. (Well of the ones I've seen). But up close on the road side there was sadly a lot of construction going on- which ruined the effect. Megh.
Balint and I went into an antiquarian and, Hungarian) - they all make me happy. I bought The Paul Street Boys (Hungarian: A Pál utcai fiúk) which is a youth novel by the Hungarian writer Ferenc Molnár - a valuable souvenir.
We stopped in one of Balints favorite pubs to try a Hungarian drink called Unicum I seriously thought it was disgusting. Peppery Tabasco Sauce flavour. Oh well... try everything once right?
Going to cities for the first time, museums are essential. Yet I didn't think I could manage the Naitonal History museum or anything of fine arts without a true guide to explain it all to me. So instead, Balint and I both being Higher European History students of Kate's - we went to the House of Terror.
The lady had promised that there were English subtitles under everything, but I really wish I had paid for an audio guide. Even so - it was very well laid out and I now understand more. However, going to a museum where you haven't actually learnt the topic in the first place, it's always overwhelming on how much I DON'T know about any situation. The building was once the headquarters of the AVH secret police. Many political prisoners were taken there for torture. Apparently the walls were of double thickness to mute the screams - not a great thought.
It was interesting in that it focused on both the fascist and Stalinist regimes, and represented the atrocities of both. Now, I don't know if this is because I couldn't understand the Hungarian, but it seemed that it represented both, not making either side better - which is something you don't always get in a museum. There were prison cells in the dungeon which were harrowing. In each prison cell and in the last hallways there were dozens of pictures of people. I thought they were all prisoners- as it had been when I went to Auschwitz. Going through a hallway like that you always look at one particular picture and feel pain, and more to think that for every one person that is remarkable, there are a dozen that are not, that don't catch your eye. It's always so sad.
That's what I understood from the lack of English anyways. But it turned out it was the exact opposite, the prison cells - I had gotten it right. But the last hallway was pictures of spies/torturers from both sides (many still alive) who had allowed the atrocities to happen. A completely different feeling then...
Anyways, by the end of the day I was exhausted. I got back to Adriano's, had dinner with his lovely family, and was asleep by 9:30.
Appreciation Overload.
Adriano works in the morning so my other Firstie from Hungary promised to meet up with me. He knows a lot more about the city and is a good travel buddy. I basically did 6 hours of walking all around Peszt with Balint. We started at Hero's Square. I appreciated the statues. We walked and I looked at the Opera House. I've never been to an Opera. Yet.
The best buildings of every European city are their Churches. It's where all of the money went, so it makes sense. In St Stephens Basilica we sat and I just enjoyed the splendour (and the relief from my feet) for quite a while. It's always quiet, with a certain glow. I think so anyways. The ceilings are always beautiful too, though it's a strain on the neck. This was the first time we went up about 500 spiralling steps to the top where we could look at the city from up high. Man, am I unfit, Insanity days are officially over.
The next best building in an the city is the Parliament, which from Buda looks magnificent. One of the best. (Well of the ones I've seen). But up close on the road side there was sadly a lot of construction going on- which ruined the effect. Megh.
Balint and I went into an antiquarian and, Hungarian) - they all make me happy. I bought The Paul Street Boys (Hungarian: A Pál utcai fiúk) which is a youth novel by the Hungarian writer Ferenc Molnár - a valuable souvenir.
We stopped in one of Balints favorite pubs to try a Hungarian drink called Unicum I seriously thought it was disgusting. Peppery Tabasco Sauce flavour. Oh well... try everything once right?
Going to cities for the first time, museums are essential. Yet I didn't think I could manage the Naitonal History museum or anything of fine arts without a true guide to explain it all to me. So instead, Balint and I both being Higher European History students of Kate's - we went to the House of Terror.
The lady had promised that there were English subtitles under everything, but I really wish I had paid for an audio guide. Even so - it was very well laid out and I now understand more. However, going to a museum where you haven't actually learnt the topic in the first place, it's always overwhelming on how much I DON'T know about any situation. The building was once the headquarters of the AVH secret police. Many political prisoners were taken there for torture. Apparently the walls were of double thickness to mute the screams - not a great thought.
It was interesting in that it focused on both the fascist and Stalinist regimes, and represented the atrocities of both. Now, I don't know if this is because I couldn't understand the Hungarian, but it seemed that it represented both, not making either side better - which is something you don't always get in a museum. There were prison cells in the dungeon which were harrowing. In each prison cell and in the last hallways there were dozens of pictures of people. I thought they were all prisoners- as it had been when I went to Auschwitz. Going through a hallway like that you always look at one particular picture and feel pain, and more to think that for every one person that is remarkable, there are a dozen that are not, that don't catch your eye. It's always so sad.
That's what I understood from the lack of English anyways. But it turned out it was the exact opposite, the prison cells - I had gotten it right. But the last hallway was pictures of spies/torturers from both sides (many still alive) who had allowed the atrocities to happen. A completely different feeling then...
Anyways, by the end of the day I was exhausted. I got back to Adriano's, had dinner with his lovely family, and was asleep by 9:30.
Appreciation Overload.
Budapeszt 1!
Possibly not the best start to 6 weeks of travelling.
I arrived at the airport fine. I boarded the plane fine. Yet within 20 minutes of flying instead of heading in the direction I thought would be best towards Hungary our little plane said we were going towards Amsterdam. Peculiar...
Then the captain [who was by far the most vocal captain I have ever experienced] said we were doing an emergency landing in Amsterdam for a man was in need of medical assistance. I was in the front of the plane, but in the back of the plane there was quite a bit of mayhem.
It was at this point as we were descending that I realised I was the youngest person on the plane, swear to jah, by at least 30 years. As the lady from Toronto who I became quite chatty with put it 'All these oldies going on cruises'.
So we were delayed by about 2 hours. I got to go to the cockpit. The only question I had was 'how many buttons are actually in here?' There were a lot. Apparently the man, who was 78, had had a heart attack, which could have been prompted be the rising altitude. I really hope he is okay.
After we left we heard that the exact same thing happened to RyanAir 20 minutes later. Supposedly the whole situation, with the cost of landing, parking refuelling, paramedics etc cost 10,000 pounds. And it's becoming more and more frequent.
By time I arrived in Budapest, Adriano was there to meet me. We drove for about 40 minutes to his house in Buda and quite quickly went out again to see the Royal Palace.
From the Palace/ Castle Hill you can see the Parliament, and Peszt. Adriano didn't know much about the history of the area, but it was still pretty.
We went to dinner where I really wanted to try Hungarian food. Didn't quite manage it, as most of it seemed incredibly meaty. That night we watched Hangover 3. Though you can watch movies anywhere I think it's pretty cool watching them in different cities. I have now watched The Dark Knight Rises in Oslo, Skyfall in Lausanne and Hangover 3 in Buda :)
I arrived at the airport fine. I boarded the plane fine. Yet within 20 minutes of flying instead of heading in the direction I thought would be best towards Hungary our little plane said we were going towards Amsterdam. Peculiar...
Then the captain [who was by far the most vocal captain I have ever experienced] said we were doing an emergency landing in Amsterdam for a man was in need of medical assistance. I was in the front of the plane, but in the back of the plane there was quite a bit of mayhem.
It was at this point as we were descending that I realised I was the youngest person on the plane, swear to jah, by at least 30 years. As the lady from Toronto who I became quite chatty with put it 'All these oldies going on cruises'.
So we were delayed by about 2 hours. I got to go to the cockpit. The only question I had was 'how many buttons are actually in here?' There were a lot. Apparently the man, who was 78, had had a heart attack, which could have been prompted be the rising altitude. I really hope he is okay.
After we left we heard that the exact same thing happened to RyanAir 20 minutes later. Supposedly the whole situation, with the cost of landing, parking refuelling, paramedics etc cost 10,000 pounds. And it's becoming more and more frequent.
By time I arrived in Budapest, Adriano was there to meet me. We drove for about 40 minutes to his house in Buda and quite quickly went out again to see the Royal Palace.
From the Palace/ Castle Hill you can see the Parliament, and Peszt. Adriano didn't know much about the history of the area, but it was still pretty.
We went to dinner where I really wanted to try Hungarian food. Didn't quite manage it, as most of it seemed incredibly meaty. That night we watched Hangover 3. Though you can watch movies anywhere I think it's pretty cool watching them in different cities. I have now watched The Dark Knight Rises in Oslo, Skyfall in Lausanne and Hangover 3 in Buda :)
Saturday 1 June 2013
London Shenanigans
I suppose the last bits of this blog will be more of a recollection of my Summer Travels than speaking of AC. However, I will at least be with AC people- and none of it would happen if it weren't for UWC. It's always connected.
LONDON
LONDON
Day
1-
Arrived to Gabi’s apartment in Waterloo
early afternoon, went to a pub to meet up with 30 AC students in the evening. Six of the most beautiful girls staying at Gabi's for the the next 3 days.
Day 2-
Day 2-
Camden with Shana and Chloe, shisha and
people watching at its best. Pims at 6 on the Terrace while the sun set. Night
out in London with the gang…
Day
3-
Met up with Second Years in St James Park.
It was a beautiful sunny day J
Searched 7 stores for teriyaki sauce for dinner with Gabi’s parents. Early night, the History Boys.
Searched 7 stores for teriyaki sauce for dinner with Gabi’s parents. Early night, the History Boys.
Day
4-
Move everything to Ece’s student room at
UCL. Mission in itself. Dinner at a Korean restaurant. Hackney for the night,
staying at Carys’ with Chlo and Rhys. Watched
the Great Gatsby- dazzling.
Day
5-
Museum hopping. National British Museum,
Carys (who will be studying Art History in Cambridge in September) took me
around her favourites, Ancient Egyptian and Greek. Lunch in China town, [Malaysian
food ironically]. Another museum, though I do not know which one. Tons of
Picasso, Manet, and Monet… fun listening to Konan and Chris Lowell’s interpretations
of the paintings.
Dinner at Pizza Express with Chlo.
Billy Elliot the Musical at the Victoria
Palace Theatre – it was amazing!
Day
6-
Not feeling too well… mission to move all
of my luggage to Hounslow and spend time with my family. Chill.
Day
7-
Hummingbird Bakery cupcakes. Covent Garden
performances. Lots of walking.
Day
8-
Canary Wharf, lunch with my second cousin
Will. Camden Town: find a journal for Ilisha.
Found myself in her aunts car on our way to Hammersmith to find fabric with Ilisha. Weird what can happen when you say yes and do things on a whim [obviously not my forte].
‘Crocktails’ [created cocktails] in the family backyard for the evening- incredible night.
Found myself in her aunts car on our way to Hammersmith to find fabric with Ilisha. Weird what can happen when you say yes and do things on a whim [obviously not my forte].
‘Crocktails’ [created cocktails] in the family backyard for the evening- incredible night.
Another Beautiful Song
Arjun, James, Bram and Michael's song at the graduation evening.
We stood and stared at length
At Mandela's bust by the wooden bushy bench
We've climbed trees and tames bees
While a bunch of us were gathered in rooms to make peace
I'll miss those chinese eyes, egyptian breakfasts
Sick bay lies and sosh rejections
Those long dayroom conversations
Some silent passive intimidations
Wakie wakie!, Its the morning surprise
The miserable rain or the rarest sunrise
Farewell farewell
To you and to me
And that castle by the sea
Those endless walks by the coastal path
Those chinese all nighters doing math
and then for a short while in August
We got to know us
Look at us now, we're packed
Let's just take the next bus
I'd like chicken donner with a can of coke
But cigarettes and marcross make me broke
Ive been waiting for this day for so long
Its time for skinny dipping, just grab your thongs
If it wasnt for the code of conduct, Id play beer pong
But look I just made a sad sad song
I want a shower party coz Im legal now
You completed the AC challenge, just take a bow
We're still staring
Our ships are steering
As we've watched the winds take more than just the barren
So you'll go tomorrow and Im sure Ill feel hollow
The ends in sight
Not sure if we should party tonight
Farewell to you and to me
And that castle by the sea
We stood and stared at length
At Mandela's bust by the wooden bushy bench
We've climbed trees and tames bees
While a bunch of us were gathered in rooms to make peace
I'll miss those chinese eyes, egyptian breakfasts
Sick bay lies and sosh rejections
Those long dayroom conversations
Some silent passive intimidations
Wakie wakie!, Its the morning surprise
The miserable rain or the rarest sunrise
Farewell farewell
To you and to me
And that castle by the sea
Those endless walks by the coastal path
Those chinese all nighters doing math
and then for a short while in August
We got to know us
Look at us now, we're packed
Let's just take the next bus
I'd like chicken donner with a can of coke
But cigarettes and marcross make me broke
Ive been waiting for this day for so long
Its time for skinny dipping, just grab your thongs
If it wasnt for the code of conduct, Id play beer pong
But look I just made a sad sad song
I want a shower party coz Im legal now
You completed the AC challenge, just take a bow
We're still staring
Our ships are steering
As we've watched the winds take more than just the barren
So you'll go tomorrow and Im sure Ill feel hollow
The ends in sight
Not sure if we should party tonight
Farewell to you and to me
And that castle by the sea
Saturday 25 May 2013
Leavers Dinner Speech
One of the most spectacular guys I know. Šarūnas Genys from Lithuania's speech at our Leavers Dinner.
My dearly beloved co-years, teachers, staff and above all friends,
My dearly beloved co-years, teachers, staff and above all friends,
Firstly, I
cannot be grateful enough for all of you who have had faith in me in delivering
this speech and possibly my haircut was slightly unexpected I hope you
understand that the flaming hair represents the never ending UWC movement.
All the
drama aside, before coming to AC I didn’t know what to expect, I know sounds
cliché, but my parents never went to UWC, neither they have heard about it,I
have never gone to an international school before, never had friends from
abroad.
A perfect inexperienced
student to be transformed by the international atmosphere of AC you would,
sharing a dorm with people from 3 other countries. Should be completely
transformational, shouldn’t it?
Well, it
wasn’t. I never measured my time in AC by the number of times Norwegian flag
was up in the flag tower because of a national celebration. And possibly I did
not truly learn a whole new set of facts about countries besides the easily
observable things of how fruity Quebecois might be, how diverse can
personalities from Serbia and how party-animals Bengalis might be with all of
the Diwali celebrations and the singing of the stage. I understand how
important it is for college to increase its diversity, although it’s never clear if we have 89 or 91
nationalities, for me AC was never measured by any numbers.
AC for me
was finally coming to understand that people from around the world are largely
the same, have same fears, same expectations, same hopes and same feelings.
Atlantic college
will always remind me of the philosophical discussions at 4 a.m. in the dayroom
whilst sharing the last piece of toast and ever more than that the silly
moments that bring people together and make them laugh, for example throwing
buckets of ice-cold water over the people enjoying their hot shower after a
long day. I don’t know if it’s only me but I believe that the power of laughter
is immeasurable.
Hey, I
acknowledge AC is not a perfect place, there are conflicts, there are awkward
moments in the canteen when you get your spicy Chicken Tikka slice, enter the
dining hall and the only free space is next to Alice and then you have to
endure a long awkward lunch without saying anything. And that’s OK, not
everything in AC had to be meaningful.
And no
matter where you heading off now, whether it volunteering in India, travelling
in South America or simply moving down to the barracks for AOC summer – ARAF my
friends as we say in Welsh, and enjoy the last few hours of the journey that
does not have an ending.
Stay golden,
my dear friends and let’s make this journey last forever.
Goodbye.
So I'm not quite sure how I'm supposed to wrap this up.
I made it through the IB. The majority of the exams were good enough, I hope. It was strange to finish an exam in a couple of hours, or max no more than 5, which summed up dozens of hours in classrooms, homework manics and studying. But that's the same with any exam I suppose.
History was better than I expected. Geography was worse.
I lost many hours of sleep. I consumed more coffee in two weeks than I had ever in my life previously. I only had one major mental break down, before Geography.
But too be quite frank, I'm exhausted with talking about the IB. It's been two years. Always on my mind. Always nagging. It's over now, until July 6th anyways when we find out the results, I just really don't find it necessary to think about that part of AC for now.
It's probably the most surreal part of graduating. I've been asked several times now- what is it like to finally have graduated? Weird. Not only has it not truly hit me, but it won't for a long time. Saying good bye are being prolonged to it's the last possible moment. Travelling for 6 weeks has it's benefits.
Being in London for a week means we meet up. Last night meeting up at a London pub, there were about 40 ex-AC students, four generations. It was a realisation that AC can't actually end. As our ''leisure periphery' expands, the idea of not being connected is less and less. Which is consolation.
However, to a few US students... good bye was tough. For example, dear Joaco from Uruguay. He's going to Middlebury in August. He travelled all over Europe last summer. For people like Joaco who I lived with for 2 years and have seen nearly every day in that time- we can't say when we'll see each other again. It's as hard (possibly harder) than saying good bye to a few family members. We cried for a very long time.
Arriving in AC to pots and pans and cheering. Leaving AC with the same guys who looked so macho as Second Years with red puffy eyes is not something people say everywhere.
I could go on about every goodbye. I could go on about the celebrations in Cambodia [field], at the Watch Tower, watching the sunrise on our last morning. I could give all the details. But words are never sufficient. They give an image- but they won't give a memory. Those, well I keep those.
With all my Love,
Abi
PS- I'm still in debate whether to keep the blog going for the 6 weeks of travelling. I may continue until then. Simply to console dear Daddy.
I made it through the IB. The majority of the exams were good enough, I hope. It was strange to finish an exam in a couple of hours, or max no more than 5, which summed up dozens of hours in classrooms, homework manics and studying. But that's the same with any exam I suppose.
History was better than I expected. Geography was worse.
I lost many hours of sleep. I consumed more coffee in two weeks than I had ever in my life previously. I only had one major mental break down, before Geography.
But too be quite frank, I'm exhausted with talking about the IB. It's been two years. Always on my mind. Always nagging. It's over now, until July 6th anyways when we find out the results, I just really don't find it necessary to think about that part of AC for now.
It's probably the most surreal part of graduating. I've been asked several times now- what is it like to finally have graduated? Weird. Not only has it not truly hit me, but it won't for a long time. Saying good bye are being prolonged to it's the last possible moment. Travelling for 6 weeks has it's benefits.
Being in London for a week means we meet up. Last night meeting up at a London pub, there were about 40 ex-AC students, four generations. It was a realisation that AC can't actually end. As our ''leisure periphery' expands, the idea of not being connected is less and less. Which is consolation.
However, to a few US students... good bye was tough. For example, dear Joaco from Uruguay. He's going to Middlebury in August. He travelled all over Europe last summer. For people like Joaco who I lived with for 2 years and have seen nearly every day in that time- we can't say when we'll see each other again. It's as hard (possibly harder) than saying good bye to a few family members. We cried for a very long time.
Arriving in AC to pots and pans and cheering. Leaving AC with the same guys who looked so macho as Second Years with red puffy eyes is not something people say everywhere.
I could go on about every goodbye. I could go on about the celebrations in Cambodia [field], at the Watch Tower, watching the sunrise on our last morning. I could give all the details. But words are never sufficient. They give an image- but they won't give a memory. Those, well I keep those.
With all my Love,
Abi
PS- I'm still in debate whether to keep the blog going for the 6 weeks of travelling. I may continue until then. Simply to console dear Daddy.
Friday 26 April 2013
no further explanation.
Desks are ready - clock is set - IB exams begin on Tuesday.
Good luck to our second years!
^The UWCAC official page.
This image brings dread to me. 6 days.
More importanty 12 until History.
Good luck to our second years!
^The UWCAC official page.
This image brings dread to me. 6 days.
More importanty 12 until History.
Monday 15 April 2013
.bmp)
End of Codes. Day 1.
The Second Years of Morgannwg woke up at 5:28AM. We had a plan.
Downstairs, we met, yawning, nibbling toast, rubbing eyes and filling buckets of water. Buckets of water seem to be paramount to most pranks at Atlantic College.
At 5:45AM we went to our buddy dorms and woke them up. They needed sweatpants on that could get dirty. No, we weren't going to throw mud on them, we promised... but precautionary nevertheless against any potential liabilities.
Some needed coaxing. Some were anxious. Some just agreed. There were 13 of the 14 boys and 11 of the 12 girls waiting downstairs at 6AM when the alarms went off. We led them outside.
In the field next to the principals house, (very central), all houses began to congregate. Morgannwg, full of pride, was the first house. All first years were put into lines according to house. Four houses on one side of the field, three houses on the other. Then we duck-taped.
It was a massive "Three-legged Race" according to house. Second Years stood in the middle as the line to meet. (The ones who weren't throwing buckets of water at least).
It was hilarious.
It was memorable.
And most importantly, it was not 'Guantanamo Bay' as Jon Morten specified our pranks could not be. (His exaggeration was quite extreme, I believe personally)
Tice won. Maybe. Half there line split from the other after about 10 metres, so there were some disputes.
Anyways, it was over by 6:30, so much of the day ahead!
So far I've seen First Years in Wetsuits and helmets with ILB across their forehead. I've seen boys in saris (to be fair it is actually National Sari Day). All Americans are mandated to Pledge the Allegiance whenever asked. It's only the beginning of the three days.
****
How is it end of Codes is a better question :| I am baffled.
On my last blog I forgot to mention my last AOC service session!
It was a school group, kids we'd spent quite a lot of time with. We played Duck Duck Goose. Football. Red Light, Green Light, the Human Knot... all very amiable. It was only 10 minutes before they were leaving that Carys, a very sweet girl looked at me and said 'So does this mean I won't see you ever again?' I was at a loss for words, really quite sure the answer was probably yes. But she looked so torn. She gave me a massive hug and waved the whole way until she had to get back on the van. It was adorable- and I realised how much some of the students at least had been appreciating the sessions. I loved AOC.
Downstairs, we met, yawning, nibbling toast, rubbing eyes and filling buckets of water. Buckets of water seem to be paramount to most pranks at Atlantic College.
At 5:45AM we went to our buddy dorms and woke them up. They needed sweatpants on that could get dirty. No, we weren't going to throw mud on them, we promised... but precautionary nevertheless against any potential liabilities.
Some needed coaxing. Some were anxious. Some just agreed. There were 13 of the 14 boys and 11 of the 12 girls waiting downstairs at 6AM when the alarms went off. We led them outside.
In the field next to the principals house, (very central), all houses began to congregate. Morgannwg, full of pride, was the first house. All first years were put into lines according to house. Four houses on one side of the field, three houses on the other. Then we duck-taped.
It was a massive "Three-legged Race" according to house. Second Years stood in the middle as the line to meet. (The ones who weren't throwing buckets of water at least).
It was hilarious.
It was memorable.
And most importantly, it was not 'Guantanamo Bay' as Jon Morten specified our pranks could not be. (His exaggeration was quite extreme, I believe personally)
Tice won. Maybe. Half there line split from the other after about 10 metres, so there were some disputes.
Anyways, it was over by 6:30, so much of the day ahead!
So far I've seen First Years in Wetsuits and helmets with ILB across their forehead. I've seen boys in saris (to be fair it is actually National Sari Day). All Americans are mandated to Pledge the Allegiance whenever asked. It's only the beginning of the three days.
****
How is it end of Codes is a better question :| I am baffled.
On my last blog I forgot to mention my last AOC service session!
It was a school group, kids we'd spent quite a lot of time with. We played Duck Duck Goose. Football. Red Light, Green Light, the Human Knot... all very amiable. It was only 10 minutes before they were leaving that Carys, a very sweet girl looked at me and said 'So does this mean I won't see you ever again?' I was at a loss for words, really quite sure the answer was probably yes. But she looked so torn. She gave me a massive hug and waved the whole way until she had to get back on the van. It was adorable- and I realised how much some of the students at least had been appreciating the sessions. I loved AOC.
Sunday 14 April 2013
April Blues
Possibly
the saddest April of my 18 years.
I really hope all of the Mozart, memorisation of dates…deaths…cities…verses…tenses… will all be worth it. As thousands of other IB students at the moment I am sure.
So there really isn’t too much to say. I have listened to hours’ worth of Mozart. I am taking studious notes, and reorganising my binders multiple times. I have now created four binders for History. This makes me very sad.
If I get a 37 in my IB, with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level I will be going to the University of Bristol to study Law, hopefully doing well enough in my First Year exams to qualify for a third year abroad.
I’ve already decided what Unions/Clubs/Society’s I would like to be a part of J So many of my friends who are in Uni now so they have so much free time- which will be terrible after this UWC lifestyle. So I will try to keep busy!
If I don’t… well I couldn’t have worked any harder!
Social Events that have happened though:
The new leaders of Children’s Charities decide! Nineteen interviews. Wowza. Dominique (Dodo) from England/Netherlands, Alexia from Madagascar and Nicole from Hong Kong. I have high hopes!
Sushi in Open House made by Atsuki. MMM.
Gabi’s Mum and Step-Dad came on Friday night. She is a HUGE fan of a Jazz singer, who she’s heard in Portugal, London and Basel. Stacey Kent was performing in St Donats Art Centre on Friday night, the start of a new tour! So Gabi’s Mum bought 10 tickets, two for friends and then six for AC students. I was so happy to have experienced it. The music was lovely. I’ve never listened to jazz live before (or not for that matter), and am now a fan of Stacey Kent and her musicians at the very least.
It was quite funny when she started singing a song in French. As apparently – Chloé and Ophelie said it made absolutely no sense, in terms of grammar. I thought it sounded fine- but then I understood about 7 words…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPLnqICFlqo (here is one of her songs, though I can't remember if she sang it on Friday, or hear it to check if it is a nice one)
Yesterday was Ilisha’s 19th. For the evening there were about 20 friends in the Blue Garden, under shelter as it was raining, for a vegetarian picnic on blankets.
Afterwards I went to look at the Art Exhibition of all the students of AC’s pieces. It was really fantastic. I may have said this last year, but the students at AC’s art is very different to any I saw in Cayman, as my school only had a ‘Fine Arts’ A Level. Sometimes I look at the pieces and the amount of creativity and think I could do things like this- and then I wouldn’t be studying for six subjects right now!
I will put some of the pictures up soon J
Tonight is Move for Amnesty. Another dancing event! Chloé and Gabi in my room have both worked very hard, and they have six new dances to perform. It should be great: D
End of Codes is this week. It really is just meant to be the Friday, but First Years have exams on Thursday and Friday, so our events will have to be done before. I know there’s a whole school event, buddy dorm and Caribbean bonding the next three mornings – I will explain them after the matter. Sadly, that means waking up at 6am each time! EGH.
Less than 3 weeks until exams… Less than 6 weeks until AC is over. What is happening?
I also have applied for six scholarships for University. Two weeks tomorrow I do my first interview via Skype!
Anyways, my laundry is dry.
xxo
Abi
I really hope all of the Mozart, memorisation of dates…deaths…cities…verses…tenses… will all be worth it. As thousands of other IB students at the moment I am sure.
So there really isn’t too much to say. I have listened to hours’ worth of Mozart. I am taking studious notes, and reorganising my binders multiple times. I have now created four binders for History. This makes me very sad.
If I get a 37 in my IB, with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level I will be going to the University of Bristol to study Law, hopefully doing well enough in my First Year exams to qualify for a third year abroad.
I’ve already decided what Unions/Clubs/Society’s I would like to be a part of J So many of my friends who are in Uni now so they have so much free time- which will be terrible after this UWC lifestyle. So I will try to keep busy!
If I don’t… well I couldn’t have worked any harder!
Social Events that have happened though:
The new leaders of Children’s Charities decide! Nineteen interviews. Wowza. Dominique (Dodo) from England/Netherlands, Alexia from Madagascar and Nicole from Hong Kong. I have high hopes!
Sushi in Open House made by Atsuki. MMM.
Gabi’s Mum and Step-Dad came on Friday night. She is a HUGE fan of a Jazz singer, who she’s heard in Portugal, London and Basel. Stacey Kent was performing in St Donats Art Centre on Friday night, the start of a new tour! So Gabi’s Mum bought 10 tickets, two for friends and then six for AC students. I was so happy to have experienced it. The music was lovely. I’ve never listened to jazz live before (or not for that matter), and am now a fan of Stacey Kent and her musicians at the very least.
It was quite funny when she started singing a song in French. As apparently – Chloé and Ophelie said it made absolutely no sense, in terms of grammar. I thought it sounded fine- but then I understood about 7 words…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPLnqICFlqo (here is one of her songs, though I can't remember if she sang it on Friday, or hear it to check if it is a nice one)
Yesterday was Ilisha’s 19th. For the evening there were about 20 friends in the Blue Garden, under shelter as it was raining, for a vegetarian picnic on blankets.
Afterwards I went to look at the Art Exhibition of all the students of AC’s pieces. It was really fantastic. I may have said this last year, but the students at AC’s art is very different to any I saw in Cayman, as my school only had a ‘Fine Arts’ A Level. Sometimes I look at the pieces and the amount of creativity and think I could do things like this- and then I wouldn’t be studying for six subjects right now!
I will put some of the pictures up soon J
Tonight is Move for Amnesty. Another dancing event! Chloé and Gabi in my room have both worked very hard, and they have six new dances to perform. It should be great: D
End of Codes is this week. It really is just meant to be the Friday, but First Years have exams on Thursday and Friday, so our events will have to be done before. I know there’s a whole school event, buddy dorm and Caribbean bonding the next three mornings – I will explain them after the matter. Sadly, that means waking up at 6am each time! EGH.
Less than 3 weeks until exams… Less than 6 weeks until AC is over. What is happening?
I also have applied for six scholarships for University. Two weeks tomorrow I do my first interview via Skype!
Anyways, my laundry is dry.
xxo
Abi
Wednesday 3 April 2013
Please Support :)
A really good friend of mine:
This sunday I am...
…run a half marathon!
BUT this Sunday (7th) I am running the Forest of Dean half marathon.
I am doing so in sponsorship for the educational charity organisation Project Trust who I will be working for on my gap year (if all goes to plan I should be spending 12 months in South Africa!)
I would be incredibly grateful for any donations however small. I would also be happy to tell you more about what I shall be doing.
Thank you,
Anna (Tice)
Tuesday 26 March 2013
Sustainabiltiy Conference
YES! It happened. The day has come.
What? Chloé has written for zi blog.
Finally, someone who cares to re-read her entry and make sure the right 'their/there' and 'affect/effect' has been used.
Truly, I am as relieved as the rest of the blogging community.
Check it out :)
Easter Break starts tomorrow! I get to see my parents after nearly three months :) Wheyoooo.
What? Chloé has written for zi blog.
Finally, someone who cares to re-read her entry and make sure the right 'their/there' and 'affect/effect' has been used.
Truly, I am as relieved as the rest of the blogging community.
Check it out :)
The Sustainability conference began with a really good opening talk by Daniel Vockins: “Campaigning for the Common Good”. He explained that we must recognize the interconnectedness of our community, society and planet and consider the dynamic relationships between our politics, economics, ecology and culture. He was a good, engaging speaker who managed to keep all the students awake (which, first thing in the morning on a conference day, is no mean feat I tell you!)
My first workshop of the day was led by Joe Rowson, head chef at a great restaurant in the nearby town Cowbridge called Arboreal. We looked at the more sustainable options, local foods and produce in season to maximise the school menu’s sustainability. Our discussion led to ideas being put forth such as:
- Environmental faculty contacting local grower/suppliers and to see about building partnerships (e.g. exchange of student labour on the farms for local food, etc.).
- Introduce sustainable/organic meals for open house
- Raise awareness about seasonal eating (which I personally really feel should be part of the UWC learning experience as it is within our mission statement to be learn to be sustainable), for example by putting informative charts up around the dining hall.
- Expand the use of the polytunnels in the valley (run by environmental service) to provide more local food to the cantine
- Houseparent-organised trips to farmers markets (and Arboreal!)
My second workshop was an outdoor excursion around the school grounds called ‘Bees and Trees’. It was led by two first year students, Peter from England and Eleanor from Scotland, and, as the name suggests, focused on the bees and trees found on our beautiful campus. Despite the biting cold and nasty combination of wind and rain, we made our way all the way down to the seafront and through the forest until we reached the valley, stopping on the way to learn about the interesting facts and names of the trees that surrounded us. Highlight of the walk: finding some Dog’s Mercury (cool name!) in the forest, which apparently is a sign of very healthy and ancient woodland.
The next day began with another captivating speech by an ex-AC student (1977-79), David Fitzpatrick, from “Sustain Wales”. He spoke about our personal responsibility in global issues: the difference between what we do and what we should do. I got a bit lost when he started talking about sustainable charters but the general message of his speech was well received and discussed by the students: we must become conscious of how our daily actions and future decisions affect the sustainability of ourselves, our community and our planet.
My workshop for that day focused on the concept of co-ops and was led by two owners of a co-operative health food store in Edinburgh, one of whom was also an AC alumnus (2003/5, I believe). Unfortunately, they didn’t give us much information as a starting point but instead bombarded us with questions about our opinion on co-ops. Most of us were a bit lost but on the bright side they gave us raw, organic chocolate (actually quite yucky but interesting to have tried nonetheless) and I learnt that Champagne is predominately produced by co-operatives and 80% of Spanish olive oil is produced by co-operatives too!
The conference ended with a heated debate between the entire school and…
Gerwyn Williams - Coastal Oil and Gas
Dennis Campbell - Local Activist (Great public speaker! SO entertaining!)
Sissel Dyhraug – Statoil
Gareth Clubb - Friends of the Earth
Dennis Campbell - Local Activist (Great public speaker! SO entertaining!)
Gareth Clubb - Friends of the Earth
The topic of discussion was: “What will the energy of tomorrow look like?”
To be perfectly honest the debate wasn’t as focused as I hoped it would be. At one point it turned into a massive debate about the harmful effects of fracking. But then again I didn’t know what fracking was until the conference so I suppose it was useful in other respects.
The debate was followed by a rather confusing closing ceremony that had us all form a circle around a maze on the top lawn and place rocks with our own ‘sustainability reflection’ chalked onto them around its perimeter. It was organised by an ex-art teacher, Lydia White, who directed the participating students (who were all covered in face paint and screaming something about a beast in the forest in many different languages…) As my tutor said to me yesterday: “Yeah.. Bit deep for me. Bit too ‘Modern Art’.”
Overall though it was an interesting conference, particularly due to the fact that I think many people found the speeches more interesting than the workshops when the reverse is usually true for most of the other diploma periods. It developed my understanding of living sustainably and demonstrated how sustainability can be applied to a variety of disciplines and activities.
Following this conference I will certainly try to act far more sustainably because I realise that every little bit really does help. I’m not talking about the obvious things like turning off the lights when I leave a room and stopping the tap when I’m brushing my teeth, which by now SHOULD be a habit for all of us, but I will also try to consider the source and method of production when I buy a new product.. I say try… And so the same for food, although as Abi can tell you I usually pay quite a bit of attention to that anyway! Sustainable living is about considering the future, while also paying attention to the present -- it’s about thinking globally, and acting locally!
Video from the conference: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgfBE8XaCAc&feature=share
**************************************************************************************
On a different note...
26th March
Independence Day of Bangladesh!
This day commemorates the country's declaration of independence from Pakistan in the late hours of 25 March 1971 by the "Father of the Nation" Bongobondhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman before he was arrested by Pakistani forces.
Atlantic College er Bangalider amar pokkho theke janiacchi shubho shadhinota dibosh! J
Joy Bangla!
Easter Break starts tomorrow! I get to see my parents after nearly three months :) Wheyoooo.
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