Follow Nana

Lady(bug) Luck

2012-01-22T07:29:00.000-08:00

Can objects and things give us luck? I really do like to believe something special can provide me with luck. I currently have a wooden ladybug the size of a penny sitting on my desk and I tap the top for luck every morning when I start my day.

My thought is can objects give us luck because they’re shaped in a good luck charm or do we tell ourselves we will receive luck just by believing.

Everybody has their unique lucky charm either on a chain around their neck, or a ring that was passed on by a special relative and sometimes even an old coin placed deep in their pocket. I find that all things made special don’t bring us luck but make us feel complete by the reassurance of telling us we will receive luck. Can we create luck?

I learned from a friend if you find a lost coin on the ground you must pick it up and pass it on to someone else to bless that person with luck. I found it a sweet gesture. A similar thing is done with the statue of Buddha. You may not buy yourself one but receive it as a gift and rub Buddha’s belly for fortune and good luck.

I received a marzipan shaped as a pig as a gift once and was told it would bring me luck in the New Year. I wasn’t sure if I had to eat it or save it to be blessed. But let’s just say that I was blessed with a sugary treat.

Luck is what you make of it. Just make sure it’s not the edible kind.

“Hello” World

2012-01-21T03:26:00.001-08:00

Hello? Hello? Yes, Nana speaking.

I thought it was my only form of answering the phone but when I left home to travel across the Middle East, Europe and North America my routine starting to change.

Pronto, Hola, Ja, Hallo, Bueno, Asalam Alekum, Good day, Yellow, ...

Answering the phone became fun. Depending on where I landed I had a new voice. When I spent time studying in Italy and then working, I was thrilled to learn that in Italy they answer the phone by saying “Pronto.” Which means: I’m ready! I took this to my advantage. If a friend was running late, I’d tease, “But you answered that you were ready!”

In Mexico my family would answer calls with “Bueno,” which means good. I always feel pleased because everything starts with “good.” Nothing beats a good hello.

Back over to Germany and Austria answering the phone differed depending on the party on the other line. “Hallo,” “Ja” and “Mayen”: “Hello,” “yes” and “my last name.”

When it was a friend you say “hello,” your family member you say “yes,” and if it was an unknown number you let them know who they’re calling.

In the Middle East where my immediate family lives, we answer with “Hello” and “Yes.” “Hello” to friends and “Yes” to family. “Yes” is to let the family know that I already agree on the call before taking it.

When my Arabic heritage kicks in, I love saying “Asalam Alekum.” “Peace be upon you.” It is a highly respectful and used in the Arab region.

So depending where my feet take me, I answer my phone with a new hello. That’s many hello’s.

Coffee homeground, anywhere

2012-01-21T03:19:00.000-08:00

“Let’s grab a coffee together!”

Almost everything and anything is discussed over a cup of coffee. It has become an international tradition; it’s definitely become a tradition of mine.

In almost every part of the world people can be found sitting together in coffee houses enjoying their favorite coffee drink. Whether it’s an American cup of Joe, Italian espresso, Viennese Melange, French Café Crème or Arabic Qahwah, the experience of meeting for coffee has become popular in social interactions.

I bless the discovery of coffee, which was found in Ethiopia and explains its popularity throughout the Arab World. Coffee was so high in demand that Arabs, and later the Europeans, created coffee houses.

During my travels through Europe, I was fascinated by the similarities and differences in coffee houses.

Let me take you first to Milan, the fashion central of both Italy and Europe. Italians are seen standing together conversing by the bar of a café taking a shot of espresso. They don’t waste any time drinking a quick espresso and indulge in a shot of caffeine. That’s the origins of the word espresso, express in English, i.e. a fast and quick caffeine fix.

In neighboring Greece, Greeks can be found enjoying their famous cold coffee known as frappe and they can nurse the glass for hours while playing a game of backgammon. I must admit I’m prone to also enjoy the never-ending glass of cold coffee over a challenging game of backgammon. I dare anyone to try challenging the elderly Greeks in a game; you’ll gulp down a frappe sooner than you think.

Among the most beautiful coffee houses I’ve ever been to are in Vienna, Austria. They’re old, classic and contain many books that call out to be read. People are elegantly dressed as they sip the famous Viennese mélange and enjoy it with a delicious slice of Austrian cake.

Back here in the Middle East, coffee is a different treat. Coffee houses are usually crowded with men enjoying what is commonly called Turkish coffee or Qahwah. People get together to meet and enjoy several cups of Qahwah while playing cards or a game of backgammon and enjoying flavored hookah also known as shisha.

I know I’ve learned one thing in my travels, wherever I go, that a place that serves coffee is the place to be.

Sóller, Mallorca

2010-08-09T12:45:00.001-07:00

Sóller is found in the north-west tip of the island of Mallorca (the Balearic Islands of Spain).

On the fourth day of my sailing trip I got there by yacht a 18 hour sail from Barcelona. I can't really tell you how beautiful it was as I was a bit ill, all I can say is I saw the back part of the boat.

But everyone on board did tell me how beautiful the journey was and the sweet visit of dolphins swimming and jumping by the boat.

Anyhow, the city was definitely worth the bumpy ride. It was so beautiful I forgot the boat ride in about 30 minutes once I got a glance at the beautiful crystal water and the clear sands.

Sóller is a beautiful small city surrounded by orange and lemon trees. The center, Plaça Constitució is surrounded by cafés and tiny boutiques. You can be sipping coffees and lemonades all day.

Near the main train station there is an interesting museum you just cant miss with pieces of work by famous Spanish artists such as: Antoni Gaudí and Pablo Picasso.

If anyone is planning a trip through the island of Mallorca; the train ride from Palma to Sóller is one of the must dos.

I'm definitely going back to visit soon.

Nana

Hola Barcelona!

2010-08-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

Day 1
Had a wonderful smooth flight to Barcelona, Spain. First time in Spain. The weather was perfect. The sun was shinning and the sky was clear.

The morning started with a ride to the harbour. Port de Balis.
A beautiful port one of many ports that hold luxurious yachts in Spain.
My friends and I arrived our boat that we will be spending the next two weeks on.

The first night we strolled around the port and the near by beach. It felt good to be by the sea again.

This port has one of the most delicious seafood restaurants I've ever been to.
El Racó Del Navegant
Wonderful service. Delicious food. It has a great atmosphere.
Its a 40 minute away tram ride from the centre of Barcelona but completely worth the ride.

There exact address and information.

C/ Port Balís, 23
08392 Sant Andreu De Llavaneres, España
Tel: 937 928 613

I had never been to Barcelona before so this was a really exciting trip. Things that I believe is a must do and buy while in Barcelona.

List:
1. Enjoy a pitcher of Sangria ( I recommend the area at Port Vell)
2. Try out the different Tapas. (Many finger foods that you just can't resist)
3. Shop around the Las Ramblas. There are many stalls selling jewellery, hats, scarves ect..
4. Try a seafood plate of Paella.
5. Palau de la Generalitat
6. Casa del Arcediano
7. Palau de la Musica Catalana
8. Gothic Cathedral
9. Check out the architecture by Antoni Gaudí. You'll find in many different locations. Finca Güell, Bellesguard, Colegio Teresiano, Casa Mila, Palau Güell and many more.

Well here are some. I only had a very short period but this is what I got to see and enjoy.

Hola España!

2010-06-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Spain.
When I think of Spain I think Flamingo dancers, sangria, sunshine and Paella. Of course there are many other wonderful things in Spain but everybody has their favourites!

I'm heading to Spain in less than seven days and I'm really excited as it will be my first time. So as for now I have a must do and must see list.
First Stop Barcelona and then Palma de Mallorca and other locations.

España here I come!

Photograph take from http://browse.deviantart.com/?q=Barcelona&order=9&offset=24#/dvqrcg

Graz, Styria, Austria

2010-04-07T01:39:00.000-07:00

A wonderful city in the Styrian Province of Austria. Its the 2nd largest city in the country and has a population of around 300,000 which 44,000 are students. So if your looking for a town to see Old meets new and have fun. I recommend Graz.

Since the moment I visited this city I always went back while staying in Austria. I recommend starting an early morning in this breath taking city.

If you're arriving by Train I suggest you take the tram right outside the main entrance which directly leads you to the center.

The first thing I usually do is go to Grazer Schloßberg (Castle mountain)which has the clock tower on the top. Its a bit of a hike but definitely work when you reach the top. Ive been told that the clock tower has been there since the 16th century and has been accurately working since 18th.
When on the top you can get a panoramic view of the city of Graz.
Look at all the red roof tops.

Will be back with more.

Bella Roma!

2010-02-11T14:53:00.000-08:00

*Sigh* Rome....
Beautiful city with lots of history. One thing is true you can never see Rome in one day. But!! I have a plan for you! I have been to Rome many times for Education, work and holiday purposes! I found a way to see all the important monuments and spots in 8 hours!!

Things you must see in Rome:
Piazza San Giovanni
Colosseum
Arco di Costantino
Foro Romano
Campidoglio
Teatro Marcello
Quirinale
Piazza Venezia
Fontana di Trevi
Trinita di Monti
Piazza del popolo
Castel San Angelo
Citta del Vaticano

They're listed in order from where you start. Start at Piazza San Giovanni and walk your way up towards Fontana di Trevi to Piazza del Popolo and then walk west towards Vatican City.
Of course if you have more days and time you should definitely explore more. But this is a quick list of places you must see!

Will jot back with more details.

Abu Dhabi the Capital of the United Arab Emirates

2010-02-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

Abu Dhabi

Introduction

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The words Abu Dhabi comes from the Arabic meaning Father of the Gazelle. It is the largest city and is located in the north central of the U.A.E. It is the history of this city that makes the capital a much admired place of architecture, wealth and flawless attractions. Known as leading global city, Abu Dhabi is exerting an influential power over worldwide commerce, finance, culture, and entertainment. Abu Dhabi is also known for its luxury through its beauty that you may find through the whole city. The city is filled with stunning gardens and mirror-glass buildings that portray its modern Arabian Fashion.

The history of Abu Dhabi began from a simple lifestyle, later due to its great success of oil reservoir; the formerly simple island has become midpoint of business and tourist centre point.

Its population census is an estimate of 950,000, second largest population in the U.A.E after Dubai its neighboring city.

History

In the history of Abu Dhabi, parts of the region were controlled by a superior tribal called the Bani Yas. The city grew a large economic market for pearl diving, that later collapse in the world market in the early 20th century. Later in the 1939, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheik Shakbut settled an oil dispensation in the region.

Although the city had only a population of around 15,000, the city's economic conditions raised and peaked in the market with its oil progress.

In the early 20th century, the capital was thrust into dismal economic conditions immediately after the collapse of world pearl market; which event from Abu Dhabi history marked a big turning point in the society. Its leap toward big economic rising is remarkably noted in the Abu Dhabi history. The Abu Dhabi's ruler, in 1939, Sheikh Shakhbut Bin-Sultan Al Nahyan approved the concession of petroleum. The capital city, based on the tread of Abu Dhabi history was determined to reach the peak of its industrial or oil progress even when its population is approximately 15,000. In the early 1960's the first low-rise solid buildings were built. In December 2, 1971, the U.A.E established its independence and had its first president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Government

The United Arab Emirates Presidency and Premiership is divided by the traditional heredity families of the region. Abu Dhabi ruled by the Al Nahyan Family and Dubai by the Al Maktoum. Each of the seven Emirates also has its elected Council Ministers which are appointed by The Supreme Court. Forty members are elected for the federal National Council to which is chosen from all the emirates.

Today the Federal Supreme Council has elected Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, son of the first president of the U.A.E, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Lifestyle

Abu Dhabi is known for its luxuries. It is filled with busy shops, restaurants, spas and offices. The occupants of Abu Dhabi come from all different countries of the globe that make it an international city. Living in Abu Dhabi is very easy and practical you get your choices between a building with a sea-view or a huge house by a garden. If you're not working, you're either enjoying time by the beach or fine dining in an exquisite restaurant. Stores are open for many hours and thanks to globalization you can find French brands to American Brands. It's a peaceful yet exciting city, compared to its neighboring city Dubai it's very calm and a family city where you find children playing and families enjoying their time together.

Skiing in the Alps

2010-02-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

Next stop the Alpine Mountains.

As a person who has had the opportunity to ski/snowboard in many spots in the world that I visited, I never took the chance until I got the best offer. This winter 2010 I had the great opportunity to learn how to ski on the Austrian Alps.

Where else and with who other than the Pro's themselves. The beautiful mountains of Lech Am Alberg.
Lech is a village on a mountain of the Bludenz district of Vorarlberg, Austria. Its great history of stories is a fascinating piece that gives its touch of excitement.

During the 14th Century Migrants from use to travel through the mountains between Austria and Switzerland and due the cold weather conditions cabins, churches and hospitals were created to provide an easier path.

The sun shines over the tops of the mountains that creates this glowing light that reflects on the snow. The week that I got to visit this breathtaking spot; the weather was absolutely perfect. The snow had just fallen the night before and the sun was shinning allowing the prefect mood for a beginners day.

After a long day of skiing and falling on my behalf on the slopes of Lech and OberLech nothing beats a warm glass of Glühwein. Also known as Mulled Wine. Prepared in different ways. It is usually prepared from red wine, heated and spiced with cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods, cloves, citrus and sugar. Sometimes with added flavours such as cherry, orange and blueberries.

The town of Lech has many great spots to spend your evening after hitting the spots. A few of my recommendations are listed below.

As a coffee lover my coffee has to be brewed properly and nothing beats Illy coffee.
I loved G. Pfefferkorn & Co Address:‎ Dorf 138.

I tried 3 Italian restaurants in my week and the absolute authentic and delicious place I found was: DON ENZO located on Dorf 163.

If your looking to have a fancy meal and treat yourself to traditional Austrian Cuisine :Restaurant a la Carte im Hotel Arlberg makes you feel at home. Its located on Tannberg 187.

If you want to have a traditional feel to the Alps. a must have with your stay is Fondue. Its originally a traditional Swiss Dish. Fondue which comes from the French word fondre (to melt) is a shared dish in a caquelon pot that is over a burner. Usually used melted cheese and dip in small pieces of bread on special forks.
But another form which I found most Austrians use is a special oil made to boil and dip in different types of meats and vegetables.

Its a must try. But I suggest you patiently wait for your bits to cook well. :)

Enjoy.

Yucatán, Mexico

2009-12-11T05:32:00.000-08:00

Whats better than booking a holiday to lay on the beach for a whole week.
Well there are two types of holidays in Yucatán.

First the "Party it up" and enjoy the sun day and party it by night!
Or
Second type a holiday with the family and packages to visit and enjoy historical sites.

I had the great opportunity to visit Cancun, Yucatan, Mexico. And I mixed the two types. I must say I barely slept but it was worth every minute.

If you're going with family the Resort I would Recommend is Fairmont Mayakoba - Playa del Carmen on the Riviera Mayan.

If your planning for a spring Break and not sure where to go.

The best resort in Cancun is the Oasis Cancun It is the biggest party resort in Mexico. Offering packages that are definitely worth the visit.

The resort offers all you can eat and drink with 7 night rooms plus free shuttles to the clubbing strip. During the day there are different restaurants providing a variety of Breakfast and lunch choices from Mexican to Japanese food.

On the beach there are activities such as free salsa classes and yoga.
The atmosphere and the people are tons of fun if your willing to join!

If your planning to party I recommend find a Cancun Club Package. Its cheaper than hitting every club and paying an entrance. Not only is the club package cheaper you get all inclusive all you can drink and get to sit at the VIP as well as get informed where and what days are the best clubs during the week.

At the clubs there are many performances such as Acrobats, Artists, Musicians and dancers.

There are Bikini and a ton of fun competitions.

If your up for site seeing you wont regret visiting the historical places around the Mayan Riviera.

MUST SEE IN Yucatán:

Chichen Itza - Mayan temple during the time of the Mayan Civilzation

Uxmal- Built Three Times is also a ruin from the Mayan Civilization

Hacienda Xixim- I was told is a magical cave and if you swim in the water you will cured from any illness. Beautiful cave. a little chilly.

Museo de Antropologia e Historia- a Museum with interesting Artifacts such as jewelery and skulls

Tulum is a unique walled city right on the ocean.

Its a great place to visit. At least once in life time :O)

Toronto Dinning

2009-12-09T15:17:00.000-08:00

Toronto is one of the most exciting cities I've ever been to. Depending on how you feel there are many different things you could do to keep you entertained or busy. Below are a variety of dining spots.

Breakfast spots:
My Favourite is a place on Yonge and Dundas called: 1.
Eggspectation They make the best Eggs Benedict I've had in the whole world.
2. Cora's a great place to have a plate of pancakes and fresh fruits. If I'm feeling on the healthy side I always hit Cora's.
3. If its Brunch there is only once place on Sunday that is a must. They serve eggs to roast to fresh fruits and a to die for Chocolate Fountain. Bloor Street Diner its right on Bloor and Bay. They also make delicious Salads for lunch.
4. If you're looking for an all day breakfast I 100% recommend Frans. Its Fast its open 24/7 except on certain holidays. They also serve hamburgers, nachos, milkshakes its your 50's diner!

There are many spots in Toronto but these are my recommendations.

Best Burger
Nothing beats a fresh made Burger right from the Butcher. Kensington Market right on Spadina and College has one of the best and affordable Burgers. Its at the Kensighton Meat Market. They're closed on Sundays. But they make killer Burgers, Hotdogs, Steak Sandwiches.

Sushi
Toronto has amazing Sushi Spots but if you are looking for a recommended spot its Hiro Sushi on 171 King St E. They make delicious Spicy Tuna and California Rolls.
If you're up for all you can eat. There's this great spot on the Danforth that I can't resist and go back to its called Katsu Sushi they serve everything for a great bargain. Sushi, teryaki, tempura, salads, soups.

If its Tepenyaki your craving and you got a special occasion. Yamato Japanese Restaurant on 18 Bellair Street.

If you're feeling for French I love Amuse Bouche Restaurant or SASSAFRAZ its a get away into France.

Nothing beats a delicious Steak and a glass of Red Wine. RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE will make your mouth melt. And send you home satisfied.

When I'm craving for one of my favourite fast sandwiches which I only find in Greek Town on Danforth and Chester. Gyros. The best I've ever had even better than I've had in Greece are at Massini's. Mmm. Chicken Gyros are so good.

Sometimes I just want to sit down and have a beer and Sweet potato fries the place to definately try is Hemingways in Yorkville.

Fresh Smoothies
I just love Fresh juices or smoothies. Papaya Hut on Yonge and Wellesley has the Best in all of Toronto.

Arabic

Paramount Fine Foods is located in Mississauga has fantastic breads and Lebanese foods that I can say is really good. Its really difficult to find good Shawarmas in Toronto that can be close to the real thing. Well there is one spot on Yonge that makes great Shawarmas. Its called Wrab and Grap

Korean BBQ
There are tons of Korean BBQ spots all over T.O today. The authentic and original spot started on 214 Queen st. Korean Grill House. They give you the real stuff and not pieces of remains that you really don't want to be ingesting.

Thai
If your a big fan of Patthai like I am. I absolutely love Springrolls. There are many locations from Queen St. to Yonge. They even deliver. yum

Wings and Ribs
You can't go wrong at All Star Wings & Ribs it has tons of varietys of sauces and flavours they gets you drooling for.

Well here are some spots for the moment. I think I'm going to make myself something to eat after thinking of all the great spots to eat.

Enjoy.

Dobro jutro Zagreb!

2009-11-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

Dobro jutro is Good Morning in Croatian. Only a few hours drive from Graz, Austria or border to Slovenia and there you are in Croatia. Its beautiful hills and colorful houses look like a picture you find in story books of children about farms. The people were friendly and the weather was perfect.

Things I would suggest must do.

Walk through the center and check out all the historical spots in Zagreb. Many in which have survive previous wars.

The Catholic cathedral built in 1093, Cathedral of Zagreb

Made of Stone its beautiful and must see. I had a quick short opportunity to see a mass on Sunday evening. You could feel the peace and spiritual of the people.
Mirogoj Cemetery known to have the most beautiful mosaics and sculptures.

The Well of Life located in Tito Square in lower town Zagreb. Designed by Ivan Meštrović like many artistic symbols in Croatia.

Jelacic Square (Trg bana) his city center is dominated by a statue of the 19th-century governor of Croatia.

Marusevac Castle I havent had the opportunity to see it but when I do get to go back I'd love to see this Castle.

Places to eat. Because I only had a very short period of stay. A reasonable and beautiful set place is a restaurant right in the center of Zagreb located on Vlaska. Its got great choices and a fix menu for only 70 Croatian Kuna around 10 euros. You got yourself a deal. Salad, Soup, Main Course and of course dessert! mmm.

I would suggest shopping is a must as you get great bargains.

Well hope this post helps.

Photograph taken by http://rovokop.deviantart.com/

Weekend in Milan

2009-11-09T02:13:00.000-08:00

Milan, Fashion Central. Nothing beats a tight schedule and still have the opportunity to see all the good spots plus add some leisure to your time.

I managed to attend some appointments in Milan and spend a fantastic 3 days in Milan.

So if you're new to Milan and your trying to find Fancy looking places for a good time with fun people and yet want to budget, below are a couple of things I highly recommend you do.

If you're arriving to Malpensa airport I suggest you take the Malpensa Express to Cadorna Station. Which is around a half hour train ride that arrives to the centre of Milan. And if you planning on continuing your trip to another city the Airport has great Shuttle Buses that take you to the Central Station where you can take your next train.

A great place for a drink and wide range of Apperativo(Aperitifs) Living Bar Ristorante its located on Piazza Sempione, 2. It's a great atmosphere of a crowd between there twenties and older. Serving the best Salmon sashimi to the best olive breads, pizzas, finger foods you'll be drooling for.

If you're in the center and near the Duomo you must visit La Rinascente Piazza Duomo on Via S. Radegonda 1. Its a building with many floors and has great variety of fashion labels you could choose from; make up, bags, shoes and more. But the secret of this whole building is the top floor. There are many delicious restaurants to try and if your lucky and the weather is great you can sit outside and daze at the Duomo. You can also find a specialty store on the top for a variety of food products that make the tiny difference to our meals and drinks.

Is your looking to have the best Cappuccino and brioche or croissants in Milan I found a cozy yet elegant Cafe/restaurant on Via Rugabella 2, I promise you its just so delicious.

Sometimes many of us enjoy a great big breakfast and can only have way too many brioches and pastries and are looking for a continental breakfast. Well guess what the best place to have Sunday Brunch or Breakfast at anytime as well as homemade muffins, pies, pancakes, burgers, brownies and more is at California Bakery they have many locations but the biggest and cutest one is at Piazza Sant'Eustorgio, 4, Ps they make great Salmon Eggs Benedict.

If your looking for a place to dance all night long with Great music and just keep your feet moving. A club that I recommend for you is Gioa 69 its located on Via Melchiorre Gioia. The crowd is in their mid-twenties and over.

If your more into the young L.A looking crowd with celebrities and martinis then Hollywood on Corso Como, 15 is the place to be at.

Coffee's and a glass of wine in the evening. Via Brera is a great street to find many coffee shops and places to enjoy a glass of wine. You'll find many Artistic shops around that will definitely catch your eye.

Sydney Mate

2009-11-08T04:17:00.000-08:00

Oi!
Sydney, Australia is one of the places that is a must see place at least once. I had the great opportunity to visit Sydney. Depending on where you live and how far your willing to travel you can relax all you need once you arrive to Australia.

Things must do while in Sydney.

*Must have Fish n Chips with Tomato Sauce.
*Smoothies
*Check out the Sydney's Taronga Zoo
*Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
*Try a typical delicious Australian Steak
*Take the Sydney Ferry To Manly
*Drive to Blue Mountains
*Have a fabulous Drink at Cohi Bar and check out the night lights
*Walk the Sydney Beach trail walk.
*Dress in Style and Dance the night away in Ivy Night Club
*Best Brunch in Tropicana Cafe on Coogee Beach
*Check out Sydney Whale Watching
*Take a photograph with a Kuala
*Scuba dive at the Wedding Cake island.
*If your daring go Shark diving
*Buy Australian Uggs
*Buy a Boomerang

Well If your interested in more places leave a comment I'd love to assist.

Hallo Wien

2009-10-01T10:03:00.000-07:00

Hallo Wien ( Hello Vienna)

Airport
Welcome to Vienna! First sign I read everytime I get off a plane in Vienna. Its great reading signs in every airport you get off. Its like they knew you were coming and they place this huge sign to make you smile and feel welcomed. Its until to you get to Passport control and the angry passport officer stares into your face and asks "Passport". You think Hmm. Are they always this grumpy or were they expecting a happy and glowing face with perfectly ironed clothes person who smelt like fresh mint shower gel to appear off a plane. Because no matter how perfectly I do my hair and how much water I drink on the flight I never look like that person.

Yet Again when you smile at them and when they ask "purpose of visit" and you say I'm moving here :)
They smile and say " Wilkommen!!"

City
Vienna. *sigh* Beautiful, Old and lots of history. Forget 2nd World War and all the horrible Hitler Stories. Think, Magic carriage with beautiful horses and Cinderella (tourists in them).
The buildings have this special architecture looks like a painting. And the wide streets with perfect paths (have you been to Italy?? Although it has its character)

Food
I must say Wiener Schitzel is very yummy. If your a meat eater Austria is the place for you. Pork, Chicken, Beef Roast. Pork Belly. Meat dumbling soup. Meat Pie, Steaks, and I can go on. Beer, Wine. and don't forget schnapps to relieve that stuffed tummy.

Night life
Mostly people grab a beer with friends or a glass of wine and different cheeses. But I've been to a club to go dancing its very different than the ones I've been to in Italy and Canada. More of the Techno beats and people bouncing around. Rather than the sways and moves you see on dance floors. Yet Its rather nice to see a new type of crowd.

Shopping
Antiques! This is definately something I see everywhere. Its great you find things that are as old as 100 years books, pictures, pocket watches, spoons, chairs everything. Well maybe no something edable.

My life
I'm pleased. I've acustomed to some of the traditional foods at first it was an aquired taste but eventually I wanted more. I'm still getting a hang of closing hours and no stores or shops on Sundays :( I miss Dominon and seven eleven! But Yet I think its a good Idea everyone gets a good day off to just relax.

LIVE

2009-03-23T09:39:00.001-07:00

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Pink Ball - Endulge Milan

2009-03-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

Spring.

Patios open up, people crowd the streets. The square filled with people. Tables served with cafe, gelato, Ice tea and all bright colours that were thrown in the back of our closet for the winter have been rescued and worn.

Ready for a new beginning for some and for others just another day. But for me I know its a new step towards a new adventure. After a long weekend of site seeing with a few friends one from Toronto another from Rome. I manage to keep my smile even after hurting my foot. It was a quiet week after that. Yet I still managed to escape the roof and got out for Delicious Aperitifs around Milan in all the hot spots. I could really start writing about the differences and share the details on whats good and whats not. And with guilty pleasure I also savoured a few plates of Sushi with of course a warm cup of fresh green tea. You didn't really think I was going to allow the guilty-pleasures of Italian cuisine take control over me did you? I mean after two months I did gain I believe ? of pounds which I'm not gonna tell. Anyways. I've read a couple articles and heard a few wise words from different people I'd like to share. I met with a friend this week who could see my exhaustion of moving and working and I asked him how he manages to always glow and smile everytime we met and he said that "You should smile to the world cause when you smile the world will smile back!" and I smiled and thought i forgot how little can do so much. My day went on a lot better after that.

Movies and Tv shows /entertainment. Always find yourself trying to relate or put yourself in the situation of a fiction character. As part of my job I found myself relating to all the characters but then I thought hey! I'm my own character.
And got a phrase out of a show "It doesnt matter what people think of something its what you think about it"

Well I hope those phrases cheer you up.

Todays Challenge, How to make Olive bread. Been Searching the web to find the right ingredients to make a moist but delicious Olive Bread.

Around the world in 30 days

2009-03-03T01:41:00.000-08:00

Today I got a couple missions to accomplish.
Mission one : pass an Italian Exam to a course I decided to do just to improve my Italian Speech
Mission two: Meet up with a Fashion Photographer to get in the Photographer scene here in Milan.
Mission three: Enroll in Courses in Toronto, to spend the Summer months in the Canadian Sun.
Mission four: Book a ticket to Paris for the 2nd week of March and meet with old friends and a Fashion Photographer in Paris.
Mission five: book a ticket to Australia asap.
Mission Six: Figure out if I can spend Easter weekend in Vienna with the BoyF family.
Mission Seven: I did Promise my friends in Athens I'd visit them on Greek Easter in the end of April. But I'd have to figure that out.

Now To actually get started. I've had a good taste of my Italian Lavazza Espresso this morning.
To wash all that down had to have a glass of Pineapple juice. As we all know Pineapple juice ;) makes your skin smell all yummy :)

Alright so i should be heading out And working on all these projects asap

Baci
Nana

A new Beginning

2009-03-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

Its a new beginning of something exciting. Milan. Who would have thought!
After having the great opportunity to do Boarding school in New Zealand, Summer schools in Tuscany, and Friulli (Italy), finishing high school in Dubai and University in Toronto, Canada. I thought it was the end of the road of travels but I just been blessed. Only thing is everytime I moved to a new place I miss all the old things and wonderful people I met through the way. Will I see them again? Will they change when I visit them?

I'm working for a magazine right now, which I think has been a pleasure to have an opportunity to meet and write about people. So I sat down today and thought I should really start writing about myself. I have so much to say so much to share.
Funny, Crazy, Daring, Loving, Sad, Dramatic, Scary things.

I'm ready to start. To share every juicy detail.

But for now I'm off to get some Zzz's. and sleep through my Italian Winter night listening to the rain drops on my window.

Buona Notte

Ci vediamo Domani.