Life Ramblings

PhotoHunt - Bridges, Taste

2012-06-02T01:11:00.003+08:00

One of the best parts of Venice was wandering through all of the side streets and across the canals. And, where there are canals, you can find bridges. According to our guidebook, there are over 400 bridges and 150 canals in in the city. I guess that's the reason behind why Venice is also called the "City of Bridges."

Here are a few shots of the canals and bridges to enjoy.

The Rialto Bridge is the main pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal. Rows of shops line each side of this magnificent bridge.

And here is a view of the famous Bridge of Sighs. The bridge was under restoration and covered with billboard advertising when we visited. Apparently, it was a bridge that prisoners would walk over just before they would be executed during Venice's heyday. As they crossed over the bridge, they would take one last look from the bridge at the view of beautiful Venice and sigh heavily as they proceed to their executions. A local legend says that lovers will get a real taste of eternal love and bliss if they kiss on a gondola at sunset under the Bridge Of Sighs.

We didn't kiss under the bridge but every beautiful day in Italy ends with a great taste of gelato. :)

Sandi's PhotoHunt

Gattina's PhotoHunting

Skywatch - Good morning Salzburg

2012-05-31T12:42:00.001+08:00

I'm sharing a couple of skywatch photos of Salzburg, Austria. Walking around the University Square, our eyes are attracted to so many different style of buildings that frame the square and here is one of them. I can't remember the name of this building but the architecture is absolutely amazing and looks wonderful against the morning sky.

Here's a closer view of the steeple.

Skywatch Friday

Wordless Wednesday - Okhotny Ryad Shopping Mall

2012-05-30T07:00:00.000+08:00

Moscow, Russia

Wordless Wednesday

Our World - National Garden of Athens

2012-05-28T09:44:00.000+08:00

We made our way to the National Garden in the evening after visiting the Acropolis of Athens. It may not be as impressive as other parks across Europe, yet still it is a place of history as it once served as the garden of the Royal Palace which was created by Queen Amalia, the first Queen of Greece and her German gardener between 1838 to 1840. The garden is filled with plenty of fascinating gems but we couldn't stay long enough to explore everything due to time constraints, so I only managed to take a few photos here.

Located at the entrance of the garden, this wonderful monument portrays Hellas and Lord Byron, a famous English poet.

We also encountered other fascinating sculptures but have no idea what they represent.

As we moved along, we came across this neoclassical Zappeion building which is used as a conference and exhibition center for both public and official purposes. The building was used in the Olympic Games in 1896 for the fencing championships, and again during the Olympics of 2004, it was served as the press and events center.

This was my first time seeing bitter orange trees. There were endless rows of such trees spreading out as far as the eye could see and the bitter-sweet smell was definitely intoxicating.

After a long day of walking, nothing beats the soothing sounds of a fountain in the midst of the beautiful garden.

Our World

PhotoHunt - Famous Places, Creative

2012-05-26T01:23:00.010+08:00

The world famous Kremlin is one of the most important historic complex and is easily recognized around the world as a symbol of Russia and the seat of its president.

It's really big, bigger than I ever imagined. There are four palaces, four cathedrals and 20 towers that make up the remarkable Kremlin and a massive wall that surrounds the area.

The incredible kremlin which means fortress in Russian, also overlooks two more of Moscow's most famous sights, Red Square and St Basil's Cathedral. For years it had been our dreams to visit these exquisite places and we could not contain our excitement when we reached there. They look fabulous in postcards and on TV but they're even more impressive up close.

Here's a view of the Spasskaya Tower at night, which holds the iconic Kremlin clock

The history of Moscow Kremlin goes back to old times. During the Middle Ages, the Kremlin served as an administrative and religious center and also provide protection against enemy forces. When the city was under attacked, the civilians were encouraged to seek immediate shelter within the complex.

Apart from the historical monuments, it's quite common to find Russian nesting dolls sold everywhere in the city. They are wooden painted dolls that come in creative styles and different sizes. I bought a few sets of these unique dolls and gave them as souvenirs to my family and friends.

Sandi's PhotoHunt

Gattina's PhotoHunting

Skywatch - Shanghai skyline at night

2012-05-24T13:21:00.000+08:00

Skywatch Friday

Wordless Wednesday - Silence of the woods

2012-05-23T06:26:00.000+08:00

Wordless Wednesday

Our World - Universal Studios Singapore (Transformers: The Ride)

2012-05-21T23:15:00.002+08:00

If you’re a fan of the Transformers movie franchise, there's every reason to visit Universal Studios Singapore. This is where you'll find the next-generation 3D thrill ride that blends fiction and reality. The main character of this adventure is an Autobot named EVAC created for the attraction, that escorts visitors through the experience.

Even though it is nothing like a roller coaster, there're lots of fun twists and turns in this ride, so if you're prone to motion sickness be warned.

The queue was extremely long when we visited but worth the wait, especially if you’re a diehard fan of the series. It really does feel like you're right in the middle of the ultimate Transformers war zone between the Autobots and Decepticons. We enjoyed every moment of it.

Here's Bumblebee perched atop the entrance greeting visitors.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were completely immersed into the robotic world of Transformers.

A series of exclusive video screens, artifacts are located within the waiting area.

A view of the AllSpark element from the Transformers franchise

Transformers Supply Vault

A glimpse of one of the EVAC ride vehicles ready for dispatch. As soon as the passengers are securely fastened, the real adventure begins and you are literally thrown into the middle of a robot battle. Bam! Wham!

Our World

PhotoHunt - Cityhall, Magical

2012-05-19T00:10:00.002+08:00

The City Hall is one of the most photographed buildings located at the Esplanade in Penang. I've walked passed this historic structure countless times but funny that I have never been inside there.

Built in 1903, it is a magical colonial building from the heyday of the British Empire. It was originally called the Municipal Office, Penang but later it was renamed City Hall when George Town was granted city status in 1957. Currently it houses the licensing and urban service department of the Penang Municipal Council.

Sandi's PhotoHunt

Gattina's PhotoHunting

Skywatch - Scenic countryside

2012-05-17T22:49:00.000+08:00

Following up with my previous post, here are some photos captured during our train trip from Innsbruck to Salzburg. Throughout the ride, I couldn't take my eyes off the breathtaking views. The weather was very co-operative on that day which makes skywatching much more enjoyable.

Skywatch Friday

Wordless Wednesday - Postcards from Italy

2012-05-16T06:51:00.002+08:00

Wordless Wednesday

Our World - Beautiful memories

2012-05-14T15:15:00.001+08:00

One of the best things I love about photography is capturing good memories that you can remember forever.

Santorini, Greece

PhotoHunt - Children

2012-05-11T23:36:00.001+08:00

Children are a lovely bundle of joy. They bring happiness and laughter to all of us.

Gattina's Photohunting

Skywatch - An evening to remember

2012-05-10T22:11:00.001+08:00

Penang scenic skyline as seen from Eastern and Oriental Hotel recently. A perfect end to a perfect day. Happy skywatching!

Skywatch Friday

Wordless Wednesday - Harley shop window

2012-05-09T06:24:00.000+08:00

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Wordless Wednesday

Our World - Innsbruck Railway station, Austria

2012-05-07T14:30:00.004+08:00

I think this is one of the most beautiful railway stations I've seen but I only had a few minutes to take photos of this place. My hubby and I were literally racing against time to catch our train to Salzburg.

As we hurriedly walked past, this empty track with gorgeous mountains in the distance caught my eye and I couldn't resist a shot.

Here is another perspective showing the arrival of a train and the buildings.

I was really glad I had just enough time to take one more photo before we hurried on board.

Goodbye Innsbruck!

Our World

PhotoHunt - Advertising, Zap

2012-05-04T23:37:00.002+08:00

Shanghai, like many big cities, comes alive with a riot of multi-coloured lights when night falls. Here are a few night scenes captured at Nanjing Road.

The entire road is filled with LED advertising signs, billboards and huge TV screens.

It brings colorful life to the storefronts of Shanghai's busiest shopping district.

I spent a lot of time wandering around the streets starting from East Nanjing pedestrian street, heading down the Bund and ending at People's Park and that absolutely zaps my strength and energy.

Sandi's PhotoHunt

Gattina's PhotoHunting

Skywatch over Petronas Twin Towers

2012-05-03T13:36:00.000+08:00

A late morning view of the majestic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur captured a few years ago. This is my entry for Skywatch Friday.

Wordless Wednesday - Bare Bum

2012-05-02T07:21:00.001+08:00

I was quite shocked and bewildered the first time I saw this but it's quite common for bare butt babies and toddlers running around the streets in China. It appears that it's socially acceptable for them to squat whenever and wherever they want to do their business. Not a pleasant sight but that's life in China. From Shanghai to Chengdu to Beijing to Xian, most kids simply don’t wear pants and diapers at all.

Wordless Wednesday

Our World - A Labour Day Tribute

2012-04-30T13:25:00.004+08:00

In honour of Labour Day tomorrow, let's pay tribute to all workers who have served the society with tireless efforts, dedication and sacrifice every day, everywhere, in so many ways.

Security officers performing their peace keeping duties effectively

Workers pushing a cart loaded with bags of goods under the hot scorching sun.

One of the many dedicated individuals removing piles of snow and ice from the streets.

Vendors selling pastries with enthusiasm

A street sweeper keeping our streets clean everyday

Street musicians singing their hearts out to entertain the crowds

A customer service representative providing professional assistance to customers

A cobbler patiently waiting for business

A tourist guide sharing a light moment with tourists after a long day of work.

There are just so many more jobs to mention and if I have not listed your profession, my tribute goes out to you as well.

For those who are unemployed and looking for a job, I hope you'll find one soon.

Happy May Day!

Our World

PhotoHunt - Texture, Local streets

2012-04-27T23:53:00.008+08:00

For this week's photohunt themes, I'm featuring some photos of my hometown in Penang.

Walking through the old local streets along the heritage trail of Penang, you will be greeted by charming pre-war buildings with unique textures and characters. Some of the buildings have been wonderfully restored and across the street is the Upper Penang Road where bars and clubs come alive at night. It is one of the spots that I walked past frequently but funny that I have not patronized these places before.

Here is another different view of a pre-war building located at Love Lane. I think there are possibly thousands of buildings like these and more than half of them are located in the inner city of George Town.

Right in the heart of Chulia Street, this spot is well-known as a backpackers haven. There are many guesthouses along the long stretch of road and also various shops cater to different needs of tourists from renting motorbikes, money changers, visa services, internet cafes to laundries.

In 2008, Penang's capital George Town was declared a UNESCO world heritage site for its well-preserved 19th century colonial architecture.

This is one of my favourite shots captured at a little corner of Eastern and Oriental Hotel. Noticed the varied texture of this old building? The lines, shadows and patterns make this structure burst with texture and character.

From another perspective, Farquhar Street is one of the popular spots where you can just stroll around on a breezy afternoon. I like how the greenery adds life and texture to the street.

Sandi's PhotoHunt

Gattina's PhotoHunting

Wordless Wednesday - Cathedral Art

2012-04-25T07:07:00.000+08:00

St Mark's Basilica, Venice

Wordless Wednesday

Our World - Happy Earth Week

2012-04-23T08:09:00.002+08:00

In the spirit of Earth week, I'm sharing a compilation of some beautiful wonders of life. It reminds me of just how beautiful our mother earth is, and how important it is to help protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

Let's make every day earth day.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

We need to cherish our wonderful world.

Our World

PhotoHunt - Humour, Reflect

2012-04-20T22:13:00.000+08:00

I've featured this photo in my previous photohunt, but have to share this once again. Every time I look at this photo, it makes me laugh. This invisible mime sure knows how to crack up an audience.

When tips were thrown into the can, his legs would create lifelike movements. I can't figure out how he did it but his actions really reflect his sense of humour and creativity.

Piazza Navona, Rome

Sandi's PhotoHunt

Gattina's PhotoHunting

Wordless Wednesday - Ferrari Fever

2012-04-18T06:24:00.002+08:00

The Shoppes @ Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Wordless Wednesday