tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24436267255060288802024-03-13T18:27:30.328+08:00Singapore Fountain PenSingapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.comBlogger128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-56036340958772845752016-02-11T19:15:00.000+08:002016-06-11T09:57:51.425+08:00Of Moving HousesEfficiency is one thing I admire about Singapore and its people. I’ve seen it everywhere: at the hospital, at the train, at school and at work. I imagine rows of desks documenting processes and procedures for a whole lot of scenarios and possibilities. <br />
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At work, we have a term for clients who are overly bureaucratic — we’d say they’re <i>huge on processes</i>. Well-defined processes are good but can sometimes be stifling. Experience teaches us that efficiency doesn’t always mean effectiveness. I keep coming back to a project we did a few years ago as an example. The client, a huge bank, had outsourced its IT operations to one of the Big Boys. The Big Boys were huge on processes and often used bureaucracy to their advantage but to the detriment of the project. A job that could be done in 15 minutes took 65 hours just because the process gave them the leeway of one to three days to take action on a request.<br />
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On that same project, where about seven vendors were collaborating, it was the Big Boys who refused to lift a finger if something was not explicitly stated in their Scope of Work (SOW) even though the rest of the team was trying to find a solution and were willing to go the extra mile, and even if the client was actually prepared to pay extra if necessary. Instead of welcoming the possibility of more business, the Big Boys were constantly slamming the door at the face of the client.<br />
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I have another example of how processes can sometimes cause anxiety to the ones meant to benefit from them, especially if the big picture is not clear to the everyone involved. Say you’re moving houses and need to update the address on your NRIC (National Registration Identity Card). To make the example more specific, say you’re moving from Pasir Ris to Sengkang. You surmise that the best way to go about the address change in your NRIC is to head to the Sengkang Neighborhood Police Center. There you meet Ramjoo, a policeman who’s attentive enough to ask you what you need. After stating your case, he asks you to hand him all the necessary supporting documents. He takes a look at the ICs and goes over the tenancy agreement. After flipping the pages a few times, he asks you where the list of occupants is, which he says is supposed to be part of the tenancy agreement. You realize you don’t have it and quickly apologize. Ramjoo tells you he can only update the IC of your husband because only his name is mentioned in the document. You try to plead your case by politely explaining that you’re a family and gently pointing out the same surnames in your IC as proof of that, but it’s not good enough for Ramjoo, who’s already shaking his head. You try to explain that it’s only logical that a husband, wife and an only child would live together under a single roof, but are quickly met with more unrelenting, dismissive shaking of the head. Never mind that you brought along your passports, marriage certificate and your son’s birth certificate. What’s not written explicitly in the process manual can’t be considered. You finally realize the futility of the situation and simply agree with the alternative.<br />
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As Ramjoo explains what will happen, you argue with yourself about the validity of your logic. You convince yourself that there is indeed the slight possibility that a family of three would live in separate houses, no matter how unlikely that sounded. Then you begin to think that maybe it’s a problem with the heart, that people are maybe trained to follow processes, not to be considerate or to excel in customer service. Maybe that’s why Ramjoo isn’t very accommodating. Maybe that’s why Ramjoo doesn’t waste any second trying to flash a smile. And then suddenly, the word service triggers something in your head — maybe the police motto is <i>To Protect and To Serve</i>, in that strict order. But then, a quick few glances here and there shows you exactly what you need — you read that the mission of the police is <i>to uphold the law, maintain order and keep the peace</i>. After a few more minutes of rumination, you successfully convince yourself that whatever transpired was probably best for your own protection, that Ramjoo’s job is not to make you happy but to protect the citizens and residents of the state.<br />
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You say to yourself that it’s not a very bad day after all as you walk out of the police center and into the outside world under the bright blue sky where all hope is certainly not lost.Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-50432644543164272042011-06-21T01:32:00.001+08:002011-06-21T15:51:06.203+08:00A Busy Afternoon On Bugis Street<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wepwgAiAVZo/Tf43sQosCPI/AAAAAAAACIc/7oMfbXspJRM/s1600/Bugis_Street.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wepwgAiAVZo/Tf43sQosCPI/AAAAAAAACIc/7oMfbXspJRM/s400/Bugis_Street.JPG" /></a></div>A search for RC helicopter parts and Bluetooth headsets set my sights on the infamous Sim Lim Square. Prepared to spend the better half of my afternoon walking to accomplish my mission, I armed myself with a camera just in case there was anything interesting to capture. But first, I allowed myself the simple pleasure of sitting on the train ride from the Pasir Ris Station to the Bugis Station.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjbEDY0wUO0/Tf43s-eAJcI/AAAAAAAACIs/hBwh6Lc0kVE/s1600/Inside_Bugis_Street.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjbEDY0wUO0/Tf43s-eAJcI/AAAAAAAACIs/hBwh6Lc0kVE/s400/Inside_Bugis_Street.JPG" /></a></div>In hindsight, I realize that the thought about Bugis not being interesting should never cross anyone's mind. For locals, Bugis as the "largest street shopping location in Singapore" is sure to always have their attention, shopping being the favorite national past time, rivaled only by football and gastronomy. For tourists, Bugis is the best place to find cheap souvenirs. And for those who like to dig in a little deeper into Bugis' past, the place has been made famous by transvestites luring sailors and military personnel on their stop in the Merlion City.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4rjdbEy6noI/Tf43smSzw7I/AAAAAAAACIk/Wd45JMe0gAc/s1600/Bugis_Streets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4rjdbEy6noI/Tf43smSzw7I/AAAAAAAACIk/Wd45JMe0gAc/s400/Bugis_Streets.JPG" /></a></div>As for my own experience, the visit of friends to Singapore is almost always never complete without a tour of Bugis. And why not? T-shirts, mugs, key chains, trinkets and other items that are light on the budget and easy to carry are golden to visitors wanting to take a piece of Singapore with them. A huge percentage of friends from neighboring countries are also interested in purchasing electronic goods during their visit, and for that, if you know what you're doing, what better place to go than Sim Lim Square?<br />
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As to my very own adventure during this particular visit, I am tempted to summarize it in two words: mission failed! Not only did I not find the helicopter part, but I also ended up not buying any Bluetooth headset. But then, all things considered, it wasn't a total failure. After all, few things could rival satisfying one's curiosity, and I say this after watching sales pitchmen go about their business — it was a priceless 10-minute education in making high impact presentations. (I will confess that I have more than once bought items they were selling even if they were speaking in Mandarin, a language I could count on my fingers the number of words that I understand.) How about the joy of drinking fresh juice after a long and tiring walk? Or the inexplicable pleasure of my longstanding affair with <a href="http://www.yakun.com/">Ya Kun</a>'s kaya toast? Or the fact that I managed to buy something from the fruit stand for just $5? And oh, I made four people happy by bringing home <a href="http://www.ritzapplestrudel.com/">Ritz' apple strudel</a>.<br />
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This must be the weirdest way I've ever ended something I wrote, but I'm having a slice of that apple strudel for my midnight snack just after hitting that orange "publish post" button. Chow!Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-35303105076088880742011-06-06T22:02:00.000+08:002011-06-06T22:02:26.395+08:00A Tropical Paradise Called Boracay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hTgLaqvdHaM/TeceKjimyFI/AAAAAAAACHk/8sS_dGNzFkU/s1600/boracay_shores_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hTgLaqvdHaM/TeceKjimyFI/AAAAAAAACHk/8sS_dGNzFkU/s400/boracay_shores_01.jpg" /></a></div>Boracay is without a doubt one of the best tropical beaches in the world. Its powdery white sand beach is phenomenal, its diving sites plentiful and amazing, its gustatory treats abundant and delightful, and not the least important of all, its people friendly and accommodating.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SeC4sjYmwA/TeceK0alXoI/AAAAAAAACHs/JcjhgnZI2rY/s1600/boracay_boys_splash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SeC4sjYmwA/TeceK0alXoI/AAAAAAAACHs/JcjhgnZI2rY/s400/boracay_boys_splash.jpg" /></a></div>There are myriad of activities for just about everyone, from people simply wanting to relax and enjoy the beach to the more adventurous and athletic ones ones seeking the thrill of various sports in and out of water. Shopaholics need not suffer withdrawal symptoms as flea markets abound in Boracay; there's also a mini-mall that shouldn't be difficult to find nor forget given its name, <i>D-Mall</i>. As for party animals, you should have a blast at the night scene. And before I forget to mention, there's internet connection in the island if you couldn't wait to post your lovely Boracay pics on facebook until you get home.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qa2KzSPbzz8/TeceLJsntrI/AAAAAAAACH0/KkylIgli1pI/s1600/boracay_shores_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qa2KzSPbzz8/TeceLJsntrI/AAAAAAAACH0/KkylIgli1pI/s400/boracay_shores_02.jpg" /></a></div>If you haven't been to Boracay, it's not a matter of thinking whether you should go or not, it's simply a question of when. The best time to visit would be during the months of summer in the Philippines — March, April and May. The peak season however, starts in the month of October. The four months between these, as you've probably deduced, comprise the off-peak season — they're ideal for tourists on a tight budget but beware that the same months form part of the typhoon peak season in the Philippines. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpVbnHcc4GY/TeceLUGdxBI/AAAAAAAACH8/lvwgtKajIhU/s1600/boracay_street_food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpVbnHcc4GY/TeceLUGdxBI/AAAAAAAACH8/lvwgtKajIhU/s400/boracay_street_food.jpg" /></a></div>There are tons of useful information about Boracay in the Internet so feel free to <i>google</i> away. It's also best to ask people who've been there too or, if you are so fortunate to have a Filipino friend, ask for practical tips and advice.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rddPp2y1CBw/TeceLkdTYOI/AAAAAAAACIE/WMKss9cQQjM/s1600/boracay_beach_sewer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rddPp2y1CBw/TeceLkdTYOI/AAAAAAAACIE/WMKss9cQQjM/s400/boracay_beach_sewer.jpg" /></a></div>If there's anything that bothered me during my recent trip to Boracay, it would be this canal leading to the beach from goodness knows. There's a bit of smell emanating from the water although it wasn't that bad. It's comforting to know however that a <a href="http://www.sunboracay.com/Boracay_main_page_news.htm">sewage treatment plant</a> has been started ahead of it's schedule. Otherwise, I'd fear for the future of this lovely island.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VpFRQK7LlE8/TecedKI61DI/AAAAAAAACIM/1Q5hNVhyoVE/s1600/boracay_ambassador_hotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VpFRQK7LlE8/TecedKI61DI/AAAAAAAACIM/1Q5hNVhyoVE/s400/boracay_ambassador_hotel.jpg" /></a></div>If you're curious about the fourth picture, that's a shot of street food being sold along the shorelines. See that orange spiral treat? That would be <i>isaw</i> in the local tongue, or grilled chicken intestine.<br />
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The last picture is a shot from the balcony of our hotel, the <a href="http://www.ambassadorinparadise.com/">Ambassador in Paradise</a>.Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-1251999191268898602011-05-24T18:48:00.000+08:002011-05-24T18:48:10.204+08:00Sleeping Child<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-57mbrq-3hMo/TdtyfmSk9HI/AAAAAAAACHc/9gnPabHzrN8/s1600/SleepingChild.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-57mbrq-3hMo/TdtyfmSk9HI/AAAAAAAACHc/9gnPabHzrN8/s400/SleepingChild.jpg" /></a></div><i>April 21, 2011. Somewhere along the national highway of Ilocos Sur, Philippines.</i> <br />
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In case you're wondering, the vehicle you see here is a tricycle. It is a popular means of transportation in the Philippines, and is used mainly for short distances especially in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrio">barrios</a> and urban villages.Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-75881485386444233082011-05-23T19:38:00.001+08:002011-05-23T19:39:59.197+08:00Penitensiya: A Ritual Of Pain And Passion In The Philippines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h7Q2gjqm84c/Tdk9CWJpxCI/AAAAAAAACG8/bY9s9Rf3ZZA/s1600/Penitensiya_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h7Q2gjqm84c/Tdk9CWJpxCI/AAAAAAAACG8/bY9s9Rf3ZZA/s400/Penitensiya_2.jpg" /></a></div>During the long drive from Ilocos to Manila last Maundy Thursday, I couldn't resist the urge to stop the car and take a few pictures of a striking religious ritual happening on the very streets we were passing. We witnessed this scene somewhere in Pampanga, one of the oldest provinces in the Philippines. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16XKJ6Zq0RI/Tdk9B19bUKI/AAAAAAAACG0/betBHm30DRE/s1600/Penitensiya_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16XKJ6Zq0RI/Tdk9B19bUKI/AAAAAAAACG0/betBHm30DRE/s400/Penitensiya_1.jpg" /></a></div>A few half-naked men were whipping their backs as they trudged through the night. In cases where some of them carried logs, someone else did the flogging. As if those weren't gruesome enough, one particular man opted to crawl and roll as his means to move about, doing this while another man caned him. When the bruised and bloodied mean appear to have reached their destination, they would either kneel or lay prostrate on the ground while someone else struck them yet again.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U-Lubli8GTw/Tdk9C5pr4kI/AAAAAAAACHE/v4HUFiK-Xg0/s1600/Penitensiya_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U-Lubli8GTw/Tdk9C5pr4kI/AAAAAAAACHE/v4HUFiK-Xg0/s400/Penitensiya_3.jpg" /></a></div>The local rite is known <i>Penitensiya</i> and is basically meant to depict the suffering of Jesus Christ. You might have already guessed that the English equivalent of the word is <i>penitence</i>, which means <i>showing sorrow and regret for one's wrongdoings</i>. Indeed, devotees believe that this form of self flagellation is one way to show they are sorry for their transgressions. In fact, some of them believe that the act itself cleanses them from their sins.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZx_njYNqEs/Tdk9DN_XraI/AAAAAAAACHM/pbHcn0qZR8A/s1600/Penitensiya_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZx_njYNqEs/Tdk9DN_XraI/AAAAAAAACHM/pbHcn0qZR8A/s400/Penitensiya_4.jpg" /></a></div>Aside from atonement, some carry out the rite to ask for special favors such as the healing of a loved one. Some believe they get protection or guidance in return. Others merely keep a vow they made when they asked for divine intervention or a miracle in the past. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhjKjmHtrKs/Tdk9DoxJiKI/AAAAAAAACHU/FMEJz0DDrF8/s1600/Penitensiya_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhjKjmHtrKs/Tdk9DoxJiKI/AAAAAAAACHU/FMEJz0DDrF8/s400/Penitensiya_5.jpg" /></a></div>Regardless of their reasons, these devotees are decided to keep observing this ritual yearly, for as long as they can.Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-39282830090580384952011-05-21T23:14:00.004+08:002011-05-22T14:40:14.232+08:00Cebu From Above<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAqInb3xjrg/TddNh5eAH-I/AAAAAAAACGc/uWV8MCj7vvo/s1600/cebu_crown_top_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAqInb3xjrg/TddNh5eAH-I/AAAAAAAACGc/uWV8MCj7vvo/s400/cebu_crown_top_6.jpg" /></a></div>"The view is so much better from the top, we can take you there." <br />
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This is one of the slogans used by the company a friend used to work for. In some weird twist of memory, this was one of the phrases that came to mind when I was marveling at the view of Cebu from the tallest tower in the city, <a href="http://www.crownregency.com/">Crow Regency Hotel</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTiWuGaIDq0/TddNh2tGRaI/AAAAAAAACGk/dyvbjadRM_A/s1600/cebu_crown_top_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTiWuGaIDq0/TddNh2tGRaI/AAAAAAAACGk/dyvbjadRM_A/s400/cebu_crown_top_7.jpg" /></a></div>Cebu is one of the major tourist destinations in the Philippines because of its white sandy beaches and its hospitable people. It is best known in history for the Battle of Mactan, where the Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan met his death at the hands of its natives. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXPQg_FJ048/TddDt7ut4hI/AAAAAAAACFk/Bi5vO_Ii408/s1600/cebu_crown_top_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXPQg_FJ048/TddDt7ut4hI/AAAAAAAACFk/Bi5vO_Ii408/s400/cebu_crown_top_1.jpg" /></a></div>From where I stood I could see the entire city in all its glory. It certainly isn't a bad place to be in during sunset. Looking at the nearby island of Mactan and imagining the throng of people that must be enjoying the waters at that moment, I had to ask myself why I wasn't in the beach more often.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AALg7m8YoF4/TddDuD44lkI/AAAAAAAACFs/xmY2Jmt3S6Q/s1600/cebu_crown_top_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AALg7m8YoF4/TddDuD44lkI/AAAAAAAACFs/xmY2Jmt3S6Q/s400/cebu_crown_top_2.jpg" /></a></div>The 40-story building where these pictures were taken from isn't without marvels of its own. For instance, the cables that are noticeable at the topmost picture carry adventurous passengers of the zip line from one tower to another. There's also the <i>Sky Walk Extreme</i> that lets thrill-seekers walk around the edge of the building, reminiscent of the SkyWalk at the Macau Tower. Then there's the <i>Edge Coaster</i>, a ride that takes its passengers around the edge of the building and — to make it more interesting — allows passengers to tilt the seat downwards up to 55 degrees using a lever — the first of its kind in the world. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc8NAXgXaAI/TddDujfGTXI/AAAAAAAACF0/KGv02lfzPWQ/s1600/cebu_crown_top_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc8NAXgXaAI/TddDujfGTXI/AAAAAAAACF0/KGv02lfzPWQ/s400/cebu_crown_top_3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6YghCFdsDc/TdfUHRiTHJI/AAAAAAAACGs/rZEZw6KOWk0/s1600/cebu_crown_wall_climbing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6YghCFdsDc/TdfUHRiTHJI/AAAAAAAACGs/rZEZw6KOWk0/s400/cebu_crown_wall_climbing.JPG" /></a></div>Speaking of firsts, Crown Regency also claims to have built the first climbing wall atop a building. With the rush of excitement I felt as I learned about this, eager to try it one day, I am instantly reminded of <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2011/01/atop-singapores-first-vertical-mall.html">Orchard Central</a>'s indoor climbing wall. This certainly takes it a notch higher! While I have yet to give it a try, I imagine that it would feel like you're scaling the actual building. I was also told that when you reach the angled portion of the wall, it would appear that the building below has vanished, giving you an obstructed view of the streets below.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Mr_9ed-yCo/TddDuyU1kYI/AAAAAAAACF8/jZoCLDNEG7E/s1600/cebu_crown_top_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Mr_9ed-yCo/TddDuyU1kYI/AAAAAAAACF8/jZoCLDNEG7E/s400/cebu_crown_top_4.jpg" /></a></div>When you come to Cebu, I definitely recommend visiting <a href="http://www.crownregency.com/">Crown Regency Towers</a>. If you're not the adventurous type who would love to try the rides, the view from the top is definitely worth the quick trip.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ph2pR3JAhrc/TddDvD3uyXI/AAAAAAAACGE/pLD_i1_XKfI/s1600/cebu_crown_top_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ph2pR3JAhrc/TddDvD3uyXI/AAAAAAAACGE/pLD_i1_XKfI/s400/cebu_crown_top_5.jpg" /></a></div>Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-49123531124067938002011-01-24T13:15:00.010+08:002011-04-06T10:15:23.553+08:00Checking Out Macau Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2DDE8bYnI/AAAAAAAACAY/UQP2mafz770/s1600/MacauBridge01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2DDE8bYnI/AAAAAAAACAY/UQP2mafz770/s400/MacauBridge01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>It happened in the beautiful month of August, a trip booked on impulse thanks to an irresistible offer made by a budget airline. By <i>beautiful</i> I meant that the weather was just ideal — it was neither too hot nor too cold, and the occasional rains during our stay weren't strong enough nor didn't pour long enough to ruin our itinerary. By <i>beautiful</i> I meant that Macau, a place one would expect to be swarmed with tourists all throughout the year, seemed to have just the right amount of visitors during those days.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2B_TC9WkI/AAAAAAAAB-g/mIszojdJKGo/s1600/TaipaStreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2B_TC9WkI/AAAAAAAAB-g/mIszojdJKGo/s320/TaipaStreet.jpg" /></a></div>It was a three-hour flight from Singapore, getting us to the Macau International Airport at 2 a.m. Thankfully it was uneventful, and the only minor complaint I had was of the two ladies seated in front of us who were a little too enthusiastic about their storytelling that no passenger was spared of their boisterous laughter, which also made it impossible for me to get any sleep. We were met at the airport by our dear friend, kind host and would-be tour guide, Bel, who took us to her place, which was a mere 10 minutes away by cab.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2B9I-JV-I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/SI2IJ5vsZ4I/s1600/TaipaStreet02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2B9I-JV-I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/SI2IJ5vsZ4I/s320/TaipaStreet02.jpg" /></a></div>We had about four hours of sleep that night. Despite this and what appeared to be early symptoms of a flu relapse for me, we felt energetic in the morning, and were excited to begin exploring the former Portuguese colony. <br />
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Our first destination was the <i>Largo de Carmo</i> or Our Lady of Carmel, a church atop a hill overlooking the Taipa Village where Bel was attending a Baptism. During our 10-minute walk going there, we learned from Bel that the Macau peninsula and the Taipa and Coloane islands comprise Macau. The airport, Bel's place and Largo de Carmo are all situated in Taipa. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2DIoCoZ4I/AAAAAAAACA4/A_yvHphZjpg/s1600/LargoDeCarmo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI2DIoCoZ4I/AAAAAAAACA4/A_yvHphZjpg/s320/LargoDeCarmo.jpg" /></a></div>The church, it turns out, was originally built in 1855. Just below was a lake, which used to be part of the sea before the land around it was reclaimed. It was a bit foggy that morning, but from the lakeshore we could make out the popular casinos, <a href="http://www.venetianmacao.com/en/">The Venetian</a> and the <a href="http://www.cityofdreamsmacau.com/">City of Dreams</a> on the other side.<br />
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When the baptismal ceremony was finished, it was time to cross over to the Macau Peninsula for the reception. It was held at the <a href="http://www.starworldmacau.com/en/restaurant/temptations.htm">StarWorld's Temptations</a> restaurant, and we had become guests. We found the restaurant's name undeniably apt, but not before we were tempted to eat more than we should have. Of course we also got to meet the proud parents of the newly baptized, the cute baby himself, and Bel's truly hospitable friends.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI1-g0SUojI/AAAAAAAAB4g/46_uWdqmNWg/s1600/WynnMacauPool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TI1-g0SUojI/AAAAAAAAB4g/46_uWdqmNWg/s320/WynnMacauPool.jpg" /></a></div>After having the equivalent of two meals in one sitting, it was only fitting that we took a walk. Our next stop was Wynn hotel, which was just across the street.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTsP_a0GbdI/AAAAAAAACEI/z6Y_bj-fcyY/s1600/wynn_macau2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTsP_a0GbdI/AAAAAAAACEI/z6Y_bj-fcyY/s400/wynn_macau2.jpg" /></a></div>We were just in time for the Tree of Prosperity show. A lot of people had already gathered around the area where the spectacle was taking place, and we were fortunate to still be able to see in front of us. The crowd, who seemed to take the music that started playing as a sign that the show was commencing, began to settle in their places before falling completely silent. True enough dazzling lights soon filled the place; the show had began. The ceiling with sculpted Chinese horoscope animals slowly opened apart to reveal a holographic display of lights. Soon a huge chandelier descended, then the dome-shaped floor with sculpted Western zodiac figures opened to unveil a golden tree rising up. With apposite music playing in the background, the Tree of Prosperity made a 360-degree turn, like a ballerina in slow motion, dancing to the different seasons before it bowed down to a graceful exit, descending once more to the hidden cove where it came from. The show concluded with the closing of the ceiling and the floor. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTv_JxWxj7I/AAAAAAAACEQ/fOWJYQaECEI/s1600/wynn_macau_tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTv_JxWxj7I/AAAAAAAACEQ/fOWJYQaECEI/s400/wynn_macau_tree.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTsP-yTUlrI/AAAAAAAACEA/BjCThk4yWR0/s1600/wynn_macau1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTsP-yTUlrI/AAAAAAAACEA/BjCThk4yWR0/s400/wynn_macau1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
To be continued...Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-11950496944513871542011-01-17T14:09:00.000+08:002011-01-17T14:09:22.473+08:00Atop Singapore's First Vertical Mall, Orchard Central<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtVKOwTtI/AAAAAAAACDg/mz1VaziLhUE/s1600/singapore_orchard_central_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtVKOwTtI/AAAAAAAACDg/mz1VaziLhUE/s400/singapore_orchard_central_2.jpg" /></a></div>Orchard Central is Singapore's first vertical mall. This fact wasn't apparent to us during our earliest visits, so we got to explore only the first few levels then. It was through friends that we learned the entire building was actually a mall, and that the upper levels were worth checking out. Last week, in the company of friends, we decided to spend a few hours of our Saturday afternoon wandering through the place.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAsjBt3ETI/AAAAAAAACDY/P63a78lLlRk/s1600/singapore_orchard_central_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAsjBt3ETI/AAAAAAAACDY/P63a78lLlRk/s400/singapore_orchard_central_1.jpg" /></a></div>We had a grand time gallivanting around the 18-month-old establishment going shop by shop, floor by floor. Some of the things that made a lasting impression were the indoor climbing wall, the Asian Food Channel's kitchen studio, the virtual indoor golf simulation center and the dance studio. (<i>More on this, including pictures in a future post</i>.) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtVrPSGfI/AAAAAAAACDo/57H8n49ydLE/s1600/singapore_orchard_central_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="322" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtVrPSGfI/AAAAAAAACDo/57H8n49ydLE/s400/singapore_orchard_central_3.jpg" /></a></div>We also didn't pass up the opportunity to go see the roof garden. Aside from giving a view from above of Orchard Road and its neighboring surroundings, the roof garden also features several restaurants — Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Vietnamese and Singaporean —, and exhibits a number of artworks. Waterfalls, pools, garden walls, hyacinths, orchids, bamboo groves, and other types of trees and plants make the rooftop an oasis of calm in the center of the city.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtV4cJXjI/AAAAAAAACDw/Qp4taiy9AA0/s1600/singapore_orchard_central_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtV4cJXjI/AAAAAAAACDw/Qp4taiy9AA0/s400/singapore_orchard_central_4.jpg" /></a></div>Trying out the different restaurants is certainly a good reason to come back. There shall be more pictures to take too — hopefully there would be no lovers talking by the waterfalls to interrupt next time around. ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtWRUGaNI/AAAAAAAACD4/hG2Evq_u2q4/s1600/singapore_orchard_central_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TTAtWRUGaNI/AAAAAAAACD4/hG2Evq_u2q4/s400/singapore_orchard_central_5.jpg" /></a></div>Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-52122250148078631082011-01-13T07:00:00.008+08:002011-01-13T12:31:27.363+08:00Little India's Masala Hut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS2MYC3_VfI/AAAAAAAACC4/qY_w7wz-yMA/s1600/singapore_masala_hut_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="215" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS2MYC3_VfI/AAAAAAAACC4/qY_w7wz-yMA/s400/singapore_masala_hut_3.jpg" /></a></div>A trip to Little India became the consensus when we couldn't find a place to eat in Suntec City. It was past ten o'clock in the evening on a Tuesday night.<br />
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I made the suggestion of looking for a place to eat near the hotel of our visitors. After all, they had a four-year old daughter in tow, and I wanted to make it easy for them. Eva agreed, and suggested we go very near their hotel, which was located in Farrer Park. Her husband —who's originally from Finland by the way — turns out to be a lover of Indian food. Feeling a little adventurous, we alighted at Little India instead of Farrer Park.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS2MYVoaV-I/AAAAAAAACDA/TfAYiSiakjI/s1600/singapore_little_india_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS2MYVoaV-I/AAAAAAAACDA/TfAYiSiakjI/s400/singapore_little_india_4.jpg" /></a></div>Except for a few stalls, the market right beside the Little India station was already closed. We had second thoughts about our adventure and thought of taking the sure route to Clarke Quay instead. But we trudged on and after only about two minutes of walking, we seemed to have found what we were looking for.<br />
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From a distance <a href="http://www.themasalahut.com/">Masala Hut</a> appeared inviting. It was well lit, its patrons and homey interiors could be seen through the windows. Inside, the place was spick and span, with wooden tables and chairs and the familiar stainless utensils common in Indian restaurants.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS5_jWHgi5I/AAAAAAAACDQ/x3-B5BsANFU/s1600/singapore_masala_hut_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="86" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS5_jWHgi5I/AAAAAAAACDQ/x3-B5BsANFU/s200/singapore_masala_hut_2.jpg" /></a></div>I had learned to eat Indian food only here in Singapore. In previous posts, I had documented my adventures in <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2008_04_01_archive.html">Aangan</a>, a North Indian restaurant, and <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2008/05/annalakshmi-in-amoy-st.html">Annalakshmi</a> in Amoy St., which practiced the <i>Eat what you want, Give as you feel</i> concept. Well, this was a somewhat different experience, a delightful one still. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS5_ck2la1I/AAAAAAAACDI/7zT9ffeQ5Ac/s1600/singapore_masala_hut_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="72" width="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TS5_ck2la1I/AAAAAAAACDI/7zT9ffeQ5Ac/s200/singapore_masala_hut_1.jpg" /></a></div>We had <i>dosa</i>, cheese <i>naan</i>, garlic <i>naan</i> and Masala chicken. I gave the <i>kulfi</i> or Indian ice cream a try too. I didn't regret it. The total bill came to S$50 — not bad at all for five people.<br />
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If I ever get lost and hungry on Little India again, I know where to go.Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-35835026467418344112011-01-11T16:27:00.000+08:002011-01-11T16:27:16.928+08:00Suntec City's Fountain of Wealth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TSwDI6q8jaI/AAAAAAAACCw/cS0JblUD5W4/s1600/singapore_suntec_fountain_of_wealth_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TSwDI6q8jaI/AAAAAAAACCw/cS0JblUD5W4/s400/singapore_suntec_fountain_of_wealth_2.jpg" /></a></div>We had a chance to visit Suntec City's Fountain of Wealth, which is also known as the <i>World's Largest Fountain</i> a few days ago, thanks to visiting relatives who were touring Southeast Asia. The place made it to our relative Eva's list of places to go in Singapore and we were glad to meet her and her family for dinner there.<br />
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Unfortunately, they arrived late and only made it towards the end of the last laser show for the day. All wasn't lost though as Eva's four-year-old daughter had a grand time admiring the colorful lights, the spurting, pouring and flowing water, and the towering bronze figure (almost 14 meters high). There was also no stopping her from getting her hands (not feet) wet from touching the water.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TSwDIiHXOeI/AAAAAAAACCo/IM26b-6NtbY/s1600/singapore_suntec_fountain_of_wealth_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/TSwDIiHXOeI/AAAAAAAACCo/IM26b-6NtbY/s400/singapore_suntec_fountain_of_wealth_1.jpg" /></a></div>They also didn't pass up the chance to get up close and take part of the ritual of going around the fountain three times while touching the water for good luck!Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-87805903051010682622010-04-27T00:00:00.005+08:002010-04-27T22:56:47.920+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 36: United Colors of HDBs (A Change In Perspective)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9ZQjjYh2JI/AAAAAAAABx4/dWkiMsA3fHY/s1600/IMG_5448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9ZQjjYh2JI/AAAAAAAABx4/dWkiMsA3fHY/s320/IMG_5448.JPG" /></a></div>It still amazes me how a change in perspective alters the way we see things. There was a time when I expressed my opinion that it would make <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2009/09/singapore-360-day-11-hdb-laundry-bamboo.html">HDBs</a> look neater and maybe a bit more sophisticated if they were painted mostly white, or at least a lighter shade. I imagined the entire of Singapore having rows and rows of white buildings where people lived in. When I finally listened to what I was saying, I wanted to smack myself in the head.<br />
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I see two ironies in this. First, a lot of people already say that Singapore is boring. Just do a Google search on "Singapore is boring" and you'll see what I mean. Bringing my stupid idea into light, not that it would even be considered, doesn't exactly help disprove this notion.<br />
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Second, for most part of my life, at least up to the present, I have never been one to live inside an ordinary and dull white box. I realize now that choice had a lot to do with it but I will not deny that in the past, especially during the dark moments, that I was plagued with the victim mindset. What lead me away from the victim mentality? A change of perspective of course. And a decision to live under bright light. <br />
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Living outside a boring white box means life being an adventure, taking risks, learning new things and setting up one's self where a thing or two eventually goes wrong. <b>It is a life filled with colors, one that requires a person to see things not in black and white but in the full spectrum of light.</b> But it is also a life where things don't always go as planned and therefore one filled with tears, hope, laughter and disappointment. But isn't that what life is all about?<br />
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It's true, a change of perspective can shed new light and bring fresh color to an otherwise dull and boring view. Perhaps it's time to tilt those lenses?<br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-72305438905192963532010-04-26T00:00:00.003+08:002010-04-26T00:08:43.527+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 35: Do Everything In Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9RWlPdPvXI/AAAAAAAABxw/iyN6HPOzX6o/s1600/IMG_5569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9RWlPdPvXI/AAAAAAAABxw/iyN6HPOzX6o/s320/IMG_5569.JPG" /></a></div>Do everything in love. This is the message one of our fellow pedestrians earlier wanted to let the world know about today. <br />
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The line written on his sweater caught our attention as we were about to cross Orchard Road. As if on cue, he sat on one of the pedestrian bollards right in front of us. I guess the message was meant to be shared, the meaning up to the reader to decide.Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-60337355933487589112010-04-24T00:00:00.091+08:002010-04-24T10:10:03.553+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 34: VivoCity Rooftop Water Pool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9Egnh0NAXI/AAAAAAAABxQ/BUeeC-QsZ7g/s1600/IMG_5120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9Egnh0NAXI/AAAAAAAABxQ/BUeeC-QsZ7g/s320/IMG_5120.jpg" /></a></div><b>Q</b>: Who belongs to this?<br />
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<b>A</b>: One of the few enjoying themselves, dipping in the cool waters of the shallow pool on the VivoCity rooftop, exposed directly under the debilitating noontime sun.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9EgOSTJs6I/AAAAAAAABxI/ygkWKuo9-o0/s1600/IMG_5116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9EgOSTJs6I/AAAAAAAABxI/ygkWKuo9-o0/s320/IMG_5116.JPG" /></a></div>This is a common scene, and as far I remember, it has been like this since the first visit I made to the VivoCity rooftop. The kids wading in the pool seem to be inured to the scorching heat. Come to think of it, what's the best course of action when confronted by a dizzyingly burning sensation all over but dipping in cool water? As the sun goes down, the number of people increases — more children wading means more parents looking after them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9F-1bzNrUI/AAAAAAAABxY/UsvpeK6sVWY/s1600/IMG_5115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9F-1bzNrUI/AAAAAAAABxY/UsvpeK6sVWY/s320/IMG_5115.JPG" /></a></div>There is no lack of conspicuously displayed <i>no swimming</i> signs around the area. The water is too shallow to swim in anyway, but that might not be the case for little children. The entire picture reminds me of a place in Sentosa, where a sign that says "no children playing" is prominently displayed but is never really a deterrent for kids wanting to enjoy the refreshing water. Oh well, kids will be kids. And parents will always be there to support them and keep them safe.<br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-82844784328043633822010-04-23T00:00:00.013+08:002010-04-23T19:12:30.904+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 33: Baby Asleep On Bike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9CaBVY5LHI/AAAAAAAABwo/hFfaiLgJ5Kw/s1600/IMG_5456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S9CaBVY5LHI/AAAAAAAABwo/hFfaiLgJ5Kw/s320/IMG_5456.JPG"/></a></div>We saw this happen while waiting for the bus a few days ago. The toddler fell asleep on the bike and so the mother had to get off and hold the baby's head to keep it from further falling sideways and disturbing his peaceful sleep in the process. Good thing the father, who appeared to be following them, was just a traffic light away. By the time the father was close enough however, the baby was awake and had already straightened up, possibly from hearing the voice of its own mother calling for backup.<br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-8045763791963969202010-04-22T00:00:00.002+08:002010-04-22T00:32:54.554+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 32: Old Hill Police Station<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S87nSs0aYuI/AAAAAAAABwc/NYdJc_Djx9I/s1600/IMG_3759.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S87nSs0aYuI/AAAAAAAABwc/NYdJc_Djx9I/s400/IMG_3759.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462557706501645026" /></a><b>The building with colorful windows on Hill Street has an equally colorful history.</b> For starters, the lot it occupies used to house a school and a theater. When it was built in 1934, it served as a police station, which also held Singapore's first jail, and was then regarded as a skyscraper. During the Japanese Occupation, it was used as a holding area and torture ground for prisoners. After that, it resumed its use under the police department for over three decades before being closed and renovated to house other various government departments. It was declared a national monument in 1998.<br /><br />The structure is now called <b>MICA Building</b> as it is primarily being occupied by – aptly so I think due to it's appeal — the Ministry of Information, Communications and The Arts. This doesn't stop cab drivers from calling it the Old Hill Police Station though, and I can guarantee you'll be inviting questions that aim to clarify where you want to go if you use the new name. Well, you can get there too — and I dare you — by saying you want to go the building with colorful windows in Clarke Quay.<br /><br />If anyone's looking for more reason why it should remain being called Old Hill Police Station, <b>it has 911 windows</b>. And oh, for clarity's sake, the emergency number for Singapore is <b>999</b>.<br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-83103235913805742082010-04-21T00:00:00.004+08:002010-04-21T00:51:58.850+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 31: Wave House Sentosa<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7o7e6iEI/AAAAAAAABvs/3ovoWVLU6to/s1600/IMG_8354.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 274px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7o7e6iEI/AAAAAAAABvs/3ovoWVLU6to/s400/IMG_8354.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462017128674265154" /></a>Surfing isn't among the list of sports that is popular in Singapore. Also, while the country is surrounded by sea, it's fair to say that Singapore isn't much of a beach destination.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7pllL-NI/AAAAAAAABv0/q_hMH1ZJTcQ/s1600/IMG_8402.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7pllL-NI/AAAAAAAABv0/q_hMH1ZJTcQ/s400/IMG_8402.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462017139974863058" /></a>Well, those reasons shouldn't stop anyone from trying out something that resembles the sport right in Singapore's most popular tourist destination. With the opening of Wave House in Sentosa late last year, the lack of ginormous surfing waves seems to have been addressed. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z9vhcUitI/AAAAAAAABwU/xWItY20_QF0/s1600/IMG_8348.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z9vhcUitI/AAAAAAAABwU/xWItY20_QF0/s400/IMG_8348.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462019440966404818" /></a>Their solution is, of course, technology-driven, with good results — surfer-to-die-for waves artificially generated over and over again. Judging from the big smiles on the faces of those who have tried the wave simulator, it looks like a lot of fun.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7rcHcbSI/AAAAAAAABwM/2o5UQr_joHk/s1600/IMG_8344.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7rcHcbSI/AAAAAAAABwM/2o5UQr_joHk/s400/IMG_8344.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462017171793931554" /></a>I've always thought of myself as a beach lover. But I find that statement ironic given the fact that I have never tried surfing. Although I'm quite sure my case is hardly unique, I feel my claim as a beach lover doesn't hold much water (pun intended) until this hurdle is surpassed. Well, here's my chance, you might say.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7q4Db-II/AAAAAAAABwE/soGX-20znCI/s1600/IMG_8415.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8z7q4Db-II/AAAAAAAABwE/soGX-20znCI/s400/IMG_8415.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462017162113448066" /></a>Looking back, my love for the beach was brought about by those yearly summer trips to the beach my family would make. As a young boy, the beach was always the one thing that defined my summer. I always looked forward to the gentle kiss of the sea breeze on my face, the taste of salty water on my lips, the ticklish feel of sand at my feet, the hypnotic splashing of the waves against my torso and even the painful sunburns all over my body afterwards.<br /><br />I guess it's time to plan for striking one item off that long list.<br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-61910895794666567832010-04-20T00:00:00.003+08:002010-04-20T00:16:34.964+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 30: HDBs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8s12oSCcAI/AAAAAAAABvE/wBw1LcORO4Y/s1600/IMG_5428.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8s12oSCcAI/AAAAAAAABvE/wBw1LcORO4Y/s400/IMG_5428.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461518185759141890" /></a>This is what a typical house in Singapore, commonly referred to as HDB, looks like.<br /><br />I realize I have a <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2009/09/singapore-360-day-11-hdb-laundry-bamboo.html">previous post about HDBs</a> but I've never actually posted a picture of an entire building.<br /><br />As you might have guessed, I live in one of these flats. The government does a good job of maintaining them and is pretty strict —this might not be news to you— on implementing its set of rules for the occupants. For instance, placing flower pots on ledges where they can easily fall off and hurt or even kill someone is a no-no. Posters constantly reminding residents that they "may be jailed or fined" for violating such rules are omnipresent.<br /><br />The main difference between a condo and a HDB, aside from the dollar sign, are the amenities. There are no swimming pools, gyms, barbecue pits or clubhouses in HDBs. <br /><br />A friend points out that one of the things she doesn't like about HDBs are the pipes: they are conspicuously displayed — for good reason though: ease of maintenance — not only in the bathroom but sometimes in the living room. Her imagination gets the better of her, visualizing what sort of thing passes between those pipes.<br /><br />As for me, I'm still happy living in an HDB flat. The nearby <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2008/09/walk-in-park.html">Pasir Ris Park</a> and my own gym membership more than make up for the missing amenities. As for the pipes, I can live with that, as long as they don't ever leak.<br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-34360227184862692432010-04-18T23:00:00.002+08:002010-04-18T23:28:59.687+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 29: Riverside Point, Clarke Quay<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamero/4517078005/" title="Riverside Point, Clark Quay by Jamero, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4517078005_e748ef8f09_b.jpg" width="400" height="276" alt="Riverside Point, Clark Quay" /></a>Here's a shot of Riverside Point in <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2009/12/singapore-360-day-23-clarke-quay-and.html">Clarke Quay</a>. <br /><br />Jumbo Seafood Restaurant, known for its Chili Crab, is at the extreme left. Brewerkz, a local microbrewery restaurant is at the extreme right. Both are favorite spots among our circle of friends. The bridge takes you to the clubs, bars and the <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2008/08/of-lazy-sunday-afternoon-clarke-quay.html">G-Max reverse bungee</a>. <br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-41484517664255239322010-04-18T01:30:00.007+08:002010-04-24T10:18:04.185+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 28: Shiraz Belly Dancer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8lm5cX_-BI/AAAAAAAABus/jGFj2IZSNq0/s1600/IMG_0465.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 392px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8lm5cX_-BI/AAAAAAAABus/jGFj2IZSNq0/s400/IMG_0465.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461009160218867730" /></a><b>Shiraz.</b> Two things come to mind when I encounter the word: the variety of red wine that's powerfully flavored and full bodied, and the city in South Iran that's also been called the city of gardens.<br />
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That changed a few months ago when I finally took note of the name of the bar in Clarke Quay that occasionally features a belly dancer shaking and grooving to a lively beat. Whether I like it or not, I knew my brain would associate <i>belly dancing</i> with <i>Shiraz</i> from then on.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8lm5lLrSHI/AAAAAAAABu0/rGJVM8pvApM/s1600/IMG_0466.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 318px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8lm5lLrSHI/AAAAAAAABu0/rGJVM8pvApM/s400/IMG_0466.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461009162583099506" /></a>We'd normally pass by the bar as part of the Clarke Quay tour we give to visiting friends. On one particular day, the couple we were showing around was in luck. So was I, for I had brought my camera with me.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8lm4k9ByvI/AAAAAAAABuk/V6-YIUNSSrY/s1600/IMG_0464.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 392px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8lm4k9ByvI/AAAAAAAABuk/V6-YIUNSSrY/s400/IMG_0464.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461009145341790962" /></a>It's not surprising that everyone within a 10-meter radius of the bar turned their attention on her: first, the curious glances; then the bedazzled stares; next, the suddenly ubiquitous flashes and staccato clicks of the cameras; and after the performance, the applause.<br />
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Just a few days ago, when we were on our "tour of duty" for another visiting friend, there was no belly dancer doing her thing in Shiraz. It seemed, at least for me, that the whole of Clarke Quay was a little less lively.<br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-34833746028832259902010-04-16T23:28:00.007+08:002010-04-24T10:19:39.413+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 27: Kuriya Japanese Restaurant<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8iDEah9kOI/AAAAAAAABuU/Z8sChc7WvuY/s1600/DSC06275.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S8iDEah9kOI/AAAAAAAABuU/Z8sChc7WvuY/s400/DSC06275.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460758660051210466" /></a><br />
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Identity crisis?<br />
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I couldn't help but smile in disbelief every time I see this sign. Turns out <i>kuriya</i> means <i>kitchen</i> in Japanese.<br />
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I just found this photo in my albums. We always pass by this restaurant when we'd go for <a href="http://singaporefountainpen.blogspot.com/2009/10/singapore-360-day-18-dining-at-din-tai.html">Din Tai Fung</a> in Raffles City. I promised myself I would try out it one day. Unfortunately that day hasn't come yet. <br />
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But as they say, it's never too late. I'll come up with a new post to describe the experience when the day the promise is fulfilled finally comes.<br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-2963240331446372992010-03-29T23:00:00.004+08:002010-03-29T23:29:25.659+08:00Singapore 360 - Day 26: Pasir Ris Town Park Fish Pond<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamero/4472126151/" title="Turbines by Jamero, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4472126151_55d21433e9_b.jpg" width="400" height="276" alt="Turbines" /></a>I haven't tried fishing. But I heard, just like with golf and photography, it's a lot of fun but also requires tons of patience. Fun and patience — they're an odd pair but with certain things you can't have one without the other. <br /> <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamero/4472949650/" title="Turbines 2 by Jamero, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4472949650_e85688e3d4_b.jpg" width="400" height="276" alt="Turbines 2" /></a>I had the opportunity to visit the Pasir Ris Town Park again during the weekend. Not going there to jog, I did not pass up the chance to take a few pictures. Those who were fishing in the pond didn't seem to mind. Well, I tried not to get in their way.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamero/4472998438/" title="A Catch! by Jamero, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2741/4472998438_2c6693128d_b.jpg" width="400" height="276" alt="A Catch!" /></a>Before leaving I made a promise to myself to try fishing within the year. I have one person in mind who I think would gladly come with me. And the fish pond at the Pasir Ris Town Park doesn't look like a bad place to start.<br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-66673192324643925802010-03-04T00:00:00.006+08:002010-04-24T10:21:52.036+08:00Asia 360 - 15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival (3/3)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQWJHodUI/AAAAAAAABt0/GGszKl599ME/s1600-h/Pintados.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQWJHodUI/AAAAAAAABt0/GGszKl599ME/s400/Pintados.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443955128407717186" /></a>As I wandered through the crowd on the last day of the hot air balloon festival, it was evident that both young and old had happy memories to take home with them from the event. Their excitement during the aerobatics was obvious from their reactions. So was their amusement as they cheered when face-painted and colorfully costumed youngsters marched and performed amazing tricks to the beat of kettledrums. So was their delight as they clapped every time a plane hit its target in the balloon bursting segment.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQVVUe9ZI/AAAAAAAABtk/gFk6w0KAAjs/s1600-h/InCostume.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQVVUe9ZI/AAAAAAAABtk/gFk6w0KAAjs/s400/InCostume.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443955114502976914" /></a>There was also a different kind of joy, one I've observed gleaming in the eyes of fathers, mothers, grandparents as they carried their young ones on their shoulders, took pictures of them riding in an airplane, taught them how to fly kites, queued with them to the hotdog stands and portable toilets, and dreamed with them being captains of their own planes someday. If that wasn't rewarding enough, the bliss was apparent on the faces of the children too. I'm sure that those happy memories will last a lifetime in the heads of some, and indelibly etched in the souls of everyone forever.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zRUCWKJFI/AAAAAAAABuM/9-jOB2zXhuE/s1600-h/OrangeParchute.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 346px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zRUCWKJFI/AAAAAAAABuM/9-jOB2zXhuE/s400/OrangeParchute.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443956191741486162" /></a>Certainly there is pride in the hearts of the pilots from being among the privileged few who are able to do what they do, more so from being able to impart happiness to the others in their own way. If only momentarily, they turned into artists who find delight in seeing others appreciate their craft. It must be a pleasurable thing too, to be able to express the joy of flying, without the use of words, to people who will never be able to fully comprehend it. The feeling of being able to provide inspiration to those who aspire to fly someday must also be priceless.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQW4ivCoI/AAAAAAAABt8/JbUkPZy84yU/s1600-h/RPC226.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 219px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQW4ivCoI/AAAAAAAABt8/JbUkPZy84yU/s400/RPC226.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443955141137861250" /></a>It was a delightful experience for me too, this being my first. I have my own happy memories to take home with me. Just thinking about them makes me smile and want to come back. <br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQVpV1WxI/AAAAAAAABts/t19l9N2zCSg/s1600-h/ParchutePhilippineFlag.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zQVpV1WxI/AAAAAAAABts/t19l9N2zCSg/s400/ParchutePhilippineFlag.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443955119877348114" /></a>I will certainly make plans to watch it again someday. There would be the children to take and grandchildren too. ;)<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNzCjs2dI/AAAAAAAABtc/n4l9milgbi0/s1600-h/IMG_3588.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNzCjs2dI/AAAAAAAABtc/n4l9milgbi0/s400/IMG_3588.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443952326327720402" /></a><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNysUdNBI/AAAAAAAABtU/hudZEVTfFqQ/s1600-h/FlyingMan.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 341px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNysUdNBI/AAAAAAAABtU/hudZEVTfFqQ/s400/FlyingMan.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443952320358200338" /></a><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNyNGRVlI/AAAAAAAABtM/wJkAOwwAEPE/s1600-h/FlyingKites.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNyNGRVlI/AAAAAAAABtM/wJkAOwwAEPE/s400/FlyingKites.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443952311977203282" /></a><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNxmglvEI/AAAAAAAABtE/g4FRNDZ1k-U/s1600-h/DoubleParachute.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 332px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNxmglvEI/AAAAAAAABtE/g4FRNDZ1k-U/s400/DoubleParachute.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443952301618609218" /></a><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNwwfq-VI/AAAAAAAABs8/zQtgsFaDiH4/s1600-h/AnEggADayIsNowOkay.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4zNwwfq-VI/AAAAAAAABs8/zQtgsFaDiH4/s400/AnEggADayIsNowOkay.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443952287119243602" /></a><br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-43304985076492437562010-03-02T00:00:00.010+08:002010-04-24T10:24:48.859+08:00Asia 360 - 15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival (2/3)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPCj1e_lI/AAAAAAAABrs/JuQUdIk56E4/s1600-h/BalloonsUpInAir.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPCj1e_lI/AAAAAAAABrs/JuQUdIk56E4/s400/BalloonsUpInAir.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442968530051858002" /></a>The balloons came in different colors, sizes and shapes. Among those that stood out were those that came in the shape of a beer bottle, a house, a turtle and a star.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQRLsEm5I/AAAAAAAABsc/_SVfVYowhdw/s1600-h/TurtleBalloon.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQRLsEm5I/AAAAAAAABsc/_SVfVYowhdw/s400/TurtleBalloon.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442969880779594642" /></a>While the hot air balloons were the highlight of the event, that wasn't all there was to it. The air show also featured skydivers jumping out of planes in their colorful parachutes, daredevils performing aerobatics using light aircraft, aviators parading various ultralight planes and slingers testing their aim in balloon bursting.<br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQP_vO45I/AAAAAAAABsM/8x57EIA4Bbs/s1600-h/SunBallon.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQP_vO45I/AAAAAAAABsM/8x57EIA4Bbs/s400/SunBallon.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442969860391756690" /></a><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPEVaRPmI/AAAAAAAABsE/ui67sOhd02M/s1600-h/LightAirplane.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPEVaRPmI/AAAAAAAABsE/ui67sOhd02M/s400/LightAirplane.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442968560539352674" /></a><i><small>This is one of the ultralights.</small></i><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPDXt-i_I/AAAAAAAABr0/_CAb--FOOF0/s1600-h/Helicopter01.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPDXt-i_I/AAAAAAAABr0/_CAb--FOOF0/s400/Helicopter01.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442968543979015154" /></a><i><small>One of the helicopters during this segment where the pilots show of their skills in hovering just a few inches above the ground and keeping it stable for about a minute.</small></i><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPCGsFWWI/AAAAAAAABrk/ffful9IM-sQ/s1600-h/ArmyParachuteLanding.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 317px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lPCGsFWWI/AAAAAAAABrk/ffful9IM-sQ/s400/ArmyParachuteLanding.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442968522227800418" /></a><i><small>Here's a member of the Philippine Army making a perfect landing. Some inevitably tumbled during their landing.</small></i><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4vp5hfBhPI/AAAAAAAABs0/PgFOrJAAEzQ/s1600-h/AfterSafeLanding.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4vp5hfBhPI/AAAAAAAABs0/PgFOrJAAEzQ/s400/AfterSafeLanding.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443701749057684722" /></a><i><small>Another perfect landing from another daredevil. Notice the different type of parachute used.</small></i><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4prueQR3yI/AAAAAAAABss/C1u_4EPxcFU/s1600-h/Sunrider.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4prueQR3yI/AAAAAAAABss/C1u_4EPxcFU/s400/Sunrider.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443281545770164002" /></a><i><small>Here's a free spirit manuevering a powered paraglider.</small></i><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQkmh7fpI/AAAAAAAABsk/-LCQFwCF6TQ/s1600-h/IMG_3748.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQkmh7fpI/AAAAAAAABsk/-LCQFwCF6TQ/s400/IMG_3748.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442970214402326162" /></a><i><small>Hired performers wearing colorful costumes and carrying equally colorful scarecrows and eagles on sticks above the head commingle with the crowd.</small></i><br />
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<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQQen5Q5I/AAAAAAAABsU/JqJ5jkGN9K8/s1600-h/Pilots.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4lQQen5Q5I/AAAAAAAABsU/JqJ5jkGN9K8/s400/Pilots.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442969868682478482" /></a><i><small>Here are some of the pilots posing for the camera.</small></i><br />
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To be continued...<br />
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***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-51109296815393174882010-02-27T00:00:00.003+08:002010-03-01T13:01:59.093+08:00Asia 360 - 15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival (1/3)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyEnkk1dI/AAAAAAAABrU/G9GFGuH8350/s1600-h/SettingUpHotAirBalloon.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyEnkk1dI/AAAAAAAABrU/G9GFGuH8350/s400/SettingUpHotAirBalloon.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442092254647080402" /></a>It was a little more than an hour’s worth of drive from Manila. The freeways once again befitted being called as such for traffic was, as expected, very light during those wee hours of the night. The destination was Clark, Pampanga, a former US Air base that now boasts of an international airport and a free port zone. The occasion: the 15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyFOJoTwI/AAAAAAAABrc/E8NRo45kySU/s1600-h/SpreadingHotAirBallon.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 258px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyFOJoTwI/AAAAAAAABrc/E8NRo45kySU/s400/SpreadingHotAirBallon.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442092265003044610" /></a>We got there before 5 a.m., way before the balloonists started setting up. Already the place was packed and a feeling of excitement seemed to abound in the air. Eager photography enthusiasts had already chosen their spots and erected their tripods behind the fence bordering the open field. People lined up behind food counters to buy breakfast. People had assembled near the gates in the hopes of getting out into the field, where all the action would later take place. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyDryNFlI/AAAAAAAABrE/1KG1f4R_aYY/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp07.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyDryNFlI/AAAAAAAABrE/1KG1f4R_aYY/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp07.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442092238598116946" /></a>We ordered hotdogs ourselves and waited for a few minutes before heading into the open field just as pick-up trucks and jeeps arrived with their huge baskets in tow.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwZMtk_vI/AAAAAAAABqc/4XN00FqhQl4/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp02.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwZMtk_vI/AAAAAAAABqc/4XN00FqhQl4/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp02.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442090409191079666" /></a>The balloonists clearly follow a process in setting up their balloons. We'd say watching them get ready is as exciting as watching the balloons go up in the air. Here's the sequence we've observed:<ul><li>the envelope is spread out in the field</li><br /><li>a fan is used to fill the envelope with air</li><br /><li>the basket is laid down on one side and is attached to the envelope</li><br /><li>the burners are attached</li> <br /><li>the envelopes are hooked up to the basket</li> <br /><li>the burners are ignited and the air inside the enveloped is gradually warmed up</li><br /><li>finally, the basket is turned upright.</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyDC2ZdLI/AAAAAAAABq8/V2Hl-MZUvXs/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp06.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyDC2ZdLI/AAAAAAAABq8/V2Hl-MZUvXs/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp06.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442092227609851058" /></a>After that, the basket is ready to be loaded with passengers. Then, the countdown to takeoff begins!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4Ywbft7LFI/AAAAAAAABq0/hKp-eZKYLJ0/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp05.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4Ywbft7LFI/AAAAAAAABq0/hKp-eZKYLJ0/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp05.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442090448652545106" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwajxK_5I/AAAAAAAABqs/mDaC6fHNiMM/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp04.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwajxK_5I/AAAAAAAABqs/mDaC6fHNiMM/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp04.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442090432560037778" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwZzcuEZI/AAAAAAAABqk/_06PwhgPEBU/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp03.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 373px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwZzcuEZI/AAAAAAAABqk/_06PwhgPEBU/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp03.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442090419589353874" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwYXagojI/AAAAAAAABqU/6UqGT45rCOg/s1600-h/HotAirBalloonCloseUp01.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YwYXagojI/AAAAAAAABqU/6UqGT45rCOg/s400/HotAirBalloonCloseUp01.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442090394884022834" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyEJtT_cI/AAAAAAAABrM/YlEAjLczHqY/s1600-h/HotAirBalloons01.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4YyEJtT_cI/AAAAAAAABrM/YlEAjLczHqY/s400/HotAirBalloons01.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442092246630661570" /></a>More photos in the next entries.<br /><br />To be continued...<br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2443626725506028880.post-19469051554034782262010-02-24T00:00:00.001+08:002010-02-24T00:07:54.753+08:00Asia 360 - Philippine Jeepneys<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4PmI6iu33I/AAAAAAAABqM/MBKu36-fnZQ/s1600-h/JeepneyHitchers.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oYRRVZMRymQ/S4PmI6iu33I/AAAAAAAABqM/MBKu36-fnZQ/s400/JeepneyHitchers.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441445815621967730" /></a>When visiting the Philippines, if you venture around, one of the things that would surely arouse your interest is the jeepney — it's the most popular means of public transportation in the country.<br /><br />Wikipedia has a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeepney">good entry about jeepneys</a>, but here's a unique way of describing it, from <a href="http://www.sagadasolutions.com/html/about_us.html">http://www.sagadasolutions.com/html/about_us.html</a>:<blockquote>...the Philippine jeepney [is] a symbol of Filipino ingenuity. The jeepney is a small mini-bus, a public transport vehicle used throughout the Philippines. It started out as a modification of the American Jeep, of which plenty were available after World War II. The jeepney is a public utility vehicle, moving people and goods who cannot afford to buy their own vehicle. Although it is not as fuel-efficient as a bus, it is capable of plying routes that are too short, with roads too narrow, or too lightly-trafficked for buses to be practical. It is the best possible middle ground between a car and a bus.</blockquote>I took the photo above somewhere in Binangonan, Rizal, which is about 1-2 hours away (depending on traffic) from Manila, the nation's capital. Men hitching on the backside is not uncommon. I've counted as many as ten people hitching, without people sitting on top, which is sometimes done too. It's just too bad I wasn't able to take a picture.<br /><br />***Singapore Fountain Penhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05871575556409071455noreply@blogger.com1