I swear by Body Pump. I think it’s one of the best group gym classes that focuses on building strength and toning. 60 minutes of weights to super music. I have been doing it for 5 years now. The beauty of this programme is that it is exactly the same all over the world. No matter where you live, the music, the routine, the repetitions are all the same! It’s brilliant to be able to go anywhere in the world and be able to do body pump, just the way you have always known it to be.
I thought the at least the music might be Spanish, but the closest to it was the cool down track by El Divo. The gym was average. Too many people and bad air conditioning, but then I guess I am used to Dubai standards, so comparison may not be fair. They didn’t give me a towel, nor a lock for the lockers – you have to bring your own. No worries, no biggie.
The instructor was a hottie. I bet you he’s gay though, all good-looking Spanish men seem to be! He did have an entire conversation with me during the chest track though. I thought he’d ask for my number as well, but he didn’t. I think I’ll be going back next week.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Spoilt brat?
I need to move out of my apartemente for the sole reason that it is rubbish for the amount I am paying. A bit of research made me find that I can have my own 3 bedroom for Euro 500 a month. At this price I currently share a 4 bedroom with 3 others.
Went around school and found about 6 numbers I can call that have a room up for grabs for the range Euro 150-200. I also met a friend of a friend last week who has just moved into a brand new apartment. 3 bedroom, right on the coolest street in Barrio de Carmen (the coolest place in Valencia), wooden floors, balcony, glass patio – it’s really nice, and clean, and he is the first person to be living there! Euro 270 including gas and electricity. And I’m taking it. I haven’t even called any of those 6 numbers. I just can’t get myself to! I’m feeling a bit guilty for moving into such a swell apartment. Is that sad or what?
It’s because I don’t really need to have such a nice apartment. If I choose to, I could save a further Euro 100 a month, and perhaps use it for travel or alcohol. Thing is I want it. I’m 26, have worked my ass off for the last 5 years, I deserve a bit of luxury if I want it, don’t I? I am a student at the moment, but I’m over living like a student, perpetually on the cheap. After all, I am going to be here for 6 months, it would be nice to come home to a cozy place. But I won’t die if I don’t. I’m being really silly aren’t I. I just hope I’m not being ripped off, I really doubt it. What the hell, I’ll take it. Call me a spoilt brat if you want.
Went around school and found about 6 numbers I can call that have a room up for grabs for the range Euro 150-200. I also met a friend of a friend last week who has just moved into a brand new apartment. 3 bedroom, right on the coolest street in Barrio de Carmen (the coolest place in Valencia), wooden floors, balcony, glass patio – it’s really nice, and clean, and he is the first person to be living there! Euro 270 including gas and electricity. And I’m taking it. I haven’t even called any of those 6 numbers. I just can’t get myself to! I’m feeling a bit guilty for moving into such a swell apartment. Is that sad or what?
It’s because I don’t really need to have such a nice apartment. If I choose to, I could save a further Euro 100 a month, and perhaps use it for travel or alcohol. Thing is I want it. I’m 26, have worked my ass off for the last 5 years, I deserve a bit of luxury if I want it, don’t I? I am a student at the moment, but I’m over living like a student, perpetually on the cheap. After all, I am going to be here for 6 months, it would be nice to come home to a cozy place. But I won’t die if I don’t. I’m being really silly aren’t I. I just hope I’m not being ripped off, I really doubt it. What the hell, I’ll take it. Call me a spoilt brat if you want.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Codigo Da Vinci
Yes I managed to watch the original English version in Valencia. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised, especially considering that critics worldwide have panned the film. The Spanish sub titles were actually very useful as a lot of dialogue is in French; felt kinda cool to be able to understand what they were saying porque mi poco Espanol leo estoy! :)
I have to commend how well thought out the movie is. Those of you who have the read the novel know how much interesting and shocking detail the book goes into; I was wondering how the movie will put it all across effectively. Of course movies cannot compete with books, but this one did manage to send a shiver down my spine from time to time. But I do think I enjoyed the movie more because I enjoyed visualising the book.
I didn’t initially agree with the choice of Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon, but he is actually very appropriate. Seems like he has been going to the gym with his lean physique, but I think the hair has been glued on. Sophie Neveu and Silas characters couldn’t have been better either. Silas freaked me out in the book and double freaked me out in the movie!
Yes at 2 ½ hours the movie is slightly long, but that’s the only criticism I can think of. Worth a watch.
I have to commend how well thought out the movie is. Those of you who have the read the novel know how much interesting and shocking detail the book goes into; I was wondering how the movie will put it all across effectively. Of course movies cannot compete with books, but this one did manage to send a shiver down my spine from time to time. But I do think I enjoyed the movie more because I enjoyed visualising the book.
I didn’t initially agree with the choice of Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon, but he is actually very appropriate. Seems like he has been going to the gym with his lean physique, but I think the hair has been glued on. Sophie Neveu and Silas characters couldn’t have been better either. Silas freaked me out in the book and double freaked me out in the movie!
Yes at 2 ½ hours the movie is slightly long, but that’s the only criticism I can think of. Worth a watch.
Salsa in Spain – the real thing
Slightly disheartened with the standard when I first went dancing in Valencia; I was quite thrown aback when I visited salsa club Glamour. I haven’t been intimidated to dance, ever. But last night, I just wanted to crawl under the bar and watch. The dance floor was on fire. Having danced for over 3 years, I should have been on fire too – I wasn’t even warm. I was obviously at the wrong place last week.
Salseros dance very much LA style here (in a line) with a lot of freestyle. The guys were young, friendly, smooth dancers and quite good looking. The women were also stunning, and confident dancers. There was a very strong click amongst all the dancers, typical of any scene – and I wasn’t part of it. Sucked. But I’m sure if I go regularly I’ll get to dance more than twice. The couple I went with were amongst the best dancers, so perhaps I’ll get there quicker through the law of association. :)
Salseros dance very much LA style here (in a line) with a lot of freestyle. The guys were young, friendly, smooth dancers and quite good looking. The women were also stunning, and confident dancers. There was a very strong click amongst all the dancers, typical of any scene – and I wasn’t part of it. Sucked. But I’m sure if I go regularly I’ll get to dance more than twice. The couple I went with were amongst the best dancers, so perhaps I’ll get there quicker through the law of association. :)
Networking
So I have been in Spain about 2 weeks now, and I have 13 numbers on my phone. I must have met (socially, not at the supermarket!) over 50 people already, from every possible walk of life. Painters, dancers, fruit sellers, teachers, plumbers, artists, cleaners, writers, married gay couples, bar tenders and actors (!)
But no business people! No ‘suits’. Not that I particularly want to meet any suits, but I thought it was an interesting observation.
I need to find a new apartment, and I have got 6 numbers to call already, all through friends of friends of friends. I guess there is nothing new about what I’m writing in this post, but I don’t remember meeting so many cool new people at once in Dubai – so again for me, it’s a breath of fresh air. Everyone seems to be living a ‘working to survive lifestyle’, but they seem so content (or they just don’t complain!) that the energy around them is contagious. Yeah OK, I know I’m in the swing of being in Spain - let’s see how long it lasts. :)
But no business people! No ‘suits’. Not that I particularly want to meet any suits, but I thought it was an interesting observation.
I need to find a new apartment, and I have got 6 numbers to call already, all through friends of friends of friends. I guess there is nothing new about what I’m writing in this post, but I don’t remember meeting so many cool new people at once in Dubai – so again for me, it’s a breath of fresh air. Everyone seems to be living a ‘working to survive lifestyle’, but they seem so content (or they just don’t complain!) that the energy around them is contagious. Yeah OK, I know I’m in the swing of being in Spain - let’s see how long it lasts. :)
Monday, May 29, 2006
A Spanish state-of-mind
Since I have arrived in the land of paella and sangria, I have been extremely busy with the usual things you do when you have moved countries for an extended period of time. Apartment, language, groceries, laundry, phone line, new people, etc etc.
The days have gone so quickly, I can’t believe I have been here a week already. And I have been so calm within. So at peace with myself. Didn’t think I’d feel so rejuvenated so soon.
I think it’s because it is just refreshing to be in a ‘normal’ country. A ‘real environment’. An environment where the grass is uneven and people don’t shave if they don’t want to. And knowing that I am here for a while makes it mean a lot more. It’s not just a 3 week vacation from life. It is my life for 6 months.
People here are just ‘being’. They are not trying to be the richest in the world, or the smartest. They want their weekends and will not sacrifice them to make some extra bucks. They will drive their 1988 Fiat as long as it runs. They will shut shop at 5pm, go to the beach, have a drink, eat some good food, meet some friends and just chill.
They are not trying to fit into a mould that is has been preconceived as the ideal ‘mould’. They are who they are, they earn what they earn, they do what they want. So natural. The way it should be.
I guess when you have been so accustomed to a place like Dubai where you need to be the best, richest, hottest, smartest, tallest to be noticed, a natural environment hits you like a bolt of lightening. And when you realize that this is how most people live all over the world, you realize what you have been missing living in the bubble of Dubai.
Perhaps it is just a state of mind I am in at the moment. Perhaps I’ll want to fly back home in a few weeks. Perhaps I will appreciate Dubai more than I do at the moment. Perhaps I won’t. I really do not know.
Random thoughts from Café de Espana
So I’m sitting in this café around the corner from my apartemente. Actually it’s not even a café. It’s a canopy with 10 tables. About two metres away is a booth built into the wall that has a coffee maker and ice cream. Punto.
I’m sitting here with my feet up, eavesdropping on the conversations of Spaniards around me. ‘Listen then talk’, isn’t that the first principle of communication?
It seems like a hangout for locals; a meeting point for amigos both young and old.
I was the one of two people 10 minutes ago. There are now at least 30. So I did pick the happening spot!
The coffee in Spain is just perfect. The café con leche is not a cappuccino, nor is it a café latte but it tastes better than both. AND, it’s not too hot – I can take a sip the minute I get it! The downside is that I finish it in less than 10 minutes.
A few other things I am enjoying blissfully:
The sun goes down at 10pm!
Public transport. I haven’t used a bus/train/tram in 5 years! (Vacations don’t count)
How I will not see a single Indian on the road, or in school, but randomly meet them in the oddest places: The owner of the kebab shop, the Punjabi owner of the internet shop and the Delhi-ite who owns the telephone centre.
Unfamiliarity of almost every name, place, animal, thing around me. It breeds a constant sense of intrigue and awakens all your senses.
Buying fresh fruit from the street.
How no-one speaks any English but they all listen to Coldplay, Norah Jones and James Blunt.
How people cannot guess where I am from.
How I have all the details of 6 men who want to practice their English and help me speak Spanish - yeah right!
Life is good.
Friday, May 26, 2006
A taste of Salsa in Spain
So I called Manuel Mascarel, (apparently the guy who´s name is synonymous with Salsa in Valencia), nice guy, very friendly. Haven´t met him yet, but hopefully next week.
Went to this bailamos discotecha´Asucar´ last night. Was quiet at first, with just a few people here and there dancing on a large floor. The music is relatively slower than what we are used to (most welcome!) and from what I gathered last night, the Spaniyards dance a mix of LA and Cuban style. And alot of bachata, merengue, chacha. The songs played were all familiar, which was kinda cool - but made me quite nostalgic.
Then the teacher announced a La Rueda session. I gladly jumped in, as it is probably the easiest way to dance with everyone in under 10 minutes. Once announced, the next thing I see is atleast 70 couples ready in a circle on the dance floor for La Rueda. Whoa! where did they all come from!? Was the largest Rueda I have ever done and though very basic, really good fun.
The level of dancing wasn´t very good though. Dubai standard is much better. But a good night, nice people (a few sleazeballs, but all in all nice :) and I was most happy just to be dancing!
Carmen Llorente was there too. Apparently she is the whole and soul of salsa in Valenica. Will talk to her next time.
Anyway, I have been sitting in this internet cafe in some dodgy lane near my house for the last 2 hours, next to two Mexicans who smell of tequila. This is the character you miss in Dubai! :)
Guess that´s my cue to exit.
Hasta luego!
Went to this bailamos discotecha´Asucar´ last night. Was quiet at first, with just a few people here and there dancing on a large floor. The music is relatively slower than what we are used to (most welcome!) and from what I gathered last night, the Spaniyards dance a mix of LA and Cuban style. And alot of bachata, merengue, chacha. The songs played were all familiar, which was kinda cool - but made me quite nostalgic.
Then the teacher announced a La Rueda session. I gladly jumped in, as it is probably the easiest way to dance with everyone in under 10 minutes. Once announced, the next thing I see is atleast 70 couples ready in a circle on the dance floor for La Rueda. Whoa! where did they all come from!? Was the largest Rueda I have ever done and though very basic, really good fun.
The level of dancing wasn´t very good though. Dubai standard is much better. But a good night, nice people (a few sleazeballs, but all in all nice :) and I was most happy just to be dancing!
Carmen Llorente was there too. Apparently she is the whole and soul of salsa in Valenica. Will talk to her next time.
Anyway, I have been sitting in this internet cafe in some dodgy lane near my house for the last 2 hours, next to two Mexicans who smell of tequila. This is the character you miss in Dubai! :)
Guess that´s my cue to exit.
Hasta luego!
A few vagaries of the Spanish language
Five days and 20 hours of Spanish later, the realization that learning a language includes re-learning your grammar, can be rather daunting to say the least. See, the language seems quite straightforward - but the minute you have rules, everything gets spoilt.
Verbs: regular, irregular, reflexive, infinitive, 1st person, 2nd person, 3rd person, tenses, participles and the list goes on. Do you remember this stuff from school?
To further explain the problem here: Every verb form (and there are 6 basic forms of every verb) has a different way of using a word before and after the verb. In short, there are 36 ways of using every verb, dependent on situation. And that’s just for the verbs. Need I say more?
Add to that the fact that I cannot say the Spanish alphabet properly and that my vocabulary is 17 words, I have a bit of a task on my hands. However, one of the comforting factors is that Spaniards speak at the rate of 4 words a second, so if can put enough words together quick enough, no matter what they are, I think I can wing it! :) Apparently, Español is one of the easiest languages to learn.
Another interesting thing about the language, is how its similarity and dissimilarity to English is extreme.
Por ejample: (For example)
Similar = Similardo
Clear = Claro
Different = Differente
Patata = Potato
Tomate = Tomato
Cola = Cacoa
Experience = Experiente
Football = Futball
Equal = Egual
And on the other hand:
Bread = Pan (?)
Chair = Sila
Cucumber = Pepino
Blue = Azul
Bathroom = Lavabo
Prawns = Gambia
Drink = Beber
Us = Nosotros (!)
Them = Vosotros (!!)
Also things like:
Pero = But
Perro = Dog!
Anos = Year
Anus = Ass!
Verbs: regular, irregular, reflexive, infinitive, 1st person, 2nd person, 3rd person, tenses, participles and the list goes on. Do you remember this stuff from school?
To further explain the problem here: Every verb form (and there are 6 basic forms of every verb) has a different way of using a word before and after the verb. In short, there are 36 ways of using every verb, dependent on situation. And that’s just for the verbs. Need I say more?
Add to that the fact that I cannot say the Spanish alphabet properly and that my vocabulary is 17 words, I have a bit of a task on my hands. However, one of the comforting factors is that Spaniards speak at the rate of 4 words a second, so if can put enough words together quick enough, no matter what they are, I think I can wing it! :) Apparently, Español is one of the easiest languages to learn.
Another interesting thing about the language, is how its similarity and dissimilarity to English is extreme.
Por ejample: (For example)
Similar = Similardo
Clear = Claro
Different = Differente
Patata = Potato
Tomate = Tomato
Cola = Cacoa
Experience = Experiente
Football = Futball
Equal = Egual
And on the other hand:
Bread = Pan (?)
Chair = Sila
Cucumber = Pepino
Blue = Azul
Bathroom = Lavabo
Prawns = Gambia
Drink = Beber
Us = Nosotros (!)
Them = Vosotros (!!)
Also things like:
Pero = But
Perro = Dog!
Anos = Year
Anus = Ass!
Por que= Why; Porque (one word) = Because ......How are you supposed to know the difference when someone speaks!?
ANNNDDD, to add to all of this, the books we have are entirely in Spanish. Not a word of ingles, and no existence of any translations. *sigh*
I have no doubt I will pick up the language. I just wonder if I will pick up the right form of the language! Comprendo?
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
¿´No habla español, habla ingles´?
This line has taken me so far in the last two days that I have been in Valencia! When I arrived here on Sunday, the whole city was closed. It was ghost-town personified. Not a soul on the street. The apartment I booked happens to be in quite a remote area of the city, where mostly old people live with their dogs. Not exactly in fiesta mode, like profoundly read about.
Anyway, 2 days down - 67 ¿´No habla español´s´ and 41 ´habla pocito español´s´later, I have a local phone number, new cables for my laptop, a bank account; have tasted horchata (an extremely sweet milky drink made of almonds or tiger nuts) drank sangria and eaten pig blood sausages with yellow rice.
I know how to get around town by foot, bus and tram AND have caught a glimpse of hot hispanic chicos ;) (No, I haven´t met any yet)
My first impression of Valencia is that it is a large town - as opposed to a city. No highways. No high-rises. Wide roads distributing into smaller lanes, that further lead into tiny alleyways. The plazas, churches and cathedrals around the city contribute largely to the artsy ambiance, and strongly reflect Spains historical and cultural significance. (which I am get to understand!).
The public transport system is excellent with the buses and tram. There is a metro - but I´m not sure here what that means yet. I am impressed at the navigation systems the taxis have (should you be able to find one!). A map of your location appears on the screen accompanied by audio directions. Having said that, Valencia isn´t as tech-savvy as imagined. I haven´t been able to find one wireless "hot spot" yet, and it took me the whole morning to figure out how I may be able to access the Internet, wireless at home.
The general attitude seems rather laid back. The business and money oriented rat race that can be felt in big city hubs is non existent. People seem to live a rather simple and happy life, and are very friendly. The air is fresh, the streets are clean and everyone seems to be doing what they want to do.
I have already had about 10 hours of Spanish lessons at don Quijote. It´s quite intense and I have homework. I hope to be fluent in 6 months, and the way it´s going - if I´m serious enough and actually do my homework , that shouldn´t be a problem at all.
There is a donar kebab shop underneath my building, run by a Pakistani family. Think I will go there for dinner! :)
Will post some pictures soon.
Hasta la vista!
Anyway, 2 days down - 67 ¿´No habla español´s´ and 41 ´habla pocito español´s´later, I have a local phone number, new cables for my laptop, a bank account; have tasted horchata (an extremely sweet milky drink made of almonds or tiger nuts) drank sangria and eaten pig blood sausages with yellow rice.
I know how to get around town by foot, bus and tram AND have caught a glimpse of hot hispanic chicos ;) (No, I haven´t met any yet)
My first impression of Valencia is that it is a large town - as opposed to a city. No highways. No high-rises. Wide roads distributing into smaller lanes, that further lead into tiny alleyways. The plazas, churches and cathedrals around the city contribute largely to the artsy ambiance, and strongly reflect Spains historical and cultural significance. (which I am get to understand!).
The public transport system is excellent with the buses and tram. There is a metro - but I´m not sure here what that means yet. I am impressed at the navigation systems the taxis have (should you be able to find one!). A map of your location appears on the screen accompanied by audio directions. Having said that, Valencia isn´t as tech-savvy as imagined. I haven´t been able to find one wireless "hot spot" yet, and it took me the whole morning to figure out how I may be able to access the Internet, wireless at home.
The general attitude seems rather laid back. The business and money oriented rat race that can be felt in big city hubs is non existent. People seem to live a rather simple and happy life, and are very friendly. The air is fresh, the streets are clean and everyone seems to be doing what they want to do.
I have already had about 10 hours of Spanish lessons at don Quijote. It´s quite intense and I have homework. I hope to be fluent in 6 months, and the way it´s going - if I´m serious enough and actually do my homework , that shouldn´t be a problem at all.
There is a donar kebab shop underneath my building, run by a Pakistani family. Think I will go there for dinner! :)
Will post some pictures soon.
Hasta la vista!
Friday, May 19, 2006
Adios Dubai
This time tomorrow night I will be on a plane to Spain! I will arrive in Valencia Sunday afternoon, and it will be my base for the next 6 months. Hope to learn some Spanish, drink some sangria, eat some paella, and watch some flamenco - la dolce vita! (hopefully I'll say that in Espanol next time :)
I have been lucky to have travelled a lot over the last few years - Cuba, Jamaica, Thailand, Malaysia, Portugal, France; but bound to the 30-day leave period from work , I have never had the chance to be immersed in any one culture completely different to mine. I've been told I'd pass off as an Hispanic chica with my brown skin, dark hair and petite body - I look forward to seeing if that holds true.
The smarties at the Spanish Embassy gave me a single entry Espana visa (yes it exists!), which will be nullified if I step over the Spanish border. Guess it's an excuse to visit the corners of Spain - perhaps I'll uncover a lost Indian tribe!
Being in completely unfamiliar territory could result in some interesting posts; will see how much I rave and/or rant about the anomalies of a different way of life.
Till then - Adios!
I have been lucky to have travelled a lot over the last few years - Cuba, Jamaica, Thailand, Malaysia, Portugal, France; but bound to the 30-day leave period from work , I have never had the chance to be immersed in any one culture completely different to mine. I've been told I'd pass off as an Hispanic chica with my brown skin, dark hair and petite body - I look forward to seeing if that holds true.
The smarties at the Spanish Embassy gave me a single entry Espana visa (yes it exists!), which will be nullified if I step over the Spanish border. Guess it's an excuse to visit the corners of Spain - perhaps I'll uncover a lost Indian tribe!
Being in completely unfamiliar territory could result in some interesting posts; will see how much I rave and/or rant about the anomalies of a different way of life.
Till then - Adios!
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Revelling in the glory of joblessness
(Time: Activity: *Emotion*)
7:00am Alarm goes off, time for a run. *Bloody hell*
7:30am Still in bed. * Sleep is nice. My bed is so nice*
7:50am Drag myself out of bed, brush my teeth. *Bloody hell*
8:00am On the way to excellent pathan joint for breakfast to have kheema paratha and dal with S1, S2 and A. *Driving, singing and wondering why I am up so early on my day off*
9:00am Waiting for S1, S2 and A to show-up. *Lets pretend to be engaged in earth moving thought*
10:00am 3 cups of tea + a bowl of yogurt in stomach, sun in eyes, movie talk. *How can these people eat this oily meat stuff so early a.m.*
10:30am Off to Bur Juman Mall to do nothing. *How sad, but what the hell*
11:45am Walking aimlessly around Mall. *How sad, but what the hell, there is a certain novelty factor in this + the company is good*
12:00pm Coffee break at Hediard; deep conversation about personality classification. I'm tagged an 'Explorer'. *Yaay. There is hope for me*
12:45pm Walking aimlessly around Mall. S1 gets shopping kick. One hour in Diesel. *I don't particularly like Diesel. But the sales guy is nice. So are the bathrooms *
1:45pm Coffee break at Hediard with local friend M. *Feminist banter on men. I really like espresso.*
2:30pm Time to see M's Maserati. *Niiiicce car. But I'm going to Spain! :) *
3:00pm Off to eat spicy fried fish at Palm beach. *yummmmmmmmmmm*
4:00pm Licking fingers and sculling beer. *Yummmmm. Must bring my dad here*
4:30pm S2 tells us hilarious story on how his face got burnt while trying to drink absynth with finger on fire. *This is the best drunk story I have ever heard. *
4:45pm Still laughing without sympathy on S2's story *Man, if only this was my story to blog*
5:00pm Time to go home, drop S1, conversation. *So cool to have hung out with S1 today. Hanging aimlessly with someone you admire has its own glory*
5:30pm Home, quick drink of water, off to neighbour for meaningful conversation and brownie. *It's nice to be home with a brownie*
7:00pm Back home and time to head out to meet friend for toxic beverage and salsa. *Shyt only half-an-hour to get ready*
7:55pm Lingering thought: 'The journey is the destination" hmm (?)
NB: S1, S2, A and myself, in my books, are successful individuals with interesting backgrounds and seemingly exhilarating futures around the corner. Perpetually bogged down with work, errands and responsibilities, we have never had a day in Dubai, to do nothing useful. An intentionally wasted day was not in our books - Happy Birthday - it was born today. (Thanks to all of us quitting our jobs)
Yes we had fun. Mindless, relaxed, not a care in the world. Yes we had a lot of fun.
Realising that there are people in Dubai who do this everyday was a bit disturbing, to say the least. But hey, to each his own.
We had fun because it was bizarre to us. It was a day that was so simple and full of nothing, that I will always remember it vividly, and perhaps fondly. Will we ever do it again? I don't think so.
7:00am Alarm goes off, time for a run. *Bloody hell*
7:30am Still in bed. * Sleep is nice. My bed is so nice*
7:50am Drag myself out of bed, brush my teeth. *Bloody hell*
8:00am On the way to excellent pathan joint for breakfast to have kheema paratha and dal with S1, S2 and A. *Driving, singing and wondering why I am up so early on my day off*
9:00am Waiting for S1, S2 and A to show-up. *Lets pretend to be engaged in earth moving thought*
10:00am 3 cups of tea + a bowl of yogurt in stomach, sun in eyes, movie talk. *How can these people eat this oily meat stuff so early a.m.*
10:30am Off to Bur Juman Mall to do nothing. *How sad, but what the hell*
11:45am Walking aimlessly around Mall. *How sad, but what the hell, there is a certain novelty factor in this + the company is good*
12:00pm Coffee break at Hediard; deep conversation about personality classification. I'm tagged an 'Explorer'. *Yaay. There is hope for me*
12:45pm Walking aimlessly around Mall. S1 gets shopping kick. One hour in Diesel. *I don't particularly like Diesel. But the sales guy is nice. So are the bathrooms *
1:45pm Coffee break at Hediard with local friend M. *Feminist banter on men. I really like espresso.*
2:30pm Time to see M's Maserati. *Niiiicce car. But I'm going to Spain! :) *
3:00pm Off to eat spicy fried fish at Palm beach. *yummmmmmmmmmm*
4:00pm Licking fingers and sculling beer. *Yummmmm. Must bring my dad here*
4:30pm S2 tells us hilarious story on how his face got burnt while trying to drink absynth with finger on fire. *This is the best drunk story I have ever heard. *
4:45pm Still laughing without sympathy on S2's story *Man, if only this was my story to blog*
5:00pm Time to go home, drop S1, conversation. *So cool to have hung out with S1 today. Hanging aimlessly with someone you admire has its own glory*
5:30pm Home, quick drink of water, off to neighbour for meaningful conversation and brownie. *It's nice to be home with a brownie*
7:00pm Back home and time to head out to meet friend for toxic beverage and salsa. *Shyt only half-an-hour to get ready*
7:55pm Lingering thought: 'The journey is the destination" hmm (?)
NB: S1, S2, A and myself, in my books, are successful individuals with interesting backgrounds and seemingly exhilarating futures around the corner. Perpetually bogged down with work, errands and responsibilities, we have never had a day in Dubai, to do nothing useful. An intentionally wasted day was not in our books - Happy Birthday - it was born today. (Thanks to all of us quitting our jobs)
Yes we had fun. Mindless, relaxed, not a care in the world. Yes we had a lot of fun.
Realising that there are people in Dubai who do this everyday was a bit disturbing, to say the least. But hey, to each his own.
We had fun because it was bizarre to us. It was a day that was so simple and full of nothing, that I will always remember it vividly, and perhaps fondly. Will we ever do it again? I don't think so.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Connected
So I'm sitting at Al Ghurair Centre testing the WiFi on my new laptop. Smooth maaan! I feel so connected and up to date with the times now.
Not such a tech savvy person, it's kinda an acheivement to have bought a laptop with no guidance; just window shopping and a million questions to make an "informed" purchase decision. :) Normally, when you have invested in something, you normally find out a few days later that you were ripped off, or that you didn't buy the best features or that nothing is installed in your computer, so you have to pay another 2-3 thousand sorting that out. But nope - so far its all smoooth :)
Anyway, so now since I belong to the upbeat, jobless, wireless community, thought I'd be hep - set out with me notebook and be the cool surfer as I sip on a latté. So I go to Starbucks, set myself up, get a grande caramel latté all ready to browse and blog.
Ofcourse I hadn't a clue I need some IZone access card to be connected. *sigh* . Starbucks doesn't sell them. No coffee shop does.
Embarassed, I quickly wrap up and set out to buy one of these cards. Spinneys, Axiom, Plug Ins, Electronics For Less - not available / sold out. Shu baba! So, rather resigned I head back to my car. I pass Caribou Coffee - a new coffee shop at Ghurair, thought I'd ask them anyway. 'You have WiFi? yes. ' You have IZone card'? No. But you don't need one! What? Buy a coffee here and we will give you an access code you can use for an hour. YAAAAAAAYYY.
So here I am, sipping my second latté, browsing, chatting, blogging, reading. There are three guys sitting in the row of seats parallel to me, they have been here for longer than I have. Doing nothing. No coffee, no reading, no computer, no smoking. Perhaps they plan to follow me and steal my new laptop. A young girl in skirt and flip-flops, alone in a mall with a shining new piece of technology - prime catch. Yikes, when did I become paranoid. Anyways, I have made friends with the staff here - surely they will save me. Perhaps I should get one of them to escort me to my car.
The sun is shining and the staff at Caribou are doing the grapevine to "Every Day People" behind the counter. I think I'm going to join them.
Not such a tech savvy person, it's kinda an acheivement to have bought a laptop with no guidance; just window shopping and a million questions to make an "informed" purchase decision. :) Normally, when you have invested in something, you normally find out a few days later that you were ripped off, or that you didn't buy the best features or that nothing is installed in your computer, so you have to pay another 2-3 thousand sorting that out. But nope - so far its all smoooth :)
Anyway, so now since I belong to the upbeat, jobless, wireless community, thought I'd be hep - set out with me notebook and be the cool surfer as I sip on a latté. So I go to Starbucks, set myself up, get a grande caramel latté all ready to browse and blog.
Ofcourse I hadn't a clue I need some IZone access card to be connected. *sigh* . Starbucks doesn't sell them. No coffee shop does.
Embarassed, I quickly wrap up and set out to buy one of these cards. Spinneys, Axiom, Plug Ins, Electronics For Less - not available / sold out. Shu baba! So, rather resigned I head back to my car. I pass Caribou Coffee - a new coffee shop at Ghurair, thought I'd ask them anyway. 'You have WiFi? yes. ' You have IZone card'? No. But you don't need one! What? Buy a coffee here and we will give you an access code you can use for an hour. YAAAAAAAYYY.
So here I am, sipping my second latté, browsing, chatting, blogging, reading. There are three guys sitting in the row of seats parallel to me, they have been here for longer than I have. Doing nothing. No coffee, no reading, no computer, no smoking. Perhaps they plan to follow me and steal my new laptop. A young girl in skirt and flip-flops, alone in a mall with a shining new piece of technology - prime catch. Yikes, when did I become paranoid. Anyways, I have made friends with the staff here - surely they will save me. Perhaps I should get one of them to escort me to my car.
The sun is shining and the staff at Caribou are doing the grapevine to "Every Day People" behind the counter. I think I'm going to join them.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Mission Impossible III
I am quite a sucker for films that are mindless entertainment. Isn't that what films are for anyway? So yeah - that's what MI 3 is. Great action, fast, keeps you on the edge of your seat, makes you laugh, has a plot with a twist and makes you want to work for the Impossible Mission Force. Brilliant bullshit.
Do try to catch it in the cinema. But leave your brains at home.
Do try to catch it in the cinema. But leave your brains at home.
Gridskipper in Dubai
So I met with Chris Mohney from Gridskipper the other day. Was refreshing to meet with someone from outside Dubai, who gets paid to travel around the world and blog. What an ideal job! I was quite surprised when he said that people who blog for a living, don't last too long as bloggers - 1-2 yrs tops. Guess it gets different when you are compelled to spend a copious amount of time blogging.
Anyway, as much as I was keen to meet with him, shockingly I was a bit anxious too. ' Will I be engaging enough? Do I have enough to say that is interesting? will I be able to hold his attention?
I can't remember the last time I lacked confidence in myself when it comes to meeting someone new - the feeling was daunting.
An hour passed rather quickly and I didn't see him looking at his watch, so I think I did ok :)
When you've lived in the bubble of 'corporate Dubai' for so long, where your conversations rarely go beyond 'hows work?" and 'how was Trilogy last night', I'm not surprised at my lack of confidence. Another reason why I want to get out of here - dire need of better conversation!
Coming back to the subject, while Chris was here for the Arabian Travel Market he covered a lot of ground in Dubai. The Burj, the museum, hot night spots in Dubai, ATM, the architecture, shisha, the abra ride - he's done it all. And it has been written, for a change, with no fear of deportation :)
Check it out here.
Anyway, as much as I was keen to meet with him, shockingly I was a bit anxious too. ' Will I be engaging enough? Do I have enough to say that is interesting? will I be able to hold his attention?
I can't remember the last time I lacked confidence in myself when it comes to meeting someone new - the feeling was daunting.
An hour passed rather quickly and I didn't see him looking at his watch, so I think I did ok :)
When you've lived in the bubble of 'corporate Dubai' for so long, where your conversations rarely go beyond 'hows work?" and 'how was Trilogy last night', I'm not surprised at my lack of confidence. Another reason why I want to get out of here - dire need of better conversation!
Coming back to the subject, while Chris was here for the Arabian Travel Market he covered a lot of ground in Dubai. The Burj, the museum, hot night spots in Dubai, ATM, the architecture, shisha, the abra ride - he's done it all. And it has been written, for a change, with no fear of deportation :)
Check it out here.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Small world
1) The other day, out of the blue, a guy S who I went to college with in Australia wrote to me. After a long stint in Japan, he happened to be in Bangalore. He talked about how he had found a small bunch of salsero's in Bangalore who keep active the small though buzzing underground salsa scene.
I know someone A who has just moved from NY to Bangalore - he had a short spurt in Dubai - and happens to be teaching salsa in Bangalore. I recommended S to get in touch with A- and voila! - turns out that S has already been learning salsa with A, and they know each other quite well.
2) Newley Purnell - a travel blogger/writer I have not met personally, but have followed through his blog and had the odd contact with, recommended a fellow travel blogger/editor to meet me while he is in Dubai for the Arabian Travel Market.
So tomorrow I meet Chris Mohney, editor of urban travel guide Gridskipper.com.
How cool is that!
I know someone A who has just moved from NY to Bangalore - he had a short spurt in Dubai - and happens to be teaching salsa in Bangalore. I recommended S to get in touch with A- and voila! - turns out that S has already been learning salsa with A, and they know each other quite well.
2) Newley Purnell - a travel blogger/writer I have not met personally, but have followed through his blog and had the odd contact with, recommended a fellow travel blogger/editor to meet me while he is in Dubai for the Arabian Travel Market.
So tomorrow I meet Chris Mohney, editor of urban travel guide Gridskipper.com.
How cool is that!
And my new life begins
My first day without work in 5 years. My gosh it feels so surreal. Couldn't believe that I was wide awake at 6:30am! I have never woken up that early on a working day, let alone a non-working day. Chose not to get out of bed - but then I did, thanks to some moron who decided to call at 7am to ask me what I'm selling my car for. *sigh* It's all good :)
My colleagues put together a video for my going away. With Juanes playing in the background, the video had lots of good wishes, photos and soundbites from close ones, edited well into a 7 minute clip. Cake, card, gift, flowers and beer followed. I bawled my eyes out. It's moments like this you think - ' must've done something right' :) Thanks guys, I'm extremely overwhelmed.
Quite busy this week, sorting things out and catching up with people I'd like to see before I leave (assuming that I'm leaving!) It's kinda cool how your stakes go up when you are leaving.
Decided not to have leaving do. Most of my friends don't know each other - so thought I'd just leave it at that. Besides, I'm rather crap with goodbyes, I'd rather sneak out and drop everyone a hola line from Spain.
Arabian Travel Market starts tomorrow. Look forward to going to it as a visitor for the first time in my life (as opposed to as a PR professional).
It's nice to be chilling. I feel light headed, fresh, excited though a bit lost at the same time.
Life is good.
My colleagues put together a video for my going away. With Juanes playing in the background, the video had lots of good wishes, photos and soundbites from close ones, edited well into a 7 minute clip. Cake, card, gift, flowers and beer followed. I bawled my eyes out. It's moments like this you think - ' must've done something right' :) Thanks guys, I'm extremely overwhelmed.
Quite busy this week, sorting things out and catching up with people I'd like to see before I leave (assuming that I'm leaving!) It's kinda cool how your stakes go up when you are leaving.
Decided not to have leaving do. Most of my friends don't know each other - so thought I'd just leave it at that. Besides, I'm rather crap with goodbyes, I'd rather sneak out and drop everyone a hola line from Spain.
Arabian Travel Market starts tomorrow. Look forward to going to it as a visitor for the first time in my life (as opposed to as a PR professional).
It's nice to be chilling. I feel light headed, fresh, excited though a bit lost at the same time.
Life is good.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Zoned Out
My third last day at work. What a drag! It's pretty pathetic to be in the office, with no sign of life on your table, and nothing to do. Have never really had time to breathe in the office; now it's just breathing and more breathing. I guess the glory of doing nothing serves as taking a 'well deserved' break when you are busy; otherwise it's just darn boring.
Have been noble and asked people if they need help, have had 6 coffees, lunch and a snack already. You look at your watch thinking 'its been a while' when its only been 10 minutes. Want to sneak home, but my conscience won't allow me.
I also feel like the invisible person. Everyone talks across me, not to me. Work issues have nothing to do with me anymore, so to talk about them is not the same. In fact, its like all of a sudden things are confidential.
My phone doesn't ring and I'm not getting email anymore. I have cleared my desk, and organised everything alphabetically.
Have spent time with most people I've wanted to. Everyone else seems waaaay to busy; it's like I'm wasting their time and thats the last thing I want to do. So my life feels like its on a standstill, while the rest of the world is still running around like crazy.
Even when I call friends, no one has time to chat, they're 'busy at work', what about when I was working? I still called them then - they always made time. It's probably because they know I've started bumming around, and they can call me later.
So yeah, I'm zoned out. My mind is clear, I'm well rested, I don't care about the next press conference or next strategy presentation. Now that I'm out of things, I'm already looking at what I did, differently. And I have great anticipation and excitement about what's up for me next.
Guess I'll know very soon. Need to get the next two days over first!
Have been noble and asked people if they need help, have had 6 coffees, lunch and a snack already. You look at your watch thinking 'its been a while' when its only been 10 minutes. Want to sneak home, but my conscience won't allow me.
I also feel like the invisible person. Everyone talks across me, not to me. Work issues have nothing to do with me anymore, so to talk about them is not the same. In fact, its like all of a sudden things are confidential.
My phone doesn't ring and I'm not getting email anymore. I have cleared my desk, and organised everything alphabetically.
Have spent time with most people I've wanted to. Everyone else seems waaaay to busy; it's like I'm wasting their time and thats the last thing I want to do. So my life feels like its on a standstill, while the rest of the world is still running around like crazy.
Even when I call friends, no one has time to chat, they're 'busy at work', what about when I was working? I still called them then - they always made time. It's probably because they know I've started bumming around, and they can call me later.
So yeah, I'm zoned out. My mind is clear, I'm well rested, I don't care about the next press conference or next strategy presentation. Now that I'm out of things, I'm already looking at what I did, differently. And I have great anticipation and excitement about what's up for me next.
Guess I'll know very soon. Need to get the next two days over first!
Monday, April 24, 2006
Just blog it?
Since I have started blogging, personal emails to close ones have stopped. I have actually started using my emails for necessary correspondence only. Some friends might be relieved that I don't write them intricate details of my life anymore.
Yesterday I wrote an email to a friend V, after a long time. I had no news, no gossip, hadn't bought anything, or done anything remotely interesting. Yet I wrote him about 30 lines. And I noticed that I actually miss being so open and uninhibited when writing. I wrote absolute crap in that email, it was meaningless and not required at at all, but I enjoyed writing it (he just had to bear reading it! as long as the 'delete' command exists in his email function - its all good :). It was my way of communicating with someone without worrying about being judged.
Blogging has curbed my freedom of expression. When I blog, I always think of what other people will think of what I'm writing. That goes against the whole purpose of a blog. A blog is a person's opinion about anything under the sun - and the minute you start tailoring your opinion, or restricting it, fun is lost.
Perhaps its because my blog is not anonymous, I'm a bit weary. But anonymity and transparency don't go hand in hand.
Perhaps it's because my day to day thoughts do not revolve around earth shattering issues, what they do revolve around primarily is my life, and the people in it. Subsequently, I do not want to post anything on this space that is open to the whole world - that might offend anyone, or seem like back-biting or like I don't have the balls to say it out loud, so I'm posting it on my blog.
I don't know what it is. Perhaps I don't want my blog to be my daily diary - open to everyone. Perhaps I'm realising that I am quite a private person, and do not want strangers delving into intricacies of my day to day existance.
I like that I have realised this. I can now resume my nonsense emails, and blog at the same time - big difference. Perhaps now I can give my blog a bit of a definition as well.
Yes blogging is a great way of keeping in touch, and keeping those who care updated. If you can be an open book to the whole world, be it. But if you do want to keep some of your 'ridiculousness' for a few - thats cool too.
Guess I'm not capable of 'just blogging it'.
Yesterday I wrote an email to a friend V, after a long time. I had no news, no gossip, hadn't bought anything, or done anything remotely interesting. Yet I wrote him about 30 lines. And I noticed that I actually miss being so open and uninhibited when writing. I wrote absolute crap in that email, it was meaningless and not required at at all, but I enjoyed writing it (he just had to bear reading it! as long as the 'delete' command exists in his email function - its all good :). It was my way of communicating with someone without worrying about being judged.
Blogging has curbed my freedom of expression. When I blog, I always think of what other people will think of what I'm writing. That goes against the whole purpose of a blog. A blog is a person's opinion about anything under the sun - and the minute you start tailoring your opinion, or restricting it, fun is lost.
Perhaps its because my blog is not anonymous, I'm a bit weary. But anonymity and transparency don't go hand in hand.
Perhaps it's because my day to day thoughts do not revolve around earth shattering issues, what they do revolve around primarily is my life, and the people in it. Subsequently, I do not want to post anything on this space that is open to the whole world - that might offend anyone, or seem like back-biting or like I don't have the balls to say it out loud, so I'm posting it on my blog.
I don't know what it is. Perhaps I don't want my blog to be my daily diary - open to everyone. Perhaps I'm realising that I am quite a private person, and do not want strangers delving into intricacies of my day to day existance.
I like that I have realised this. I can now resume my nonsense emails, and blog at the same time - big difference. Perhaps now I can give my blog a bit of a definition as well.
Yes blogging is a great way of keeping in touch, and keeping those who care updated. If you can be an open book to the whole world, be it. But if you do want to keep some of your 'ridiculousness' for a few - thats cool too.
Guess I'm not capable of 'just blogging it'.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Shakuntala
While half of Dubai was preparing for Robbie William's orgasms, I was watching Shankuntala - a rock opera. This Kevin Oliver production was one of the best I have seen. About 30 odd talented singers and dancers enacted this 2- hour long epic, through 22 wonderful songs.
You know how you watch something that is so emotive - you have this constant strain in your mind; a strain that is just waiting to burst into a tear or a smile? that's how I felt throughout. But I'm generally sensitive when it comes to live performances, I just love them - and really get engrossed.
What a magnificent performance by each and every cast -for some of which this was their first performance.
I found it amazing how they communicated excitement, love, pain, anger and happiness so accuratley through song and dance.
Also, the lights, sets and costumes were just brilliant - what attention to detail. I felt so rewarded watching this - I can't even imagine how rewarding it must feel to have been part of its production. It took Kevin about 10 years to perfect this musical. When I saw him on the way out, I wanted to give him a big hug - but restrained to a handshake :)
Anyway, if you live in Dubai and are free over the next 5 days - a must see.
Only in India
My cousin got hooked with a girl while we were in India, earlier in January. We have grown up with the girl, obviously with no idea she would be my bhabhi one fine day. This is typically a specialty in India: parents love to see their children, who have played in bathtubs together when they were 3, get married. "Why not!?" you will hear them say, "they know each other soooo well!" No shit.
Anyway, today was supposed to be their engagement - but guess what, they decided to get married instead! The decision was made around 6pm yesterday.
How ideal, I thought. No hangama, no drama, no 1 year wedding prep for a 4 day wedding, no stress, no bankruptcy; a small, 4 hour wedding was on the cards - something so rare in India.
But guess what: with 12 hours of notice, 110 family members still managed to make it to the wedding. I could'nt believe it! So much for a small wedding. We were the only close family who weren't there. Everything went smoothly. Everyone is happy. The newly-weds should be off on their honeymoon soon.
There are two findings here:
-We don't have to go OTT to have a good wedding in India
-Small weddings in India are impossible
I'm still going to try to pull of f a registered marriage - I don't mind eloping if I have to. Everyone will be informed about it, post wedding. Will celebrate with a BBQ on the beach!
If I ever get married, that is.
Anyway, today was supposed to be their engagement - but guess what, they decided to get married instead! The decision was made around 6pm yesterday.
How ideal, I thought. No hangama, no drama, no 1 year wedding prep for a 4 day wedding, no stress, no bankruptcy; a small, 4 hour wedding was on the cards - something so rare in India.
But guess what: with 12 hours of notice, 110 family members still managed to make it to the wedding. I could'nt believe it! So much for a small wedding. We were the only close family who weren't there. Everything went smoothly. Everyone is happy. The newly-weds should be off on their honeymoon soon.
There are two findings here:
-We don't have to go OTT to have a good wedding in India
-Small weddings in India are impossible
I'm still going to try to pull of f a registered marriage - I don't mind eloping if I have to. Everyone will be informed about it, post wedding. Will celebrate with a BBQ on the beach!
If I ever get married, that is.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Questions questions
Will I get my visa so I can go to Spain?
Will I teach English in Spain like planned or will I land up working in a bar?
Will I make my way to Mexico or Peru after Spain?
Will I stay in PR after Spain?
Is PR my true calling?
Will I ever realise my true calling?
Will my dancing improve? Will I ever perform?
Will I ever be part of an NGO?
Will I help produce a feature film?
Will I come back to Dubai?
Will I work for Lonely Planet?
Will I work for Channel V?
'Where do I see myself in 2 years?': Will I ever be able to answer this question?
Celebrity impact
Yesterday I watched Aamir Khan on TV for almost an hour, as he demonstrated his support to Medha Patkar's Narmada Bachao Andolan (Save the Narmada Revolution).
So as 3 activists are almost unconscious from the hunger strike they have been on for the last 16 days; I gave thought to their peaceful protests only when I saw Aamir Khan, an actor who is known more for his box office film hits than his concern for the lives of people in rural India. Quite pathetic huh. The pictures of activisits slain by starvation and dehydration were not enough for me to care about their cause.
Media coverage on this issue was splashed across all print and TV media, thanks to the mere presence of the film fraternity.
Well, I guess it's all good - the Narmada Bachao Andolan got some more, much deserved air time. But they should have got it anyway.
Maybe it was a publicity stunt for Aamir; maybe his role in Rang De Basanti inspired him to be part of something real and make a difference. Who knows. Who cares. The ends justify the means ay.
I look forward to the day when I will wake up not needing a hotshot celebrity to get me to listen intently to human issues around the world.
So as 3 activists are almost unconscious from the hunger strike they have been on for the last 16 days; I gave thought to their peaceful protests only when I saw Aamir Khan, an actor who is known more for his box office film hits than his concern for the lives of people in rural India. Quite pathetic huh. The pictures of activisits slain by starvation and dehydration were not enough for me to care about their cause.
Media coverage on this issue was splashed across all print and TV media, thanks to the mere presence of the film fraternity.
Well, I guess it's all good - the Narmada Bachao Andolan got some more, much deserved air time. But they should have got it anyway.
Maybe it was a publicity stunt for Aamir; maybe his role in Rang De Basanti inspired him to be part of something real and make a difference. Who knows. Who cares. The ends justify the means ay.
I look forward to the day when I will wake up not needing a hotshot celebrity to get me to listen intently to human issues around the world.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Jay Kay Say?
Jamiroquai. Funky hat, funky moves, funky music. In concert - not funky enough.
Well, I have to admit - I know only 5 songs by the guy, but I really like them so thought it worth my time and money to watch him live. I yawned most the way through as I waited for him to play Virtual Insanity - WHICH HE DIDN'T! can you believe it? But he ended with Deeper Underground which shook up the audience; shame it was over after that.
Not very personable; no small talk - straight to the point. Very British :)
The plastic feather multicolour hat that he wore didn't change throughout and neither did he do his funny yet oh-so-cool dance steps.
I think the main reason I didn't have a rocking time at this concert was because I didn't know most of the songs he sang. And after a point - they all kinda sounded the same! Acid Jazz is what it's called apparantly.
On a separate note, I sold my Robbie Williams concert ticket (no I didn't make any money off it!) - and as much as I think it will be a superb concert, the trauma I foresee of getting to and out of the venue didn't seem worth it. All those who are going - enjoy, I hope he turns up! :)
Well, I have to admit - I know only 5 songs by the guy, but I really like them so thought it worth my time and money to watch him live. I yawned most the way through as I waited for him to play Virtual Insanity - WHICH HE DIDN'T! can you believe it? But he ended with Deeper Underground which shook up the audience; shame it was over after that.
Not very personable; no small talk - straight to the point. Very British :)
The plastic feather multicolour hat that he wore didn't change throughout and neither did he do his funny yet oh-so-cool dance steps.
I think the main reason I didn't have a rocking time at this concert was because I didn't know most of the songs he sang. And after a point - they all kinda sounded the same! Acid Jazz is what it's called apparantly.
On a separate note, I sold my Robbie Williams concert ticket (no I didn't make any money off it!) - and as much as I think it will be a superb concert, the trauma I foresee of getting to and out of the venue didn't seem worth it. All those who are going - enjoy, I hope he turns up! :)
Friday, April 07, 2006
The cat's out of the bag!
I have resigned from my job. And it's now official so I can blog my heart out :)
Almost 5 years (yikes) with The Holding Group (Y&R, Intermarkets, Asda'a and Polaris!) have been extraordinary, but its time to move on before I become part of the furniture :)
Plans are to move to Spain for a year. Learn Spanish, teach English and dance salsa (yes they do salsa in Spain!). I have enrolled in don Quijote language school, Valencia branch - where I plan to spend atleast 6 months (Valencia is known to have the hottest salsa scene in Spain; made my decision very easy :)
While I'm there I plan to do my TEFL aswell - and see where all this takes me. Why Spain you may ask? well, ideally I'd like to be in South America. But going there from Dubai isn't easy as there are no embassies here - except Argentina; and that wasn't a country on my priority list. Wanted Latin culture, Spanish and salsa. Spain was my next best option. There are loads of Latin immigrants in Spain I am told, so it kinda hit the right spot for me.
Also, the school I am joining has transfer options to Mexico and Peru, so who knows where I will be in six months! A wise man once said to me there are three things you should never change at once: job, country and language - it's a recipe for disaster. Guess I'll find out first hand what this is a recipe for! :)
My main source of inspiration has been the Transitions Abroad portal that opened my eyes to every dream life option possible. It also sites articles by people who have done what you want to do and have changed their life in many ways.
I am extremely excited to change my entire life for a while. Needed a break from Dubai, from PR, from everything that has become so familiar to me that I can't stand it anymore. I'm looking at this break as a study break, but it actually goes beyond study. I have been lacking personal development for a while now, so I'm taking this plunge to grow a bit, discover things about myself, experience a new culture, travel and pick up a language. With all this unconventional value added, I look forward to see what doors are opened.
I have never been to Spain and do not know anyone there. But thats part of the fun. I do have a little knot in my stomach though. If I get my visa on time, I should be out of here May 7.
I can't wait!
Almost 5 years (yikes) with The Holding Group (Y&R, Intermarkets, Asda'a and Polaris!) have been extraordinary, but its time to move on before I become part of the furniture :)
Plans are to move to Spain for a year. Learn Spanish, teach English and dance salsa (yes they do salsa in Spain!). I have enrolled in don Quijote language school, Valencia branch - where I plan to spend atleast 6 months (Valencia is known to have the hottest salsa scene in Spain; made my decision very easy :)
While I'm there I plan to do my TEFL aswell - and see where all this takes me. Why Spain you may ask? well, ideally I'd like to be in South America. But going there from Dubai isn't easy as there are no embassies here - except Argentina; and that wasn't a country on my priority list. Wanted Latin culture, Spanish and salsa. Spain was my next best option. There are loads of Latin immigrants in Spain I am told, so it kinda hit the right spot for me.
Also, the school I am joining has transfer options to Mexico and Peru, so who knows where I will be in six months! A wise man once said to me there are three things you should never change at once: job, country and language - it's a recipe for disaster. Guess I'll find out first hand what this is a recipe for! :)
My main source of inspiration has been the Transitions Abroad portal that opened my eyes to every dream life option possible. It also sites articles by people who have done what you want to do and have changed their life in many ways.
I am extremely excited to change my entire life for a while. Needed a break from Dubai, from PR, from everything that has become so familiar to me that I can't stand it anymore. I'm looking at this break as a study break, but it actually goes beyond study. I have been lacking personal development for a while now, so I'm taking this plunge to grow a bit, discover things about myself, experience a new culture, travel and pick up a language. With all this unconventional value added, I look forward to see what doors are opened.
I have never been to Spain and do not know anyone there. But thats part of the fun. I do have a little knot in my stomach though. If I get my visa on time, I should be out of here May 7.
I can't wait!
Friday, March 31, 2006
Two good movies
After a long time did I watch two very good movies:
Being Cyrus: A black comedy/thriller in English, no songs, low budget yet brilliant cinematography, 1 -1/2 hour. Rare for Indian cinema! The story line revolves around the parsee Sethna family who live the typical middle class life in India. Cyrus (Saif Ali Khan - so hot!:) walks into their life and changes everything. What he is doing, and why, is not clear till the end; thats what makes the movie quite gripping, and the twist at the end is not anti-climax, unlike most Indian films. You laugh (at what you are not supposed to!) when the director wants you to, and you gasp when he wants you to aswell; truly dark and freaky in that sense.
Another thing that is super about this film is that every character is so well defined by the actors playing those roles: From the podgy, illiterate police inspector Lovely (Manoj Pahwa), to the 'bailu' (no balls), hot tempered yet hilarious Farookh Sethna (Boman Irani) and the adorable father (Honey Chhaya) who has been abused so terribly that you just want to hug him and take care of of him.
Dimple Kapadia plays the parsee tart wife of pothead Naseruddin Shah; unlike any character she has ever played and we will probably never see her play again :)
All in all very interesting and funny, yet creepy at the same time. I'd give it 4 1/2 stars!
Crash: Brilliantly depressing. But I mean that as a compliment! Demonstrates the epitomy of racial discrimination and irony. Too many coincidences in the film did make me feel a bit ' yikes' the world is small - but then again, it is isn't it. Also, you can't really go wrong with a cast that includes Sandra Bullock, Don Cheadle, Matt Dillon and Ryan Phillipe.
Also 4 1/2 stars :) But be ready for some serious stuff before you walk into this one!
Monday, March 27, 2006
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Human Clock
Spend 5 minutes on this website, its really cool.
"Humanclock.com shows a photograph of the current time, with the photo changing every minute of the day (all 1,440 occuring minutes on Earth!). How the time is actually displayed is a whole different matter. A lot of photos have the time written on a crummy cardboard sign, while other photos might have the current time in a more edible format, such as olives. There are photos below sea level and ones over two miles above sea level. There are even clock pictures with people who played at Woodstock."
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Yuck. Do not ever buy these. They are the father of gross.
Who are your 'powerful' lot?
India Today's latest issue defines powerful people as those:
- Who's wealth influences society
- Who have powerful friends who can help
- Who have unique knowledge or skills which makes them power icons
- Who happen to be in the right place at the right time
- Who people listen to
- Who you do not want to get on the wrong side of
- Who have credibility
The 50 people listed in the article, to no surprise, included the likes of: Rahul Bajaj, Sania Mirza, Sharukh Khan, MF Hussein, Ratan Tata, Amitabh Bachan and Kumar Mangalam Birla to name a few.
Was good to see Shabana Azmi / Javed Akhtar + Prannoy Roy in the list too.
However, these people are far out of reach to most of us. They are up there on a pedestal. They have a certain intangible awe about them that we may never have the chance to experience.
So, in perspective of my own realm, 'powerful people' who have managed to shake things a bit in my world are:
My mum and dad:
Who have unknowingly touched so many lives by tirelessly going out on a limb to help anyone in need, not expecting anything in return. They are the true personification of 'selflessness'. I couldn't have had a more fulfilling upbringing.
Vikram Hazra:
A friend who has dedicated his life to making a difference in the world, and has an absolute blast doing it!
Newley Purnell:
Don't know him personally, but he has helped me realise the meaning ' the world is your oyster' in its true sense. (Newley - don't link this to your blog like you did last time! :)
Joseph Ghossoub and Sunil John:
Two communication guru's of the Middle East who I have had the privilege of working for, for almost 5 years now. Under their wing I have learnt everything I know about effective communication and it's impact on businesses and society.
Sam Ahmed:
Someone who never failed to touch the sky in whatever he does. Creative head of Y&R in the Middle East, although I have never had the opportunity to work with him, has always walked into my life when I've needed a push in the right direction. Has helped me believe (from his example) that you can achieve anything you want - a much needed dose from time to time! (Unfortunatley can't find anything to link to this!)
Shirin Venkat:
A family friend who is currently walking 2,400km across India in an intense effort to create a wave of awakening among the rural population with regard to their own health, by educating them on how to prevent maternal mortality that kills 300 women everyday in India.
Jimmy Sirhi:
Tireless promoter of 'spreading love through salsa' in the UAE :) who's smile, warmth and lead is contagious!
(Sorry Jimmy, could'nt find a better pic!)
Ofcourse these aren't the only people who have effected my life - but definitly the most current.
Who are your 'powerful' lot?
- Who's wealth influences society
- Who have powerful friends who can help
- Who have unique knowledge or skills which makes them power icons
- Who happen to be in the right place at the right time
- Who people listen to
- Who you do not want to get on the wrong side of
- Who have credibility
The 50 people listed in the article, to no surprise, included the likes of: Rahul Bajaj, Sania Mirza, Sharukh Khan, MF Hussein, Ratan Tata, Amitabh Bachan and Kumar Mangalam Birla to name a few.
Was good to see Shabana Azmi / Javed Akhtar + Prannoy Roy in the list too.
However, these people are far out of reach to most of us. They are up there on a pedestal. They have a certain intangible awe about them that we may never have the chance to experience.
So, in perspective of my own realm, 'powerful people' who have managed to shake things a bit in my world are:
My mum and dad:
Who have unknowingly touched so many lives by tirelessly going out on a limb to help anyone in need, not expecting anything in return. They are the true personification of 'selflessness'. I couldn't have had a more fulfilling upbringing.
Vikram Hazra:
A friend who has dedicated his life to making a difference in the world, and has an absolute blast doing it!
Newley Purnell:
Don't know him personally, but he has helped me realise the meaning ' the world is your oyster' in its true sense. (Newley - don't link this to your blog like you did last time! :)
Joseph Ghossoub and Sunil John:
Two communication guru's of the Middle East who I have had the privilege of working for, for almost 5 years now. Under their wing I have learnt everything I know about effective communication and it's impact on businesses and society.
Sam Ahmed:
Someone who never failed to touch the sky in whatever he does. Creative head of Y&R in the Middle East, although I have never had the opportunity to work with him, has always walked into my life when I've needed a push in the right direction. Has helped me believe (from his example) that you can achieve anything you want - a much needed dose from time to time! (Unfortunatley can't find anything to link to this!)
Shirin Venkat:
A family friend who is currently walking 2,400km across India in an intense effort to create a wave of awakening among the rural population with regard to their own health, by educating them on how to prevent maternal mortality that kills 300 women everyday in India.
Jimmy Sirhi:
Tireless promoter of 'spreading love through salsa' in the UAE :) who's smile, warmth and lead is contagious!
(Sorry Jimmy, could'nt find a better pic!)
Ofcourse these aren't the only people who have effected my life - but definitly the most current.
Who are your 'powerful' lot?
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Friday, March 03, 2006
I've been tagged!
I was tagged by Moryarti - am tagging on! :)
Four jobs that I’ve had:-
Film/radio production assistant
Kodak sales girl for Dubai Shopping Festival
Promotion girl for Philip Morris
Advertising executive
Four movies that I could watch over and over:-
Grease
Dance with me
Sound of Music
Mary Poppins
Aladdin! (Could'nt leave this one out!)
Four places I’ve lived in:-
Taunton, UK
Aurangabad, India
Wollongong, Australia
Dubai, UAE
Four TV shows that I like:-
The Practice
Sex and the City
24
Friends
Four places where I’ve vacationed:-
Havana, Cuba
Negril, Jamaica
Portugal
Thailand
Four of my favorite dishes:-
Anything Thai!
Prawns with garlic in olive oil
Pani Puri (an Indian street dish that I can't explain and do justice to at the same time! :)
Shawarma (meat, lettuce, french fries, garlic sauce wrapped in Arabic bread with tahina and hommous)
Four sites that I visit daily:-
www.rediff.com
www.bloglines.com
www.bbc.co.uk
www.news.google.com
Four Books that I’ve read lately:
Thailand Confidential - Jerry Hopkins
Vagabonding - Rolf Potts
Eleven Minutes - Paolo Coelho
The Short History of Nearly Everything - Bill Bryson
Four Bloggers that I’m going to tag with this:
My brother
Newley
Scaleable Deficit
Rolf Potts
Sorry guys .. but the show must go on :)
Four jobs that I’ve had:-
Film/radio production assistant
Kodak sales girl for Dubai Shopping Festival
Promotion girl for Philip Morris
Advertising executive
Four movies that I could watch over and over:-
Grease
Dance with me
Sound of Music
Mary Poppins
Aladdin! (Could'nt leave this one out!)
Four places I’ve lived in:-
Taunton, UK
Aurangabad, India
Wollongong, Australia
Dubai, UAE
Four TV shows that I like:-
The Practice
Sex and the City
24
Friends
Four places where I’ve vacationed:-
Havana, Cuba
Negril, Jamaica
Portugal
Thailand
Four of my favorite dishes:-
Anything Thai!
Prawns with garlic in olive oil
Pani Puri (an Indian street dish that I can't explain and do justice to at the same time! :)
Shawarma (meat, lettuce, french fries, garlic sauce wrapped in Arabic bread with tahina and hommous)
Four sites that I visit daily:-
www.rediff.com
www.bloglines.com
www.bbc.co.uk
www.news.google.com
Four Books that I’ve read lately:
Thailand Confidential - Jerry Hopkins
Vagabonding - Rolf Potts
Eleven Minutes - Paolo Coelho
The Short History of Nearly Everything - Bill Bryson
Four Bloggers that I’m going to tag with this:
My brother
Newley
Scaleable Deficit
Rolf Potts
Sorry guys .. but the show must go on :)
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Tonic what?
I drink a lot of water (more than 3L a day) so it’s easy to get bored of it. Switched to sparkling water. Am now bored of that too. So I picked up tonic water.
Yuck.
Not being a gin drinker, I don’t think I have ever had tonic water; definitely not had it on its own.
It contains Quinine: C20H24N2O2, a natural white, crystalline alkaloid that is extracted from the bark of the South American cinchona tree; and has medicinal properties. But because the amount of Quinine in tonic water is very less, it exists for taste.
And it tastes really bad. It tastes like diluted alcohol gone bad with decayed lemon.
I’m glad I bought a ChupaChup.
Yuck.
Not being a gin drinker, I don’t think I have ever had tonic water; definitely not had it on its own.
It contains Quinine: C20H24N2O2, a natural white, crystalline alkaloid that is extracted from the bark of the South American cinchona tree; and has medicinal properties. But because the amount of Quinine in tonic water is very less, it exists for taste.
And it tastes really bad. It tastes like diluted alcohol gone bad with decayed lemon.
I’m glad I bought a ChupaChup.
Blimey Blimp!?
"Roughly the size of two football fields, the Aeroscraft can be used as a military transport for troops, artillery and equipment; as a cargo transport service in the spirit of Federal Express or UPS; as a commuter transport service; and as a luxury travel option."
Bloody hell, I'd be petrified if I saw that in the sky. We so don't need these sorts of slow moving monstors in the sky! Especially not as 'luxury travel options!'
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Lights, camera, serve, whatever!
Went to watch the women’s ATP finals last night: Maria Sharapova (SHE IS 6”2!!! and she grunts really loudly) Vs. Justine Henin. Great tennis. Sharapova was leading 5-3 first set; but she landed up losing that set 5-7 and the tournament. Henin was superb.
I didn’t pay a penny to watch this match, and was seated in the VIP pavilion. Would I care if I had’nt seen the match? Nope. Last year I watched an Agassi – Federer final for free as well. Would I care if I had’nt seen the match? Not really. It’s the Dubai Tennis Open I’ve been watching for the last 5 years. I’m over it.
HOW SPOILT AM I!
Wimbledon, Roland Garros, people pay a bomb to watch such matches and would buy their last row tickets 6 months in advance; and that probably would'nt be the finals! Here we are in Dubai, watching world class professional tennis as if it was taking place in my own back yard.
Was so disgusted at the snobbishness whirling inside of me whilst I was sipping my hot chocolate next to Sheikh Hasher.
Guess we are darn lucky. The tennis open is definitely one of the bonus’s of living in this otherwise nauseating Emirate. But when will we care? We probably won’t because we take it for granted. Dubai attitude – needs a slap.
I didn’t pay a penny to watch this match, and was seated in the VIP pavilion. Would I care if I had’nt seen the match? Nope. Last year I watched an Agassi – Federer final for free as well. Would I care if I had’nt seen the match? Not really. It’s the Dubai Tennis Open I’ve been watching for the last 5 years. I’m over it.
HOW SPOILT AM I!
Wimbledon, Roland Garros, people pay a bomb to watch such matches and would buy their last row tickets 6 months in advance; and that probably would'nt be the finals! Here we are in Dubai, watching world class professional tennis as if it was taking place in my own back yard.
Was so disgusted at the snobbishness whirling inside of me whilst I was sipping my hot chocolate next to Sheikh Hasher.
Guess we are darn lucky. The tennis open is definitely one of the bonus’s of living in this otherwise nauseating Emirate. But when will we care? We probably won’t because we take it for granted. Dubai attitude – needs a slap.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Does your existence matter?
A close friend ran 60K today for charity. Starting 4am, he finished at noon. He did the same two years ago; and he will do it again next year. As much as he loves running, 60K is no easy task - mentally or physically.
My contribution: I was a distance marshal at the 55K mark. (Yes, a bit pathetic)
(Detour: while we were standing at our point in the rain, since we had a cooler box with us, people looked at us strangely - as if ' who are these freaks going on a picnic in this weather! :) anyway, almost every other passer by in a car offered to give us a ride somewhere; that was nice - it's quite rare in Dubai!)
It's also rare that people (in Dubai specially) make use of their hobbies for a cause. Guess where there is a will to give back to society, there is a way. And it doesn't have to be some life uprooting sacrifice.
I have wanted to do some community work for a while now. Although I have done the odd thing, I have always found an excuse not to be part of anything in which my contribution will make a significant difference. Don't have time, Dubai does'nt let you contribute in a way that is fulfilling enough, need to find something 'big' enough to be part of for it will be fulfilling, etc etc.
I had the opportunity to train and run 20K in this run. But no, who's going to train at 6am every Friday.
I had the opportunity to run a donation tent for Tsunami in Dubai, I could have volunteered for a week in Thailand when I was there last year.
Crap huh.
On raving about the thrill of my profession (Public Relations), to a close relative recently - he asked me a very simple yet hard hitting question: How are your communication skills adding value to anything that matters in this world?
Ouch.
A colleague of a family friend, quite a high flying corporate individual, spends a few hours of his weekend at labour camps in Dubai; helping labourers complete their visa/labour forms and helping them understand their rights.
Hats off to him, to my ultra-runner friend, and to everyone who has got their act together and is doing their bit.
I seem to have enough inspiration to do something. Just need to figure out how I can be part of the mix.
My contribution: I was a distance marshal at the 55K mark. (Yes, a bit pathetic)
(Detour: while we were standing at our point in the rain, since we had a cooler box with us, people looked at us strangely - as if ' who are these freaks going on a picnic in this weather! :) anyway, almost every other passer by in a car offered to give us a ride somewhere; that was nice - it's quite rare in Dubai!)
It's also rare that people (in Dubai specially) make use of their hobbies for a cause. Guess where there is a will to give back to society, there is a way. And it doesn't have to be some life uprooting sacrifice.
I have wanted to do some community work for a while now. Although I have done the odd thing, I have always found an excuse not to be part of anything in which my contribution will make a significant difference. Don't have time, Dubai does'nt let you contribute in a way that is fulfilling enough, need to find something 'big' enough to be part of for it will be fulfilling, etc etc.
I had the opportunity to train and run 20K in this run. But no, who's going to train at 6am every Friday.
I had the opportunity to run a donation tent for Tsunami in Dubai, I could have volunteered for a week in Thailand when I was there last year.
Crap huh.
On raving about the thrill of my profession (Public Relations), to a close relative recently - he asked me a very simple yet hard hitting question: How are your communication skills adding value to anything that matters in this world?
Ouch.
A colleague of a family friend, quite a high flying corporate individual, spends a few hours of his weekend at labour camps in Dubai; helping labourers complete their visa/labour forms and helping them understand their rights.
Hats off to him, to my ultra-runner friend, and to everyone who has got their act together and is doing their bit.
I seem to have enough inspiration to do something. Just need to figure out how I can be part of the mix.
Monday, February 20, 2006
Blogstipation?
My brother walks into my room today and asks me most sincerely 'Didi are you blogstipated?'
My first reaction, ' get lost'; my reaction afer 5 minutes. 'Yikes, I'm blogstipated!'
I blog because I enjoy it. I will not blog for the sake of it, nor because, oh shucks I better blog today since I have'nt in ages. Thoughts don't seem to be flowing at the moment for me, nor does opinion; and I choose not to rant for once. *sigh*
Big deal if I have'nt blogged in a while - I'll be back when I want to! (not that anyone cares - but just thought I'd tell anyone who happens to stumble upon my blog sometimes!)
Besides..I have a few things cooking up my sleeve ;)
Till whenever :)
My first reaction, ' get lost'; my reaction afer 5 minutes. 'Yikes, I'm blogstipated!'
I blog because I enjoy it. I will not blog for the sake of it, nor because, oh shucks I better blog today since I have'nt in ages. Thoughts don't seem to be flowing at the moment for me, nor does opinion; and I choose not to rant for once. *sigh*
Big deal if I have'nt blogged in a while - I'll be back when I want to! (not that anyone cares - but just thought I'd tell anyone who happens to stumble upon my blog sometimes!)
Besides..I have a few things cooking up my sleeve ;)
Till whenever :)
Friday, February 10, 2006
Has the awakening really begun?
'New Delhi: Five spirited, young men from the best engineering institute of India - with high-paying blue-collar jobs at their disposal and a promise of a comfortable life ahead - decide to take a dirty road less traveled. Frustrated by the existing administrative system, they decide to take up the cause of cleansing it from within and launch a political party of their own.'
Asmuch as I thought Rang De Basanti was a film with good intentions, I also thought was an extremist moral disaster. I was quite pleasantly surprised to read this article.
With films such as Rang De Basanti, you tend to worry about a negative outcome, or no outcome at all. Takes alot of maturity, balls, commitment and vision to do what these guys have in mind. Hats off to them!
Asmuch as I thought Rang De Basanti was a film with good intentions, I also thought was an extremist moral disaster. I was quite pleasantly surprised to read this article.
With films such as Rang De Basanti, you tend to worry about a negative outcome, or no outcome at all. Takes alot of maturity, balls, commitment and vision to do what these guys have in mind. Hats off to them!
Saturday, February 04, 2006
New music shopping spree
When I go to buy music, I normally know what I want. However, I always buy that one different album that 'sounds/looks' good, and it usually turns out to be a disaster.
This time I went on a bit of a random music shopping spree and picked up artists new to me, but hey they all (actually except one) turned out to be darn good!
Catching Tales, Jamie Cullum: I'm not much of a jazz fan, actually don't like it at all - but this album is quite good. More of pop-jazz, it is easy, joyful listening with just the right amount of great piano and emotion. He is a new artist so I thought his rawness comes through, but in a good way. Something in him reminded me of Robbie Williams and John Mayer, even though their music is completely different. All in all, good stuff.
Calma Apparente, Eros Ramazotti (Italian): Typically Eros, straightforward soft rock - very much for the girls :) I wish I knew what he was saying as it all sounds very romantic but not in the soppy sad way. Nevertheless there is something awkwardly cool about listening to music in a different language. It includes a duet with Anastacia aswell and since Eros style can get a bit monotonous, it is a welcome number.
SpiritoDiVino, Zucchero (Italian): I heard him for the first time in Bombay with a dear friend who had it playing in his car. The album I heard was exceptional and had songs featuring Macy Gray, Eric Clapton, Cheb Mami and Sting - could'nt find that album so settled for this one. It is 10 years old, but the latest of what Virgin had! Not quite sure what this music is: rock, blues, funk with a tad of soul maybe..but great listening. Again, would be good to know what he is saying :)
Nouveau Flamenco, Ottmar Liebert (Instrumental - guitar): This artist was also introduced to me by a friend a while ago; after which I started reading his blog and downloading bits and pieces of his music. Liked what I heard, so picked up this album. Beautiful spanish guitar. Just beautiful.
Incredible India: In the most Indian mood swing that I'm in, I picked up this album. A great set of artists: Ravi Shankar, Talvin Singh, Nitin Sawhney, Anoushka Shankar to name a few. Close your eyes and you will feel you are in India. The tracks on the CD are generally slow, but progressive, with a few numbers in chill-out/lounge mode. I listened to this while I was looking through wedding pics from India, was most appropriate!
Beginners Guide to Cuba: Not happening at all. First of all, I dont know why I picked this up, I'm far from needing a guide to Cuban music. However, this 3 CD compilation promised a round up of Cuban Son, Cuban Jazz and Cuban Salsa. The artists were decent, seemed like a good album to have. Don't buy it. The recording was'nt good (I had to change the volume for each song!) and the choice of songs was not the best. Quite disappointed.
This time I went on a bit of a random music shopping spree and picked up artists new to me, but hey they all (actually except one) turned out to be darn good!
Catching Tales, Jamie Cullum: I'm not much of a jazz fan, actually don't like it at all - but this album is quite good. More of pop-jazz, it is easy, joyful listening with just the right amount of great piano and emotion. He is a new artist so I thought his rawness comes through, but in a good way. Something in him reminded me of Robbie Williams and John Mayer, even though their music is completely different. All in all, good stuff.
Calma Apparente, Eros Ramazotti (Italian): Typically Eros, straightforward soft rock - very much for the girls :) I wish I knew what he was saying as it all sounds very romantic but not in the soppy sad way. Nevertheless there is something awkwardly cool about listening to music in a different language. It includes a duet with Anastacia aswell and since Eros style can get a bit monotonous, it is a welcome number.
SpiritoDiVino, Zucchero (Italian): I heard him for the first time in Bombay with a dear friend who had it playing in his car. The album I heard was exceptional and had songs featuring Macy Gray, Eric Clapton, Cheb Mami and Sting - could'nt find that album so settled for this one. It is 10 years old, but the latest of what Virgin had! Not quite sure what this music is: rock, blues, funk with a tad of soul maybe..but great listening. Again, would be good to know what he is saying :)
Nouveau Flamenco, Ottmar Liebert (Instrumental - guitar): This artist was also introduced to me by a friend a while ago; after which I started reading his blog and downloading bits and pieces of his music. Liked what I heard, so picked up this album. Beautiful spanish guitar. Just beautiful.
Incredible India: In the most Indian mood swing that I'm in, I picked up this album. A great set of artists: Ravi Shankar, Talvin Singh, Nitin Sawhney, Anoushka Shankar to name a few. Close your eyes and you will feel you are in India. The tracks on the CD are generally slow, but progressive, with a few numbers in chill-out/lounge mode. I listened to this while I was looking through wedding pics from India, was most appropriate!
Beginners Guide to Cuba: Not happening at all. First of all, I dont know why I picked this up, I'm far from needing a guide to Cuban music. However, this 3 CD compilation promised a round up of Cuban Son, Cuban Jazz and Cuban Salsa. The artists were decent, seemed like a good album to have. Don't buy it. The recording was'nt good (I had to change the volume for each song!) and the choice of songs was not the best. Quite disappointed.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Re-grounded to my roots
Just got back from 12 days in India, and boy were they a great 12 days. Having not been home to India in 3 years, this visit I realised what I was missing. I took glory in watching my driver have a haircut at Raju's 2mx3m barber shop, in watching the panwala across the road oiling his hair with his chuna hands in between making pan for his customers, in eating on the streets and being faced by a cow sniffing around to see if there is anything in my plate for him.
We went to India to attend my cousins wedding. 8 days of family, life stories, scooters, poojas, dupattas, dancing, singing, parathas and kulfi has left me 2 kilos heavier but so fresh and rejuvanated, I'm surprised. Is it just because I have'nt been to India in a while? or having lived in Dubai for 8 years, any whiff of culture and reality is just overwhelming? I dont know.
The only thing I could have done without were the hole in the ground toilets that are slightly difficult to use with a saree on! :)
As is obvious, 8 days of the wedding were in a very small village, so some time in the city was mandatory for an all round, all awakening trip. My last 4 days were in Mumbai where I met my close friends, ate the best food, went to the general post office (?), went to the best bars, checked out the salsa scene, danced to remixes of Kajra Re and drank Kingfisher beer! Mumbai knows how to have fun, I can't wait to go back.
You must have realised that when you land in another country and step off the aircraft, the first thing that alerts you to where you are is the smell of the air. The smell of Mumbai is very distinct: sea breeze, mud and humidity mixed with pollution from the traffic and the slums. These smells get accentuated by visuals as you walk into the airport. The havaldar (police man) in his khaki uniform with a danda (wooden stick) in his hand, the coolies running around to help you with your bags and then the taxi driver tying your 7 bags onto the top of his car and smoking a quick bidi before he makes his 250 rupees he has been waiting for, for the last 18 hours. He still manages a smile and points out landmarks in the city as he takes us home.
*sigh*
I landed in Dubai last night and smelt nothing but plastic mixed with expensive perfume.
Oh well, I guess thats just the way it is.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Help Nasa identify interstellar dust
Those of you who are even remotely interested in astronomy, you must have read about the recent return to earth of the Stardust capsule.
In a nutshell, Nasa sent a capsule into space in 1999 and today it comes back with contents from the core of a commet.
According to BBC, the capsule is believed to contain about a million particles of comet and interstellar dust left over from the birth of the Solar System 4.6 billion years ago. Comets are thought to be cosmic time capsules containing material unchanged since the formation of the Sun and planets. Finding these particles and being able to analyze them could provide a new window into the distant past.
AND.. you can be a part of it! Nasa are looking for 30,000 volunteers to work from their homes and help locate these particles.
According to Sydney Morning Herald: Any volunteer who discovers an interstellar dust particle will appear as a co-author on the scientific paper announcing the discovery of the particle by the Stardust@home collaboration. Sign up - I did!
In a nutshell, Nasa sent a capsule into space in 1999 and today it comes back with contents from the core of a commet.
According to BBC, the capsule is believed to contain about a million particles of comet and interstellar dust left over from the birth of the Solar System 4.6 billion years ago. Comets are thought to be cosmic time capsules containing material unchanged since the formation of the Sun and planets. Finding these particles and being able to analyze them could provide a new window into the distant past.
AND.. you can be a part of it! Nasa are looking for 30,000 volunteers to work from their homes and help locate these particles.
According to Sydney Morning Herald: Any volunteer who discovers an interstellar dust particle will appear as a co-author on the scientific paper announcing the discovery of the particle by the Stardust@home collaboration. Sign up - I did!
Friday, January 13, 2006
Dullest blog in the world
Yes, it does exist! Check it out
Did make me laugh though :) And he has over 100 comments per post! Worth the visit.
Did make me laugh though :) And he has over 100 comments per post! Worth the visit.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Why do you blog?
Was aimlessly surfing the net today and I came across an article that really puts the finger on what blogging is all about:
'Blogging is about conversations among people in real time and real voices. That's what makes it sticky. Communities get built around these conversations. Sometimes with spontaneous order, at other times more gradually.'
It also goes on to talking about how influencial the blogging community can be. Gives examples of how a blogger aided a relief programme for Tsunami and Katrina victims and how Gaurav Sabni was threatened when he posted something negative on his blog about IIM's. Yikes how trivial is my blog in comparison.
Mind you, I didn't create this blog to influence change in the world, nor is it supposed to be my online journal. It was just made on a whim actually, and I've landed up quite enjoying the process.
I read alot more online now, I feel alot more clued into not only general things, but offbeat things happening in the world around me, like knowing a beer has been invented for dogs or how Machu Pichu is being ruined by tourism. Its funny how if I want to know how to enhance something on my blog, I go to a certain blog - thinking - he'd know; or if I find someones thought process interesting and that person doesn't post for a while, I get restless. Bizarre huh. Sometimes I leave a comment on someones blog I like, for the sake of it, just so that particular person might visit my blog someday.
A thought, spurred by a fellow bloggers post, 'how can we inject life into our blogosphere?'. I dont think our blogosphere is dead in anyway. Yes, we rant alot more than we should - but hey we can do that on blogs :) I also don't think you can 'plan' to make your blogosphere happening. The beauty of blogging is that random opinions are posted and sometimes they turn out to stimulate consequential conversations.
I'm not sure what point I'm trying to make here. This post has been fuelled by me trying to define the type of blogger I am; but the more I do it, the more I realise that I don't have to define the nature of anything I post. I'm not a writer or a journalist. However, writers and journalists influence. Perhaps thats what blogging is: being able to stimulate/impact/influence/inspire or merely make laugh a fellow blogger or reader.
But then again, I blog because I enjoy it, with no intention of any of the above. Have you thought about why you blog?
Another interesting point in this article is blogging and its impact on media.
' it is true that with the mainstream media dumbing down with a vengeance and looking to their bottom line rather than people who live at the bottom, bloggers are very much in business. They are telling it like it is, rather than what media barons decide is politically or commercially more convenient'
Are the days of the media numbered? And are we bloggers part of the reason? Imagine being part of some 'bloggers movement' to change the basis on which people form their opinions!
How exciting!
Anyway, this post of mine is a bit over-analysed so am going to stop while I'm making a bit of sense (I hope I am anyway!). But then again, do I really have to make sense to everyone who reads my blog? :)
'Blogging is about conversations among people in real time and real voices. That's what makes it sticky. Communities get built around these conversations. Sometimes with spontaneous order, at other times more gradually.'
It also goes on to talking about how influencial the blogging community can be. Gives examples of how a blogger aided a relief programme for Tsunami and Katrina victims and how Gaurav Sabni was threatened when he posted something negative on his blog about IIM's. Yikes how trivial is my blog in comparison.
Mind you, I didn't create this blog to influence change in the world, nor is it supposed to be my online journal. It was just made on a whim actually, and I've landed up quite enjoying the process.
I read alot more online now, I feel alot more clued into not only general things, but offbeat things happening in the world around me, like knowing a beer has been invented for dogs or how Machu Pichu is being ruined by tourism. Its funny how if I want to know how to enhance something on my blog, I go to a certain blog - thinking - he'd know; or if I find someones thought process interesting and that person doesn't post for a while, I get restless. Bizarre huh. Sometimes I leave a comment on someones blog I like, for the sake of it, just so that particular person might visit my blog someday.
A thought, spurred by a fellow bloggers post, 'how can we inject life into our blogosphere?'. I dont think our blogosphere is dead in anyway. Yes, we rant alot more than we should - but hey we can do that on blogs :) I also don't think you can 'plan' to make your blogosphere happening. The beauty of blogging is that random opinions are posted and sometimes they turn out to stimulate consequential conversations.
I'm not sure what point I'm trying to make here. This post has been fuelled by me trying to define the type of blogger I am; but the more I do it, the more I realise that I don't have to define the nature of anything I post. I'm not a writer or a journalist. However, writers and journalists influence. Perhaps thats what blogging is: being able to stimulate/impact/influence/inspire or merely make laugh a fellow blogger or reader.
But then again, I blog because I enjoy it, with no intention of any of the above. Have you thought about why you blog?
Another interesting point in this article is blogging and its impact on media.
' it is true that with the mainstream media dumbing down with a vengeance and looking to their bottom line rather than people who live at the bottom, bloggers are very much in business. They are telling it like it is, rather than what media barons decide is politically or commercially more convenient'
Are the days of the media numbered? And are we bloggers part of the reason? Imagine being part of some 'bloggers movement' to change the basis on which people form their opinions!
How exciting!
Anyway, this post of mine is a bit over-analysed so am going to stop while I'm making a bit of sense (I hope I am anyway!). But then again, do I really have to make sense to everyone who reads my blog? :)
Saturday, December 31, 2005
My 2005
Highlights of the year:
- A good year at work
Got a secondment to a clients office/got promoted
- Had the best holiday backpacking around Thailand
- Got a tattoo :)
- People have walked back into my life:
Met someone I used to go to nursery school with after 16 years! was a pleasant surprise
Met a dear friend after 10 years, was more than a pleasant surprise.
Cleared the air with a close friend; after 4 years we are back in contact
- My brother started confiding in me
- Danced atleast 3 times more than last year
- 4 of my close friends got married
- We bought a new sofa (after 8 years! :) and it is the cosiest sofa ever!
- Started meditating again
- I started blogging :)
Low-lights of the year:
- Did'nt get a visa to Costa Rica (bloody Indian passport)
- My best friend at work left the company (but he remains my best friend :))
- I haven't gotten any better at dancing
- Haven't read any good books (I am still half way through 6!)
All in all a great year, can't believe it's over though. Looking forward to 2006.
- A good year at work
Got a secondment to a clients office/got promoted
- Had the best holiday backpacking around Thailand
- Got a tattoo :)
- People have walked back into my life:
Met someone I used to go to nursery school with after 16 years! was a pleasant surprise
Met a dear friend after 10 years, was more than a pleasant surprise.
Cleared the air with a close friend; after 4 years we are back in contact
- My brother started confiding in me
- Danced atleast 3 times more than last year
- 4 of my close friends got married
- We bought a new sofa (after 8 years! :) and it is the cosiest sofa ever!
- Started meditating again
- I started blogging :)
Low-lights of the year:
- Did'nt get a visa to Costa Rica (bloody Indian passport)
- My best friend at work left the company (but he remains my best friend :))
- I haven't gotten any better at dancing
- Haven't read any good books (I am still half way through 6!)
All in all a great year, can't believe it's over though. Looking forward to 2006.
Thursday, December 29, 2005
69 and rocking !
She is 69, teethless and has made it onto MTV. Just awesome.
Video granny a screen sensation
From: Sydney Morning Herald
"A 69-year-old grandmother in the US has become the heroine of young video-game fans and the star of a web log created by her grandson. Barbara St Hilaire plays video games 10 hours a day and spends a good part of her Social Security cheque on games."
Haven't seen a blog purely dedicated to a family member, that too an old and senile one! What a great tribute from a grandson. And this is excellent, a clip that MTV ran on her.
Video granny a screen sensation
From: Sydney Morning Herald
"A 69-year-old grandmother in the US has become the heroine of young video-game fans and the star of a web log created by her grandson. Barbara St Hilaire plays video games 10 hours a day and spends a good part of her Social Security cheque on games."
Haven't seen a blog purely dedicated to a family member, that too an old and senile one! What a great tribute from a grandson. And this is excellent, a clip that MTV ran on her.
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Xmas at the airport
Normally you would cringe at the thought of being at the airport on an occassion like Xmas, well at least normal people would :) But in Dubai, where else can you get a cup of hot chocolate and whipped cream at 4am!?
Alive and kicking post all the bars/restuarants having closed at 3am; Hardees, Eppco or Al Mallah did'nt quite fit the bill. Yes dear readers, my Xmas this year was at Costa Coffee at Dubai airport arrival lounge. And it could'nt have been better. With my dearest friend in Dubai, we watched people at the airport scurrying off to catch their flight, watched planes steer their way to the runway, and talked about our lives. How the year(s) have flown by and what we hope next year will hold for us. I think we missed sunrise by about half an hour.
A random, deep and meaningful post salsa, mohitos and beer. Definitly one of my best Xmas eves.
Alive and kicking post all the bars/restuarants having closed at 3am; Hardees, Eppco or Al Mallah did'nt quite fit the bill. Yes dear readers, my Xmas this year was at Costa Coffee at Dubai airport arrival lounge. And it could'nt have been better. With my dearest friend in Dubai, we watched people at the airport scurrying off to catch their flight, watched planes steer their way to the runway, and talked about our lives. How the year(s) have flown by and what we hope next year will hold for us. I think we missed sunrise by about half an hour.
A random, deep and meaningful post salsa, mohitos and beer. Definitly one of my best Xmas eves.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Blast from the past?
Web Sites Let Users Send E-Mail to Future:
"NEW YORK - In the year 2009, on the 25th of April, a man named Greg is supposed to get an e-mail. The e-mail will remind Greg that he is his best friend and worst enemy, that he once dated a woman named Michelle, and that he planned to major in computer science. "
Isn't this as good as keeping a diary and opening it 10 years later? Why do I need to send an email to myself ?
However, this would be good for sweet revenge. To send to people you think do not deserve to forget what jerks they have been. Like: " You sorry sonofabitch I can't believe you were capable of treating my sister like a doormat! " Odds are you probably wont be in their lives when they get this - but this future message would be an unexpected (so effective) blast from the past. OR if you want to confess/admit to something you NEVER would otherwise: "I have always wanted to have your children!" by the time the person gets this, you would probably be married with kids or in a land far far away so you would'nt die with embarrasament should you ever bump into that person!
Ok, silly. I might just do this so I can update my blog 10 years down the line with first hand experience of my 'time capsule'.
It seems like such a simple concept though. Birthday reminders have used this technologyfor ages! doesnt take much to make the news these days does it.
"NEW YORK - In the year 2009, on the 25th of April, a man named Greg is supposed to get an e-mail. The e-mail will remind Greg that he is his best friend and worst enemy, that he once dated a woman named Michelle, and that he planned to major in computer science. "
Isn't this as good as keeping a diary and opening it 10 years later? Why do I need to send an email to myself ?
However, this would be good for sweet revenge. To send to people you think do not deserve to forget what jerks they have been. Like: " You sorry sonofabitch I can't believe you were capable of treating my sister like a doormat! " Odds are you probably wont be in their lives when they get this - but this future message would be an unexpected (so effective) blast from the past. OR if you want to confess/admit to something you NEVER would otherwise: "I have always wanted to have your children!" by the time the person gets this, you would probably be married with kids or in a land far far away so you would'nt die with embarrasament should you ever bump into that person!
Ok, silly. I might just do this so I can update my blog 10 years down the line with first hand experience of my 'time capsule'.
It seems like such a simple concept though. Birthday reminders have used this technologyfor ages! doesnt take much to make the news these days does it.
Man with a million moves
Yesterday I had the privilege of dancing with non other than UK salsa king Super Mario. Even though I have been dancing for almost 3 years now, I'm not really into or familiar with the salsa celebrity/champions scene (I'm not really bothered) . I have done lessons with alot of them though including Leon Rose, Susana Montero, Iris De-Brito, Raphael and Janet, Nunno and Vanda - thanks to the guys in Dubai who take the trouble to fly these guys down for workshops. Doing workshops is one thing, and dancing with the workshop teachers is another. My confidence has always been shot point blank on dancing with these hot shots. Even when I went to Cuba last year - they are so damn good you just want to bury yourself .
However, Super Mario was a different story. I think his workshop was the best I can remember.
And when I danced with him - his lead was the smoothest possible, it was all his technique. I was doing all these shockingly complicated moves with such ease. Was like magic! And to top it all, he was a nice guy. No airs, very approachable.
And, what do you know - he is Indian! An accountant from Madras. How cool.
However, Super Mario was a different story. I think his workshop was the best I can remember.
And when I danced with him - his lead was the smoothest possible, it was all his technique. I was doing all these shockingly complicated moves with such ease. Was like magic! And to top it all, he was a nice guy. No airs, very approachable.
And, what do you know - he is Indian! An accountant from Madras. How cool.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Whats with the boots?
Today to the office I wore my long pink corduroy skirt, black long sleeve top. A combination I have worn a gazellion times; no-one has ever had comment. TODAY, only difference - I have worn boots. Long, black knee length boots. And almost every person I have met today has had something to say about the way I look. People who normally dont even look at me, decided to not only look, but comment. All rather nice I must say.
Guys, please enlighten: what is the deal when women wear boots? Is it a rear sight? do boots turn you on? Do you think its too hot for me to wear boots? afterall I can only wear them in Dubai for a whole 3 days in a year! What is it what is it what is it?! I'm not showing skin, I have no make up on. Its definitly the boots.
NB: Incase you think you can say what you want in cheeky comment to this post, think again - I'm moderating :)
Guys, please enlighten: what is the deal when women wear boots? Is it a rear sight? do boots turn you on? Do you think its too hot for me to wear boots? afterall I can only wear them in Dubai for a whole 3 days in a year! What is it what is it what is it?! I'm not showing skin, I have no make up on. Its definitly the boots.
NB: Incase you think you can say what you want in cheeky comment to this post, think again - I'm moderating :)
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Bangalore to Bengaluru!??
All the best to my friends from the town of boiled beans.
From BBC:
Bangalore accounts for a third of India's software and outsourcing exports, is India's hi-tech capital and it may soon get a new name that is a variation of the original, meaning "the town of boiled beans. "
From BBC:
Bangalore accounts for a third of India's software and outsourcing exports, is India's hi-tech capital and it may soon get a new name that is a variation of the original, meaning "the town of boiled beans. "
Love can't get more unconditional than this
From Red Orbit:
Dog Gets 'Mouth-To-Snout' Resuscitation
SALEM, Mass. - A firefighter stretched the bounds of duty by administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to save a dog caught in a fire. Pixie, a 12-pound terrier crossbreed, was not breathing Tuesday when firefighters pulled her from a Salem home filled with smoke and flames.
Dog Gets 'Mouth-To-Snout' Resuscitation
SALEM, Mass. - A firefighter stretched the bounds of duty by administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to save a dog caught in a fire. Pixie, a 12-pound terrier crossbreed, was not breathing Tuesday when firefighters pulled her from a Salem home filled with smoke and flames.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Technology for the sake of it?
Tesco in the UK will launch musical sandwiches this week with the aim of helping those who eat at their desks, relax. So you buy this sandwhich from Tesco and when you open the box, music plays.
Please. I can't think of anything more annoying. I can't imagine this being done basis research, because I cannot imagine any sane person actually saying they would appreciate music coming from their lunch. Such a desperate PR tactic.
Please. I can't think of anything more annoying. I can't imagine this being done basis research, because I cannot imagine any sane person actually saying they would appreciate music coming from their lunch. Such a desperate PR tactic.
Friday, December 09, 2005
Tango talk
A bunch of us salseros went to support salsero-turn-tango dancers at Dubai's first ever tango gala dinner. A black tie event, kisses in the air, over 20 performances, good food and wine; was quite the la-di-daa affair :) but all in all, good fun. After watching pro's seduce the audience with their ever so intense movements for atleast an hour, I kinda started feeling a bit intense myself.
Tango is an extremely passionate and intimate dance. A form of movement where you can see the woman completely giving in to the man. Its almost a portrayal of the ultimate depth of passion coupled with surrender and respect at the same time. And while the woman most definitly steals the show with her oh so sensual moves, the man stands rigid and strong - completely focusing on the woman, as if she was the only woman in the universe - and she was his. Was quite impressive.
All a bit too serious for me though. I mean, even a smirk on the tango dancers did'nt seem right, let alone a smile. I also had difficulty listening to the music. Was a bit like jazz. No beginning, no end and no rhythm.
I did have the previlege of dancing with the Columbian tango champion though, a few days ago when he came to a salsa party - I did'nt know who he was at the time. And I really enjoyed dancing with him. I remember thinking, hmm very strong and close hold lead with hardly any turns; now I know why!
I think I'm going to stick to salsa. It's way too much fun and I'm not sure I could keep a straight face on the dance floor!
Staying secret
Do you have a secret blog? or site?. If so why?
Is it because you are more comfortable voicing your opinion when people do not know who you are? Or because you have some dirty desires you want to express anonymously? :) Is it an adrenalin rush to be a mystery or moonlight?
Or you live in Dubai and are worried that what you have written might be monitored, and then you might land up in jail. I was talking about this to someone and he said he would'nt be surprised if the the UAE blogging community has been infiltrated by the CID so that Dubai authorities can keep a tab on what people are saying and doing in Dubai.
Moryarti, any thoughts? :)
Is it because you are more comfortable voicing your opinion when people do not know who you are? Or because you have some dirty desires you want to express anonymously? :) Is it an adrenalin rush to be a mystery or moonlight?
Or you live in Dubai and are worried that what you have written might be monitored, and then you might land up in jail. I was talking about this to someone and he said he would'nt be surprised if the the UAE blogging community has been infiltrated by the CID so that Dubai authorities can keep a tab on what people are saying and doing in Dubai.
Moryarti, any thoughts? :)
Thursday, December 01, 2005
And realisation dawns
You know how sometimes you are asked a very generic yet simple question, usually personal - like 'whats your favourite colour' or 'which is your favourite place in the world'?.. to which you think there really is no one answer for you; and then all of a sudden the day comes and you know 100% what the answer is ...and yes there is only one answer?
Well today I got my definite, 100% answer to a very commonly asked question "what is your favourite food?" ITS THAI.
Until today, I would say..'ahh I like all sorts of food..Thai, Italian, Chinese, Ethiopian, Indian, English, Moroccan etc etc..' because I do! - BUT I now realise my favourite food is Thai.
How did I come to that conclusion you may ask. Well, this week, I have eaten Thai all week and savoured every bite of my meals. Today I realised I could eat Thai every day. Its healthy, light, spicy and soooo utterly delicious. And when cooked properly - if you close your eyes while eating, just the smell of it can take you back to the streets of Bankok or Phi Phi island. *sigh*
Maybe my mind is getting clearer because I have resumed meditating. Maybe I've just been too hungry, maybe I need to go back to Thailand- OR maybe I just need a holiday.
On a more serious note: strange how knowing something so silly about yourself with 100% clarity can make you feel so good. (?) Maybe I am beginning to see things as they really are.
Hmm.
Well today I got my definite, 100% answer to a very commonly asked question "what is your favourite food?" ITS THAI.
Until today, I would say..'ahh I like all sorts of food..Thai, Italian, Chinese, Ethiopian, Indian, English, Moroccan etc etc..' because I do! - BUT I now realise my favourite food is Thai.
How did I come to that conclusion you may ask. Well, this week, I have eaten Thai all week and savoured every bite of my meals. Today I realised I could eat Thai every day. Its healthy, light, spicy and soooo utterly delicious. And when cooked properly - if you close your eyes while eating, just the smell of it can take you back to the streets of Bankok or Phi Phi island. *sigh*
Maybe my mind is getting clearer because I have resumed meditating. Maybe I've just been too hungry, maybe I need to go back to Thailand- OR maybe I just need a holiday.
On a more serious note: strange how knowing something so silly about yourself with 100% clarity can make you feel so good. (?) Maybe I am beginning to see things as they really are.
Hmm.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
