July 2012 – Creative Meanderings

Summer 2012: Phuket, Thailand – 24 more days….

Going Mental No Responses »

Jul 302012

I’ve been a bit busy with data analysis work rather than pleasure writing the past couple of days.

We have been getting out to the beach for a swim in the waves. Aside from today, the weather has been beautiful; therefore, so has the water! The good news is that the bandages I have are waterproof for the most part. Today, I went without and it was okay, but it seems that my muscles in the knee and ankle are still sore so when the waves hit I have some trouble staying up and such. In a few more days, hopefully, I’ll be ok…(I keep hoping!).

Usually, after we get back from the beach, I jump in the pool for a proper swim to get my exercise in. Who would have thought that I would actually miss ‘walking/running’??? 😉 So, the swimming is at least a decent alternative for now.

So, that’s the update for today….Back to analysing for me!

-T 😀

Summer 2012: Phuket, Thailand (Karon/Kata)

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 282012

We’re back in Phuket and relieved after our trip to Hong Kong.

It’s been a long time since we’ve been around fast-paced and pushy people. Plus, we happened to stay in Little India/Pakistan land, which just reminded us of what we don’t like in Abu Dhabi, so that was rather unfortunate.

Therefore, we’re more than happy to be back where things are a bit more relaxed. Also, our new digs are more spacious and pretty nice overall.

My posts will now resume the mundane… 😉

First dinner back in Phuket near Karon beach

First dinner back in Phuket near Karon beach27-Jul-2012 15:33, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 1600

Someone is enjoying his food!

Someone is enjoying his food!27-Jul-2012 15:34, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 1600

Our new digs - the living room

Our new digs - the living room27-Jul-2012 16:34, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 160

Our new digs - bedroom to left, bathroom straight and kitchen to right

Our new digs - bedroom to left, bathroom straight and kitchen to right27-Jul-2012 16:34, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 200

Our new digs - the kitchen area

Our new digs - the kitchen area27-Jul-2012 16:34, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Our new digs - the kitchen area

Our new digs - the kitchen area27-Jul-2012 16:35, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Our new digs - the bedroom with balcony

Our new digs - the bedroom with balcony27-Jul-2012 16:35, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 200

Our new digs - the bedroom with a mock desk/dresser/etc.

Our new digs - the bedroom with a mock desk/dresser/etc.27-Jul-2012 16:35, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 250

Our new digs - the bathroom (sink/toilet)

Our new digs - the bathroom (sink/toilet)27-Jul-2012 16:36, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Our new digs - the shower and shelves...

Our new digs - the shower and shelves...27-Jul-2012 16:37, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Summer 2012: Hong Kong

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 272012

After our fun in Macau, we realized that the weather probably wasn’t going to get much better for us and my leg wasn’t going to miraculously be great for wandering the city on our own. So, we decided to book the Big Bus Tour – Premium – since they were offering discounted prices and it gave us two days as we had until late-ish on Thursday to spend before needing to be at the airport.

If you’re a tour kind-of-person, this is such a great way to see the city and get some information too. We did this in Madrid when I went with my mom and aunt a few years ago and it was really great. In some cities, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s not worth the price, but for only USD38.75 per person for two days, a night tour, round-trip ferry crossing, peak tram and viewing terrace entrance and a ride on the Sampan boats (we didn’t have time to do that) – it was totally worth it!

So, I’ll let the photos do the talking –

Clock tower by Star Ferry terminal

Clock tower by Star Ferry terminal25-Jul-2012 23:17, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 400

25-Jul-2012 23:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800

25-Jul-2012 23:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.8, 17.22mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800

The Peninsula hotel

The Peninsula hotel25-Jul-2012 23:42, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800

Day 1 of Big Bus Tour

Day 1 of Big Bus Tour25-Jul-2012 23:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

Double-decker buses!

Double-decker buses!25-Jul-2012 23:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 800

Kowloon

Kowloon25-Jul-2012 23:59, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 800

25-Jul-2012 23:59, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 800

Even Froggy made the trip - he's been my traveling companion for years and years!

Even Froggy made the trip - he's been my traveling companion for years and years!26-Jul-2012 00:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 00:12, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.1, 10.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 00:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 500

26-Jul-2012 00:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 00:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.7, 13.09mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 00:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.2, 5.72mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 640

Our hotel was located in this conglomerate called a 'mansion'

Our hotel was located in this conglomerate called a 'mansion'26-Jul-2012 01:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 01:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800

View of Hong Kong island from the Kowloon side

View of Hong Kong island from the Kowloon side26-Jul-2012 03:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.5, 6.45mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 03:24, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.7, 7.28mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 800

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26-Jul-2012 03:24, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.7, 7.28mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 03:27, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 03:28, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.5, 6.45mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 03:40, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 800

A Yahoo! ice cream truck

A Yahoo! ice cream truck26-Jul-2012 03:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.8, 7.73mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 800

Night Big Bus Tour of Kowloon

Night Big Bus Tour of Kowloon26-Jul-2012 04:07, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 04:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1250

This used to be a police barracks turned into a fancy shopping mall

This used to be a police barracks turned into a fancy shopping mall26-Jul-2012 04:13, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 04:17, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 04:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.7, 22.79mm, 0.1 sec, ISO 1600

Oh the rain...

Oh the rain...26-Jul-2012 04:28, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 04:31, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 04:33, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1000

26-Jul-2012 04:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.2, 5.72mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 04:47, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:01, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1250

Back in fron of the Peninsula Hotel at night

Back in fron of the Peninsula Hotel at night26-Jul-2012 05:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

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26-Jul-2012 05:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

Views of Victoria Harbor from the Kowloon side at night

Views of Victoria Harbor from the Kowloon side at night26-Jul-2012 05:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1250

Views of Victoria Harbor from the Kowloon side at night

Views of Victoria Harbor from the Kowloon side at night26-Jul-2012 05:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

Views of Victoria Harbor from the Kowloon side at night

Views of Victoria Harbor from the Kowloon side at night26-Jul-2012 05:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:21, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:24, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.1, 5.4mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 05:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

Drinks on our last night in the jail-cell hotel room

Drinks on our last night in the jail-cell hotel room26-Jul-2012 06:46, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800

Taking the Star Ferry across to Hong Kong island on our last day - part of the Premiere Big Bus Tour package

Taking the Star Ferry across to Hong Kong island on our last day - part of the Premiere Big Bus Tour package26-Jul-2012 21:49, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

26-Jul-2012 21:53, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

26-Jul-2012 22:14, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 800

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« Previous | Next »

IFC building

IFC building26-Jul-2012 22:14, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

26-Jul-2012 22:14, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 200

Heading to the Peak Tram - liked the colorful line of umbrellas...

Heading to the Peak Tram - liked the colorful line of umbrellas...26-Jul-2012 22:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 640

Green-line of the Big Bus Tour on HK Island takes you to the south part towards Stanley

Green-line of the Big Bus Tour on HK Island takes you to the south part towards Stanley26-Jul-2012 22:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

26-Jul-2012 22:58, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 250

26-Jul-2012 23:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.1, 5.4mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

26-Jul-2012 23:28, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.7, 22.79mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

26-Jul-2012 23:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 16.1mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

26-Jul-2012 23:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 16.1mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

26-Jul-2012 23:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 16.1mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

Sampan boats - didn't have enough time to get off and take a ride, but it is part of the package

Sampan boats - didn't have enough time to get off and take a ride, but it is part of the package26-Jul-2012 23:44, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 15.06mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 320

26-Jul-2012 23:48, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.7, 22.79mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

26-Jul-2012 23:48, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

26-Jul-2012 23:53, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80

Large cemetery

Large cemetery26-Jul-2012 23:54, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 200

26-Jul-2012 23:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 400

26-Jul-2012 23:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 400

26-Jul-2012 23:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 320

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« Previous | Next »

Crazy buildings with apartments all over the city

Crazy buildings with apartments all over the city26-Jul-2012 23:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

27-Jul-2012 00:04, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

27-Jul-2012 00:05, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

27-Jul-2012 00:13, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

Lots of big trees like this all over the city

Lots of big trees like this all over the city27-Jul-2012 00:14, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800

Loving the outfit!

Loving the outfit!27-Jul-2012 00:16, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 640

Taking the tram up to the top of the Peak

Taking the tram up to the top of the Peak27-Jul-2012 00:26, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1250

Capturing everyone ele's oohing and awwwing over the steep climb

Capturing everyone ele's oohing and awwwing over the steep climb27-Jul-2012 00:33, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 800

He's also oohing... ;)

He's also oohing... 😉27-Jul-2012 00:33, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 800

..and awwwiing... silly!

..and awwwiing... silly!27-Jul-2012 00:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 800

View of Hong Kong island, Victoria Harbor and Kowloon on the other side

View of Hong Kong island, Victoria Harbor and Kowloon on the other side27-Jul-2012 00:43, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

27-Jul-2012 00:43, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.1, 10.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 200

27-Jul-2012 00:44, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.25mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 320

27-Jul-2012 00:45, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

27-Jul-2012 00:46, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

27-Jul-2012 00:46, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

27-Jul-2012 00:48, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 15.06mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 200

The south side

The south side27-Jul-2012 00:54, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.2, 5.72mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

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27-Jul-2012 00:54, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.2, 5.72mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

27-Jul-2012 01:02, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 320

27-Jul-2012 01:06, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

27-Jul-2012 01:06, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

27-Jul-2012 01:07, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

27-Jul-2012 01:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.5, 6.45mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 200

Taking the tram back down

Taking the tram back down27-Jul-2012 01:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.5, 6.45mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 100

Love the architecture around here...

Love the architecture around here...27-Jul-2012 01:38, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

Back for the last part of the Big Bus Tour on the red line to head to the airport

Back for the last part of the Big Bus Tour on the red line to head to the airport27-Jul-2012 01:39, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

Midlands area where the escalators are located or you can take the steps!

Midlands area where the escalators are located or you can take the steps!27-Jul-2012 01:44, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

27-Jul-2012 01:44, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

An-Mo Temple, most famous one in the area...

An-Mo Temple, most famous one in the area...27-Jul-2012 01:50, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800

27-Jul-2012 01:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 250

Looked good, but no time to try them out...

Looked good, but no time to try them out...27-Jul-2012 01:54, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

Four Seasons Hotel near the harbor

Four Seasons Hotel near the harbor27-Jul-2012 02:01, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 320

We ate here three nights of the five, but it was oh so tasty!

We ate here three nights of the five, but it was oh so tasty!27-Jul-2012 02:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 800

..and cheap. This wasn't the best one, but I forgot to take pics of the others... :(

..and cheap. This wasn't the best one, but I forgot to take pics of the others... 🙁27-Jul-2012 02:39, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 800

Summer 2012: Hong Kong – Afternoon Trip to Macau

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 252012

Leg update: It’s healing and I’m walking almost normally, but it will still be a bit longer before it’s totally back to normal….

After spending the majority of two days in the hotel room, and realizing that we are going to have to get out despite Typhoon Vicente plowing through and my leg being what it is. So, we organized to go on an afternoon tour of Macau. The plan was to catch the noon ferry and arrive in time to pay for the tour at 1:45pm.

Well, we arrived in time catch the noon ferry, except that tickets were sold out on the TurboJet and CotaiJet didn’t have anything either until 3pm. So, when a seemingly crazy Chinese woman offered tickets for the 12:15 ferry for the same price, we went with the flow and followed her to the entrance ensuring that the tickets she was selling were legit. They were.

Once we got through immigration and to the berth, the ferry was further delayed until 12:30. It’s an hour ride to Macau and so our timing for the tour was already cutting it close. The ride was pretty uneventful until the last 10 minutes when the waves kicked up and people all around starting puking into the bags…. Thankfully, we finally arrived, but were much delayed.

By the time we got through Macau immigration it was 2:10pm and the tour had gone on without us….

One of the nice things about Macau is that most of the casinos have free shuttle buses to their hotels. Since the Venetian is a big attraction, we decided to take the shuttle bus there and then think about what to do afterwards. Through the drive, we got to see the city a bit as the Venetian is located on Taipa island, which is connected to Macau via a nice long bridge. So, we spent a couple of hours there walking around, which was fun.

It had mostly stopped raining when we were ready to head back, but R didn’t feel inclined to head into the main square to see St. Andrew’s church remains and the old area. I had seen it when I visited before, but thought he might want to see it. Since he wasn’t into it, we just headed back to Macau and took the ferry back to Kowloon. Thankfully, that trip was totally uneventful and I was able to take a wee nap. 😉

My ankle held up pretty well and so we stopped for some dinner, which I didn’t take a picture of (Surprise!) and then we turned in early back at the hotel.

Here are some pics (videos still not working…):

China Ferry Terminal in Kowloon heading to Macau

China Ferry Terminal in Kowloon heading to Macau24-Jul-2012 21:16, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.1 sec, ISO 100

24-Jul-2012 21:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80

Another ferry heading to Macau with a view of Western Kowloon in the background

Another ferry heading to Macau with a view of Western Kowloon in the background24-Jul-2012 21:21, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80

Arriving at Macau with a view of the Sands hotel and casino

Arriving at Macau with a view of the Sands hotel and casino24-Jul-2012 22:52, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.1, 10.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

Taking the free shuttle bus from the Macau Terminal to the Venetian Hotel

Taking the free shuttle bus from the Macau Terminal to the Venetian Hotel24-Jul-2012 23:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

Macau - through the rain

Macau - through the rain24-Jul-2012 23:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 200

Macau

Macau24-Jul-2012 23:36, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 320

Macau (Wynn hotel and casino in the middle)

Macau (Wynn hotel and casino in the middle)24-Jul-2012 23:38, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 500

Macau

Macau24-Jul-2012 23:40, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 400

Macau - Galaxy hotel and casino (would be pretty in nicer weather...)

Macau - Galaxy hotel and casino (would be pretty in nicer weather...)24-Jul-2012 23:47, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800

Arriving at the Venetian

Arriving at the Venetian24-Jul-2012 23:49, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 800

Inside the Venetian on the 3rd floor where all the shops and such are located

Inside the Venetian on the 3rd floor where all the shops and such are located25-Jul-2012 00:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

25-Jul-2012 00:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

25-Jul-2012 00:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1250

Getting a little treat...

Getting a little treat...25-Jul-2012 00:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 800

The Venetian hotel lobby

The Venetian hotel lobby25-Jul-2012 01:06, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

Heading back to the ferry terminal

Heading back to the ferry terminal25-Jul-2012 01:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 500

Outside the Venetian

Outside the Venetian25-Jul-2012 01:31, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 250

_Born To Run_ by Christopher McDougall

Literary Escapes No Responses »

Jul 242012

_Born To Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen_ by Christopher McDougall

Apparently, the author of this book was on The Daily Show a while back, but I didn’t remember that until R mentioned it. In any case, I came across this title when someone on Facebook had mentioned that he had just read it and become inspired.

Since I have been reading books as if my life depended on it from a need to escape the realities of my deadlines and discontent at work, I was looking for new titles wherever I could find them. Also, because it seems to be marathon season in the US and I haven’t been able to run/exercise due, first to the change in climate, and second to my leg injury, I thought I would at least read about it and find some inspiration.

When I first started reading, I was was convinced immediately that I don’t need to run anymore because it’s just not that good for me – I enjoy walking. However, as I continued on, I found that I just need to run more. 🙂

The story is both interesting from a scientific and story-telling standpoint. It’s also fascinating from a runner’s perspective. I also found that my practice of walking generally focusing on my posture first is not so strange when it comes to easing into the running process. Also, for some time now, I’ve loved wearing my ‘toe-socks’ that I got into from my former roommate, JM, in Japan.

So, now I’m quite interested in training to run barefoot or at least getting a pair of Vibram FiveFingers shoes to start running in. They also have styles for swimming, yoga, etc. so I am also going to get a pair for traveling or daily use. I wear my socks around the house as slippers a lot of the time and recently found how much they help out on the flights too with circulation and such.

In any case, I’m also considering a serious change in diet along with the new training, but this could be a temporary inspirational fad that doesn’t last long with me… 😉 We’ll see!

A very good read though if you like anthropology, stories and running!!!

Summer 2012: Hong Kong – Day 1 Night 2

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 232012

Well… I’d like to post some pics, but I literally haven’t left the hotel room since we arrived – over 24 hours now, I think.

I’m beyond cabin fever stage and into the acceptance that I could probably survive in a jail cell if I had to and didn’t have to worry about surviving the craziness of other jailers. Happy thoughts, right? 😉

Mostly, I’ve been convalescing my leg. It was pretty sore and swollen from our trip in and R thought it best to rest up. We had talked about going out to the Night Market, but by the time the hour came to go, he recommended just chilling in the room. So, he went out twice to get food for us and I stayed in doing some work and writing – not all bad.

My injuries are healing and the hospital bandages are off. I’m now doing my own treatments, which was a bit traumatic the first go, but was easier last night. The swelling has gone down since I haven’t been on it much and it seems to stem from the bruising around my ankle, which gets agitated when I walk. The good news is that it does feel better as I write and I was able to walk the four steps to the bathroom with very little pain, which is better than yesterday when I was hopping the four steps instead. 😀

Sadly, it is raining now as a typhoon passes through. We’re hoping it will pass by quickly so that we can get ourselves out of the room for a bit. We’ll keep our fingers crossed, but with our luck on this trip so far we’re more cynically optimistic than anything else.

Hope for more interesting posts!!!!

-T 😀

Summer 2012: Hong Kong – Night 1

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 222012

We’ve arrived safely in Hong Kong.

Phuket Airport is nice and small, so it’s very easy to get through immigration and all that fun stuff.

Our flight on Thai Air Asia was smooth and easy. We usually pay for the seats with more legroom since R is a big man and needs the space. Luckily, no one sat in-between us, so we had three seats for the two of us, which made it nice for me to be able to rest my leg up for the flight.

It’s only 3.5 hours to Hong Kong, so I napped off and on while vowing to appreciate more when my leg is healed up.

We decided to taxi it to our hotel as I wasn’t feeling up to the fun of hauling all our luggage on the train on the cheap route where two changes were required and the cost for the easier route was only about 2USD cheaper than the taxi. We arrived without incident and felt pretty good until we got out of the taxi.

We had arrived in Little India/Pakistan of Hong Kong. Who knew that there was even such an area or population? We felt as if we were back in crazy Abu Dhabi again!!! With R almost getting into a fight and me envisioning a trip to either the police or hospital, we then realized we were staying in a weird conglomerate building of various guesthouses all entitled with the name of Chung King Mansion.

It’s an experience…I’ll write more about the elevators and room-size later, but in any case we’ve arrived and slept through the night, so it’s looking to be a better day at least. 🙂

-T 😀

Summer 2012: Phuket, Thailand – one more day to Hong Kong!

Going Mental No Responses »

Jul 202012

Seriously, cabin fever is setting in. I’m sick of the hotel bed. I want to jump in the swimming pool, go for a walk without pain or limping…. It has only been five days since the accident, but I would like for the healing process to be a little faster, please!

Here’s the story of the accident, by the way.

Each morning I wake up thinking I will be able to walk normally and there had been some miraculous healing overnight. Yeah, so I’m a wishful (wistful) thinker. 😉

<sigh> Anyway…I do need to rest up as we are heading to Hong Kong tomorrow for five days and I really need to be able to walk better there since we won’t want to be just hanging out in the hotel room all the time. So, I just need to hang on another couple of days, then I can take off the bandages myself and see how things look. Mostly, it’s just pain in the ankle that makes walking difficult and still a little sore in the knee area. Basically, I should just marvel at the healing powers of the body and accept that it takes time.

Even though I spend most of the day indoors, I did manage to get out to the pool one afternoon, which was a huge relief! We do also go out in the evenings for dinner, so it’s not as if I don’t get out at all.

Plus, the real truth is that I should be working on my Methods chapter anyway…this is the perfect time considering I can’t do much else…but the procrastinator in me denies this truth…. 😛

Guess I should get to work!

-T 😀

Summer 2012: Phuket, Thailand – Kamala Beach and Surviving…

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 192012

Okay, so…most people who know me know that I’m not the most adept on two-wheels. I have balance problems and control issues (literally and figuratively), so these alone are bad characteristics when behind the controls of a motorized two-wheeled machine.

We had just had a lovely dinner a little north of Patong and decided to check out the Kamala beach area to see what kind of place it was. It was almost dead and not a place we would want to return to in the daylight. The bars on the main street were mostly empty except for the occasional old white expat and his Thai friend. Or, sometimes just Thais hoping for a customer to stop by for a drink or massage or something.

This was the only/most crowded bar in Kamala.

This was the only/most crowded bar in Kamala.16-Jul-2012 06:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

The only attraction in Kamala is Phuket Fanta Sea. It’s their attempt at an amusement park like Disney Sea or something like that. I imagine in the high season it is a draw for the Asians and the Arabs. However, we did a drive-by…(again no video… :*( )

Too bad this is so dark, but it was a great display of a tribute to the King and Queen....

Too bad this is so dark, but it was a great display of a tribute to the King and Queen....16-Jul-2012 06:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.5, 6.45mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

Don't miss your chance to see Phuket's FantaSea!

Don't miss your chance to see Phuket's FantaSea!16-Jul-2012 06:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.5, 6.45mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800

Everything was going grand. A few nights before, R had gotten me to try out driving the scooter and it went reasonably well. I did warn him that it might not be a good idea due to my track record on a bicycle, but it seemed okay. So, we decided to give it another go. Things seemed great and then we took a big turn, the front began to wobble, and panic set in….The next thing I know, we’re on the ground and I’m in pain….

It’s a long story (writing it up for later), but I was put into an ambulance and rushed to Patong Hospital. Thankfully, there were no broken bones and nothing majorly injured – just some pretty torn off skin…

So, we’re alive and well. It could have been so much worse and the timing is okay as we don’t leave until Saturday (the 21st) for Hong Kong and I should be able to walk normally again by then. Luckily, R got away with just a few minor injuries….

And then.... we survived me attempting to drive the scooter...

And then.... we survived me attempting to drive the scooter...16-Jul-2012 08:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

He got a nice bulbous bump

He got a nice bulbous bump16-Jul-2012 08:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 800

...with a little scratch (and soreness later... :*( )

...with a little scratch (and soreness later... :*( )16-Jul-2012 08:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 800

The morning after...oozing....

The morning after...oozing....16-Jul-2012 22:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 800

Went in to get the dressing redone....This was the worst of it before they cleaned it again...

Went in to get the dressing redone....This was the worst of it before they cleaned it again...17-Jul-2012 00:06, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.3, 10.73mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 800

My poor knee...how many times has it been battered?

My poor knee...how many times has it been battered?17-Jul-2012 00:06, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.1, 5.4mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800

After return visit to get dressing changed

After return visit to get dressing changed16-Jul-2012 14:26, Apple iPhone 4S, 2.4, 4.28mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 160

This was like the stretcher they took me to the hospital on.

This was like the stretcher they took me to the hospital on.16-Jul-2012 14:26, Apple iPhone 4S, 2.4, 4.28mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 64

This is the ER waiting area for Thais - with beds outside and all!

This is the ER waiting area for Thais - with beds outside and all!16-Jul-2012 14:27, Apple iPhone 4S, 2.4, 4.28mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

The scooter needed a few touch-ups, but overall nothing too bad.

Time to fix up the scooter...

Time to fix up the scooter...17-Jul-2012 01:00, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800

Seems like it will be okay with a few touch-ups....

Seems like it will be okay with a few touch-ups....17-Jul-2012 01:00, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800

The moral of this story is – Never let Tara drive a two-wheeled machine…EVER! 😛

We’re just thankful it wasn’t worse. 🙂

-T 😀

Summer 2012: Phuket, Thailand – Karon and Kata beaches

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Jul 182012

The days blur together and I rarely know what day or date it is, which is how vacation should be, right? 😉

So, sometime last week, when the weather broke (thankfully!), we went exploring the island a bit. A Thai lady recommended that we see Karon beach and others had mentioned it before. Also, one of R’s former colleagues had raved about it all the time, so we wanted to see what the fuss was about. Plus, when we were in Bali, we didn’t explore much until late in the holiday and found out that the ‘pretty’ people were staying in a whole other section of the island. We didn’t want that to happen to us again. 😉

When we first drove through Karon, we didn’t think too much of it as it’s a quiet little town. However, when we saw the beach and sand, we realized it really was much nicer than Patong. We continued on down through Kata beach, which is literally about a minute away and scooted through that town, which was also quiet, but seemed to have a lot of good restaurants and was more family-friendly. There were also more younger people and one might even say they are ‘prettier’ than the ones we see in Patong.

After a stop for lunch, we discussed and thought that perhaps we just might think about staying there for the second half of our Phuket summer. So, we started looking around at hotels and different places….

Here’re some pics:

Off to explore the island a bit...

Off to explore the island a bit...12-Jul-2012 00:40, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

12-Jul-2012 01:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

12-Jul-2012 01:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

12-Jul-2012 01:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.7, 13.09mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 100

Karon beach

Karon beach12-Jul-2012 00:50, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

12-Jul-2012 00:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

Look at the clean sand!

Look at the clean sand!12-Jul-2012 00:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 160

In front of Kata beach resort, which isn't far from Karon beach

In front of Kata beach resort, which isn't far from Karon beach12-Jul-2012 01:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.6, 6.83mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125

For some reason the videos that I took, which are more interesting are not appearing to be uploaded…Will check it out and add later if I can.

-T 😀

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