Jan

Venice: City of water.

There are many names for this beautiful place – ranging from ‘City of Water’, ‘City of bridges’, ‘City of Masks’, ‘The Floating City’..etc. Partially because this place is so uniquely built. The city is made up of 100 over small lil islands where bridges were built in a post-hoc manner to connect these islands, hence forming Venice. Something that I didnt expect before I walked on the land of Venice – Getting lost can be a joy. In Venice, every corner can be a pleasant surprise. Be greeted with shallow canal waters, bridges (that marks the end of a little island) or a dead end. The pathways wind itself along the colour blocks of buildings. We spent the first afternoon walking through the city following the hearts,without maps.

A picturesque city. I LOVE VENICE! Hence I should let the pics do MOST of the talking ;p

As a brief introduction, Venice does not have any land transportation. Their “buses” are actually the vaporetto which takes you from stop to stop on sea. There is hardly a proper sign in Venice. They are either hidden by graffati, missing a letter, redrawn or missing as a whole. Shopping in venice is a whole new experience as you shop beside canals & canals. IT”S A MUST TO GO UP TO THE SAN GIORGIO MAGGIORE TOWER!!! Refer to facebook album and u’ll know why! But it offers a birdeye view of Venice. Really beautiful as you see the exact shapes of the lagoons and island!! Incredible <3

Our Hotel

Our walking got us to this beautiful cosy desserts/tea place. Bought ourselves cute lil yummy desserts.

Photobucket

Best seafood pasta
Squid Ink in Italian’s authentic style.

Venice most expensive bridge.

Pop over to the Academia Galleria side if you want the best view of Venice. Gorgeous.
Best Coffee is in Italy.

Photobucket Us going on a Gondola ride on Day 2 when the skies turned blue and sunny! Not super amazing but one of the must-try experience when u’re in Venice i guess. Along the way, we actually saw a man offering helicopter ride/tour. Sounds really interesting but we werent sure if the man has a genuine license.. hence we didnt!

Diavola pizza. GOODNESS
yupps. the academia galleria side!

This too!
Night time at the San Marco plaza was amazing as the major cafes showcase their own musicians and fill the plazas with love inducing melodies. Man, european life on the plaza is one of my top missed experience now.

San Marco Plaza in the day..

Venice in black and white!

We chilled our last day away at one of the (expensive &) nice cafes at San Marco plaza and it turned out that I’m kinda allergic to strong caffaine.. I started feeling nauseous and guilty on the vapouretto. And begin puking my night away. plans to have a last late night in europe failed because of that.. . well the good thing was.. It happened on the last night and i was only sick for that night!

See more photos here!
ALBUM I
ALBUM II

24 days ago Short URL Comments

Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)

City of Water/Floating City/Venice

Dec

Perfect Weekends: Barracks Cafe.

Brunch at a beautiful laidback cafe on an afternoon is a dream. Even more surreal when I have Vampy with me. Barracks Cafe at Dempsey is a must-go for a lazy soothing afternoon. Laidback interior and a glass greenhouse where you can overlook greenery. Not to forget the dreamy rainy afternoon that day. Think a warm cup of cappucino, hearty breakfast, drizzles against the greenery, munchies to die for, sinful desserts and perfect company!

As for the food, their truffle fries are to die for. Essence of white truffle oil and a tinge of malted vinegar gives you the high like the way you will be high on kerosene.. Good stuffs to munch on ; my mouth waters as I think of it 2 weeks later.

Truffle Tries. Taste 10x better than how it looks.

Breakfast at Barracks was yummy as well though I think you might wanna go with the recommended dishes!

Egg benedict!

And there we are.. at the favourite part of all meals! DESSERTS! Barracks serve awesome desserts too. Novelty treats such as warm chocolate cake with Toffee and banana cake with salted caramel were all more than delight for the tastebuds! It was kinda amazing how a chocolate cake with toffee tasted absolutely perfect without being too sticky nor sweet. And I’m a sucker for ‘salted caramel’, the banana cake was good.

54 days ago Short URL Comments

Chill/Dine/happy food./Indelible memories/my love :)

Barracks Cafe/Dempsey House

Nov

Working Life

I know it has been a long time since i updated about current life.

I have been working for about 2 months plus so far and everyday i find myself full of energy ready for the unpredictable challenges. There’s an amazing thing about working in a line you love and believe in. Maybe “love” is not entirely the right word. But something which you believe in.

There’s no fixed way of how to go about doing the work I’m doing day-to-day. Sure.. there’s the protocols and administrative work that each of us has to follow but beyond that it’s the living interactions with people who needs our help and guidance that made work challenging and satisfying. There has been times that the problems of people sounded unbelievable but in my line of work; it has made me more appreciative and understanding towards the bubbles of others. They made typical first class world problems look so insignificant. They made me believe that strength is from within and support/guidance from others allow them to go on.

They speak unspoken love and they have the weirdest beliefs that i could ever believe.

but all these.. it’s my work; to counsel and sometimes to help manage their life.

p.s. i’ve been loving brunches and chills so much more ever since i’ve started working!

69 days ago Short URL Comments

Uncategorized

Nov

Halloween 2011.

Possibly the first Halloween I’ve celebrated ever in my life. Just not in my blood nor culture to celebrate Halloween. Also partly because i’ve distanced away from Clubs years ago when i found the joy and satisfaction in ‘proper dancing’.

So yes, you could probably guess from the prelude! Vampy and I spent a nerve-wrecking Halloween at the Universal Studio, Singapore. That was also the first halloween event in the local Universal Studio. There were basically 6 scare zones. The whole setting felt like a chaotic haunted world where you were (supposed) to run for your life. Disfigured ghosts goes after you suddenly or scream into your ears while you were posing to get some shots. (Yes, some ghost did that to me; but I was totally calm)

Supermarket’s Trolley

The Peranakan house was one of the more interesting scare zones. Alot of professional props and actors were invested in this event. Imagine walking through a room with corpses hanging from the ceiling and you have to walk your walk through the corpses while anticipating a possible scare coming up at any point in time.

For those who plays Left4Dead, the Post Apocalyptic Rage is closely made under L4D’s impression.

All in all, it was a good halloween. Nevertheless, the ghosts were not scary coz we all know that they are not real. But what freaked me out more was the rides. I’m always scared of roller-coasters but I’ll always go up and give myself a good scare. Of coz, I’ll hide my head as close to my body as possible and hold on to anything as tightly as possible. The Galactica’s human was a total freak-out for me as I find myself not being able to hold on to anything substantial.

Vampy’s attempt to be one of them.

we’re part of the director’s cut too!

83 days ago Short URL Comments

Celebrations/Indelible memories/my love :)

Halloween/Universal Studios

Oct

Prelude: Halloween Harror!

Happy Halloween!

Director’s Cut!

89 days ago Short URL Comments

Indelible memories/my love :)

Halloween/Universal Studios

Oct

Privé @ Keppel Bay

Brunch is love!

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There is a reason why when it comes to friends, Old is Gold. Met up with the group for a brunch yesterday afternoon! And i’ve not seen some of them for more than a year. Great getting updates from them and cracking jokes all over again! Even better is that i’ve found some brunch buddies! I love brunches!

Food at Privé was pretty awesome. Egg Royale – like egg benedict but instead of bacon, it’s smoked salmon was what i had and was absolutely awesome!

This place is located at Keppel Bay! A really pretty place!

P.S. The last 3 pics (the group shots) belongs to my friend’s – JR! I think he takes quite good photos!

89 days ago Short URL Comments

Dine/Friendship

Keppel Bay/Privé

Oct

it’s a four.

13 September 2011 in celebration of 14 September 2011.

About a month ago, Vampy and I celebrated our 4 years anniversary! Venue of celebration was Au Jardin; somewhere I was supposed to bring him years ago but he refused to go coz i was still a student then and he thought it was too expensive for me to afford it. It was also our first fine dining after I started working! That was the second week of work and I was still adapting!

Well, i thought the journey has been amazing because he’s like a guardian seeing me grow from an ignorant university freshie to now working my way through in my career! But the funny thing about Asian’s long relationship is sometimes you do feel alil too close to sit down and have a “romantic” date together. Is that what people meant by consummate love?

Anyway, Au Jardin is located in the Botanic Gardens! So it’s surrounded by serene greenery. Maybe that explains why the menu was influenced by the use of fresh flowers and greeneries. Ambience wise, it was definitely a good place to unwind and enjoy special moments with your loved ones. Even more amazing when it started raining.

We sat by the balcony! Yay to that!

Foie Gras Custard

A creation by the chef. A smooth creamy Custard that seem like a remake of a pan seared Foie Gras; where it melts slowly in your mouth. Except the taste of the egg in the custard was alil too strong for the remake to be totally successful. But still a yummy dish. No complaints for being complimentary!

Half Dozen Fresh Oysters Fines de Claire No. 3
Served with Spicy Cucumber Coulis & Apple “Snow – an innovation of oysters

This was absolutely refreshing especially when eaten with the spicy cucumber and apple snow. Beautifully experimented. Simple but a burst of fresh sweetness and joy!

Pan-Seared Foie Gras, Caramelised Fresh Fruits,
Red Wine Glaze & Root Vegetables Chips

Foie Gras came across disappointing as the essence was lacking. In my opinion.. But the boyfriend insisted that i was being fussy. Well, i thought the “melt-factor” for pan seared foie gras was not really there too.

Roasted Whole Boston Lobster, with Vegetable Beignet,
Garden Salad & Orange Scented Beurre-Blanc

This was a heaven. Once again, the chef tried creating the dish with fruits and vegetables/salads. First remarkable point is the texture of the lobster. Bouncy, crunchy and firm! Vampy said that was very close to Boston lobster he had in Boston. Dont miss this if u’re a lobster lover.:)

Char-Grilled Wagyu Striploin (Marbling 5), Gnocchi à la Lyonnaise,
Caramelised Baby Carrot, Dijon Mustard & Veal Sauce

Well, this is one excellent wagyu! Finely grilled with precision + Freshness at its best = yumyumyum!

Baked Alaska”, Caramel Hazelnut Parfait,
Frozen Banana Foam & Mousse with Passion Fruit Sorbet

This is one AMAZING dessert! Not only in terms of presentation. But after the fire died down, the outer mildly crispy and warm and slightly burnt layer (coz of the fire) coupled the passion fruit sorbet and mousse in the middle of this piece was a harmonious combination! Happiness:)

Pistachio Crème Brûlée, Served with Pistachio Tuile,
Peach Coulis & Ruby Peach Ice Cream

If i realllllly have to criticise, this creme brulee is too ambitous. The beauty of creme brulee lies in its simple yet delicious factor. I hated the sponge cake on top of the creme brulee cause it takes away the flavours of the creme brulee and also hardly have any positive contributing factor!

Happy 4 years anniversary! Still the best boy i’ve ever had! Hahas, despite the kind of mean remarks i always give him.. he still took it in his stride and love & give. Not that i dont get teasing from him. Hahas, but let’s keep up the freedom, space and independence we give each other! These are the precious factors that is gonna be difficult to find in other potential relationships. I mean, not everyone can accept not smsing each other daily, not calling and chatting over the phone, meeting once-twice a week and not hindering what we love to do:)

90 days ago Short URL Comments

Anniversary/Celebrations/Extravagance/Fine-Dining/happy food./Indelible memories/my love :)

Au Jardin

Oct

Milan: A Shopaholic’s best friend?

Milan was our second last destination for our Italian Chronicles. I have held high hopes of seeing high rise corporate buildings and most importantly models with hot long legs cat-walking down the streets of the city. I was really hoping to see fantastically dressed city dwellers. However, even in Milan, the skyscrapers were limited and there weren’t really fashion parading models!

It was a little disappointment because the shoes of the businessmen were not exactly as polished as I read about. No doubt there were definitely alot more men donned in business suits in Milan! Nevertheless, we were still able to find chics who dress fashionably quite frequently.

I would call Milan a place ideal for shopaholics. Shops ranging from branded to middle range (guess, bershka, zara) are all within a vicinity. So convenient and so easily lost in that kinda compulsion. Not only are all the shops so close to each other, each and every one of them strive to the biggest outlet i’ve ever seen. Shopping experience – enhanced! That, of coz made the boyfriend’s day a lil duller than the others.

I had my one and only shopping trip down at Milan too. A day when it became my day rather than OUR day =x. Bought my Gucci wallet there too; which i call it my graduation gift for myself =x.

The other highlight of Milan for me was the Gothic church, Milan’s Duomo (biggest and most important gothic church in Italy) which took them about 500 years to build. Characterised by spires all around, the Milan’s Duomo undergoes a regular maintainence. It was, however, a pity that the tower was under maintainence when we were there. It is said we can see all the way to Spain on a clear day from the tower!!

See those gypsies?

from above. Spot the gypsies

The only church that we prayed in.. hmmmm

Word of caution: Outside the Duomo is where the most nasty Gypsies i’ve seen in my whole trip. They attempt to force some pigeons’ food into your hands or pockets and obviously they gonna collect some sorta payment from you. You have to be very firm with them. I felt alittle disturbed because this guy thought that i have a pocket near the chest, and he was almost gonna touch the chest already. So, be careful!

One of the art pieces outside the duomo..

I swear the duomo has the coolest sound system and sound tracks!

Also went to Castel Sforzesco whose structures are quite well maintained. But basically it’s now a museum!

In Milan, Aperitivo is commonly found in bars during happy hours where you pay a small amount of money for a eat-all-you-can kinda buffet and it comes with an alcoholic drink. The food was nowhere near fantastic but it was part of our committment to experience the local’s way of living! Look forward to variations of pizzas, pastas and salads!

Walls full of artistes!

Pizzas, pastas & chips

Other snippets of the day:)

Our accidental 4* hotel~

Coupley pic!

The bull which gives u good luck if u turn around it on its balls with your heels.

So the man does it!
nice gelatos that u gotto try!

Crispy bacon onion @ macdonalds – not found locally.
Afternoon tea time! somewhere that overlooks the duomo! miss that life! This is a cheesecake!

Italian coffees are to die for!
Panini! yummmms

Dinner at a cosy little home style restaurant

Twisted pastas that are absolutely vegetarian – i liked the essence of it!
Milanese Veal!

Where i bought my love!

90 days ago Short URL 1 Comment

Chill/Dine/Graduation Trip/happy food./Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)/Travel

Castel Sforzesco/Duomo di Milano/Milan

Oct

Pisa: Of perfect hues!

Green & Clean grass, vast blue skies and marble white buildings make the little plaza at Pisa a charming one! in my mind, Pisa reminds an unique place. It was almost the first time when i laid myself on the grass, feeling the awesomeness of the grass! If only life could remain still at that moment.

And we got to see the Leaning Tower! It was indeed leaning to a large extent It’s amazing how it’s one of the world’s wonder due to human’s error! 40 visitors are allowed to climb the leaning tower at every point in time. That was a mind blowing experience for me. I was a lil too traumatised to fully enjoy the joy of being on top of the tower. My heights problem had me almost breaking down when i was standing at a high non-fenced slanted side of the tower. There were moments that I feel my legs going soft and nerves breaking down!

trembling in fear!

a slanted view from above!

Also, the first time we witnessed Baptism in the European form. Basically it takes place in a small dome shaped building. WHen the time comes, a personnel in charge will create a rather creepy echo that resound throughout the dome. The frequency of the sound was so consistent – amazing stuff!

baptistery

Pisa is seriously one of my favourite spot! For picture perfect and aesthetic reasons!

109 days ago Short URL 6 Comments

Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)/Travel

leaning tower/Pisa

Sep

Fiesole: Countryside on a Hill.

One of the popular countryside spots of Florence, Fiesole is simply a stone throw away from the city centre. We took Bus 7 from Piazza del San Marco and it took us about 30-45mins (can’t remember).. It was a simple scenic hill town with Etruscan ruins.

There’s an archae walk at Fiesole but it was really short. A specific theme was centered across the archae walk; the 3 statues represented time (past, present and future) The past is depicted by the remains of an Etruscan temple, the future by the roman thermal baths where images are thought to be evaporated in the uncertainty of imaginery projections. And finally, the present is more aptly represented by the Roman theatre; what is actual goes on display.

Beautiful view.

Arches.
pinocchio

the theatre

After Fiesole, we headed back to Florence but that’s when the rainy season begins (it was almost rainy from then on). And i had a good time shopping in a Lindt candy world! We even had a cup of coffee at one of the cafes due to the rain!

A lucky mention: we visited the Accademia del galleria WITHOUT a queue because it was raining! So we managed to see the real David by Michaelangelo! But no photos allowed!

Dinner was at a restaurant nearby.. Ristorante Accademia. This was recommended by lonely planet and the food served there was really quite awesome! The plus point is it’s just below our hotel!

Charlotte’s cake.

Creme brulee..

tea-break!

All photos here!

122 days ago Short URL 2 Comments

Dine/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)/Travel

Fiesole/Florence/Italy/Tuscany

Aug

Florence: An Italian Gem

Day 5: Beautiful Old Town Charm, 4th June 2011

Florence exhibits a beautiful European charm. A bird eye view from above presents nothing but consistent orangey roofs and buildings. The town preserved a sophiscation beyond words. A quiet charm that grows on me from the moment I step into Florence. Quaint little streets and shops made up the small town. In Florence, most places reachable afoot.

Our hotel, Hotel San Marco, was more like a room within somebody’s house. I guess that was pretty common in Europe. It seemed scary at first when we entered via the huge wooden door and see nothing but structures resembling old cellular gates and smell that throws me off. I was as wary as I could as we proceed to the supposed hotel above. There was, fortunately, no surprise when we got to our room. Exactly like what we’ve seen on the website. Room at the attic was Simple and comfortable. It was also one of the accomodations that offers properly connected wi-fi throughout the days. And without fail, I always find myself awakening to aromas of Coffee (yes, all the way from the ground floor to the attic). Amazing coffee the Italians have!

And we were all prepared for one of the Top 3 sights in Italy – The Florence Duomo. An effortful sight; besides queuing for the stairs to the dome for approximately 1 hour, we had to climb 463 flight of narrow and dark spiralling steps (not recommended for the claustrophobics) to get to the top of the Duomo. But the 360degrees paranormic view was all worth it. Breath-taking; indeed as we catch our breath after the steps trying to grasp for a fresh air well polluted with a nostalgic view of Florence.

Paranormic View of Florence

Florence Duomo (Exterior)

Another Dome

The scary flight of steps

me against Florence

Vampy against florence

We popped over to the Uffizi Gallery where we filled ourselves in on renaissance art-work. Trust me when i say that I was brain-dead after Uffizi. There were simply too much information and history to absorb for amateurs like us. The longest running joke that still runs within our conversation these days is the art pieces that runs in the theme of “Adoration of the Magi”. No, we have our deepest respect for that but it was slightly comical that the whole musuem or rather Italy has so many of the works depicting “Adoration of the Magi” that you will see at least 2 of such in EVERY ROOM OF A MUSUEM.

Famous Uffizi that forms a perfect rectangle.

It was already evening by the time we ended our Uffizi session. Right outside Uffizi was the most beautiful plaza I’ve ever seen. Even until today, I dreamt of spending lazy afternoons at that plaza. Yes, It was the Piazza del Signoria. That place was the perfection of street life. Early summer breeze gently brush itself onto my cheeks as I enjoyed the street guitarist playing classical pieces. Audience watched and chilled by this kind of beauty. But Florence has this very special romantic vibe that makes me feel like falling in love all over again. By night, an accoustic street artiste takes the plaza into an emotional soothing journey. That.. was LIFE.

Michaelango’s David – Replica. ( We went to the Accademia Gallery the next day but the original one does not allow photography)

acoustic artiste that has alot of audience – without him, the beauty of the plaza would be lessened much!

Chilling by the plaza with great classical pieces.

Ponte Vecchio was somewhere behind the Uffizi gallery. Specially noted because of the shop houses built on the bridge. Along the Ponte Vechhio, look out for chains of Padlocks which lovers looked to secure an eternal love. Lock the padlocks to other padlocks already there and throw the key into the river. Nope, we didnt do anything of such (coz we didnt had a padlock with us.)

Ponte Vecchio

The padlocks!

Us on Ponte Vecchio

Florence was also where I had my first real size merry-go-round ride. Found at Piazza del Republicca, i can’t forget the joy accquainted to a simple merry-go-round ride.

beaming with HAPPINESS

Kiddish

And if you really have to miss? Dont miss Florence, rated 1 of the most beautiful cities in the world. Indeed..

Another glimpse of street life – cupid

Gelatos:D

Dinner at this restaurant at Piazza del SIgnoria. Food was fine but the ambience was irreplaceable.

150 days ago Short URL 3 Comments

Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)/Travel

Duomo/Florence/Hotel San Marco/Piazza del Signoria/Ponte Vecchio/Ristorante Pizzeria Orcagna/street life/Uffizi Gallery

Aug

A full circle.

Life is funny isn’t it? It surprises me at every corner I turn. 2 weeks ago, I received my first offer for employment and 2 weeks later.. i’m rejecting it for something else. Something that I first applied and first went for an interview in March.

Thanks to a friend who managed to get me an interview with the relevant authorities (rather than previously, an interview with irrelevant HR), the last job that ive accepted is the one that I first applied for and went for an interview for.

I’m glad that I held the passion close to my heart from beginning to end. Perhaps being in a relationship with Vampy gives me tremendous courage to pursue what is important in life, what you feel like doing. It has always been funny when he says he despises people who has no goals in their life or give up what they wanna do easily. And alot of truth lies in it, if i were to pursue what I didnt believe in, would I not be an unhappy person? Would I obtain the same meaning in life?

I may not be the same pathway carver like Vampy but at least I’m going down a path which i’ve set to go. I know how lucky it is to be able to travel the pathway desired and I cherish this opportunity and luck I have.

This unemployment process for 4 months (or officially 2 months since commencement) have taught me alot of things. Undergoing grueling interviews and self marketing has taught me to understand myself better; Alot better. In interviews, I’m forced to think of my own strengths and weaknesses and each time a reflection improves that marketing. Of course, I’ve been trained to be so patient, so optimistic. Sometimes i can’t help but wonder if I wasn’t strong before; hence I need to grow stronger before coming to being granted this career. But I sure still hate ‘waiting and uncertainty’ even though it is true that good things are worth waiting for!

In this career, I will be dealing with delinquents.. helping them to rehabitate and reintegrate into the society! It is gonna be a challenging and exciting career.

150 days ago Short URL 2 Comments

Work

Aug

Pizzeria Amalfi, Vatican City Area

Day 4: Last Dinner in Rome (3 June 2011)

We had our last dinner near our accomodation as it was getting late! Anyway, i think this was the ONLY night that we didnt get lost on our way home. And I’m proud to say I got us home without getting lost! This Pizzeria was recommended by Lonely Planet and I thought it was so apt as Pizzeria Amalfi features cuisines of the Bay of Naples. Considering that we were at Naples earlier on in the day and didnt really get to try the local delicacies..

Pizzeria Amalfi was quite a huge place. They have 2 shops in fact, opposite each other across the road.

Comfy settings in this warm yellow wine-yard-ish setting.

Setting

Fettuccine with Porcini Mushrooms

I liked this; it grows on me. I loved the subtle herb-mushroom taste that lingers in your mouth. The Fettucine was cooked al-dente, making it really nice to chew on! Yes, I thought it was rather chewy in a nice way. But the man didnt like it as much (hence i finished the other half for him while he ate half of my pizza) coz it feels too healthy according to him!

Amalfi - margherita and half tomatoes, half calzone with ham and mushrooms)

This was the pizza named after the shop so we decided to give it a try. It was an interesting combination cause half of it was a Calzone while the other half was a Margherita. So yes, what’s a Calzone? It’s a turnover pizza, shaped like a cresent, with the exact same ingredients of a pizza inside. In local terms, it can be said to be like a “curry puff’.

Well interesting, i really loved the Calzone cause the cheese were all melted inside that cresent. And it turned out to be alil more moist than normal pizza. But i thought that was really really nice. Besides, Italy really has one of the best hams. So imagine that well melted cheese with top quality ham and mushroom and tasty crusty. That was heavenly. A huge regret that we didnt go to the place earlier despite being so near!

A creamy creme brulee to mark the end of an awesome dinner.

Creme Brulee there was served cold rather than warm. And i thought it was rare that the caramel turns out to be so nice – totally unburnt. Alil different from what i usually eat too coz the caramel was slightly thicker. No complains about that. The creme brulee was awesome!

Great dinner to mark the end of ROME!

155 days ago Short URL Comments

Dine/Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)

Pizzeria Amalfi/Rome

Aug

Pompeii: Ruins of Unfortunate.

Day 4 (3 June 2011): To Pompeii.

We finished most of the important attractions in Rome and decided that maybe we should head up to Pompeii at Naples. We were almost to lazy to do this! By day 4, both of us were really exhausted with all the walking. Thinking back, it’s always “glad that I’ve done that!” Yea.. you know that kinda thoughts re-occur quite frequent for many things.

It took us about 3 hours to get to Naples from Rome and another 40mins or so to get to Pompeii. If you need to know, the one-way intercity train costs us 22 euros each (nope, that wasn’t the fastest train you can get). You can take a train that takes only 2hr 15mins but it costs more.

So right, (almost) everyone knows how sad the history of Pompeii was. Around 1700 years ago, the volcano eruption from Mount Vesuvius destroyed and completely buried Pompeii and Herculaneum. I watched a documentary on ” the last day of Pompeii” which was apparently a close illustration of what happened on that unfortunate day. It seems that the people in Pompeii were subjected to such tragic death because they did not know what is a volcano. And they stood and watched the initial eruption from their home. Up to the moment when rubbles and stones were raining on them, they still held hopes of escaping the calamity. But eventually, the full-scale eruption burnt the people to death INSTANTANEOUSLY. This explains why some of them still remain in their last posture.

Pompeii, today, is a huge archaeological site. It was a real eye opener to real ancient Romans life. Unlike other ruins, Pompeii was very well-preserved as a city. It was also not subjected to the effects of nature. If you really need to visit ONE ruins, I truly recommend Pompeii because it was so complete and intriguing.

In Latin: Welcome.

Another interesting fact of Pompeii is its sexual themes that run throughout the city. Extremely apparent in the largest Lupanar (brothel) in the centre of the city. You’ll find stone beds that are half the length of today’s and paintings depicting erotic images and positions on the walls. Some said that the images were used for inspirations during action while others see it as advertisement. Anway, I was surprised at how small people used to be and pleasantly shocked at how open ancients Romans used to be when it comes to sex. The Lupanar was apparently visited by the lower classes such as the Slaves while the rich most probably have their services at home. Erotic images were, however, not restricted to the Lupanar but generally across the city.

A really small stone bed. I doubt I can fit..

One of the many kinds of erotic images.

Source: Wikipedia

Shall not post too many of these so More about erotic images HERE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erotic_art_in_Pompeii_and_Herculaneum

Casted corpses are also intriguing (and sick) attractions you wouldn’t want to miss in Pompeii. I know how unfortunate these people are – to have their very last moments frozen in immortality. Even though they are really interesting for how often do we get to see these kinda corpse, i must say that they are really sad and creepy at the same time. There were times that Vampy and I wonder: “how would “HE (the corpse) feel?”

Spot the corpse.

You will also get to see all the different houses, forums, market (macellum), temples of Pompeii. There are simply too much to see in one day. So get an audio guide! It helps in your understanding. And if you can.. bring along an umbrella coz it was reallllly sunny!

Temple

Forum

Other snippets of the day:

Gelatos to kill the heat! (Tiramisu, Limone)

Pizza – we shared one of these!

okae, that’s all for Pompeii!

159 days ago Short URL Comments

Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)/Travel/Uncategorized

Ancient Rome/Lupanar/Naples/Pompeii

Aug

I’ve been Offered!

because I havent felt such happiness for almost half a year. Life recently has been excruciating painful but finally life is better today! Just yesterday night when i was feeling all dejected, I looked up quotes on “hopes” to urge myself to stay hopeful:

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true, there is life and joy.

PROVERBS 13:12

And today, i feel the life and joy. Omg, that is so surreal that I’m alil afraid to sleep now… Is that all a dream?

Would like to thank everybody who stood by me all these times. I know a emotional person is not one that is nice to deal with. To everyone that has encouraged me during these tough times, you never knew how much these meant to me. They made my hopes flicker on and made me stronger. Special thanks to: My parents, my siblings, vampy, felicia, jac, kenny, my 3 doggies (for always being there for me at home such that loneliness is much more manageable). I love every one of you! I am thankful for having the supportive bunch of you! Grateful to have parents and siblings who did not pressurize me but encouraging and comforting me. I dont know what would have become of me if i didnt have all your strength to go on. Thank you Vampy for all the little hugs, treats and jokes to cheer me up; and being with you gave me courage to pursue something that i think i wanna do. To Felicia and Jac, you guys are always so awesome! Cheering me up and encouraging me always.

and by the way, happy birthday Mum!

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Aug

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inner voices

Aug

Trevi Fountain & Al Presidente

Day 3: One of those biggest fountains & of a great good meal! (2nd June 2011)

The previous Italy entry talks about ancient baths of the Romans. After we left Terme Di Caracalla, we went back to the Vatican City thinking that we should visit the St Peter’s Basilica. We did manage to see that but i was utterly sad that i couldnt get to see the key hole shape plaza from the top of the basilica.

With a disappointed mood, we made our way to Trevi Fountain.. definitely one of the biggest fountain that one can imagine. Indeed, Trevi fountain would put other fountains to shame…because it is so huge, so grand. It is also the most crowded plaza i’ve ever seen. People sit around the fountain and stairs.. just to enjoy the company of their loved ones with the gushing water sound in the background. But i thought it was way too crowded to really enjoy the essence of the plaza.

trying to get a shot!

PART of the crowd.

Lights coming up.

Trevi Fountain at night

The CROWD when it’s already late at night

A better activity is always to EAT! We came across one restaurant which was also recommended by Lonely Planet; Al Presidente. Of course, we have learnt to judge how good a restaurant can be based on its popularity. This was one of those times where the choice was perfect. It is located near Trevi Fountain.. just a straight road up from the station to Trevi Fountain.

While the tables are set really close to each other and we could hear almost whatever that the next table was saying, the setting was so lively that everyone including the waiters deserve to be dancing.

Brusschettas – that i would not really rave about it! Fresh tomatoes…yes! But other than that, pretty ordinary!

Well anyway, i gotto try an authentic Lasagna and it was mind-blowing because the meat fillings are generous and the pasta layers are of a perfect thickness. You know how lasagna can get really disgusting after a while coz they get all too starchy. But this.. it didnt.

Vampy’s Ravioli is one of his favourite in this trip too. the fillings are smooth but really light and pasta was al dente!

My highlights is always desserts. I LOVE their Tiramisu not only because it’s huge in size, its cocoa powder above is not bitter. But most importantly, it is creamy and juicy!! it felt almost like a succulent moose than a tiramisu CAKE. Great stuff!!

Also i think i had my first Panna Cotta in Italy. The pudding was silky smooth and bouncy. It slips onto the tongue with pure pleasure and the caramel that drenched it just gave it a perfectttttt finish!! I miss it so much now! damn.

enjoying my desserts as usual:)

REST:)

Oh and for the 3rd night consecutively.. we lost our way on our way back!! Seriously have no idea why we keep losing our way every day on our way home! That makes us really tired every time we get back.

179 days ago Short URL Comments

Dine/Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)/Travel

Al Presidente/Rome/Trevi Fountain

Jul

decisions..decisions.

And so, i just finished a cup of Honey Melon Pudding because..i feel so confused so down.

Yesterday i had an interview, a third round of interview. The interview was unpleasant. I would like to call it the toughest interview ever cause it left me leaving the interview teary and weary. it made me feel useless and almost lost my breath at doing anything. It felt like a ‘scolding session’ than an ‘interview session’. I was put off guards on how such a tough guy i have to handle. Did it just shatter my bubble? That maybe i have to start dealing with these bossy, rude and tough people soon.

Today, im being offered the job. Yet I’m not happy about it. I’m feel troubled over it cause now it is a decision to be made.. BY ME. To pursue a career, one has to sacrifice. I’m just too sure how much i have to sacrifice for a job that i’m not sure if i will love. But who is to be sure that they will love their job to begin with. I’m so afraid, so afraid. It doesn’t take a wise man to tell you find a job that u’ll love! but when it comes to the real process… the real misery of job hunting and rejections, only yourself understand how difficult to even get short-listed by a job that you think you will love. Not to mention GETTING IT! Every single day.. the routine of waking up late (and that’s the only great part), checking the phone first hand, checking the mails for shortlisted notifications/interviews, facebook and jobhunt again.. sometimes it kills to know that you’re the only non-contributor at home.

It’s a people oriented job, dealing with people from all racks of life everyday. It is gonna be rewarding, financially. But it’s a sale-related job. Do i want it? Is it worth it? Is this gonna be it?

186 days ago Short URL Comments

Work

Jul

Terme Di Caracalla

Day 3: Of Ancient Roman Baths (2nd June 2011).

Terme Di Caracalla is not receiving enough attention that it deserves if you ask me. I find it quite interesting to know that the Ancient Romans were very much into baths too (As much as it is a ‘used-to-be’). I would very much like to call these “Onsens” cause these are what I’m so familiar with. What puzzles me was what stopped them from continuing in indulging in the baths-culture? And of course, why would they need such huge buildings for uhhh, Onsens?

You can see the pool here.. and the bronze mirrors used to direct sun light to the pool area. There are 2 pools here by the way.. If this picture doesnt illustrate grandeur.. then what?

The map/ overview from above.

This is one of the bath. Really huge structures to house the bath isn’t it? Oh and the floorings are still well preserved.

Terme Di Caracalla was, however, more than just baths. It was almost like a resort with very complete facilities. The rented audio-guide gave us very useful information about how a typical Roman will spend their time in the Caracalla. For example, they will go to the dressing room first..before the open air swimming pool, then the hot bath and then the cold one. There’s even a library and a gym in one of the corner of the complex. And where they will sit around and interact…Just imagine working out in the gym..then having a good relaxing hot and cold bath after that with a few good friends! That IS life.

Despite being a ruin, i think it’s very well preserved. The Romans are really amazing because not only do they (like to) build buildings in sheer sizes..just to house baths, pools and gyms, their architectural works are down to even the floorings. Each small mosaic pieces are put together to form the patterns on the floor. And you can still see some of them today.

The floorings..

Some blocks that has mosaics on them too.

Paintings that still remain.

We had to stay longer in the ruins because it started raining suddenly. So now we have seen ruins in rain.. =.= Anyway, I think i havent mention this before. There are just… seemingly abundance of Seagulls in Rome. But i really love them. The sounds they make and the flight they take are truly beautiful nature. The funny thing was…they are nowhere to be seen anymore as we leave Rome. And just before it was going to rain.. the seagulls were making alot of noise, as if indicating to each other than rain is coming!

Other snippets of the day…

Away from Terme di Caracalla, we experienced some sorta drama in the morning. Vampy got himself stained shit all over his pants. Seriously I (we) have completely no idea how he managed to get them on him. So, there were alot of cleaning sessions in the toilet or on the grasses. Seriously, unlucky i think. He suspected somebody threw it on him. But…HOW? How can somebody throw something at you and neither of us realised that?

sad because of the hmmmmm..SHIT!

So we gotto cheer up!

meee at Caracalla.

Our brunch – Crispy McBacon.

Something not available back home. Quite tasty! I had this odd craving when i was in Italy for quite a couple of times. Guess what? MacDonalds’ French Fries.. I know how odd this is because i dont really crave for them when im back home. Lack of sodium or something? LOL.

Circo Massimo that we went to take a look in the late morning.

Was supposed to be a stadium used for chariot races but nothing but a field with a sandy ring remains now.

Me against a graffiti

190 days ago Short URL Comments

Graduation Trip/Indelible memories/Italy/my love :)

AncientRome/Circo Massimo/Roman bath/Rome/Terme Di Caracalla

Jul

Forlino: Buon Compleanno!

Just celebrated Vampy’s birthday yesterday! And right after that.. few hours later, he’s on his way to Boston for 3 weeks. Everything was alil rush but still we still managed to have some sorta celebration. So i wanted to write about this before he landed…

Decided on an Italian meal because we have been wanting to eat some good italian ever since our return from Italy..

Forlino looks promising from the setting of the place and the waterfront scenery it offers. And even though there was a private function going on, there is very bearable noise level. They might not be called ‘noise’ after.. Their service was prompt but non-invasive.. The only thing that i still wonder now is that the main chef, Mario, is almost never in the kitchen – monitoring and cooking. That kinda disappoints me alil that the food i’ve order are not ones that has meticulously been through his hands..

For a start, we were given warm crusty Focacia seasoned with Sea-salt. I always have a love relationship with sea-salt coz it doesn’t invade your taste bud like the usual salt but it settles nicely such that you such can taste the essence of the food. We both agreed that this was nice!

Tuna in a mini Focacia.

Photobucket

Pan Roasted Goose Liver with Apricot Sauce and Morello Cherry.

We are really a huge fan of Foie Gras despite it being a “cruel-food”. But it’s sad to be disappointed by something that you look forward to. Foie Gras is usually heavenly to me because its essence explodes in your mouth even if you just lick it off the fork. And it melts like a custard in your mouth. Yet, this didnt had the same explosion that makes me go…” OH MAN, I’m FLYING!”

Chanterelles Mushrooms & Prosecco Wine Risotto with Green Apple

But i’m glad my main was good! An interesting creation as you peel through the first layer of sour tinge from the green apple get to the chunky mushrooms hidden in the risotto, bite it and sweet burst of mushroom essence gives that layer before finally getting to the salty aftermath..

Veal Ossobuco Ravioli with Saffron Sauce

not sure if i’ve said this but the man who is a fan of Ravioli is probably now a good judge for Ravioli since he has been so many of it in Italy.. both good, moderate and bad. I think he was pleased with what’s on his plate. The pasta was cooked al dente and filled with generous portions of minced veal and a light touch of cheese. It would do well for me if it’s slightly juicier..

Black Cod with Chardonnay Wine Spume and Turnip Tops

This cod is really one amazing creation. Smooth and creamy texture of a fish; that sounds like a dream! But that was exactly how it tasted like. Won over by the texture more so than the sauce, it’s hard to believe the kind of texture achieved. When eaten alone, its subtly salted crispy cod skin allows me to fully focus on the wonderful texture. Otherwise, eat it with the potato or salsa-look-alike sauce beneath for variation!

Man and his fav main of the night.

Molten Lava Chocolate Cake with Banana Gelato and Rum Sauce

But dessert were the bomb for me. Not so much about the banana gelato and Rum sauce but the molten lava chocolate cake tasted too good on its own. The thinnest chocolate lava cake ive eaten. This thin crispy layer was what exactly won me over. TOO GOOD! It’s a joy eaten cakes that roll into crisps on your layer and complementing a rich chocolate.

Photobucket Liquorice Crème Brûlée with Raspberry Gelato

I left Forlino with a lingering taste of the Liquorice Creme Brulee. Definitely not the usual creme brulee…Liquorice is one acquired taste that grows on me. Never have i thought that creme brulee in liquorice will be so good and doubly the goodness with the raspberry gelato. Liquorice should go in hand with sour stuff then?

—

We decided to walk over to Fullerton Bay Hotel after dinner..possibly at Lantern for drinks but unfortunately only standing at the bar was available..so we gave up the perfect spot and headed to the one before..a jazz chil-lax place that still overlook the waterfront.

Nice view of Marina Bay Sands from Lantern.

For those of you who are into Asian Cusine would have probably heard or tried Tom Yam Soup from Thailand before. Alot of Singaporeans love it…supposed to be a sour and spicy soup. And they actually had a TomYam martini. It does has the essence of Tom Yam Martini because of the Lemon Grass.. very well blended!