Packan's Perspective

My Adieu to Blogspot

2009-12-28T00:55:00.002+08:00

End of another year and time for new beginnings....

It has been great fun bloggin here...but it is time for a change...
so Welcome New Blog!!

This will be my last post here....

My fundamental right

2009-05-01T01:42:00.003+08:00

It feels good to excercise it...
and cast MY VOTE for the next Lok Sabha...hope it counts!

On a side note, stay tuned for posts on my nam trip...

I am hooked on....

2009-02-09T22:48:00.000+08:00

Poker Face

Merry Xmas

2008-12-27T20:31:00.002+08:00

Hola chicos

Feliz Navidad!!

As the year comes to an end..here the top 3 songs played on my ipod for 2008
1. La Tortura: Shakira feat. Alejandro Sanz
2. The Way I Are: Timbaland
3. 1 2 3 4: Feist

tune into them in the 'My Broken Records' in the sidebar!

Lost in Laos: Part I

2008-11-16T20:16:00.009+08:00

This post is quite overdue!

LAOS...a true paradise...an escape from reality...a country lost in time....Perfecto!!
Had been plannin to visit for a long time...mainly for 2 reasons:
1. I really want to cover this entire region before I probably leave singapore....
2. Ever since NY Times listed it as "THE" place to visit for 2008 (read more here)

With the wonderful company of Lehmunade, AyeKay and Juddi....this trip finally materialised!!

Getting there: Not an easy tasks!...with no direct flights from Singapore..we had to make our way to KL..catch the Air Asia flight to Vientiane..the capital of Laos...this itself turned out to be quite an adventure!

Whenever I visit any place..I tend to have my pre-conceptions..and they have generally been spot on! But...Laos..really shattered them all!! The first shock was to find a wonderfully equipped airport at Vientiane! and this was just the beginning....

The Hotel...Mali Namphu was another treasure discovery! (thanks to my OCD research) The french architecture with wonderful courtyard...the sumptuous $1 breakfasts...the location..just too good!!

Courtyard in MaliNamphu

Vientiane is an idyllic..peaceful and quaint towns..It has a charm of its own..the myriad of temples..the artistic french quaters and the wide avenues...a place with true character!

The temples are truly magnificent...especially Pha That Luang, Wat Si Saket, Haw Pha Kaew and the Patuxai which is the Laotian version of the Arc de Triumph...

Golden Stupa of Pha That Luang

Bird Sellers at Pha That Luang

Wat Si Saket after a shower

Hwa Pha Kaew

Patuxai

The city centre is thronged with scandinavian and french bakeries...serving delicious pastries...cakes and baguettes..there are plenty of shops selling unique art pieces and countless number of massage centres...the laotian massages are really cheap and truly relaxing!!

Cafes around city centre

Really enjoyed the time spent in Vientiane..

Next Stop: Luang Prabhang

My pondering....

2008-11-16T20:12:00.001+08:00

What will I be doin this time next year????

**The question which is bogglin me for days....

My never ending WIsh list

2008-09-10T20:37:00.003+08:00

keeps getting bigger and bigger and bigger....

I blame it purely on Apple!!

My Beijing Bash: Part II

2008-08-18T17:33:00.005+08:00

Day 2:
The gem of China and the most breath-taking structure built by mankind ever..is none other but the Great Wall
There are several sections of the wall which can be visited from Beijing...the famous ones being the Badaling section and the Juyongguan Pass...

The Wall at Juyongguan Pass

I visited this pass..it is one of the steepest section of the wall..the climb is really tiring with the sun bearing down upon you...but once you reach the top..it is just amazing...surrounded by hills with the wall running all over....really makes you wonder...how did the ancient Chinese even build this...what it must have been to be a guard on duty..protecting China from the invading Mongols...

Tip: The best way to get to the Wall is to sign up with a tour...the trip includes lunch and visits to a silk and jade factory...

After the wall...it was time to visit the Summer Palace
The Summer palace was built by Empress CiXi after the first one was burnt down during the Opium Wars...the palace is a true exhibition of the glory and rich past of China...but also a reminder of the neglect of the chinese emperors by spending huge amounts on building it instead of looking after their subjects...

Marble Boat for Empress CiXi

In the evening, I went down to Luilichang Hutong...this is the art lane in Beijing with interesting shops selling lot of unique art and memorabilia..got some very interesting posters of slogans during the Cultural Revolution...

Lulichang Hutong

Stay Tuned for Day 3..the visit to the Forbidden City

My Beijing Bash: Part I

2008-07-03T23:28:00.009+08:00

Beijing..the ancient city and seat of power of the Qing and Ming dynasties...and today the epicentre of China..only one word comes to mind to describe this great city..Majestic!!

Day 1:
The flight was Shanghai touched down at the new Terminal 3 at Beijing airport...and it is massive...certainly well equipped to handle the Olympics influx..

The Hotel

Made my way to my hotel...Days Inn Forbidden City...the place was too good..and the location even better..just few mins from Tiananmen and the forbidden city...the rooms r good..and to top it all it came with free internet..guys..i really recommend this place...

Neways..first stop was going to be Tiantian...the temple of Heaven!
This complex..houses the several temples..where emperors used to perform rituals for a good harvest...they were considered a direct link between the gods and the common people...

The architecture and the scale of this place is unbelievable...certainly a must see!!

Parks Around Tiantian

wat is also fascinating about beijing is its park life...there is so much activity..ppl sipping tea..playing checkers...singing and performing concerts..gives a very unique flavor to the city...was walking around the park in Tiantian..and came across this wonderful troupe...

From Tiantian..took a time travel to the futuristic Birds Nest Olympics stadium..the steel structure looks complex..and intricate..but at the same time very modern and chic...lot of work goin around in the area so couldnt really get very close...

The sun was on the horizon..and it was perfect time to make way to Tiananmen square for the flag lowering ceremony...now this is wat is a real square..it is freaking huge..can accommodate around a million people if needed...with the Great Hall of the people...and Mao's mausoleum..and the People's museum surrounding the 3 sides..and the entrance to Forbidden city on the forth side....and to top it all statues and murals of the Long leap all around...now tis is truly impressive..and makes a powerful statement...this is the People's republic!!

The Great Hall of the People

The Long Leap

Countdown!

Finally dinner was rather interesting..went to a Hakka restaurant...and sure had difficulty with the menu...but managed to get some lovely mushroom veggie..and some "lovely" KFC popcorn chicken imitation...(alas turned out to be fried chk cartilage)

Day 1 sure was a fascinating...stay tuned for Day 2 and the adventure to the one and only...Great wall

My China Chronicles...

2008-06-19T23:00:00.006+08:00

Shanghai...the city has grown and grown...and somehow has still managed to retain some of its old world charm..especially 'The Bund'...its an area along the river with magnificent imperial buildings...you can just picture old chinese bird merchants bringing their birds to market up along the misty river...
But now to add to the contrast..the oppposite bank is nothing but tall scapers and towers of thriving Pudong district..some with very unique architecture..like the Oriental Pearl Tower...
One of must visit markets is Nanjing road..it is full pedestrian belt..with big signages and big stores...but then there are small alleys..with small stores...selling anything you can think of..for one-tenth the price..fake obviously...Rolex..Iphone...LV...Armani..cheap cheap!!
But be prepared to be surrounded by locals...drawing them to their stores..."Want some cheap cheap goods? Grade 1 quality!!"..."Hi can I practise my English with you"...and the best of all.."Hi I am a struggling artist..do you want to see my work and buy some stunning art"
People's square..the name says it all..in the People's republic..tis is the headquarters of the communist party in shanghai..the centre of power...

Some more glimpses of Shanghai:

Even the Road Signs are interesting!

Kung-Fu Fast Food

Pudong Airport

overall Shanghai is an interesting place..with great energy..constant bustle..
Just loved the atmosphere!!

My escape to the cradle of culture

2008-06-13T16:40:00.003+08:00

CHINA
to me...it has always been a mysterious place...with a long profound history shrouded with myth and tales of emperors and dynasties....
it is also the place of a strong revolution...with people sprouting new ideology and defining the land that is today..the People's Republic of China....
and now...in the 21st century...it has made great strides as a powerful economy..and definitely showing some muscle on the world stage...

yup...this is where I was over the past week...in Shanghai and then in Beijing...and it was an experience I shall never forget....

The China Chronicles shall continue....

My Spanish Vibe

2008-06-12T20:54:00.003+08:00

So..the blog renovation is almost complete...let me know wat u guys think...

Spanish music is so energetic..so lively..it lifts my spirits any time..any day...
Check out the updates in 'My Broken Record'...it sure will draw u to the dance floor!!!

My Makeover

2008-06-12T14:55:00.002+08:00

okk..this blog is under going some serious renovation....stay tuned!!!

My silence

2008-04-19T21:15:00.002+08:00

so back in singapore olredi!!

had a wonderful trip to the mystical land of arabia....write more on that later...

but seriously i am so strapped of time..but stay tuned..this blog seriously requires a CPR!!

My voyage to the Homeland

2008-02-27T14:54:00.003+08:00

yup..it was long overdue...and finally I am back in India..back to the Maximum city...back to my Mumbai...

Coming back home after a long time...does raise your expectations to a new level..u wonder how has the city changed? wat is the latest craze? which is the new happening hotspot?

My first impression...yup..the city has definitely changed!
Every street corner you will probably find a new mall..some new restaurants...new multiplexes..new inspiring architecture in new sprawling office complexes...
but instead of admiring this great development..your attention is drawn to the lack of infrastructure development....the ever-growing traffic (I think soon we might end up with traffic problems like in Bangkok) and the constant honking!!

But finally..you forget all these things...and enjoy the city buzz..the energetic vibe and the adrenalin-rushing atmosphere...cause it is my Mumbai!

Stay tuned for more Indian adventures....

iWant

2008-01-16T11:58:00.000+08:00

The list of desires continues to grow...and the latest addition is the new Macbook Air

Apple sure knows how to make products...just look at the design..the simplicity..the beauty!!
and to match it..a very powerful technology!!

Comes with Leopard...Remote Install..and Multi-touch trackpad

Somebody get me one!!!

My Travel Planner for 2008

2007-12-11T17:28:00.000+08:00

Thanks to NY Times..

here's a list of must-visit places in 2008..one for every week of the year..

Wow!! Wouldn't you just love to do that!!

Laos is on top of the list...and it is high time I paid a visit to this jewel in the Indochine...

My lack of Updates

2007-12-05T16:02:00.000+08:00

Wow..Nov has gone by without a single entry..Sorry guys..but was caught up with lot of things...

Neways..the holiday season approaches and the festive atmosphere is building up..which gives me inspiration to write once more...

So watch out for new posts!

My Flight to Cuba

2007-10-29T22:34:00.000+08:00

Cuba Libre in Clarke Quay is a great escape to Latin America..with great food...wonderful refreshing Mojitos...and to top it all the lovely live band with some great Latin numbers...

Here is of my favorites 'Guantanamera'

Guys...do check it out..its awesome!!

My Escape to Hong Kong: Day II

2007-10-11T10:31:00.000+08:00

It feels so good to wake up...and realise tat u r no longer in Singapore..but in fabulous Hongkong!!!

"A good Dim sum brunch for the day keeps the hungry ghosts away": Old Chinese Proverb

Who are we to judge the wise knowledge passed on for centuries...so off we went to Times Square in causeway bay to this great place called Heichinrou...for some lovely dimsum with jasmine tea...now tis is wat i call 'Heaven'...guys..this place is really good...do try the Ha Gao and the Sui Mai...

After "The Brunch" we went back to Central..to take the bus to Ocean World!!! absolutely great place..sittin on the hills hugging the south china sea...with adrenaline-rushin rides..just wonderful!!

The scariest turned out to be the Abyss..which is a free fall over the ocean...pure 10 secs of terror...got a flash of my entire 25 yrs in these few secs...now that is wat i call..Theory of Relativity!!!

and who can forget the cute pandas...An An, Jia Jia, Ying Ying and Le Le...how i wish I could take one home with me...

well..after such a fun-packed day..it was obviously time to relax..enjoy some cocktails at The Cavern in Lan kwai fong (LKF)...this place is truly recommended by Packan..for its lovely atmosphere..the awesome band...and the sheer high energy!!

LKF is serioursly hands down the best nite-life area ever...and definitely beats Singapore any day!!

To sum up..day 2 was simply exhilarating fun!!!

Stay tuned for Day 3...

My Latest Song Syndrome

2007-10-04T23:26:00.000+08:00

Hi Guys..this song is just awesome and is No. 1 on Packan's charts for nearly 2 weeks now...

Here it is...1234 by Feist

My Escape to Hongkong: Day I

2007-10-03T17:00:00.000+08:00

So now that I have uploaded my snaps from my awesome new camera..let me teleport you back to Hongkong and share some of those wonderful moments spent there...

Friday was a bit free-n-easy..

Took the Airport Express to Central..easiest and most comfortable way to get to the heart of the city!!

Had a nice lunch at Pret a Manger...then just roamed around through the streets in Central..which reminds me so much of lower Manhattan...seriously Hong kong is like an Asian New york..bustling with people..buzzing with activity..and a strong energy floating in the air..

In the evening went to the Peak with Lehmunade..luckily it was a clear nite and got some wonderful shots of the Hongkong skyline...

after that is was time for some exotic Lebanese at Marouche in Soho...the food here is fabulous!!..remember to try the pita with hummus n goat cheese...

Stay tuned for Day 2!!

I LOVE Hongkong

2007-10-01T19:36:00.000+08:00

Reporting from waiting lounge of Hongkong Airport:

Spent four fabulous days in HKG n I am so in love with tis place..

Thanks Lehmunade for all the great time in this great city...

Stay Tuned for the hkg logs....

Its the time of our lives

2007-09-28T15:50:00.000+08:00

Reporting from seat 5f of flight 3k 691:

Hong kong really captivated me ever since my last visit in March 2006..it is vibrant..it is lively..it is exciting...especially after dull drab monotonous Singapore...
I have always wanted to back and explore it more..comb through the streets..try more exotic food..and finally my Portkey has arrived..thanks to Lehmunade providing for the accommodation in Central HKG!! and JetStar for cheap airfare..I am off to Hongkong for the weekend..

There's so much to do..and so little time..maybe I should seriously contemplate relocating to this urban haven...

Update from Pacific Coffee in Admirality:

Yup...The Packan has Landed...
Flight was quite uneventful...immigration took some time..as usual the lady was scrutinising every single page of the blue passport...
Got my Octopus card..and took the quick and comfortable Airport Express to Hongkong...then a quick hop to the MTR to Quarry bay to met Lehmunade...

I feel elated!! I feel high!! I love this city!!!

Gonna go to the Peak later with Lehmnade...

Stay Tuned...

My Top 5 Reasons for loving Bangkok

2007-09-23T15:21:00.000+08:00

yup..it is vibrant..it is exciting...it is buzzing with people...it is Bangkok!!!

and here's why I love it....

1. The overwhelming hospitality...(at the JW Marriott)

2. The fabulous Thai food....with all the tom yams..and the seafood!!!

3. MBK!! This place never ceases to surprise me...from its cheap DVDs...to even the iPhone!!! yup..u can get it rite here...fully unlocked and with 1 yr apple care...got to try it out..and it is just awesome!!!

4. The nite markets..yup..this place is packed with them..and they r quite good too...

5. The kind ever polite people....

The only reason I dread the place....the pain staking visa on arrival at Suvanrnabhumi airport...it is pathetic!! took me 2 hours to get the visa!!

This world is getting smaller...

2007-09-23T00:38:00.000+08:00

and smaller....especially when..

1. You have fabulous breakfast in Bangkok
2. late lunch in Singapore
and...
3. wonderful bbq dinner in Bintan, Indonesia....

all on the same day!!!

My Bookrific Journey

2007-09-11T11:29:00.000+08:00

Got Tagged by Lehmunade....

Book that changed my life – Not sure about this one...I think every book I read affects me someway...so cant really pin to any single book...

Book you’ve read more than once – Harry Potter and Goblet of Fire...I just love it!!

Book you would take to a deserted island – Lord of the Rings!!!

Book that made you laugh – Russian Disco, Wladimer Kaminer

Book that made you cry – Stay Alive; My son, Pin Yathay

Book you wish you had written – The Caliph's House: A year in Casablanca, Tahir Shah

Book(s) you wish had never been written – hmmm..havent really come across any...too picky on wat I choose to read!

Book you’re currently (re) reading – Five Point Someone, Chetan Bhagat

Book you’ve been meaning to read – A Suitable Boy...after hearing so many praises from Lehmunade...I wish it weren't so bulky to carry!!

Book you have been meaning to finish - An Argumentative Indian, Amartya Sen

Guys..go ahead and Tag yourself...just leave a comment so that I can read your posts :)

My New Thing of Beauty

2007-09-07T10:36:00.000+08:00

...which will definitely be a Joy for at least a few years..

**Trumpets please**
I am the proud owner of the Panasonic DMC FX-100...yup it is my new gizmo...my new Muggle-Pensive!

After sacrificing the old one to the waters of Phi Phi..the COMEX show was just wat I needed to fill the void of my faithful Nikon Coolpix...

This new camera is just awesome..not only does it look great..it also has some great features like 12 mega pixels..and wide angle lens...

So...all I need now is to travel to new exotic places and eternalise them with my new Black Beauty...(ok..i know..this sounds too far out there)

My New Broken Record

2007-09-06T14:44:00.000+08:00

Guys!!

check out the updated Broken Record on the sidebar featuring....

1. Wamdue Project: King of my Castle (Thanks to Lehmunade for reminding me about this...)

2. Mika: Love Today

3. Dirty Dancing: Time of my Life

Enjoy!!!

Where is my Ratatouille?

2007-09-03T09:52:00.000+08:00

Pixar has done it again...after Finding Nemo...The Incredibles...it is now time to escape to Paris with our excellent chef..Remy

A fantastic movie with great humour..and a brilliant concept...

Guys..do catch this flick!!

My Escape to Paradise: Part II

2007-08-21T14:03:00.000+08:00

Day 1:
The first day was spend idling on Karon beach...playing with the waves...soaking in the sun...and to top it all..building a sand castle complete with moats..escpae tunnels and pyramids...

Karon Beach

Lunch..Thai food..awesome as always!! loved the chicken with basil...
After lunch..we set off for Kata..the beach is truly magnificent..and definitely more picturesque than Karon...but we didnt stay too long as Lehmunade was dying to look for 'Island Suits' to get some suits made...so after traversing Kata road for a few times..making a few calls with help of the 7-11 lady..we managed to track the place down...as Artanis and Lehmunade let their imaginations run wild...we head off to quite a seedy looking pub..had some drinks..played darts...
After a few hours..and completely revampin their wardrobes...Artanis and Lehmunade joined us and off we went to get some food...and tis time it was pizza!!

Day 2:
Time for Phi phi!!!

got up really early..had a quick breakfast..and off we were to the ferry terminal..to board the 'Sea Voyager II' to Phi phi...and after 2 hours we were greeted by:
"Welcome everybody, everybody this is Phi Phi Don. Phi Phi don is something something sq km in size...blah...blah..blah" **to be recited in nasal tone..again and again**

Phi Phi!!

got tranfered to another boat and took a ride along phi phi leh (little phi phi)...this is the place with the famouse Maya beach..which we could not see!! cause of apparently turbulent waters near it!!
Tip: Guys...Rent a small boat at phi phi..dont go on the big ones...the small boats actually take u inside all the bays...

so we anchored near Monkey beach.(ne guesses why it is called so....duh..there are many monkeys on the beach!!)
enjoyed Snorkeling!!! wow...the number of fish was truly amazing...a wonderful experience...

after lunch..wadled around on phi phi beach..which believe me..is the most fabulous place ever..with clear waters..and lovely sand..could be there forever...

Waddling at phi phi

Another Tip: Never carry camera when you are waddling in the sea...

After arriving back in phuket..we went down to patong to check out the night scene..ended up in a mexican pub..with good music and 150 types of margaritas!!!

Stay tuned for more....

My Escape to Paradise: Part I

2007-08-15T14:31:00.000+08:00

Time for another holiday!!! **finally**

and this time the chosen destination was the Paradise Island of Phuket...

so with the glorious company of Lehmunade, Artanis, Snape and Voldy...we set out to the Budget Terminal to hop on our Tiger Airways flight to Phuket...
Guys...tiger is quite good..and comfortable...except for the fact that a bottle of water costs 3 dollars!!

so after a short flight of 90 mins..we landed at Phuket...
first impressions...the airport is quite clean..visa too didnt take too long...but finding a cab is a bit tricky..so best to arrange pickup with your hotel...

Baan Karonburi...the chosen hotel..sits smack opposite Karon beach...the location is just fantastic as it is just a short ride away from bustling Patong but still far away to enjoy the beach all to yourself....the rooms are good...and food is also decent...

Stay tuned for Day 1...

Mera Bharat Mahan

2007-08-15T14:22:00.000+08:00

It is time to reflect on the past...celebrate our accomplishments today...and plan for better tomorrow...

Happy 60th!!!

and there shall be no more....

2007-07-26T23:41:00.000+08:00

Thanks Mdm Rowling for this wonderful journey...it has finally hit me...and hit me hard..there will be no more adventures....no more escapades..stuck in the Muggle land forever!!!

Stay tuned for more posts...

I got Tagged

2007-07-11T15:24:00.000+08:00

Here are the rules:
1. Players start with 5 random facts about themselves.
2. Those who are tagged should post these rules and their 5 random facts.
3. Players should tag 5 other people and notify them they have been tagged.

So here are some very interesting facts about me...

a. I love to travel..I spend almost half hour everyday reading travelogues and on wikitravel...all I need is a long leave and I will be off!!

b. I know that I plan too much...I organise too much...but I just can't stop!!! The OCD in me is kicking alive!!

c. I cannot ever eat outside alone! or go to a movie alone!! I always need company...I just find it too embarrassing!!

d. I love to PARTY!! (and organise them...oh god..i am back to organising!)

e. I love my friends..but I am very picky on who enters my "friend zone"

wow..that is not an easy post!!

People...go ahead and tag yourself...

My New Mood Elevator

2007-05-30T15:01:00.000+08:00

You work hard whole day...you study hard over the evenings and weekends...throughout the year...
then you take a long study break to digest the humongous intake of information and then finally you try to get it all out of your system in the never-ending exams...

so..after the exams..you definitely need to recharge..you need to rejuvenate..

and the perfect solution is to reward yourself for your efforts...get something which will make you happy..lift your spirits..(Caution: side effects may include empty wallets and maggi mee for months)

This is exactly what has happened here...
so here is my new Mood Elevator...The Nokia N80 (trumpets please)

This is a wonder gizmo...I just love it..can surf the net using any wireless network..can play your favorite bad music..record memories with the wonderful camera..and on top of it it also works as a phone!!

so wat r u waiting for...get one today!!

PS: Lehmunade..this therapy technique does work..you might need it next week...

My Blog Revival

2007-05-29T09:32:00.000+08:00

Yes...it is time for another revival...

This time the silence can be perfectly justified...the culprit were the Exams which are now over!!!

so..stay tuned..and watch this space for more and more happenings in my life...

My Wait

2007-03-29T13:56:00.000+08:00

The date has been announced: 21 July 2007...

The book artwork has been released....

The Pre-Orders have started... (at popular, borders, kinokuniya)

so now all we do is WAIT!!!

US Cover

UK Cover

So guys...any views/plots based on the covers....

My New Broken Record

2007-03-19T20:44:00.000+08:00

I just can't get this song out from my head...it has always been my favorite!!

Eddy Grant with Gimme hope Jo'anna is one of the greatest songs inspiring people against the Apartheid regime...

here are the lyrics:

Well Jo'anna she runs a country
She runs in Durban and the Transvaal
She makes a few of her people happy, oh
She don't care about the rest at all
She's got a system they call apartheid
It keeps a brother in a subjection
But maybe pressure can make Jo'anna see
How everybody could a live as one

(Chorus:)
Gimme hope, Jo'anna
Hope, Jo'anna
Gimme hope, Jo'anna
'Fore the morning come
Gimme hope, Jo'anna
Hope, Jo'anna
Hope before the morning come

I hear she make all the golden money
To buy new weapons, any shape of guns
While every mother in black Soweto fears
The killing of another son
Sneakin' across all the neighbours' borders
Now and again having little fun
She doesn't care if the fun and games she play
Is dang'rous to ev'ryone

(Chorus)

She's got supporters in high up places
Who turn their heads to the city sun
Jo'anna give them the fancy money
Oh to tempt anyone who'd come
She even knows how to swing opinion
In every magazine and the journals
For every bad move that this Jo'anna makes
They got a good explanation

(Chorus)

Even the preacher who works for Jesus
The Archbishop who's a peaceful man
Together say that the freedom fighters
Will overcome the very strong
I wanna know if you're blind Jo'anna
If you wanna hear the sound of drums
Can't you see that the tide is turning
Oh don't make me wait till the morning come

(Chorus)

ENJOY THE SONG IN THE SIDEBAR!!!

My Mission

2007-03-12T17:54:00.000+08:00

Look out people!! I am out on a mission....

Ne person lurking around with Windows...watch out!! I will soon convert you to Mac!!

so far the success rate has been astounding...most recent convert Lehmunade will proudly elaborate on this!!

Let the exodus begin!

My New Love

2007-02-09T13:41:00.000+08:00

well..this post is actually quite overdue...

Ladies and Gentlemen...I am in LOVE!! I am Obsessed!! I am Crazy!! I am heed over heels!!

...with my new MacBook.....***hehe..got u all excited...didnt I?***

so..that clears 1 item from my Froogle list..but dont worry..there are several more there...in case u r wondering wat to get for me..

Seriously...life with the Mac is so much better than having the constant problems with my old PC..there are NO more worries...about the millions of infesting viruses...about the constant message of "Do you wanna send an Error Report"...and no more worries of the blue screen of terror!!

Things just work so beautifully on the Mac...i am surprised!!! how does it work so well..how cme it so much more user friendly and so intuitive...okok..Mr. Steve hasn't paid me a cent to write this blog....but Seriously...why did I wait so long to make the switch!! I wonder....

So people..time to move on and live in the world of Mac where life is peaceful and you can actually cherish every moment with your best companion today...ur laptop...ur MacBook!!!

My Agenda

2007-01-22T14:19:00.000+08:00

2007 is gonna be THE year for adventure!!

I turn 25 this year!! and seriously it is high time..I do something adventurous and live it up!!

So how do I plan to do this...after deep pondering I have come up with this agenda...

1. Consider a New Career!!
I think this is the most challenging step!! **Really??**
But..I need a change!! I need a break from this daily routine...what I am looking for is a new inspiration..a new meaning..a new direction...

2. Go on an Adventure!!
seriourly...I think this is the best way to Recharge urself..
I love to travel..so this year is gonna be all about new travels and adventures in mystic places of this earth...
So with the lovely company of NMK and Lehmunade..I have decided to go on a Trans-Siberian adventure...Beijing to St. Petersburg by train...with pit stops in Ulan Batur, Irkutsk and Moscow...wow!! now this is an Adventure!!!

3. Learn a New Language!!
after german and japanese..I think it is now time to learn another new language..wat shud it be?? I am thinkin of either Spanish (love the way it sounds) or Russian (will be useful for my Trans-sib)...

4. Give the GMAT!!
ya..it is time to think of the future as well..especially when it is time to move on...(from sgpore)..so it is high time i plan for further studies and the first step..is to give the GMAT...so gotto start preparing!!

5. Finally..this year..I am gonna live every day to its fullest!!!!
so 2007...here I come!!!

My Silence

2007-01-18T22:17:00.000+08:00

Hi guys,

first off..Wishing you all a Happy New Year!!

sorry for the silence..but i have just been so busy...Dec was a lot of travel..2 trips to thailand for work and then a vacation in India...which was good and short as always!!!

neways..stay tuned...and watch out for new posts over the weekend..

Cheers!!!

My Khmer Adventure: Part II

2006-11-05T15:29:00.000+08:00

So after a very thrilling day one..we were really looking forward to day two..as today was when we were going to see one of man's greatest creations: The Angkor Wat
As our tuk-tuk approached the temple complex..i could actually feel the atmosphere building up...it was so electric..finally i was going to see Angkor!!
hmmm...it is really difficult to describe the Angkor..i am absolutely speechless..it is heaven!! the ancient khmers really have built a heaven on earth...

Magnificent Angkor

The whole temple complex is surrounded by a huge moat for protection..and has four entrances facing the four direction...the complex took 35 years to build with 4 million people working on it..and it is still incomplete..they stopped the temple construction when the king passed away as they had lost their inspiration...the king was finally laid to rest in the secret chamber in one of the towers...

Splash of Orange

Second Level of Angkor

Long passsges...

The Architecture is just too good..the carvings are in so fine detail..most of the carving are stories from the Ramayana(fight against Ravana, fight between Sugriv and Bali, Hanuman's visit to Lanka) and Mahabharat (Kurukshetra war)..and other stories like the Sagar Manthan (churning of the ocean)...the temple originally was a Vishnu temple..and later a Buddhist temple...there are 3 levels and the steps are really steep!!!

It took us the whole day to see the temple complex..after that we went to see the entrance gate to Angkor Thom (temple city)...this is another complex where people actually stayed..even the kong stayed in Angkor Thom....the main entrace gate is really impressive...again depicting the sagar-manthan (seems to be the favorite story !!)
After this thrilling and rather exhausting day..we headed over tp Pub street in siem reap to chill out...found a lovely Irish pub with some good drinks and food...
Perfect end to a perfect day...

My Khmer Adventure: Part I

2006-10-23T20:09:00.000+08:00

So it was time for another quick vacation..and this time the Chosen Land was the mystic land of Cambodia...
I have always been fascinated with architecture..lets just say that it runs in my blood..and I was really looking forward to see the grandeur that is Angkor...At the same time..in the past few years I have been so fascinated with Cambodia and its brutal past with the Khmer Rouge...I have spent hours on the net and reading books about this genocide...that I just wanted to go there..to see it for myself...
On a side note here are some recommended reads on Khmer Rouge:
1. Daughter of the Killing Fields: Theary C. Seng
2. Stay Alive, My Son: Pin Yathay

So thanks to cheap budget airlines aka. Jet Star Asia...we set for the Siem Reap..our gateway to this magical kingdom...
First Impressions:
1. The airport was surprisingly wonderful
2. The place was so calm and serene surrounded with lush paddy fields
3. The people has such wonderful smiles
Our stay during this adventure was at this fantastic, cosy, comfortable villa: The Villa Siem Reap..the place is just too good..it is run by 2 australians who moved to siem reap a few years ago...Guys..pls stay here if u plan to go..it is worth it and is also centrally loacted!!

Day 1:
we just had half of the day on Day 1...so after a quick lunch at the villa...we made our way with Mr. Hao and his tuk-tuk to the 'Cambodian Cultural village'...this is good starting point...as you get oriented with different khmer cultures..their history at the wax museum..and the lifestyle of the people...
After that, we made our way to the 'Mine Museum'..this is a must see..it is an informal museum..and all the mines found in the siem reap area are kept here for exhibit...lot of areas in the countryside are still over-run by these mines...and a huge amount of effort is underway to clear all the mines...it is just so shocking to see all the mines and read about the horrific stories of people and theie conquest over this hidden enemy!!

Grim Reality!!

After this rather horrific emotional experience...we made our way to get our Angkor passes..you need these to visit any of the temples..we got a 3 day pass...
Tip: on your first day, get the pass after 4:30 which gives you free entry on that day...

Since we had free entry for that evening..we went to the hilltop temples of Phnom Bakheng..the view from the top is awesome..and you can catch the sunset over the Tonle sap lake with the angkor wat in the distance...just too good for words!!! and to make it ever more magical..it was drizzling slightly and the sky was blessed with a lovely rainbow stretching till the horizon...

Sunset at Phnom Bakeng

It was indeed a fabulous start to this adventure!!!

Watch out for Day 2...

My Hopping Around

2006-10-17T16:16:00.000+08:00

Hi guys...let me start off with my usual apology for not writing sooner...wat to do..life is like that only...I really haven't had the time

so I came back from Thailand work trip...and off I went to Cambodia for a 4 day holiday..and it was exactly wat i needed...the place is so good..and the Angkor temples are just too incredible to put into words...(will write more on this Khmer adventure in future posts)

so after my indiana jones adventure in Siem Reap..I came back to sgpore..to find myself so engrossed with work..that didnt even have the time to breathe at a snail's pace....
Off I went to Thailand again...and this time to the new airport..with a new government in the country (after the coup)...and the lovely Pahd Thai

Now I am back in sgpore for a while...charring my lungs with the horondous haze which has shrouded the sun for days!! It feels as if Sauron has sent his shadow over singapore and preparing for the final assault...(ok.ok..have been watching too much of lotr)

Neways..watch out for more posts on my Cambodian adventure...

My trip to Tom Yum Land

2006-09-14T12:27:00.000+08:00

Sawadaee Kap!!

Last week I got the wonderful opportunity to go to the vacation/holiday country that is Thailand for Work!!
So off to the land of Rama IX and its abode: Bangkok..the last time I had been there was a long long time ago and man.. has the city changed drastically!!!

Immediate Observations:
1. All that one can see are the long surpentine flyovers which offer a huge relief from the snarled traffic under them...(there is a toll to use the flyovers)
2. The other thing you can see are the thousands of potraits of the king and queen adorning every building, monument...
3. The people seem to be sooo polite as if all of them have attended some freaking Finishing school..really impressive..and I am telling you this gets to u..and u will start doin the same 'namaskar' when you meet someone...
4. The land (and the waters around it) is blessed with abundance of Shrimp...every food item is loaded with shrimp..and not small ones..big king prawns!! wow!!!

Really enjoyed the 5 days I spent there...
Will write a detailed account of my trip soon...

On another note:
Has anyone tried the new Blogger beta?? Is it wise to convert to it??

My KANK Syndrome

2006-08-14T17:58:00.000+08:00

Yes..I have been diagnosed with this awful brain disorder..people beware!!!..this virus is spreading faster than the bird flu...experts have finally been able to pin-point the cause for this pandemic..and it is watching 3hrs 20mins of Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna...

Like bees attracted to honey..we were lured into watching this movie...and it turned out not so sweet...and i think it is definitely time for KJ to say alvida to film-making..

The movie is definitely quite bold in its topic and certainly will usher in a new era in hindi films..we must give credit to KJ for that...also certainly a grand applause for Preity who is certainly at her best..also great job by Abhishekh and obvioulsy Amitabh..(like father..like son!!)

After the movie I had so many questions in my mind:
1. For Rani: Why are you perenially sad? How do you cry so much? How do you not get dehydrated?? Can you teach ur how to cry? Are you mutant who gets her daily water intake by soaking in the rain?
To replenish your tear stock..we have launched the 'Replenish Tears' programme..where donations of 100 plus, mineral water can be made here or here...which will be then delivered to you..

2. For SRK: Why are you so grumpy? Why are you still acting? Why are you a child abuser?
For you..I think there is no solution..you are a lost case...pls retire now!!

3. For Rani and SRK: Why do you like 'blue'? Why do you dance in different colours when you like only 'blue'?
hmmm..wat to say abt this...ppl tell me why do they like blue!!!

4. For KJ: Do you get any commission for shooting in New York? Are you in love with the Brooklyn bridge? Do you have any creativity left? did you shoot this movie during 'kal ho na ho' itself?
come on...your freaking movie is so similar to ur last one!! get a life!! i think it is seriously time for you to consider other professions...i really worry for u..as i think ur life maybe in threat after ppl see this movie...

A final prayer:
Hope a cure for this KANK syndrome is developed fast before it causes crtical brain damage!!
God save the world!!

My New Record

2006-08-03T00:20:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the lack of updates..Again!!!

Have been too busy with work and then classes in the evening!!
Just added a new record in the 'My Broken Record' section..another lovely song..'Edge of the Ocean' by Ivy..again thanks to Grey's Anatomy for this..

Thanks to venkat as well for recommending this...

My Shock!!

2006-07-12T01:26:00.000+08:00

7 bomb blasts in Mumbai..and 2 of them right in Khar and SantaCruz!!! I am seriously shocked!!

I hope that there are not too many casualties!! and pray for the safety of all Mumbaikars!!
This is a sad day in our history and it is time we take proper action and not just moan over it and proclaim that it is a cowardly act of terrorism...it is time to DO SOMETHING!!

My Today and Tomorrow

2006-07-02T19:21:00.000+08:00

Today is the day I landed in this tiny island state 6 years ago!! I have absolutely no idea how time has gone by...absolutely no idea what I have done in this time..absolutely no idea on what I am goin to do...
SO is it time to celebrate?? or is it time to brood over the past?? or is it time to conjure some master plan to leave this land and look into the future??
I HAVE NO IDEA!!!

Tomorrow is the day one of my close friends leaves us all to seek new adventures in a new land..I wish my friend all the success and all the luck!! I want to thank my friend for being there always..for accompanying me on long walks around NIE..for lovely 4 years in university and for being such a good friend..
I will really miss you!!

SO life goes on...and you never know what tomorrow has in store for you...so live every day to the fullest
(y the hell am i so senti today!!)

My journey continues to Ellesmera

2006-06-08T12:49:00.000+08:00

After my first encounter with Eragon...I was so anxious to get hold of the second book in this amazing trilogy...

'Eldest' is just too good for words..the story just turns more and more interesting as u flip the pages..and it is certainly one of those books which you just cannot put down till you have finished the entire thing!!

Only problem now...I have to wait till 2007 for the last book in the series and the anxiety is just killing me!!

I always tend to day dream...(I think Pisceans r known for it)..and for the past few days since I finished this masterpiece..the only thing in my mind is how I wish I were an elf...(i thought about this after LOTR as well)...there is something just so noble about elves!!
I think each one of us loves to run away to some fantasy land..escape from reality..I think my fantasy land is certainly Alagaesia or even Middle Earth..

here's something for all of u to think about...where would you escape to? and what would u like to be?
ohh...reality sucks...

Why the silence?

2006-05-31T15:10:00.000+08:00

It has happened again...once again I seem to have gone into my hibernation and not updated all u guys with my new thoughts and happenings...
well..some say silence is golden...but I think...silence is just a manifestation of my boredom..silence is just a side-product of my non-happening existence for the past few weeks...I need some medicine...i need a 'Josh' stab....and i think it is finally here!!!

so many things to do!! need to watch Xmen, Fanaa...drool over the wonderful gizmos at the PC show at suntec over the coming weekend!! I think a nice Macbook will certainly end all my misery :)

ahh..it feels so good to break the silence....

My journey with Eragon

2006-05-08T19:36:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the lack of updates..but have been quite busy...not just with office work..but with time I spent in Alagaesia!!
Guys..do check out this amazing book by Christopher Paolini...'Eragon' is the first book in a three part series called the Inheritance Triology...

If you are a huge fan of Harry Potter..or if you arecrazy about the Lord of the Rings...u will surely love this!!! Some might find it a bit similar to LOTR..but it is surely a great read!! Dragons, Elves, Dwarfes, Men...its all there!
For some book reviews go here

Can't imagine the author was only 15 when he wrote this masterpiece...

PS: Thanks to Venkat for introducing me to this magical world of Alagaesia...

My Hongkong trip: Part 3

2006-04-18T20:12:00.000+08:00

Day 2:
From the beginning…we knew that this day was goin to be really hectic..and so we needed all the energy we could muster…so a good breakfast was a must!!

Found this really amazing coffee shop next to our hotel and they had the most amazing French Toasts ever!! The secret ingredient..peanut butter between the two slices and lots of honey..
So off we were for another adventurous day…

Agenda:

1. Wong Tai Sin Temple: This is the Temple of Luck in the heart of Kowloon and has become a must-visit for everyone who comes to hongkong…it is ‘the’ place to get your fortune read and unravel the future…
Everyone who goes there is given a canister of bamboo stick which are numbered….so you close you eyes and shake-shake-shake till one falls down…so you take that one to the fortune teller who will then pick out a paper with the same number and answer 1 question for you…
and wat was my question…’how will be my career in the next 1 year’..turns out a picked a chit which told a story of a general who faced hardship for a long time..but in the end was very successful!!
So in simple words…I am going to suffer a lot and face a lot of obstacles but in the end will have rivers flowing with milk and honey….

Is today my lucky day?

2. Temple of 10,000 Buddhas: Next stop was this amazing temple..I had read about in my hongkong bible…we made our way to Sha Tin in the New Territories..and tried to find our way to the temple…I knew it was on a hill..with about 500 steps leading upto it…we found a temple-kind of place..and went all the way up…only to realize that we had landed at the wong place..it was actually a Memorial for the dear-departed..oops!!
So down we went and finally took the right steps to the temple…the walk up is really interesting with sculptures of monks all the way up…
The temple was so serene and peaceful..felt like out of this world!! The main temple is really amazing…inside the temple..all along the walls..are small effigies of more than 10,000 buddhas..really very unique!

Potrayal of Emotions

Buddhas lining the walls

3. Repulse Bay: After a late lunch..we went back to hongkong island..and took a bus from Central to Repulse Bay…this is on the south side of hongkong..and is really a contrast to the buzz in central…as it is made up of beautiful beaches..long promenades hugging the south china sea..and the wonderful mountains in the backdrop..oh I wish I had a house in one of the wonderful condos along the sea!!

The breath-taking Bay

4. Stanley Market: This is an open air market on the south side of hongkong…and you get all possible souveniors..and kinck knacks..we were a bit late and the place was closing already…but still managed to get some beautiful water colour paintings of hongkong

5. Wan Chai and Causeway: This is one of the most lively places ever!! The streets were packed..the shops were glittering with all gizmo lights…and the atmosphere was just so electric!! We also ran into a anti-WTO protest march…quite interesting…Had some nice pork dim sums for dinner..while my veggie friends stared at me..

Hustle-bustle in Wan Chai

Here comes the Tram!

6. Avenue of Stars: It was quite late by now..we took the MTR back to Tsim Sha Tsui to go back to hotel…but on the way went to this beautiful promenade facing the harbour with the tall buildings of Central in the backdrop…was a bit misty..but still enjoyed the spectacular views of Hongkong

My Hongkong trip: Part 2

2006-04-03T20:32:00.000+08:00

Day 1:

Caught the early morning to HongKong .. JetStarAsia was really quite good.. as each hour went by.. my excitement was rising..and finally after 3 hours we landed at HongKong Airport..being a budget airline we acutally got down on the tarmac..and were greeted with a nice chil air..it was such a nice relief from sulty sgpore!!..the airport itself was just amazing..it is so huge..only downer...the immigration just took too long!!
Once we were in the Arrival Hall..we got our Octopus cards..very similar to Ez-link..but much better as it is used more extensively in all shops as well!! Got the free coach for our hotel transfer...and planned our agenda for the day...

Agenda:
1. Cover Central District: This is the heart of Hongkong with all the financial centres housed in majestic sky scrapers..in addition it is also a historic district..with all the old British administrative buildings with their magnificent facades..the whole area is really impressive!!

Legislative Assembly

Towering Bank of China

Walkways on upper level!!

The new and the old..what a contrast!!

2. After roaming around in Central..we had to book our ferry tickets for Macau..so did that..and then off we went to the famous Victoria Peak..we took the tram..and god it goes steep..nearly like a 40deg angle!! the view from top aws really breath-taking..on one side is the whole central area..with the bay in the background..while on the other side is the quiet south hongkong and the open south china sea...
and it was really freezing up there..but felt better once we got some hot coffee and donuts!! We stayed till dark..to catch the night view of hongkong..and this is one sight you cannot miss!!

Up and away!! in the tram...

Sunset over the South China sea

The VIEW!!!

3. It was alreay quite late by now..so we made our way to Lan Kwai Fong..this is the place to be in the night..it is packed with pubs..restaurants..people are literally just spilling out on the streets..having drinks..chatting..partying and living it up!!

Finally we took the ferry across the bay...back to Tsim Sha Tsui..to our hotel..to call it a night..

The day had been just awesome!!!

Day 2 coming soon....

My Hongkong trip: Part 1

2006-04-01T15:51:00.000+08:00

Yup..it has already been 3 weeks since I got back from Hongkong and today I finally have the time to share my adventures with all of you...

Planning:
A lot of preparations went into this trip..I believe that when you are goin to a new place..it is always wise to research the place fully in advance so that u know exactly wat u have to do once u r there...plus as you read more...the more excited you get..and the more fun you have!!!

Got this wonderful book from Borders.."City Guide:Hongkong and Macau" and this was literally the bible for me..it is so good..really if u r planning a trip..do get this!!
The next thing was to find a good fare and a good hotel..and the winners were..for the flight:JetStar Asia and for the stay: Hotel Kimberely..right in the middle of Tsim Sha Tsui..and the right agent for all this was "Holiday Bagus"

So after all the planning..I finally set out for hongkong with Aye Kay, NMK and another friend..Oh and what a trip it was!!!

Stay tuned for Day 1 of the trip....

My new Hobby

2006-03-21T13:17:00.000+08:00

I am back from Hongkong..and the trip was just awesome..detailed account and pics will be posted soon...

but for the time being I have discovered a new hobby, all thanks to Orkut!!
wow...this is just an amazing thing...have spent hours looking up for old school friends...and was really glad to find them and chat with them after so many years...

I know there are many similar websites like batchmates, friendster...but this Orkut is too good..very simple to use..and I love the scrap-book concept..

Do try it out..if you need invites let me know..

so happy Orkuting and happy scrapping!!!

My spring break..yohooo!!

2006-03-09T13:18:00.000+08:00

Yup it is spring again..time really flies..last year I celebrated spring in Austin..
and this year I shall celebrate in Hong Kong!!!

So I am off to Hong kong tomo for 5 fun-packed days..of roaming the great city...trying the exotic food...and obvioulsy gettin some good bargains..

Hong Kong here I come!!

How do I give up Chicken?

2006-02-22T15:56:00.000+08:00

With the bird flu taking a grip over the world..I had resolved a few weeks ago not to lay hands on my primary means of sustainance in sgpore..my feathery friend..the chicken.
But in this country..where veg food = some leaves boiled in water..it has been really hard to get good veg food around (unless i go down to some indian rest.)

So was thinking today of what to do..to solve my predicament..
1. return to my so-called diet..which will just solve all problems
2. carry a thermometer to all places and check if the chicken is cooked above 70degC
3. substitute daily meal with mock chicken
4. and finally relish my favorite seafood...

I think #4 seems to be the most convineant thing to do...so ppl..remember if u r calling me for lunch/dinner..i wud love some prawn curry with some tandoori pomfret..and maybe chilly crabs...
thank thy lord for giving me this opportunity to express my love for seafood!!

My Disbelief

2006-02-06T19:42:00.000+08:00

Wow!! I am really amazed by the amount of damage caused by a handful of Danish cartoons..I just cannot fathom the fact that these cartoons have now led to massive violence and tremendous economic damage!!

I have no problem in people believing in something or being a staunch follower of some faith...but what seems to have happened over the years..is that..this faith has got disillusioned...it has now become a weapon for violence!!

I agree that freedom of expression and free speech comes with a responsibility and I also agree that in this case the boundary for this has been overlooked....but even then...there is simply No excuse for what is happening all around us today...everyone has the right to protest and uphold their values but that doesnot mean that one turns to violence to do that..

I think it is high time people realise that it is because of such ridiculous behaviour and ignorant fatwas...that led the caricaturists to draw the cartoons in the first place!!
By protesting violently all they are doing is simply adding fuel to the fire...

So do protest and be commited to your faith but do it Peacefully...after all we have to share the same world for eternity...

Part II: My dream job

2006-01-24T22:44:00.000+08:00

After my last post...I was thinking a lot on what my dream job wud be..I definitely know that I need a job which is very dynamic and not the same old 'staring at the computer for 8 hours' kind of job..
So here is my dream list

1. Work as an Anchor for Globe Trekker: I just love to travel and what better job than be a travel show host...I have spent hours tuned to Discovery travel and living watching this awesome series...It is definitely not like any other travel show..but has a lot of adventure and creativity involved in it...
I have always had a passion to explore and interact with different cultures...so this is right channel for it...

2. Architecture/Interior Design: With my whole family in this line..I have often been asked why didn't I go for it too..but back then..when I had to make a decision..I thought that I should be doing something new and different from everyone in the house!!
Anyways I have always had a strong inclination for this..lets just say it runs in my 'blood' and will definitely help me develop and nurtue my creative side...

3. Archeologist/Historian: with the amount of research I have done on Egyptian and Byzantine civilisation..I have developed a strong interest in this field..it is the excitement of uncovering ancient mysteries and coming up with theories which has truly captivated me...

4. Work in Disney: This has been my dream job since I was 5...always wanted to work in the animation studio...but after a horrible professor for Computer Graphics in NTU..lets just say my strong incline for this has sublimed...strange how things can change...but even then I wud still like the chance to work in the creative team with Disney...

so thats my list...put down on paper finally....
so what is the next step? what is the plan of action?? How do I try to make this a reality? is it even possible to do this now?
These are the questions to be answered!!!

Part I: My dream job

2006-01-19T22:15:00.000+08:00

Everyday I get up at 6..push myself from the bed..and somehow manage to get ready..then it is off to the bus stop..take the 197..get off 4 stops later to change to bus 30 and then take a singapur darshan for about an hour..to finally reach near my office..and after another 10 min walk...i have finally made it to my desk!!
Then the day goes by...answering customer mails...doing some project work...drinking coffee a zillion times to keep myself wide awake...and then it is time for lunch...
Off to the same old food courts with office colleagues...thank god I like the food I get there...nave a decent lunch over some good conversation..and before you know it.. its time to get back to work...
The afternoons are the most dreadful..doing some work after a nice lunch is something I find the most difficult thing to do!! I stretch myself..gulp some more coffee...try to figure out the problem in the design...come up with some feasible solution..send again a bunch of emails...
and then finally...it is time to leave....

So finally 1 day of my work life is over and a zillion more to go!!!

Is this my dream job?

My X'mas Tree

2006-01-15T12:10:00.000+08:00

Hi Guys

Sorry for the delay in putting up this pic...now isnt the tree just lovely!!

Enjoy!!

My X'mas Punch

2005-12-22T14:14:00.000+08:00

guys..here's the recipe for the x'mas punch...do try it..it is simply divine!!

Ingredients:
1/2 cup white sugar
2 cups orange juice
2/3 cup lemon juice
1 (4 ounce) jar cherries, with juice
1 (750 milliliter) bottle light rum
1 orange, sliced into rounds
1 lemon, sliced into rounds
1 (8 ounce) can pineapple chunks
1 liter carbonated water(soda)
ice

Directions:
1. In a punch bowl, combine sugar, orange juice, and lemon juice. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add cherries, light rum, orange slices, lemon slices, and pineapple chunks. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavours to blend.
2. Pour in carbonated water, and add ice just before serving.

Cheers!!

Why do I celebrate Christmas?

2005-12-22T13:45:00.000+08:00

I was just telling my office colleague on how excited I was when I bought my xmas tree...
Colleague: so are you a christian?
Packan: No..
Colleague: so are you a catholic?
Packan: in my mind...(huh?? last time i checked the vatican church is one category of the entire christian faith) but neways i still replied: No
Colleague: then why did you get a tree??

This really got me thinking...do i need to declare to the whole world of belonging to a particular faith just so that I can celebrate X'mas....

I celebrate it because it makes my HAPPY..
I love putting up a tree and decorating it..i love getting gifts for all friends..i love singing xmas songs...i love the special x'mas drinks in starbucks...I love the Xmas log cakes(try the one from BakersIn)...I love special Xmas punches..i love the fact that everyone around seems to be in a good mood...I loved getting a gift under my pillow from santa when I was a kid (I still dont mind getting one)...

neways..do tell me why u like xmas??

Tis the season to be Jolly!!
Fa..la.la.la.la..la..lalala

Why do I have to work in December?

2005-12-15T15:54:00.000+08:00

It is that time of the year again...the festive season has started and it is time to celebrate!!!

but work never seems to end...today is definitely one of those days..when you just don't feel like working...actually...now that I think about it..this whole month I have been complaining about going to work...

I seriously think that December should be declared a holiday...how can one put in their best at work when clearly the mood everywhere is to party and have fun!!! I wish someone at the ministy of labour will listen to me...after all don't they need a holiday too!!!

Wat do u think guys...should we all just run away..and truly Live It Up in this joyous month of December??

Do I have a red nose?

2005-12-13T14:47:00.000+08:00

You Are Rudolph

Sweet and shy, you tend to be happiest when you're making someone else happy.

Why You're Naughty: You sometimes stick that nose where it doesn't belong

Why You're Nice: Christmas would be a sad affair without you!

Which of Santa's Reindeer Are You?

My trip to the Tri-Wizard Tournament

2005-11-17T13:29:00.000+08:00

The day finally dawned..and I got to watch the sneak preview for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire..this has always been my favourite book amongst all..and was certainly very anxious to see if the movie did justice to the book..and it did!!

guys..this is the best of all the 4 movies and is definitely THE movie of the year...the effects are just too good..especially the Hungarian Horntail..and the last task in the maze...ya stubborn HP fans will protest about some things being changed or omitted...but after all..I think it is too big a book to fit in 2.5 hours...and we must applaud the director for coming up with a clever screenplay...

Of the new characters...Rita Skeeter is just too good..madame Maxim with her french accent is also awesome!! and thumbs-up to Ralph Fiennes for playing a perfect Voldemort..

Shall write more on the movie later so that I dont spoil the fun for u all...

Go catch this flick today...you will just love it!!!

My Diwali

2005-11-08T22:29:00.000+08:00

Spent this Diwali back home in Bombay after 5 years...and it was just awesome..although the spirit was dampened cause of the recent earthquake and Delhi blasts...the fireworks were still too good!!

Wishing you all a Happy Diwali and a Prosperous New Year!!

Some snaps of fireworks illuminating the Bombay skyline:

My Spanish fiesta

2005-10-11T19:27:00.000+08:00

Saturday night..its party time!!

Clarke quay is one of the most busy places over the weekend..packed with people from all over the world..and I was there too (along with Angelsera and few others)..celebrating a friend's b'day...
Went to this really exotic spanish place called 'Tapas Tree'...the ambience was just too good and the food was yummy and truly something unique..(try the paella and the potato dish..dont remember the name)
but best of all was the live spanish music..i just love the spanish rhythms..the tunes and the beats...and the band was just awesome..performing all famous numbers from lambada...just wish they had a dance floor as well :)

anyways..guys, do check out this place..enjoy the food..the atmosphere and the music!! Ole!!

The Spanish band

My first encounter with a Piano

2005-09-27T15:56:00.000+08:00

I have always wanted to learn some musical instrument...and now with a steady job with currently a "normal" time schedule..i finally have the time to pursue this!!

so now I am taking piano classes..(why piano...well I have always thought that there is a certain grandeur and class in it..and after watching 'the pianist'[yaya..I know it is a horrific film but the piano piece in the end is just awesome]..I have become more inclined to learn to play the piano) and my first class was just last week..I was so excited about this...
The first class was obviously the basics..which might sound really dumb to many..but neverthless I enjoyed it thoroughly...learnt about the keys and reading the wierd shaped notes from the book...now have to practice also!!

Hopefully I will learn enough to play for all of you someday....not as a mozart la but as Packan...

I got Tagged

2005-09-13T16:24:00.000+08:00

well..as usual life in singapore has become a bit of a drag...so something exciting finally now that I got tagged by Angelsera

so here goes...

7 things you plan to do before you die:
1. Go backpacking in Europe especially Italy for its culture, Austria for sound of music, Poland for the concentration camps and Germany for the history
2. Accompany Angelsera to Africa or Latin America for some social work
3. Learn to speak as many languages as possible: Japanese, German, Spanish and maybe Russian
4. Learn ice skating and skiing
5. Take a hot air balloon ride in New Zealand and visit Middle Earth
6. Switch careers maybe to interior design or work in Ikea to design new innovative products
7. Visit my five most fascination countries namely Egypt, Turkey, Afghanistan, Russia, Israel

looks like i want to travel the whole world...:)
I think i need to add one more...
8. Make a schedule/timelime/gnatt chart to do all the above...

7 things you can do:
1. Be always cheerful no matter what happens
2. Be always enthusiastic to go new places and do new things
3. Order too much food and then get help from friends to finish it
4. Become a control freak when it comes to mess in the house
5. Plan to go on diet and lose weight
6. Try drinks with embarrassing names in a bar
7. Think of ways to get sick leave in office

7 things you say most:
1. Aai ga deva!! (Something like Oh God in Marathi)
2. Behave yourself in society
3. Hellooooo..I just cleaned the hall
4. What plans for dinner..lets go out no
5. Put no… (Telling someone to change to a particular TV channel)
6. Ok la..me off to bed
7. Aai ga deva satyanarayana..kuthe re tu!! (Long form of no. 1)

7 things you can’t do:
1. Scold or shout at anyone
2. Forget close friends/relatives birthdays
3. Take up smoking
4. Get upset over petty issues
5. Not avoid making an initial judgment on anyone
6. Keep a secret
7. Be mean to anyone

7 things that attract you:

Don’t know la…too difficult to describe…

7 celebrity crushes:
1. Preity Zinta…obviously!!!
2. Courtney Cox (Monica from friends)
3. Steffi Graf..how can I forget her…
4. Dory from Finding Nemo…love her character
5. Kareena from Kareena Kareena on Zee TV
6. Cameron Diaz
7. The main lead actress from Tru Calling (don’t know her name)

7 people you want to Tag:
1. Lehmunade
2. Blurred Pixels
3. Snowbeak’s Muffler
4. Nimbupani
5. Sayesha
6. Dangerous Beginnings
7. Chewlin

My friend Tut

2005-08-23T15:03:00.000+08:00

well..nothing exciting is currently happening in singapore..so I am gonna take u guys back to US and my trip..

on my way back to singapore, I took a break in san diego..and from there had gone to LA..to see the world famous Tutankhamen collection currently showing at the LACMA

I have always been fascinated by egyption civilisation...and this visit for me was like a trip to meccca...guys..i have absolutely no words to describe the exhibit..it is just too good..and a must-must see if you ever get a chance...it is permanently placed in the Cairo Museum..

The amount of detail in carving and intricate patterns on the gold sarcophagus and other items is just remarkable..this boy pharaoh lived around 1300 BC..and I simply couldnot imagine how people back then were so advanced and had such a good aesthetic sense...the artwork, the stone sculptures, also the old furniture is designed in such fine detail..it is just amazing!!

Anyways...I am just so glad I got this opportunity to see this collection belonging to the incredible Tut.

Tut as king of Lower and Upper Egypt
The famous Tut mask

My return to the La-land

2005-08-23T14:16:00.000+08:00

ya la..i am back to singapore la...:)

it does feel good to be back..meeting all my friends and catching up with them...enjoying nice cheese-less food in the food courts...

but at the same time I now miss the quiet life in Austin..the amazing weather..the picturesque landscapes...and on top of all that..what I miss the most is my car!! back to my EZ-link and "Doors Closing...ta.ta.ta.ta.ta...."

My Adieu to Austin

2005-08-12T04:30:00.000+08:00

Time really flies and it is already six months since I came to Austin. I really enjoyed these six months in the US..learning and working in the office..meeting new people and best of all travelling around and visiting new places.
well...at the same time, now, I am really looking forward to return to the Lion City..eager to look at my new house..meet all my friends..and maybe have some chilli carbs!!

Anyways, I shall always remember and cherish the time I spent in Austin.

My Mumbai

2005-07-30T00:28:00.000+08:00

Sitting here in Austin..helpless...the only thing I can think of is of Mumbai..the city, the people, my friends and relatives and obviously the water!!

Luckily my parents are in Austin too..and were spared from the brunt of the rain gods..but like me..they too are worried on how things are going...

When i was in primary school..we had a downpour(somewhat similar to this) and getting home on that day had taken me 5 hours which normally takes 20 mins by rickshaw...but wat happened on tuesday..3ft of rain fall...is simply unimaginable!!!

I must say I am very proud of all Mumbaikars..who always stand togehter in times of need...have been reading so many stories and emails from friends on how they managed to reach home and how people helped them..hats off to all of them!!!

But I do hope that the BMC will learn from this incident and plan better storm water drainage system..after all a city which pays 40% of the country's tax revenues definitely requires more attenttion and better infrastrucute

I am truly proud to be a Mumbaikar

Our World, Our UN

2005-07-14T03:57:00.000+08:00

As the debate for the expansion of the UN Security Councils gains momentum...let us hope that the G-4 resolution gets the required majority.

It is time for the UN to change..and it is time for India to play a bigger role in shaping the world!!

Here are some snaps I took when I visited the UN headquarters in New york..did you all know that when you enter the complex..you have officially left the US and standing in a land belonging to the 191 member nations...
The tour was quite interesting..got to see a live debate of the UNESCO..saw several gifts given by member nations to the UN..like an ivory sculpture from China..and replica of the Royal Barge from Thailand...
One of my tour members was from Taiwan..and she was certainly disappointed on the fact that Taiwan was been left out..

Anyways heres hoping to a stronger balanced UN!!

UN General Assembly
Security Council (time to order a bigger table)

My unforgettable moment at the MET

2005-07-12T03:39:00.000+08:00

While I was in New York..I went down to the highly acclaimed MET..and it was a trip I shall never forget..
I had earlier got to see a Van Gogh at the Ghetty Museum..that trip, itself was so thrillin...but now in the MET in the Van Gogh gallery..surrounded by magnificent master pieces...I was left totally speechless and sooo excited..cant really put in words what I felt...

The force..the dynamic strokes and the use of thick colour...makes these paintings so mind blowing...truly amazing!!

Here are some of the paintings I got to see:
Cypresses
Vase with Irises
Self Potrait with Straw hat
Wheat Field with Cypresses

My stroll through Central Park

2005-07-12T02:58:00.000+08:00

I would have never imagined a park to be the very heart and soul of a city...till I took a stroll through Central Park...it is so lively with people enjoying small picnics...grabbing a quick bite by the fountain...musicians playing enchanting tunes...artists painting beautiful landscapes...new yorkers bustling thru to reach their destinations and obvioulsy we, tourists admiring all this..

There are so many things to do in the park itself..visit the famous zoo (from Madagascar)..catch a street show by the fountain...take a boat ride in the lake...try the famous new-york hot dogs..and just enjoy the lush green nature all around...

I really enjoyed my walk in Central Park!!

Bethesda Fountain
Lake by the Park
Tree tops with Concrete jungle in the background
In the Park

My God..so much water!!

2005-07-07T06:23:00.000+08:00

Hi guys

I am back from my trip..and it was fantastic!!
My first stop was Niagara Falls in Buffalo, New York...I have never seen anything like it ever...so much water and the force with which it falls..dont really know how to descibe it..it is simply unbelievable...
The Falls are divided into two part the American Falls and the Horse-shoe (Canadian) falls..both look spectacular especially from the Maid of the Mist which takes you right in front of the falls...and you can actually feel the might of the falls as your boat sways up and down...with all the mist coming down on you...
In the night the falls are also illuminated making them look heavenly...and to top it all..there were some awesome fireworks!!!

It certainly is one of nature's best treasures!!

My summer-break

2005-07-02T03:33:00.000+08:00

well..4th July is almost here...and I am off to see the majestic Niagara Falls and the bustling bubblin New York city!! The fireworks in New York are supposed to be spectacular..will try to get some good snaps..

Adieu for now!

My first summer in Austin

2005-06-18T23:17:00.000+08:00

Days are just goin by..and summer is in full swing here in Austin..it is just so relaxing to have a nice coolin swim in the pool..and as the mercury keeps rising the BBQs get goin..pool parties are happening...last night was woken up by people shouting and yelling..got up to see wat was hapenning and wat did i see..a pool party goin on at 2 in the night...Austinites sure do know how to have a good time!!

Anyways...enjoy ppl and have a wonderful summer...for ppl in sgpore have a wonderful year long summer :)

My New Hope

2005-06-18T23:09:00.001+08:00

Wow..with all the excitement of Indian airlines making a mark at the Paris Air show and with IndiGO actually ordering 100 A320's when it has not even started services yet and Kingfisher getting 15 planes including the A380...all I could think of was..I hope flying to Bombay gets cheaper....
I know this looks quite difficult with the all the taxes and ever increasing fuel surcharge...but I shall remain optimistic that the competition itself will drive prices lower...

May the good times roll in!!

The Flying Giant

I like to Move it..move it!!

2005-06-18T23:09:00.000+08:00

Loved this movie..even though the reviews are not the best...

and the best part was obviously the dance number..'I like to move it..i like to move it'...the story line was good too..and the pengiuns really added to the humour...
among the four I really liked Melman the Giraffe...he was so similar to Ross..and who could play it best but Ross himself...

Do catch this flick or I will let the Foosas loose on you :)

New Citizens of Magagascar

My happiest vacation

2005-06-18T23:08:00.000+08:00

Let me start with my usual apology for not writing for some time now...but the work was getting to me..and after going home all I wanted to do..was RELAX...

As most of you know (from previous post)...I was in Orlando over the Memorial Day weekend...and it was definitely a fantastic..adrenalin-rushing..exciting trip!!

Funny thing I noticed here...how Americans have cut down on their public holidays by clubbing everything together...President's Day in Feb is supposed to be for Washington's birthday but now it is for all the Presidents...and Memorial day is for remembering all the wars US has poked its nose into...was thinking wat will happen if we do this India...there will be a XYZ Jayanthi for all the Jayanthi's possible..people will definitley go to battle over this..

Anyways moving to Orlando now...frankly 3 days are just not enough..when Disney itself has 4 theme parks and Universal has 2 plus there is Cape Carneval and Sea World..but made the most of my time in orlando and after the trip I concluded to wat many great people have said "Disney is indeed the happiest place on this Earth"...I was so excited to just be there..and meet all the Disney characters...
The place is so well-managed with thousands visiting everyday...the parades were fantastic..and so were the shows...liked the Beauty and the Beast show a lot...will try to upload videos some other day...the rides were quite good too..especially space Mountain and Tower of Terror...but for more exciting rides you should go to Universal: Islands of Adventure...

Guys, you should definitely visit this Dreamland atleast once...

Magic Kingdom

My chat in the plane

2005-06-05T01:35:00.000+08:00

well..on my way to orlando last weekend..the guy sitting next to me had just come back from Iraq and was going home after a year...he is 21 now and joined the army when he was 18 and the reason he joined..to make money!! aparently you can make like US$ 50,000 in 6 months if you go for any assignment...(I wonder where all this money is coming from..oil from Iraq??) he was in afghanistan earlier and then in Iraq and now is going back to Afghanistan in october...

He was telling me about his experiences in Iraq..was saying that the people there are really rude...but who wouldn't be when you invade their country!!! children throw stones at them..and how do they reciprocate...by throwing small stones at them!!! This was really shocking...after all they are just children!! and what do they do in the night...while patrolling..shoot all the dogs which bark at them!!

But he finally admitted that they should have never gone there..

I must say this entire conversation with him was really interesting...and learnt about waht is really happening...I think it is high time the world realises their mistake and leaves the counrty and more importantly its people alone!!!

My first anniversary!!

2005-05-25T06:01:00.000+08:00

Ya..time to celebrate...my blog turns a year old this month...

has seen many ups and downs..long gaps of silence but has still survived..so three cheers for Packan's Perspective!!! Hip Hip Hurray!!

Thanks for all your support, fellow blogmates..and i assure you a fun-filled year ahead!!

My trip back to the Old Town

2005-05-19T09:26:00.000+08:00

While I was in San Diego..went down to Old Town...this place takes you back in time..to when San Diego was a part of Mexico..and is very much set like a village from an old western movie...

They have street bazaars, lots of mexican shops selling all possible things from tin work to salt water taffy..All the shops are adorned with birght colours and colourful ponchos and sombreros...really take you into the heart of Mexico...
Had lunch at the famous mexican restaurant 'Casa de Pico' in the Bazaar Del Mundo..and it turned out that it was the last day for the restaurant as they are moving to a new place..must say was very lucky to be there on time..the place was packed with locals as well as tourists..and some were actually emotional that the place was closing..

Really cherished the time I spent at Old Town...

Old Mexican Villa

Mexican Dance

My friends at Sea World

2005-05-18T09:29:00.000+08:00

Last weekend made a trip down to San Diego...had a great time at Sea World...especially the dolphin and the Shamu show...it is really amazing how these animals are so well trained...would love to be an animal trainer someday...sounds like a really exciting job..

Fact: Did you know that all the killer whales in Sea World are named Shamu...this is done so that Shamu lives forever!!

Sat everywhere in the Soak Zone..this is the area where you get drenched during the show...was soaking wet at the end of the day..but felt really good in the hot San Diego sun...The sea lion show was damn good too..very funny...

Sea World is a must-see if you are making a trip down here!!!

Here's Shamu!!

Blushing Sea lion..

My walk in the park

2005-05-09T09:46:00.000+08:00

This weekend I went to Zilker Park in Austin..this park is located right adjacent to downtown..and still while I was there..it felt as if I was miles away from the city in the middle of a forest..far from civilisation...
There are several nature trails you can go on in the park..took these snaps along the trail I went on..along the springs in the park...ran across many squirrels running from one tree to the other..quite interesting...

A walk along the trail

Springs along the trail

My journey through time

2005-05-07T08:44:00.000+08:00

Many of you may not be aware but Texas is called 'The Lone Star State'..I think it is because the state flag has a single star on it...
Because of this..Texans are absolutley obsessed with stars...everywhere you go..every state building you see..every column..every wall...has a star on it!!! It is as if no other design pattern exists in the whole world and the Star is an omnipotent symbol!!

Moving on..I went to see the Bob Bullock State History Museum last weekend..it was definitly a unique experience!! The whole museum is dedicated to history, culture of Texas...right from the Spanish occupation till todate...
The museum has accounts of every small happening in Texas..things like when was barbed wire first used in Texas..and how it affected the people (wow..i have never really cared to think about barbed wire)..some things on the other hand were quite interesting like the setting up of NASA in Houston..

One thing I have noticed Americans are seriously proud of their heritage and their past..and the whole museum drills the sole message..."America: the land of dreams"...

I think there is a lot to learn from this..we don't really pay so much importance to our heritage..it is high time we do...

Texas State History Museum

I flew over the Llano Nest

2005-04-18T07:05:00.000+08:00

Texas has always played host to a huge variety of birds migrating to the south for winter..now that spring is in full bloom..these wintering birds are also nesting here..and one of the main attractions is the American Bald Eagles...this is the national bird of America and also the one on the American Emblem...

Not far from Austin...in Llano, these magnificent birds are found in plenty..and the same birds return to their nests every winter to raise new eaglets..I went over to see these llano nests..and must say it was certainly a great experience...

Went to see this one nest..which strangely has 3 parents..one male while two female eagles...(Hmm..i leave this to your imagination..)..and now two eaglets have joined the family...The eaglets have just learned to fly and keep wandering around near the nest..while the parents still get food for them ranging from fish from the river and even turtles..have no idea how they manage to eat that!!
People here defintely take a lot of interest in observing and studyin these birds..the place was packed with people equipped with digital SLRs with huge telescopic lenses and some of them even had telescopes to observe them more clearly...

Enjoyed a lot..watching the eagles and their lifestyle and daily activities totally oblivious to so many people watching them!!

My Austin log: Part I

2005-04-09T05:06:00.000+08:00

I thought of starting this section..so I can write kind of a journal about things happening here in Austin..

I finally got my social secuirty..and so could go for my written driving test..felt weird studying after so many days..you actually have to read a 90 page booklet..including things like effects of alcohol..offences like selling alcohol to minors...and how much time in jail will I have to spend for not paying a ticket and so on...
The test went quite well..it is an online test..and you need to get atleast 70% to clear..luckily got 90%!!

Being very close to mexico there is definitely a great mexican influence..mexican food is obviously a favourite for all...nothing like the food in TexMex..much more variety and more exotic..went to this lovely place called 'Hula Hut'..it is along lake austin..the ambience is just too good..reminded me a bit of boat quay...had amazing Shrimp Enchiladas there and my favourite Margarita!!

Latin dance is also very popular here..with many bars having live latin music..took this opportunity to put on my dancing shoes by learning salsa at the university of texas..they organise these informal classes which anyone can take up...it is defintely exciting and fun to learn salsa..basics are quite easy..also makes u feel really energetic and lively!!

As summer approaches..the day grows longer and with the day light saving kicking in from last week...the sunsets around 830..feels kind of funny...

well..thats all for now.
This is packan signing out for Part I of My Austin log.

My Fire Scare

2005-03-29T03:42:00.000+08:00

On friday evening there was a huge thunderstorm in Austin..I was nicely relaxing at home when suddenly the fire alarm in the apartment complex goes off...It was the loudest thing I have ever heard..sure to make you deaf if you stay inside for more than 10mins..
I really didnt know what to do...I was running around in the house searching for a fire..luckily found none...then I saw that my neighbour was running down in the open...so I just locked my apt. and grabbed an umbrella and went out in the thunderstorm...there we were standing in the rain..gettin drenched..helpless and didnt know what to do...
one guy called '911' and the reply was 'please get back to us only if you see some fire or smoke'...wow...this was the limit..aren't these guys supposed to come to our rescue...

Standing in the rain I was reminded of 'Friends' and the episode where phoebe disconnects the fire alarm..i think it was titled "The one where they are up all night"

finally we got a maintenance guy who reset the shrieking alarm..apparently a lightning bolt had hit the copper conductors on the top of the building..which set off the alarm...

well this was definitely a unique experience...

My Real Encounter with Spring

2005-03-23T09:38:00.000+08:00

It is here in Austin that I have finally experienced my first spring..it has always been just two seasons in singapore..hot and hotter!!

I can actually feel the gradual change in the weather from the cold glommy winter to bright sunshine and happiness...and the nature is certainly responding with full spirit to this change..everywhere the trees are adorned with new leaves and full with flowers...I clicked this snap right outside my office..very unique about this tree (don't know the name) that it has no leaves and only flowers and once the flowering stops will the new leaves emerge...

Must say.. I am truly in love with nature today!!

Purple Paradise

My Impatient Wait

2005-03-22T12:03:00.000+08:00

So finally the harry potter covers are out and my excitement has crossed boiling point already!! the covers definitely look very good and mysterious..for detailed analysis of the covers refer to this site...
I wonder why the US and the UK covers are so different..in the UK one harry and dumbeldore look quite tense in the middle of a battle whereas in the US one they look deep in thoughts looking down into the Pensive...
also the adult UK cover shows a book titled 'Advaced Potions'..so looks like Harry is goin to be stuck with Snape much longer..

Anyways I just can't wait any longer for the book..the first thing I did after coming to Austin is to reserve a copy both at Borders and Barnes and Noble...actually i had reserved only with Borders but later found out that Barnes and Noble is gonna be open at midnight on 15th july so i can get the book then itself than on the next day...ya i know i am a freak!! but when it comes to harry potter who isn't!!

US Cover

My National Bird in Austin

2005-03-18T10:04:00.000+08:00

nope..you are mistaken...I am not talking about Tandoori Chicken..but the actual national bird of India the beautiful peacock.

well..although being the national bird..I have actually never see them roam freely in gardens or meadows in my own country but always behind steel bars in zoos...however here in Austin these majestic birds seem to enjoy thier freedom and definitely make their presence felt!! found this peacock sitting idly outside an apartment balcony..was so surprised to see it just sitting idly..not scared of the evil humans..well probably because there is no peacock tandoori till today..I wonder if you can keep them as pets here...will be kind of cool..wat do u think?? will also get instant weather updates!!

Anyways..I sure do hope to get to see more of such exotic flora and fauna while I am here..

Majestic Peacock

My trip to the Capitol

2005-03-16T12:00:00.000+08:00

Last weekend I went down to see the Texas State Capitol...it is very similar to the one in washington and a surprising fact is that it is actually bigger than the Capitol of the nation..it is the largest capitol in US..
It is an overwhelming structure and certainly gives you a taste of the enormity of the US government...

Texas State Capitol

My Texan Adventure

2005-03-09T03:53:00.000+08:00

Ya I know that I have not been writing often..but finally now have a chance to let you know what is happening in my life...

As most of you would know..I started work with Emerson...was working for a while in the lion city but 2 weeks ago moved to heart of Texas..Austin. It is not too big a city (in American terms)..definitey larger than singapore!! yup and it is the capital of texas...

Must say it has been a great adventure so far...new city..new country..new people....

have got my apartment here..will be gettin my own car soon!! just getting settled in currently and planning a big list of 'to-do things' while i am here..also found out that they have sky diving and hot air balloon rides just an hours drive from here..yippy!!!

so for the next few months..this blog is goin to be more of a travelogue/photo blog...of my experiences in the land of dreams(apparently)

so stay tuned!!!