Daniel

Computer Hardware - Choice of Personal Computer, laptop or Smartphone

2008-06-15T23:51:00.000-07:00

The computer is personal again - with advancement in technology, one can surf the internet not just via the traditional personal computer or mobile notebook with brands such as HP or Dell but also increasingly via the mobile smartphone such as Apple iPhone. In fact, many executives owns many of such devices often using their personal computer at home and office and their smartphone while travelling.

Personal computers are often preferred because they tends to have more features ranging from a bigger memory, better multimedia functions to a bigger computer screen which is increasingly in the form of Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen. However, personal computer are not mobile unlike a laptop. With a laptop one can access the internet on the go. Laptop tends to be favoured by executives and frequent traveller.

For those who needs mobile computing smartphone has become increasingly popular. Smartphone are mobile phone which allows the user to surf the internet often via 3G technology often with broadband speed and touchscreen feature. Thus one can read and send email, surf the internet while travelling using the smartphone which often weighs little more than one kilogram. However, smartphone has a relatively small screen, the computing function is limited and the keyboard tends to be small for some people.

Today's net savy generation have the choice of personal computer, laptop or smartphone to access the internet. Laptop seems to be the favourite for most executive at the moment but smartphone which are improving with advancement in technology is also gaining popularity.

Daniel

Banks - Beyond Branches, Credits Cards and Loans

2008-06-11T23:49:00.000-07:00

Global banking is one services that never sleeps. Gone are the days when one has to queue up at the bank branches to perform just a simple banking transaction. Nowadays, one can go to the Automated Teller Machine (ATM), perform banking transactions over the mobile phone and internet with banks such as Citibank and HSBC. Banking transactions can be perform in the comfort of home or even on the go 24hours worldwide.

With advancement in technology instead of withdrawing cash at the bank branches, one can do so at the ATM machine often conveniently located not just locally but also globally. Banking transactions can be carried our via 3G/4G mobile phone and also over the internet. For example one can check their credit card statement, make loan payment and even funds transfer on a real time basis 24 hours worldwide.

At the traditional bank branches, besides counter staff providing cashier services, nowadays there are also officers who can attend to customer queries on credit cards, loans, unit trust investment, insurance and even foreign currencies account. There may even be a separate area commonly called Priority Banking for the comfort of the exclusively wealthy customer.

Banking services is no longer performed solely at the bank branches. Banking transaction can be carried out over the mobile phone and internet. For those who prefer to visit the bank branches they may find the bank officer helpful in many new banking products such as investment and insurance.

Daniel

Computer Cursor Control - Hello Touchscreen, Goodbye Mouse

2008-06-08T23:49:00.000-07:00

Pointing and Clicking using computer mouse is one of the wonders of computer allowing for interaction and not just about receiving information on the computer. One can point and click on icons to open files, cut and paste and multi-task by switching between screens. Cursor control on personal computer is often done via the mouse and via the touchpad for notebook. However, with advancement in technology it may be possible to point and click via a touchscreen much like a smartphone such as Apple iPhone.

Most people are familiar with the mouse as the tool to control the cursor on the personal computer. Most modern mouse are even wireless allowing one to point and click without the messy wire. The disadvantage of mouse is that it is external to the motherboard thus taking up extra space. Notebook in general has inbuild touchpad or trackball for cursor control. Touchpad is not as sensitive as mouse but as it is usually part of the keyboard saving valuable space.

With advancement in technology it may be possible to control the cursor via touchscreen. This technology is already available in smartphone such as Apple iPhone where one can use the fingers to point and click at the LCD screen. With the enhancement of a touchscreen, there would not be a need for computer mouse or even the touchpad.

The computer is getting personal again and with advancement in technology one may be able to do away with mouse or touchpad and just use touchscreen for cursor control. It spells more incentive for people to keep their fingers clean.

Daniel

Travel Overseas - Free and Easy or Guided Tour

2008-06-04T23:47:00.000-07:00

With globalisation, travelling overseas has become easier. Residents in western countries during winter time may fly to tropical countries to enjoy warm sunshine, spa treatment and even shopping. The proliferation of budget airlines has also made travelling overseas economical. For travelling overseas one may choose between travelling on a free and easy basis or on a guided tour.

Travelling on a free and easy basis requires planning and lots of patience. A popular way is to go on a backpacking tour where one can just rely on guidebook, word of mouth advice and even join fellow backpackers for travel. Travelling on free and easy basis provides freedom of choice as one can choose the type of accomodation ranging from dormitory to 5 star hotel and also the places to visit. One can even travel to exotic places which are not frequent by other travellers.

Travelling on group guided tour provides convenient travelling arrangement for busy people. One just have to choose the tour packages in terms of location and travel arrangement and the tour agencies will takes care of the travel arrangement. There are coaches to pick up the travellers from the airport and designated hotels to stay and places of interest to visit. All one have to do is to follow the tour guide and have a wonderful time.

Travelling overseas is becoming an increasingly popular activities. The proliferation of travel information on the internet and media signal the rise of interest in travelling overseas. One can choose between travelling on free and easy or on a group guided tour.

Daniel

Tertiary University Education - Overseas or Local University

2008-06-02T00:13:00.000-07:00

"I have a dream!" is a speech by Martin Luther King which signifies the aspiration of most Americans. For most American students who have completed their university entrance examination, gaining entry to prestigious Ivy League university would be a dream comes true. For most Asian and students from other countries this would involve a decision on whether to study at local university or to go overseas and study at prestigious university such as Oxford or Cambridge University in the UK or the Ivy League University such as Harvard or Yale University in the US.

For most Asian students gaining admission to prestigious overseas university would be like a passport to prosperity. The qualities of the graduates from the Ivy League universities is evidenced by the warm reception from prospective employer upon their graduation. The current front running candidates for the 2008 US Presidential election were Ivy League university graduates with Senator Barack Obama from Harvard University and Senator Hillary Clinton from Yale University.

Most Asian students would probably choose to further their tertiary education at local university. This is a cheaper alternative but the competition for places in prestigious local university is nevertheless intense. By studying at local universtiy the student can be closer to their families and friends. However, there is a perceived bias that graduates from overseas western university has superior qualities such as better communication skills as compared to graduates from local university.

In life a person has to make many decisions. One of the decision face by many students is whether to study at local university or to travel overseas to study at foreign prestigious university. Hopefully it would be a dream turns true with a happy ending.

Daniel

Hair - Crowning Glory or Strands of Worry

2008-05-29T00:06:00.000-07:00

Afro, wave, bob, crewcut - these are just some of the hairstyles of not just the celebrity but also increasingly the common people. Most people visit the hairdresser for a haircut with the exception of people with bald head. Some of the famous celebrity with balding hair include Andre Agassi. Many media celebrity went to great length not just to dressu-p but also to put on a designer hairdo when they attend parties and functions.

The most extreme hairstyle one could have is the crew-cut which is a clean-shaven look made compulsory for army recruits and Sigorney Weaver spot a crew-cut in the movie Aliens. Crew-cut is practical during hot weather. Most people prefer to keep their hair longer and ladies may prefer at least a shoulder length hair. Lately there are increasing numbers of man who put on long hair and some even tie it into a pony-tail.

For most girls their hair colour is either blonde or brunette. Blonde girl like Paris Hilton tends to attract lots of attention with their gold colour hair. Most asian girls are brunette and they have dark hairs. Among the younger generations it has become a fashion statement to dye the hair with bright colours which makes them stands out from the crowd.

When one wakes up from the bed, besides brushing our teeth, combing and tidying our hair is also a daily routine. For those with bald head this may not be a concern. Most of us usually spend some time, or in certain people hours, doing up the hair before one goes outdoor for work or meetings.

Daniel

Military Soldiers - War and Peace

2008-05-25T23:11:00.000-07:00

Joining the military service is one of the choices for many young people worldwide. In several countries such as South Korea and Singapore military service for a few years is compulsory for male adults usually at age 18. In the military one can join the army, navy or airforce. Many young soldier aspire to be a commission officer leading a group of men but they have to first undergo physical and mental training at military schools such as Westpoint in the US or Sandhurst in the UK.

The image of a soldier is often that of a man wearing uniform, boots with helmet and rifle. However, the virtue of soldierhood is shown through values such as discipline, honour and responsibility. A soldier has to be physically fit by undergoing many gruelling physical fitness test including long endurance run and foot marches. Soldiers are expected to obey orders from superior and carry out the duty with pride and honour. Some famous solider who became head of state include President Eisenhower in the US and President Charles de Gaulle in France.

The contribution of soldiers is not just during wartime protecting their home country but also during peacetime when they contribute in disaster relief effort. Many times during natural disasters such as earthquake and cyclone the soldiers helps in search and rescue operations as well as evacuations of casualties. The bravery of soldiers especially in World War 1 and 2 is often portray in the media and in movies such as the Longest Day.

Being in the military service is often protray as a honourable profession. Although some soldier may never witness frontline action in actual battlefield many soldiers contribute wholeheartedly during peacetime disaster in terms of relief operations.

Daniel

Spa Treatment and Yoga - Stress Reliever

2008-05-21T23:28:00.000-07:00

In today's globalised society many of us finds ourselves in stress over workload, family matters and personal ambition and longing for a retreat or ways to reduce stress. Many working adults return from workplace with aching body and stressful mind especially after a long day at work attending many tiring meetings. The need to de-stress has led to the emergence of spa treatment and Yoga exercise especially for the yuppies. Many people even travel to exotic locations to have a nice relaxing spa holiday coupled with some Yoga exercise.

Spa treatment often involves relaxing of the muscles via body massage often with aromatherapy (sweet scent of oil). Yoga exercise involve stretching of the body muscle by adopting certain posture together with deep breathing exercise. Those who prefer exclusivity often travel on weekends or during holiday to exotic locations to enjoy a few days of realxing spa treatment coupled with Yoga practice and even shopping. The preferred location is often a sea-side resort or even a small island.

Many people feel refresh and recharged after a spa treatment and Yoga exercise as their body receive a thorough massage and workout. This makes the urban warrior recharged and ready for action at the next corporate battle.

Daniel

Cruise Ship Holiday - Relax at High Sea

2008-05-18T23:41:00.000-07:00

Cruise ship holiday on the high sea, as an alternative to the traditional land based tour, has been gaining popularity worldwide ever since the screening of the Hollywood blockbuster movie the Titanic. For cruise ship tour, one can have a relaxing holiday on a cruise ship often travelling from port to port. When it reaches the next port, one can have the choice to disembark and go on a land tour. Popular cruise destinations include the Carribean Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Asia.

The main attraction about cruise ship tour is the luxury and freedom. One can relax in the cabin bed many of which comes with sea-view, swim or laze at the deck pool, enjoy a relaxing spa or massage and have meals at the many restaurants. One can choose the time and place for the activities all within the cruise ship itself. There are helpful staff in the cruise ship who can provide assistance often readily. Not just the elderly but more and more of the younger adults have taken cruise ship tour.

With cruise ship tour, one can have a relaxing time on the cruise ship while travelling from port to port. The pace is unhurried and is suitable for those who wants to relax away from the modern stressful world. For those who have not try to go on a cruise trip it might be worth a try and the experience is likely to be unforgetable.

Daniel

Horse Racing - Of Horse and Human

2008-05-15T05:22:00.001-07:00

Horse racing is one of the most ancient sports competition globally. In the past before the invention of motorcar, great distance was travelled on horseback and Genghis Khan almost conquered Asia and Europe with his troops on horseback. With horse racing the thoroughbreed horse race around a race track in varying distance. Some of the world famous horse racing competition include Kentucky Derby in the USA, Epson Derby in England, Melbourne Cup in Australia and Singapore Airlines International Cup (SAIC) in Singapore.

During horse racing days which are usually in the evening or on weekend crowds of mostly male spectator swarm the race course to enjoy the action on the track. The spectator are expected to dress smartly for the occasion and ladies usually wore fanciful hat. Spectators are able to place bets on the winning horse and also on those horse on placings which is finishing among the top 3.

On the race track, horses with their jockey are lined up numerically in a barrier gate. The jockeys has to carry a certain weight usually ranging from 50kg to 60kg based on assigned rating. Once the race starts the horse will jump from the barrier and race to the finishing line. The first horse to gallop across the finishing line is the winner. The main excitement about horse racing is the unpredictability of the winner as many factors has to be considered including the weather itself.

Horse racing has remain popular over time with crowds swarming the race course on race day. It has attracted not just the wealthy but also the common people to enjoy the action at the track.

Daniel

Motorcar - Dream Car in the time of Global Warming and Rising Oil Prices

2008-05-12T05:37:00.000-07:00

Motorcar has always been a part of the American dream. Many people long to ride a motorcar in the highway with the wind blowing in the hair. Many Hollywood blockbuster action movie feature stunning car chase scene. It is a rites of passage to ride a motorcar upon getting a driving licence and also of going on a date in a motorcar. The common types of motorcar include the popular sedan, cabriolet, Multi-purpose Vehicle (MPV) and Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV).

Motorcar provides a convenient mode of transport especially in countries with vast countryside such as America and countries in continental Europe. With motorcar one can travel great distance on the highway regardless of weather from town to town. Mnay young people find it easier to get a date if they own a motorcar. Even in a urban city business executives prefer to drive a car as time is of essence to them and they have to attend meeting and appointments in short notices.

Driving a motorcar comes with many challenges. The main problem is one of finding parking space especially in city centre. There are also many incidence of road rage and accident which many cause injury. Having a car which is not of the latest model or brand many also cause inferiority complex. Upmarket cars such as Ferrari, Rolls Royce and Cadillac tends to attract more attention. There are growing concern about global warming arising from the car exhaust with some cities already heavily air-polluted with the heavy car traffic. Escalating oil prices is also an area of concern to motorist.

Motorcar since its invention has been a part of our daily lifes. It is also a part of our dream to own and drive a magnificent car. However, there are growing concern about issues such as global warming and rising oil prices.

Daniel

Short Sightedness - Dilemma on Spectacle or Lens or Lasik Surgery

2008-05-08T05:28:00.000-07:00

Short sightedness in the past has always been associated with the elderly. However, in today's globalised rat race for real-time knowledge, many people constantly search the internet, watch television, read books and newspaper for information. Many people read or study with incorrect posture and under insufficient lighting. Over time this may lead to the problem of short sightedness where they have to wear glass spectacles or contact lens in order to read. Some celebrity such as Elton John are famous for their colourful spectacles.

Short sightedness is increasingly common among the educated young and especially in Asia. In many asian university it is not uncommon to find more than half of the students wearing spectacle. Some character do look cute in glasses such as Harry Potter in the novels. Wearing glasses in many asian countries is no longer associated with the elderly.

Being short sighted creates many inconvenience for the spectacle wearer. They are not able to read or see far without glasses or contact lens. The image without glasses or contact lens are often blur. It also limit the physical activities that they can perform. They may find it inconvenient to do sports such as swimming where they have to remove their glasses. Certain jobs requires the applicant to have near perfect vision such as pilot and navy diver.

Lasik or laser surgery is an increasingly common way to treat short sightedness via technology. With lasik surgery the patient may be able to have improve vision even to the extent of not having to wear glasses or contact lens after undergoing the treatment. Specialised doctors provide lasik surgery and is widely accepted in western countries.

Wearing glasses can make a person look cute just like Harry Potter although it comes with many inconvenience. For those who wants to read without glasses or contact lens there is good news via the option of lasik surgery due to advancement in technology.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

City Transportation - Choice of Car, Train or Bicycle

2008-05-05T05:28:00.001-07:00

In today's urbanised society many of us finds ourselves living far away from the office which is usually in the city centre. Many employer requires the employee to be punctual for work which is usually 9am whether rain or shine. As such, early morning scene is a typical rat race of office workers scrambling to reach their office on time. The mode of transport is usually the motorcar for the wealthy, tube or train and bus for the typical worker and bicycle or walking for the fitness conscious.

Having a motorcar allows one to have the luxury and comfort of waking up late and travelling in air-condition comfort in a car. People who owns a car do not mind staying far from their office as they could rach office on time with their car. However, the nightmare may start the minute the car leave the house. There is usually a morning and evening traffic jam on the roads and highway, frequent road accident and difficulty of finding parking space in city centre. Driving a car in morning and evening rush hour requires a great deal of patience with the constant car horning in the background.

For a typical office worker the way to work is usually via the tube or train and public buses. Taking a city train is usually more comfortable than buses. The train tends to follow a time schedule, is air-condition and is relatively fast. However peak hour early morning and evening traffic means one has to really squeeze into the train in a crowded pack. It can be quite unpleasant to be sandwich between so many office worker for the daily journey to and from office. Taking a bus requires patience as it may not always arrive on time and it is subjected to traffic on the road.

With growing concerns about global warming many health conscious worker choose to travel to work on bicycle or on foot. This would achieve the twin objective of cutting down on carbon emission thus saving the environment and also promoting healthy living by exercising through cycling or walking. This is an increasingly prefer mode of transport for many young working adult.

The minute one wakes up from the bed it is usually follow by a scramble to have breakfast, dress and rush for work. The choice to reach office would be in the form of driving, taking a train or bus or cycling/walking to work. Surprisingly more people has chosen the unorthodox mode of cycling and walking reflecting growing concern about global warming and healthy living. Maybe one day there will be more bicycles then cars on the road which is already happening in certain countries.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Ownership of Property - Useful Knowledge on Buy or Rent Decision

2008-05-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

Having a house or an apartment with a shelter for the family is an aspiration for many young working adults. A posh residential address preferably in the prestigious city centre is a status symbol to many people in today's urbanised concrete jungle. The property of choice may be a house with a garden or an apartment with panoramic view in a highrise condominium. Ownership of the property is either through purchase often with bank mortgage loan through banks such as Citibank, HSBC or Standard Chartered Bank or by renting.

Buying a property is a major financial decision for many working adults. Some landed house may easily cost most than a few million dollar and some apartments hundreds of thousands of dollars. There is usually a requirement for some upfront payment (such as 10% of the purchase price) and the rest of the payment is usually through bank mortgage loan with the property mortgage as security. Buying a property with bank mortgage loan requires the owner to make monthly instalment payment to the banks. There are cases such as the recent sub-prime mortgage crisis where some borrowers lose their high-paying job and subsequently struggle with the monthly instalment payments.

Renting a property is a popular choice as it does not require a big outlay of cash and taking-up of bank mortgage loan. The tenant would just have to select the property usually base on location, budget and convenience and make monthly rental payment to the landlord. However, renting a property may subject the tenant to risk of paying a higher rental upon renewal of rent in a bullish property market. Most tenancy are subected to renewal on a periodic basic and has a fixed lease period (such as yearly).

Having a home is an immediate priority for many young working adults. At home, they are able to relax after work and look after their family. Ownership of the choice property is a major decision to be made whether through purchase or rental. Whichever decision one makes, having a shelter for the family should be the main consideration.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Chelsea vs Liverpool - The Count of Monte-Cristo

2008-04-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

Cheslsa is set to battle Liverpool at the UEFA Champions League Semi-final at home fortress - Stamford Bridge. Previous titanic encounter between the 2 clubs has always been like a Russian novel - long and boring.

Chelski will be motivated to win as their billionaire owner Tzar Roman Abramovich wants Chelski to be at the final in icy Moscow, Russia which is his home country. Chelski is traditionally strong in defence but the attack lacks firepower with star striker Didier Drogba firing blank and Frank Lampard a likely substitute. Look out for Le Sulk Nicholas Anelka who, like the French Count of Monte Cristo, hates Liverpool and wants to take revenge and scores against them.

Liverpool under Amigos Rafael Benitez will rely as usual on astrology and magic to attempt to win at Stamford Bridge which is difficult. He is likely to make tactical substitute to try and score and win the match. Look out for Fernando Torres and Ryan Babel who are both purchase with bank loan and will need to impress in order not to be sold like sub-prime mortgage at the end of season.

It is likely to be a low score match going into extra time or even penalty. The eventual winner is likely to be the team with deep sense of revenge and also bottomless tap of roubles and oil - Chelski.

Daniel

Man U vs Barcelona - God Save the Queen

2008-04-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

Man U is set to face Barcelona at the Champions League Semi-Final at home ground - Old Trafford. The first battle ended goalless and is to Man U's advantage as Barcelona has to score to win. However if the battle ends in a draw Barcelona will advance due to the away goal rule.

HMS Manu U under Sir Alex Ferguson will rely on it's solid defence and attack with it's Portugese canon Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentinian Carlos Tevez. Watch Man U on the counter-attack with home crowd support as Barcelona surge forward.

Spanish Armarda Barcelona under Admiral Frank Rijkaard has to score to win in this do-or-die match or it will be Don't Cry for Me Barcelona. However, Barcelona strike force of Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi has not been hitting bull's eye without Ronaldinho and the defence is weak.

This is likely to be a titanic battle as Barcelona will throw caution to the wind and fire all it's ammunition. The eventual winner Man U is likely to make Spanish heart weep and torpedo Spanish Armarda Barcelona with the home crowd support chanting God Save the Queen.

Daniel

Capital of Thailand - A Zen Like City with no Rice Shortage

2008-04-25T05:33:00.001-07:00

Today's globalised world is fill with news with quantum of sorrow everywhere such as rice shortage, soaring oil prices, sub-prime mortgage crisis and periodic unrest. People yen for a place where they can forget about the worldly stress such as rice shortage. The capital of Thailand or Bangkok offers visitors worldwide a zen like experience where there is no rice shortage and with interesting destination for shopping, dine out for life with fragrant rice, have a river boat tour around Chao Praya river or even go on scuba dive on island further south such as Phuket or Koh Samui. In daytime the capital of Thailand - Bangkok is crowded with people and with cars and Tuk-Tuk on the road. At night the capital of Thailand - Bangkok is cooler, quieter and this may be a better time to explore the various attractions in the city.

Dine out for life by having dinner at Baiyoke Sky Tower (Pratunum) Building which offers panoramic view of the Bangkok skyline while having dinner. Dinner at the Sheration Hotel, Oriental Hotel and Shangri-La Hotel besides the Chao Praya River offers a good view of the river and the city skyline while having meals.

Take a Boat ride along the Chao Praya River after having dinnner at the hotels along the river. One major attractions along the river is the shiny Wat Arun Temple (Temple of Dawn) which is a 86 metre Khmer style prang. It has mutliglazed procelains embedded in the structure giving off bright lights. The city skyline can be view along the river.

Watch Muay Thai (Thai Kick Boxing) at Lumpini Stadium which involves two boxer pounding and kicking each other for victory. The audience can be quite noisy shouting support for their favourite boxer. It is different from boxing in that it allows the use of the knee and the feet for kicking.

Dine out for life by tasting local food along Sukumvit Road (try Cabbages and Condoms at Soi 12 which gives free condom after the meal), Siam Square (try MBK Foodcourt), Chinatown (try the Bird's nest soup) and Silom Road (try the western stalls along Patpong Road).

Shop at the Mega shopping malls located mostly along Siam Square. Items to buy includes local handicraft and silk wear. The adventurous can try to go for scuba dive in islands further south such as Phuket or Koh Samui.

Capital of Thailand - Bangkok at night is cool and quiet allowing one to explore the attractions along the city without worry of rice shortage.

Daniel

US Presidential Elections Precedents - Unmarried President

2008-04-25T05:27:00.000-07:00

The US 2008 Presidential Election news is everywhere and it could witness the first female president or the first black president in the history of US which is the acronym for the United States of America.

However, history has show that in the past there was a precedent in the form of the only US president not married - James Buchanan. James Buchanan was a US president never married who presides over the US Civil War. The unmarried president James Buchanan was succeeded by the popular Abraham Lincoln from the Republican Party. President Buchanan is the one and only bachelor president in the US so far.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Mobile Phone

2008-04-25T05:24:00.000-07:00

Mobile Phone - the wonder of modern technology which can perform real amazing stuff has become increasingly common and popular allowing people to connect with one another across distance and boundaries. The sight of people holding sleek modern phone like Apple IPhone, Nokia, O2, Samsung is increasingly common. However it's increasing popularity as a social norm has also generate some advantages and disadvantages.

Mobile phone allow instant connection with people across distance. Communication via voice or SMS or even video chat with other people is now instantaneous even across boundaries.

It has allow people to listen to radio, play games, read email or even browse the web while they are free or even while waiting for people. This has help to prevent boredom especially while waiting for people.

It has provide mobility allowing people on the move to assess the internet or even read email via GPRS/3G mobile phone without needing a computer/laptop linked via modem to the internet.

This wonder of technology has also generate moments of jealousy when people compare their mobile phone with families and friends. The brand of mobile phone like Nokia or even Apple IPhone is perceive as being superior to other brands in terms of features and attractiveness. This may make people carrying other mobile phone brand to feel inferior.

It generate annoyance in occasion when people start chatting on their mobile phone while in public places like public transport, cinemas or theatres. This distract other people from concentrating or even enjoying their entertainment.

The danger pose by a person chatting on their mobile phone while walking or driving cannot be underestimated. Accidents has happened when people while chatting on mobile phone fell down stairs, knock down by moving vehicles or involve in collision.

There is always persistent telemarketing calls one gets and always in the inappropriate time through their mobile phone. Many companies have found mobile customers to be attractive for marketing and has increasingly use telemarketing calls to promote their product/services in very persistent manner.

There is great stress when one lost their mobile phone containing their personal and business contact details. There is the need to disconnect the phone and to retrieve their contact details stored in the lost mobile phone.

Mobile phone has become a social norm by performing real amazing stuff to our daily living whether loving or hating it.

Daniel

City Parks - Oasis in A Concrete Urban Jungle

2008-04-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

In today's modernised and urbanised society many of us spend our time rushing from home to office and vice versa. It is a global rat race for time and to make a living. As a result many people find themselves under stress in a urban concrete jungle and in need of a place to de-stress, cooldown and relax. Parks in a urban city thus provide places for city dwellers to unwind from daily work-stress where they can stay healthy by exercising and enjoying the scenery of trees and flowing waters. Some of the famous parks in the world include Central Park in New York and Hyde Park in London.

Besides having trees which provide shades and greenery, jogging and cycling track is a common features in the parks. Jogging track allow people to run or jog in the safety of the jogging track without worry of being knockdown by cars or breathing in fumes from motorcars. Many people prefer to jog in the early morning or evening to avoid the summer heat. It is not uncommon to find people jogging with their pets in the parks.

Rivers or canals are a sought after feature in many parks. River breaks the monotony of a typical park by providing place for people to de-stress. People could jog by the river, swim in the river, do exercise such as Yoga besides the river or try fishing by the river. The flowing water in the river provides calming and soothing effect for the stress-out urban resident.

Some parks have hills which allow people to trek up the hill and admire the scenery at the top of the hill. There are usually many trees along the hillside where people could rest or even have a picnic.

Parks has become a oasis in today's urban concrete jungle. It provides a natural place with greenery and flowing water for the stress-out urban residents to relax, exercise to stay healthy and to meet friends.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Soccer Idol Search - Teenage Gladiators who speaks little English

2008-04-21T05:19:00.000-07:00

The season is coming to a close for most soccer competition including the English Premier League (EPL) which is heavily televised worldwide. The talent scout would be searching every corner of the world including the continent of South America, Africa and Asia for the next soccer star. The discovery and grooming of a successful teenage soccer star would bring fame and reward not just to the teenager but also the scout, the coach, the team and even the country which for EPL would be England. Some of the teenage stars currently playing in EPL includes C. Ronaldo (Manchester united), F. Fabregas (Arsenal) and F. Torres (Liverpool).

One of the first criteria for the next soccer star would be youth. As soccer especially the EPL is physically challenging a young player would be more adaptable to the demanding schedule which may include playing every 2 to 3 days in a stretch. Further as a person grows and mature their physical fitness level may decline over time. A young player would thus have a longer lifespan of productive games compared to a more mature player. David Beckham may be idolised during his teenage days but as he grew more mature there is no choice but to leave competitive Europe and play in the secondary America's league.

A second attribute a soccer star must have is the physique od a gladiator. Ideally they should be able to run like a chariot and sprint like a cheetah. Ball skill is usually useful but it can be further trained. A physically fit youth is better suited to the physically challenging soccer competition, especially EPL, where many matches are play in stadium with capacity of 30,000 or more under adverse weather and conditions - much like a gladiator fighting for their lifes in the awesome and hostile colosseum.

Due to demographic changes, more and more of the teenage soccer stars came from countries where people do not speak English. South America, especially Brazil and Argentina, produce many young soccer stars such as Anderson and Tevez who speaks little English. The African continent produce many physically fit teenager such as D. Drogba and M. Essien who are keen to play in EPL but who speaks little English. Many of the soccer stars in the EPL currently came from South America, Africa and non-English speaking European countries such as Spain and Portugal.

As the EPL continue to attract television viewers worldwide as well we spectators, the hunt for the next soccer star for the clubs became critical. Having a soccer star playing for them may bring success in the form of finishing among the top 4 in the Premier League and winning the UEFA Champions League. A teenage soccer star who could achieve that would definitely be well sought after worldwide even if they do not speak a word of English.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Foreign Currencies and Bank Notes - Quantum of Sorrows and Anxiety

2008-04-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

In today's globalised society, people and goods travel freely between countries and boundaries. A parent in China may be paying for their children's university education in the Ivy League Harvard University in United States Dollar or the greenback which will involve exchange conversion from Chinese Renminbi. A tourist from United Kingdom may be on overseas holiday in the island of Goa in India where the local may only accept Indian Rupees for payment. Foreign currencies payment can be in the form of cash/bank notes or through bank issued visa/master credit cards. The major currencies that are accepted worldwide include the US Dollar and the Euro.

Foreign currencies exchange involve an exchange rate between a foreign and local currency. There may also be a two way bid and offer rate. For example if the exchange rate between one (1) US Dollar and Renminbi is seven (7) it means that 1 US Dollar is equivalent to 7 Chinese Renminbi or the Chinese Yuan. If a China-made laptop retails for Renminbi 7,000 then the US Dollar conversion amount would be USD 1,000 (7,000/7). Conversely if a Chinese tourist in New York buys an Apple ipod for USD 100 the Renminbi conversion amount is 700 (100*7). The foreign exchange rate appreciates and depreciates on a real-time basis and consumer may check the exchange rates with banks or money changer.

The foreign exchange rate has a financial impact on our daily lifes. Foreigners sending their children for overseas education in western countries worries about big appreciation in foreign currencies exchange rate. A non-US consumer buying items overseas through the internet website such as EBay has to pay the US dollar equivalent in local currency. Making investment in foreign properties and stocks involve currency conversion. When travelling abroad the local may only accept payment in the local currencies. The local currencies can commonly be exchange at hotels, banks and money changer. For payment through bank issued credit cards, the billing would still be base on the local currency equivalent of the prevailing exchange rate.

A sudden and big change in exchange rate, known as devaluation and revaluation, can have a big financial impact. In the recent Asian financial crisis where many Asian currencies such as the Malaysian Ringgit, Korean Won, Indonesian Rupiah and Thai Baht depreciates sharply and suddenly against the US Dollar causing the local people and economy to suffer from the effect. Goods bought from overseas became expensive and borrowers that borrow in foreign currencies such as US Dollar struggle with the repayment with the falling exchange rate. A rapid and big change in foreign exchange rate is usually a sign of some instability.

Thee foreign currencies exchange rate has become an integral part of our daily life in today's globalised society. Even if a person remains in their home country the foreign exchange fluctuation would still has financial impact in the form of foreign imported good and services. A frequent traveller would be more accustom to the frequent foreign exchange fluctuation. There are investors who may attempt to achieve financial gains by speculating on the foreign exchange movement. However, it may be wise just to understand the impact of foreign exchange rate as it is increasingly important in today's globalised world.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Elevator in High Rise Property - Either Up or Down

2008-04-15T05:21:00.000-07:00

The elevator is a common feature in many of Hollywood's thriller and horror movie such as Speed and Silence of the Lamb as well as in Hong Kong movie such as the Infernal Affairs. In a scene typical of many of the movies, one simply do not know what to expect when the elevator door slowly opens. There can be no body in the lift or it may be crowded with people. The elevator has became a common essential fixture in commerical high rise building such as offices and hotels as well as residential apartments. Without the elevator one has to climb down or in the worst case climb up the staircase with some building as high as 100 storeys high.

For commercial high rise building the occupant or visitor tends to dress smartly while waiting for the lift. And in today's post September 11, 2001 terrorist attack world security check has become a common feature. Many building security guards check the visitor before they are allowed to enter the lift lobby. Office occupant has to carry a security tag with photograph to identify themselves. There is usually a scramble for the lift when the door is open due to the need to rush for time or appointment. The tendency is for people to brush against each other while pack inside the lift.

For residential highrise apartment taking the lift is a daily affair. The lift tends to be crowded during the early morning office hour and during the evening hour when the office worker return from work. There may be animosity between upper and lower floor residents over the lift access. Many low floor resident finds that the lift is always pack with people during early morning rush hour and they may have to wait to enter the lift or risk injury by forcing their way into the lift. In the event of the elevator breaking down, the high floor resident may have to walk down or up many stories of stairs.

Just like in the Hollywood movies the elevator is a common essential fixture in today's urbanised high stress society. And just like in the movie one may not what to expect without the lift.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Low Intelligence (IQ) - Canoe in a Turbulent Sea

2008-04-14T05:18:00.000-07:00

In today's modern success driven society, a person's IQ or intelligence is often use as a gauge of their status. A person with high IQ is usually well regarded in the family and in society unlike someone with low IQ who may struggle to gain acceptance in society. Jobs are hard to find for a person with low IQ and even if they find a job it may be a daily struggle to survive.

In the movie Forest Gump, the plight of a low IQ person is highlighted. Forest is born with low IQ and his mother has to please the principal in order for him to remain in school. Forest was conscripted for the Vietnam war when he heroically save a fellow black American soldier and was given a Medal of Honour. When he returns to America he finds many of his ex-army buddy struggling to survive. Forest, with the help of his ex-army buddy started a shrimp business and also invested in a business called Apple which eventually succeeded. However, love life for low IQ Forest is miserable. His one and only love Jenny reunite with him after turning him down many times. But she eventually die due to illness. Forest was left to face the world alone but with great wealth.

An intelligent person is often portray in the media as a role model for other people to follow. In contrast low intelligent (IQ) person is seldom in the spotlight and society in general do not treat them with high regards. They may not have access to high paying jobs and may struggle to look for a partner or soul mate. The class divide between high IQ and low IQ may act as a barrier for a low IQ person to lead a successful life.

Despite obstacles, people with low IQ should still hold their head high. With honesty and hard work a low IQ person may succeed in life just like Forest Gump even though it may be a tough struggle in today's urban jungle.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Credit Card - Gold in A Plastic

2008-04-10T05:58:00.000-07:00

"Sir/Madam, would you like to apply for our latest prestigious gold credit card?" is probably one of the most received call on our latest Nokia or Samsung mobile phone nowadays. Customers tends to receive many calls from banks such as Citibank, HSBC or American Express, sometimes even on daily basis, promoting their latest platinum/gold or silver credit cards which comes with many attractive benefits. Besides owning properties and cars, credit card has become the status symbol for many adults and especially the young upwrdly mobile frequent traveller.

With credit cards customers can purchase, on credit without any upfront payment, the latest LV/Gucci handbag, the ultra-slim Samsung LCD Television set, the latest Apple iphone/Nokia handphone, branded swiss watches or go on holiday to exotic places such as the tropical island of Singapore to watch the first ever F1 Grand Prix Night race. Credit cards, typically provides spending limit which is a few time of the applicant's monthly salary and with it the holder can attempt to achieve high-class living by making purchases using their credit cards. No payment is required upfront and upon receipt of the monthly credit card statement the holder is usually given a grace period of a few weeks to make payment either partially or in full.

Credit card payment is probably the only payment mode allowed for internet shopping. Upon browsing the website and making the selection one has to enter the full credit card details in order to complete the internet purchases. Without credit card details the interment payment may not be possible. The common internet purchase would include global travel bookings of flights and accomodation, payment for music downloads on itunes, buying of books on Amazon and bidding for items on Ebay. A list of travel websites where one can make global travel booking is listed at the bottom of blogsite http://danielepl.blogspot.com

The ease of credit card payment may lure some customer into complacency. If the customer did not make or make only partial payment on the due date there is an interest charge, which is usually 2% per month, on the outstanding balance. Some customers may roll-over the purchases making only partial payment each time. This may lead to cases when the cusomter eventually face a big credit card bill which they are not able to pay. For those face with such as issue it may be wise to approach the bank and seek a mutually beneficial solution.

Credit card, the status symbol for many working adults, should be the servant and not the master. Holder of credit card by exercising discipline is able to enjoy the benefit of modern shopping in the comfort of home - rain or shine.

Taxi Travel - The Inconvenient Truth

2008-04-08T05:26:00.000-07:00

In today's modern, urbanised society there are many appointments and meetings to attend to and with time being an important factor, taxi provides 24 hour point to point transport convenience. There is no need to drive in a private car trying to find a parking lot or to take the tube or train and then walk to the meeting venue. Weather can be unpredictable and in adverse case of heavy rain and hot sunny day taking a taxi cab is the most comfortable and convenient way of transportation. The taxi fare is either negotiated upfront before boarding or is base on the meter reading.

For the passenger taxi provides convenience of flexible flag off and drop-off point. Taxi cab can be flag off at the road side and it brings the passenger right next to the door step for drop-off regardless of weather. This is especially useful during shopping spree when the passenger may be carrying many shopping bags. While rushing for appointments one can just rely on taxi even though one may not be familiar with the exact location. Taxi is especially useful while travelling in foreign country when one may not know the way. Many travellers, after arriving at the airport from overseas, choose to take a taxi cab to reach their hotel or destination.

For fellow drivers, taxi cab can be a hazard or nuisance on the road. Taxi cab driver has a tendency to cut into the lane abruptly to pick up passenger often without showing lane changing signal. They tends to park near bus-stop or in corwded street to pick-up or drop-off passenger and in the process impede the traffic flows. In crowded places such as the airport and popular night club a long line of taxi cab may queue near the taxi stand or entrance causing inconvenience to other motorists.

Taxi provides a convenient modern mode of transport whether one drives a car or take the mass public transport. However the convenience it provides may come at a cost especially to other motorists.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Sports Language - Amigos could you speak English Please?

2008-04-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

In today's high stress society sports personifies the intense level of global competition involved. One good example is the English Premier League (EPL) which is one of the most televised sports competition worldwide. Many of the teams in EPL are own by foreigners (Chelsea FC is own by Russian tycoon Roman Abramovich), coach by foreigner ( Liverpool FC is coach by Rafael Benitez from Spain), assisted by foreign staff and with players worldwide. In the case of highly successful Arsenal FC for example it is coach by Frenchman Arsene Wenger and with players worldwide speaking French, Spanish, Russian, Italian but little English with the exception of one lonely English speaking teenager Theo Walcott.

In sports, especially in the EPL, success is of paramount importance. Success in EPL means qualifying for a top four placing in the Premier League in order to obtain UEFA Champions League qualification. Failure to do so would means less fund for purchase of new players which may lead to relegation from the Premier League. The non-performing coach may then be fired and the players sold to another club. As such all the EPL team tries to achieve success by actively recruiting the best soccer talent worldwide including from the continent of South America, Africa and Asia. Many of the young recruits are teenagers who may not speak a word of English but find themselves playing in the EPL.

Sports is increasingly globalised with the EPL live matches shown worldwide and it is especially popular in Asia. In Asia many people who do not speak a word of English watch the exciting EPL live matches in the restaurant, pubs, coffeeshop and even at home with friends. Viewers worldwide likes to watch entertaining game with plenty of action on the pitch. The sponsor for the team depends heavily on global television viewership. Samsung, the global technology giant which has its headquarter in South Korea, is a sponsor for Chealsea FC. As such to attract viewers and sponsors worldwide the team need to have talent, which often include foreigners, to perform well in the punishing league. Further, audience worldwide may support the team with players from their home country. South Korean viewers may choose to watch Manchester United matches because Park Ji Sung is playing.

Sports, especially the English Premier League, is increasingly competitive and globalised. As such it is inevitable that with a worldwide audience the teams would have to be global to succeed which means having to recruit the best talent who is more often than not - a foreign teenager who may not speak English. A Pronounication Guide to Numbers in International Language is attached at the bottom of blogsite http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Apartment Living - Upper or Lower Floor

2008-04-03T05:28:00.000-07:00

In today's urbanised society many of us finds ourselves living in a high rise aprtment instead of a big landed house often with garden. This is especially true in cities where people may live in an apartment in the prestigious city centre, city fringe or on the outskirt suburban area. Living in city centre means living near office, leisure, shopping and entertainment venue often with bustling night life. Suburban living means having to commute to office via private cars or mass public transport which is often the tube or the train.

Living in high floor apartment offers exclusivity as most of the noise and traffic is at ground level. Some high rise apartment provides unblock panoramic view of scenery often of the sea, hills or parks. Many buyer are willing to pay a premium for high floor apartment because of the view. However, living at high floor also present some inconvenience with the main issue being the lift access. The lift is often crowded during early morning business hour and late evening when people return from work which often means a long wait for the lift for high floor resident. The other problem is when the lifts breakdown. This may mean having to walk down or in a worst case walk up many stories of stairs to reach home.

Living in low floorw apartment offers convenience but requires a great deal of patience and tolerance. Staying at low floor often means one do not have a view outside the window which is often starring into another high rise building. Low floor resident may also be subjected to unwanted objects thrown from upper floors which lands in the lower floor units such as tissue paper or shoes. Noise from the ground floor may also be a nuisance. However, living in low floor comes with convenience as one may opt to take the stairs rather than wait for the lift.

Living in high rise apartments means living with neighbours whether next door or on different floors. It is an increasingly common way of living in today's urbanised society.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Mobile Phone - Love and Hate

2008-04-02T05:44:00.001-07:00

Mobile Phone - the wonder of modern technology has become increasingly common and popular allowing people to connect with one another across distance and boundaries. The sight of people holding sleek modern phone like Apple IPhone, Nokia, O2, Samsung is increasingly common. However it's increasing popularity has also generate some love and hate moments.

Mobile phone allow instant connection with people across distance. Communication via voice or SMS or even video chat with other people is now instantaneous even across boundaries.

It has allow people to listen to radio, play games, read email or even browse the web while they are free or even while waiting for people. This has help to prevent boredom especially while waiting for people.

It has provide mobility allowing people on the move to assess the internet or even read email via GPRS/3G mobile phone without needing a computer/laptop linked via modem to the internet.

This wonder of technology has also generate moments of jealousy when people compare their mobile phone with families and friends. The brand of mobile phone like Nokia or even Apple IPhone is perceive as being superior to other brands in terms of features and attractiveness. This may make people carrying other mobile phone brand to feel inferior.

It generate annoyance in occasion when people start chatting on their mobile phone while in public places like public transport, cinemas or theatres. This distract other people from concentrating or even enjoying their entertainment.

The danger pose by a person chatting on their mobile phone while walking or driving cannot be underestimated. Accidents has happened when people while chatting on mobile phone fell down stairs, knock down by moving vehicles or involve in collision.

There is always persistent telemarketing calls one gets and always in the inappropriate time through their mobile phone. Many companies have found mobile customers to be attractive for marketing and has increasingly use telemarketing calls to promote their product/services in very persistent manner.

There is great stress when one lost their mobile phone containing their personal and business contact details. There is the need to disconnect the phone and to retrieve their contact details stored in the lost mobile phone.

Mobile phone has become indispensable to our daily living whether loving or hating it.

Appointments and Meetings - Keeping Time

2008-04-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

Making appointment with regards to place, date and time is a part of our daily lifes whether in business or leisure and with friends or family. It can be both an exciting time when new friends are made or business deal is struck or it can be a disaster with both or one party not turning up or is very late for the appointment. Many people even wear branded swiss watch or update their schedule into their PDA or smartphone to keep track of the appointment. Keeping time has become an important routine of our daily lifes.

In business dealing there is always a need for face to face communication and making appointment for meeting is very important. Both parties are expected to be punctual and be dress smartly for the appointment. Many business meeting are carried out in posh restaurant, hotel or even country club in order to give a good impression so that business deal can be seal and sign. In personal life one has to make appointment to meet new friends, colleagues or even friends from overseas. It is usually warm and friendly with outpouring of emotion at time.

For people from western countries especially Germany and Switzerland being punctual for meeting is of utmost importance. They are usually early or punctual for their appointment and will contact the other party if they are late which is rare. However in some Asian countries certain people do not have the habit of punctuality. They can be late for appointment either business or leisure without even contacting the other party. Common excuses include traffic jam and road accident. In traditional chinese wedding the invitation card may state that it starts at 7pm but many guest arrives well after 8pm. Many westerners finds it a culture shock when they had meeting with people from asia.

Being punctual, whether business or leisure, is always a virtue. It leaves behind a good impression that is mutually beneficial. Hence it may be good to invest in a good swiss timepiece and also latest PDA/smartphone to keep track of appointment. Time is indeed precious and priceless.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Amnesia - The Ultimate Supreme Identity Crisis

2008-03-31T05:26:00.000-07:00

In the movie Bourne Trilogy (Bourne Identity, Bourne Supremacy and Bourne Ultimatum) Jason Bourne (acted by Matt Damon) is an amnesic spy who speaks many international language including German, Italian and Russian. A pronounication guide to numbers in international Language is attached at the bottom of blogsite http://danielepl.blogspot.com. Jason Bourne lost his memory and goes in search of his identity across Europe and in the process discovered that he was a former assasin from the CIA. Amnesia, the loss of memory, is increasingly prevalent in today's highly stressed society. It can range from just a sudden lost of meomory to to a more severe case when one just may not remember the past. Amnesia can affects the aged as well as the young such as Jason Bourne.

On the Internet there are many occasion when one may not remember the Login ID or password. This is especially true when the Login ID or password has not been entered for a few days. During meeting we may forget the other person's name even though they look familiar especially in todays's globalised society where there are many foreigners living overseas. This can be embarassing as we struggle with their name while shaking hands. At home we may forget where we put our household things such as as a simple pen or even the remote control. During travel there are occasion when we forget where we are after waking up from the hotel bed in a foreign country.

There may not be a cure for amnesia but here are some suggestion i could share. It is useful to maintain records of daily activities and future appointments on a diary or in the latest PDA or smart phone. Acquaintance should be updated in the address book in the mobile phone or PDA. Staying healthy and fit by adopting a sporty lifestyle can help to counter stress and improve memory. Healthy activities include aerobic or cardio-vascular exercise such as jogging and swimming and muscular exercise such as Yoga. Exercise may be useful to delay the aging process and improve one's memory.

To ignore amnesia and the consequence my be fatal which is what happen to Jason Bourne. It may be good to recognise amnesia and take positive action including adopting a healthy active lifestyle. Just do not forget to just do it.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Sports in 2008 - Adrenalin Pumping Action from Switzerland to Beijing to a little Island

2008-03-27T05:27:00.000-07:00

Sports event in 2008 promise to be exciting with many global events including the European Soccer Championship, 29th Olympic in Beijing (China) and the first ever F1 Grand Prix Night Race to be held in Singapore. All the 3 events are exepcted to attract millions, and in the case of Beijing Olympics - billions of spectator and viewers worldwide. The action is expected to be fast and furious climaxing with an exciting heart-stopping night race in the city streets of Singapore.

The European Soccer Championship 2008 is expected to be screen worldwide especially in Europe and Asia. Many pubs, coffeeshop and restaurants will be crowded with viewers anxious to support their favourite European team. The perennial favourite England is surprisingly out and fans may not get to see the crowd favourite David Beckham. However expect young and upcoming soccer stars to parade their skills including C. Ronaldo, Benzema and F. Fabregas. The Euro 2008 Championship has a history of winners from non favourite countries. Previous dark horse winners include Denmark and Greece. Expect plenty of action on the pitch and do not be surprise if a non favourite country win the championship.

The 29th Olympics will officially opens on 8 August 2008 in Beijing, China. The hospitality of the host country is expected to be shown to the world in the form of a billion welcome. Many new buildings will be unveil to the world including China National Stadium (Bird's Nest), China National Aquatics Centre (Water Cube) and China National Centre for the Performing Arts. Billions of viewers worldwide is expected to watch the programme on TV supporting their home country. The host country China is expected to do well in the medal tally with competition from the United States, Russia and Germany. Stars to look out for include Liu Xiang in the hurdles (Track and Field), Yao Ming in the Basketball game and Michael Phelps in swimming.

The first ever F1 Grand Prix Night race will be held in September in the city centre in the island of Singapore. It will be a Monaco styled street race but to be held at night. Expect fast and furious driving as the race driver pit their sleek race car against each other to win the race. Action will centre around Lewis Hamilton (McLaren) and iceman Kimi Raikkonen (Ferrari). As this will be the first ever F1 Grand Prix night race, worldwide audience will be captivated at the action on the city street under the stars and moonlight but with bright lights in a vibrant city.

The sports calendar in 2008 is filled with many exciting adrenalin pumping events. Stay glued to the sleek ultra slim LCD or plasma screen TV to watch the action. Outpouring of emotion is expected and it would be sad if the viewer saddened by their favourite team losing choose to vent their anger by smashing the innocent TV set.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

House Pets - Snoopy/Garfield/Mickey for Companion

2008-03-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

In today's urbanised, highly competitive society, there is a growing number of singles or even family with only a few children. For such small family there is usually not many companion to communicate with outside working hour. Home may be just walls and roof shelter and home appliances. Pets has grew, under such circumstances,to be the companion for the often lonely owner. The common and popular pets would include dogs, cats, fish and mice/hamster.

Dogs are warm, loyal and active animals preferred by those living in a big house where they can roam about. Dogs in general do not like confine space. They are sensitive to stranger and may bark or even chase strangers in the house. Many owner find it a joy to talk to their dog or even train them to obey to commands such as sitting or fetching ball or newspaper. Dogs can range from small poodles, chiHUaHua, shihtzu,beagles, jack russell to big golden retriever, labrador and bulldog. In the cartoon Peanuts the dog Snoopy is shown as a cute animal often playing with owner Charlie Brown, likes to daydream and always imagine itself to be a war veteran in world war 1.

Cats are cute animal with fur who prefer to stay indoor. They are docile, likes to make high pitch meow sound and purr when they are agitated often with their tail raised. Cats like to play with their owner, including brushing their fur against the owner's leg. Common cats include the siamese cat. In the cartoon Garfield the cat Garfield is portray as lazy, has a big stomach, likes to daydream and is fond of eating. The other famous cat is Doraemon from the Japanese comics where it is a mechanised cat without ear send from outer space to help the boy Nobita to fight against the bully.

Fish are aquatic animals who lives in water which is usually an aquarium in the house or an outdoor pond. It can range from small guppies to goldfish to big colourful koi to auspicious arowana. Most of the fish survives only on fresh and not salt water. Many owner finds it relaxing and a joy to observe the fish swimming gracefully in the aquarium. It is a great stress reliever after a hard day's work. In the move Finding Nemo the fish are shown as cute, witty and works as a team.

Mice and hamster are small cute and shy animals. They are nocturnal animals often active only at night. In the cartoon Mickey Mouse it is shown as cute but shy. They have a tendency to reproduce at a phenomenal rate.

Pets are great companion. The owner should treat pets as a family member taking care of their meals and well-being. The pets often reciprocate by being nice to the owner. It is the interaction between the owner and the pets that makes the relationship endearing.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

University Education - Passport to Prosperity

2008-03-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Gaining admission to prestigious university, local or overseas, is a source of inspiration for many young students and even their parents. Many parents even made elaborate preparation years before their children took the all-important Pre-University entrance examination. For the students it means studying in an intense pressure cooker environment so as to pass the all-important Pre-University entrance examination to gain admission to prestigious university such as Oxford or Cambridge University in the United Kingdom (UK) or the Ivy League university in the United States such as Yale or Harvard University. The 2008 Democratic Party Presidential Nomination is led by Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama who graduate from Ivy League university Yale and Harvard University respectively.

In many countries and especially in Asia from Japan to Singapore, students choose to further their academic studies at the University or even post-tertiary level not just in local but even in prestigious overseas university. The belief is that with an University education they can secure jobs with a better pay. University education is seen widely as a stepping stone to choice career with good pay in the government or multi-national company as the competition is intense globally for such jobs.

For those who did not succeed in passing the entrance examination or who choose not to pursue university education, they will have to find a job to support themselves financially. The remuneration tends not to be high as they do not have a degree. Some of them opt to further their studies part time while they continue with their job. This can be stressful as they have to balance hectic work schedule together with academice studies. There are some who choose to be entrepreneur and start their own business and many have succeeded.

University education is widely seen as a coveted passport to prosperity but for those who could not make it there is always rainbow after the storm.

Numbers - Supremacy over Words

2008-03-20T06:01:00.000-07:00

In today's technologically advance world, the numbers ranging from zero to nine (0 - 9) has been growing in importance inspite of the many differences in language and culture. Two parties who do not speak or understand each other's language may yet reach an agreement base on numbers. Numbers provide clear, precise reference and is important especially in our daily lifes and internet, sports and finance.

Numbers are part of our routine daily lifes. We are issued Social Security/Identity Card and Passport numbers which are unique and must be remembered. Anyone who does not have or produce their Identity Card or Passport number is treated as an alien. On the internet, there is the ubiquitous login ID which is usually either alpha-numeric or just numbers. Inablity to remember the unique login ID would result in frustration as the internet transaction will not be completed. The world of instant mobile communication is not possible without the assigned unique caller identity number.

In the globalised and highly competitive world of sports where all the teams or individuals strive to win, the numbers are all-too-important. The winners of the match secure precious points and they have to ensure that they have the highest number of points at the end of season to be a winner. And to win the match they have to score preferably by a big margin. The world of sports has become interdependent with numbers. The current standing of the team which is base on the number of points they have are monitored vigorously. Drastic actions are taken in the event of poor standings including firing the non-performing coach and team member which often made the headline news.

The world of finance is highly dependent on numbers. The daily stock index reading such as Dow Jones Industrail Average (DJIA), NASDAQ and FTSE are meaningless without numbers. The financial news rely on numbers to convey the message. It is easier to understand the NASDAQ has climb from 1,000 to 1,100 today rather than the NASDAQ has surged today. The daily financial news are heavily illustrated with numbers and charts/graphs.

Inspite of advancing technology and differences in language and culture the numbers has become an intergral part of this world. A Guide to the Pronounciation of Numbers in the Major International Language (including French,German and Mandarin) is attached at the bottom of the blogsite http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Plastic Surgery - Change or Not to Change

2008-03-18T05:27:00.000-07:00

In today's urbanised, highly competitive society, change is a word that fascinate audience. Good-looking celebrity such as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie or David Beckham and Victoria Adam (Posh Spice) are worship as successful role-model. Many young people and even adults aspire to have good-looks, just like a celebrity movie or pop star, so that they can gain recognition and self confidence. Unfortunately, most people are born with average look and the way to change to an age-defying celebrity look is often via plastic surgery with unpredictable outcome.

Common request for plastic surgery would include double eyelids, sharp angular nose, full lips, removal of wrinkles from forehead and chin, removal of eyebags and fat removal from arms, legs and abdomen. People wearing glasses nowadays can opt for Lasik (laser) surgery to reduce short-sightedness so they do not have to wear glasses or contact lens. There are some people born with physical defects where plastic surgery can help them achieve normal looks to gain confidence.

Common plastic surgery includes botox treatment to remove wrinkles via injection, liposuction to suck out excess fats in the body and Lasik (laser) surgery to reduce short sightedness and radiofrequency treatment to remove fats. Plastic surgery is gaining acceptance in developed countries in the west and in Asian countries such as South Korea.

The transformation of a normal looking person to one with age-defying celebrity look is often dramatic. The changed person may gain confidence and greater acceptance after the plastic surgery. However, it is debatable whether being transformed purely in terms of look would help the person achieve success in life. Beauty is only skin deep and it may be better to improve one's habit, behaviour and ability on top of just changing physical appearance.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Pre-University Entrance Examination - Winners Takes It All

2008-03-17T05:22:00.001-07:00

There is an eerie silence in the background. Sweat is raining down the forehead, the heart is pumping fast, the eye is heavy, the hands and legs are quivering and the mouth is dry. There are many anxious and worried looks in the surrounding. Suddenly the loudspeaker ahead announces : " Destination Ahead! Prepare to Jump/Charge!". This is not a scene from the blockbuster movie Saving Private Ryan or Band of Brothers or the latest Microsoft Xbox/Sony Playstation wargames but rather it is a scenario from the Annual Pre-University examination repeated in the world and especially in Asia from Japan to Singapore.

Worldwide and especially in Asia, preparing for the Pre-University entrance examination is a stressful rites of passage not just for the students but also for the parents. Many parents even send their children for personal one-to-one tuition classes to prepare them for this all-important examination. Nearer to examination time, parents would even take leave to coach their children. Buying supplements and health tonics such as ginseng and bird's nest on the days before the examination for their children is not uuncommon. Such act demonstrate the importance of passing the gruesome entrance examination and getting a place in prestigious local or foreign university such as Oxford or Cambridge University in the United Kindgom (UK) or the Ivy League university such as Yale or Harvard University in the United States (USA).

The recent presidents of the United States including President George Bush, President Bill Clinton and the current President George W. Bush Jr are Yale graduates. The Democratic Party Presidential candidate Senator Hillary Clintion, who is the spouse of Mr Bill Clintion, is also a Yale graduate. Her opponent for the Democratic Party 2008 Presidential election Senator Barack Obama is a Harvard graduate.

The reward for doing well in the Pre-University Entrance Examination is to secure a place in prestigious local or foreign university. The annual event has turn to the scenario of a battlefield due to the intense competition for limited places. The survivor emerge victorious securing a passport to prosperity while the casualty has to ponder on their fate for the future.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

TV Programmes - Joy or Sorrow

2008-03-13T05:33:00.000-07:00

The Television set or TV has undergo many technological changes from the initial black and white cathode ray TV to colour TV to the current plasma screen or LCD high definition ultra slim TV. The resolution has become clearer, image sharper, colour brighter and the programmes more diverse and global. In terms of TV programmes the popular ones are sports, news, movies, music and documentaries shown through broadcast, cable or satellite.

The sports programme or in particular the LIVE telecast of English Premier League (EPL) matches, F1 Grand Prix, World Cup Soccer and Olympics are very popular worldwide. In Asia, many people watch the live TV screening usually in the evening on pubs, coffeehouse or at home often with friends. Upcoming sports programme this year would include the European Soccer championship where the perennial favourite England and crowd favourite David Beckham is surprisingly out. However many of the young upcoming stars will parade their skills with the likes of C. Ronaldo, Benzema and C. Fabregas. Many people tend to cheer or scream when their favourite team scores or wins but feel sad when they lost the match. The Beijing 2008 Olympics in August promise to showcase sporting excitement to the world from China. Some of the stars to lookout for include Liu Xiang in the hurdles (Track and Field) and Yao Ming in basketball. Many new stadium and buildings with architectural beauty will be unveil to the world including the National Stadium in Beijing (Bird's Nest) and the National Aquatic Centre in Beijing (Water Cube). The Beijing Olympics is expected to attract global audience to the TV set watching the exciting games. In September the first ever F1 Grand Prix Night Race in Singapore will be unveil via live telecast to the world.

News or current affairs has always been a staple TV programme delivering international and local information to audience through popular programme such as CNN and FoxTV. One of the very memorable news footage is that of the September 11 terrorist atttack which was beamed on TV programme worldwide with dramatic footage of the New York World Trade Centre twin tower collapsing after being hit by hijacked plane.

Music or MTV programme has always been popular especially among the young. The tendency is to show chart-topping pop music MTV. One of the MTV i always remember is one of the earlier MTV showing Michael Jackson singing, dancing and moon walking in his hits Beat It and Billy Jean.

Movies are popular on TV with the 2 main categories being the Hollywood Movies in English and the regional or local movies usually in local language such as the Bollywood and HongKong movies. The Hollywood blockbuster movies with it's stunning special effects is very popular worldwide. However Bollywood and HongKong movies has been gaining popularity and some of their stars such as Jackie Chan has appeared on Hollywood movies such as Rush Hour.

Documentaries are increasingly popular showing history, geography, animals, places and technology on screen. One of the popular documentaries is Discovery Channel showing many interesting discoveries in this planet.

The TV programme has change over time and it has been a kaleidoscope of life - be it joy or sorrow.

Stay Fit and Lose Weight - Just Do It

2008-03-11T05:22:00.000-07:00

Looking trim, fit and healthy just like movie stars such as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie without resorting to plastic surgery has fascinated many people. They attend gym lesson and practice Yoga to try to stay fit and healthy. Staying healthy allow one to be alert, energetic and undertake activities such as travelling, dancing and even sports. Here is what i can share in terms of staying fit and healthy via aerobic and muscular exercise and also regular and controlled diet intake.

Aerobic or cardio-vascular exercise works the lungs and helps in blood circulation and it can be perform both indoor and outdoor. Indoor aerobic exercise could include rope skipping, stair climbing and jogging on treadmill. Outdoor aerobic exercise could include jogging, swimming, cycling annd trekking. It is advisable to start with shorter distance and at slower pace and then progressively increase the intensity. The key is to exercise at regular interval such as weekly basis rather than on ad-hoc basis to prevent injury.

Muscular exercise works the different body muscle and it can be done indoor and outdoor. Basic muscular exercise could include push-up, sit-up and chin-up. More advance muscular exercise could include Yoga, Pilates and carrying weights. The key is to exercise or stretch the different muscle group to promote flexibility with key areas being the chest, back, abdomens, arms and legs.

Regular and controlled diet is important on top of regular exercise. It is advisable to go for balance and regular interval diet with emphasis on vegetables, fruits and boiled or steamed meat rather than deep fried, oily and sweet food. Keep well hydrated by drinking water regularly.

Monitoring the exercise progress can be done via the weighing machine.Regular checks should be carried out so that progress can be monitored. Being able to wear clothes of a smaller size is often a strong motivation for people to stay fit and healthy.

Exercising and keeping fit allows for one to enjoy life and one should just do it.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Making Friends on Internet - Expect the Unexpected

2008-03-10T05:32:00.000-07:00

Making friends across the world over the internet has been made possible and easier with Internet Messenger (Yahoo/MSN) and Social Networking websites with the popular one being Facebook, Friendster, MyFace and YouTube. Over the internet one can share videos, exchange informations, send virtual gifts and pay games. Distance and boundaries is no barrier.

Many guys and girls on the internet are generally nice, friendly and sociable. Globally, there is a tendency for many people to choose friends base on appearance because they looks nice in their picture. There are however many people in this world who may have average looks but has a big heart.

After knowing each other, meeting at times do took place and the results is often unexpected. Some meeting may turn sour as one party finds the real person to be unattractive as opposed to what was imagined base on the picture posted on the internet. However this may be due to having high expectation which is not met during the meeting. If one approach meeting friends on the internet with on open mind not solely focus on appearance then the meeting may turn out to be fun and new friends are made. Nonetheless when meeting friends on the internet it is important to exercise caution especially for girls.

Making and meeting friends on the internet is like having a box of chocolates you never know what you will get.

Daniel
http://danieleppl.blogspot.com

Learn Foreign Language - Build Bridge to Friendship

2008-03-07T04:32:00.000-08:00

Many of us finds ourselves travelling to a foreign country or receiving visitors from foreign countries who do not speak or speak little English. The ability to speak foreign language would allows for better communication and lay the bridge for friendship. Some of the common non-English language are German, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Malay, Tagalog and more. To learn more about foreign language one may consider enrolling in foreign language classes which may incorporate examinations. As an alternative here is what i can share in term of how to learn to speak basic conversational foreign language (especially the ever popular Mandarin).

It is easier and useful to start by learning to pronounce numbers in the foreign language. Numbers are essential when making purchases like when buying food, taking a cab or buying souvenir. This can be combine with sign language to facilitate the communication. In terms of pronouncing numbers in Mandarin, here is what i can share :
- Yi (one)
- Er (two)
- San (three)
- Si (four)
- Wu (five)
- Liu (six)
- Qi (seven)
- Ba (eight)
- Jiu (nine)
- Shi (ten)
- Bai (hundred)
- Qian (thousand)

It is important to learn the pronounciation of major roads, food, accomodation and attractions. This would facilitate travel, having meals and finding accomodation. Many of them incorporate numbers in their name.

It is useful to learn basic conversation in foreign language. This would include greetings (eg Ni Hao in Mandarin), thank you(eg Xie Xie in Mandarin), yes/no (eg You/Mei You in Mandarin). One should try to communicate as much as possible while listening to the response from the other parties and not be afraid to make mistakes. It is with more practice that one can improve.

Learning foreign language can be fun but tough and the reward would be in the form of a bridge to friendship.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Long Distance Relationship - Porcelain in your hand

2008-03-05T04:31:00.000-08:00

In today's globalised society many of us finds ourselves studying or working and living in a different country with a different culture and even languages. This is often due to overseas study, job assignment or posting while love ones remains in the home country.

Connecting with overseas family/friends is done through Internet Messenger (Yahoo/MSN),mobile or fixed line telephone, email or even the traditional snail mail. The advantage of Internet Messenger with web cam is that it allows for images of both parties to be shown instantly. Many tearful moments happens while one connect with overseas family members and friends.

Overseas relationship can be fragile due to many reasons including busy schedule when one may not be able to constantly connect with love one overseas. Over time this may lead to alienation to both parties and at times the communication may even cease. There is often the suspicion that love ones may have found someone else during one's absence. This is where the true test of relationship lies. However, there are many cheerful cases where relationship flourish despite the long distance barrier and periodic communicaion.

Love is a many splendour thing and with patience and care distance may be no barrier in today's modern globalised world.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Music - Love & Passion in Time of Google/Nokia & Apple

2008-03-03T04:23:00.000-08:00

In this era of modern technology one can connect with people instantly across distance and boundaries via the internet (eg Google Youtube) or via mobile phone (eg Nokia). However this may have reduce the need for face to face communication and one can be an island even in a sea of crowded city with millions of residents. Music has enter the scene and become one's companion and even substitute for love and passion. The omnipresent music can be listen through Youtube website, MTV, latest Nokia mobile phone, Apple IPhone/Ipod, CD or even the traditional radio.

Music is primarily play by instrument with common one being guitar, drums and piano. My favourite musical instrument is the Saxophone which gives off a very romantic sound especially in a quiet environment. Many jazz music incorporate Saxophone and it is very soothing to the ear. My other favourite musical instrument is the traditional chinese Qu Zhen which is a big musical board with many parallel strings. It has to be struck by fingers from both hand and gives off a sharp, melancholic pitch that reverbrates in the surrounding. The music reminds of ancient times where distance are covered by galloping horses, love amidst hardship and constant warfares.

One's preference for music may change over time. In the early teens most would prefer pop, disco tuned music sang by popular artist. Many teenager would even queue to buy tickets to listen to the concert by such artist. However, such feverish passion tends to fade over the years. The chart-topping song do not remain at the top - it will decline from the chart overtime. As one progresses in life the preference would tend to favour evergreen or soul music which has slower tempo but stronger vocals. My favourite evergreen singer is Dionne Warwick.

Music allows for the epxression of love and passion in this age of modern technology.

Daniel
http://danielepl.blogspot.com

Silhouette of A Long Hair Girl

2008-02-28T04:39:00.000-08:00

A faded photograph of early childhood days brings back memories of a certain long hair girl with a sweet smile who has fascinated me since early days.

During early childhood days there was a long hair girl appointed by the teacher to be in charge of our class. She was good in study, lively and sweet and even volunteer to buy tin-canned tea for the teacher during breaks. The image of her sweet smile and her long flowing hair blowing in the wind as she brought the tea to the class has always fascinate me. After graduation we lose touch but some how the silhouette of her image remains.

Years later while being overseas on assignment to a distant island in the northern hemisphere during winter i encounter a long hair girl who looks like her - long hair with sweet smile and slender leg. I was at a secluded beach surrounded by hills, with chilling winds when i saw the girl who looks like her. When she turn her head to look at me, with her long flowing hair blowing in the wind, i was rather speechlss as it reminds me of her. She was in a rush and i could only have glimpse of her silhouette

The silhouette of the long hair girl has remain in my memory over all these years.

Bangkok at Night - A Zen like City

2008-02-27T04:38:00.000-08:00

Bangkok the capital city of Thailand is a cosmopolitan, modern yet conservative city. In daytime the city is crowded with people and with cars and Tuk-Tuk on the road. At night the city of Bangkok is cooler, quieter and this may be a better time to explore the various attractions in the city.

Have dinner at Baiyoke Sky Tower (Pratunum) Building which offers panoramic view of the Bangkok skyline while having dinner. Dinner at the Sheration Hotel, Oriental Hotel and Shangri-La Hotel besides the Chao Praya River offers a good view of the river and the city skyline while having meals.

Take a Boat ride along the Chao Praya River after having dinnner at the hotels along the river. One major attractions along the river is the shiny Wat Arun Temple (Temple of Dawn) which is a 86 metre Khmer style prang. It has mutliglazed procelains embedded in the structure giving off bright lights. The city skyline can be view along the river.

Watch Muay Thai (Thai Kick Boxing) at Lumpini Stadium which involves two boxer pounding and kicking each other for victory. The audience can be quite noisy shouting support for their favourite boxer. It is different from boxing in that it allows the use of the knee and the ball of the feet for kicking.

Taste local food along Sukumvit Road (try Cabbages and Condoms at Soi 12 which gives free condom after the meal), Siam Square (try MBK Foodcourt), Chinatown (try the Bird's nest soup) and Silom Road (try the western stalls along Patpong Road).

Shop at the Mega shopping malls located mostly along Siam Square. Items to buy includes local handicraft and silk wear.

Bangkok at night is cool and quiet alonging one to explore the attractions along the city.

Night in Singapore - Bright Lights / Vibrant City

2008-02-26T04:27:00.000-08:00

Singapore is a tropical island near the equator where the temperature in the day time can be pretty hot. At night it is cooler and for visitors to Singapore this might be a good time to explore the various places in Singapore.

Have dinner at night at restaurants at the top of some buildings/hotels such as Fairmont Hotel (CityHall MRT), Meritus Mandarin Hotel (Orchard MRT) and even Pan Pacific Hotel which allows for panoramic view of the singapore skyline while having dinner.

Visit the Night Safari at Mandai. There are 1200 night animals of more than 100 exotic species there. There are options of leisure walking trails or even tram ride to explore the attractions.

Watch Horse Racing at the Kranji Turf Club which is usually held on Friday night starting at 6.30pm. The race is either done on turf (grass) or on fibresand surface. At the turf club, the atmosphere is crowded with thousands of mostly male customer shouting and supporting their favourite horse. One major annual international event at the Turf Club is the SIA International Cup which is held usually in May where race horse and trainers from international countries will arrive in Singapore to compete for the honour.

Visit Parks and beaches in various parts of Singapore. Popular choice include Fort Canning Park in central Singapore where the bright lights of the city skyline can be seen at the top of the hill. In the west one can visit Labrador Park which offers a good view of Sentosa and the sea. Choices in the east include East Coast Park which has a long beach and many eating places and Changi Beach Park where the view of the sea is quite spectacular.

Visit to the southern theme Island of Sentosa can done via air (cable car) or via land (car or buses). Major attractions include the Merlion, nice beaches with bars and Underwater World.

Night cruise around the Southern Islands of Singapore can be arranged. The ship will cruise around the southern island of Kusu, St John, Sisters and Lazarus Island allowing for view of Singapore skyline at the same time.

Local food can be tasted at various night spots in Singapore. In Geylang local food is available including exotic dishes such as frog leg porridge. Arab/Bugis street shops offers tasty Malay food. Indian food can be found allong Serangoon Road. Western food can be tasted at areas such as Orchard Rd and Holland Village.

There are also upcoming attractions at night such as the Singapore Flyer where one can view the Singapore skyline at night in a capsule rotated upto 42 storey above ground. The other major event is the Singtel F1 Grand Prix which will be held in the second half of the year where international race driver will race around the singapore street at night fall in sleek racing car competing for honour.

The night scene in Singapore is lively and vibrant.

Hua Hin - The Sun, The Sea and The Sand

2008-02-25T05:27:00.001-08:00

Hua Hin is a beach resort 170km south of Bangkok (Thailand) on the sunrise side of the Gulf of Thailand. It offers visitor nice beaches, good spa resort, food and entertainment, attractions and warm people.

There is a long stretch of white sand beach in the town centre facing the Gulf of Thailand where one can laze around enjoying the sun, reading books, having a nice massage or even enjoy horse riding. The view of sunrise and sunset is quite spectacular at the beach front.

There is many upmarket spa resort in Hua Hin town or in neighbouring coastal city Ch'aam where one can enjoy relaxing spa treatment, yoga practices and soothing massage beside the beach.

Many foodstalls is available on the beachfront all day long where one can have Thai or even Internationl cuisines. At nightfall there are many pubs at the beach front where one can have some cool drinks and entertainment. There is also a Night market near the bus terminal where local thai foods are available.

One major attraction is Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park where one can hike along the hill path, explore caves and swim in the shallow secluded beaches. Arrangement to visit the park can be made at the Tourist office. The Train station is also worth visiting as it was previously use by royalties.

The people in Hua Hin are generally nice and friendly although most of them communicate only in local thai language.

Hua Hin is a coastal city where one should visit for the the sun, the sea and the sand.

Penang - Island of Surprise

2008-02-20T04:58:00.000-08:00

Penang is an island on the north western coast of peninsular malaysia with sunny weather and occasional rains. It can be reach on air travel via Bayan Leyas International Airport or on road via Penang bridge. It is an island full of surprises with its historical attractions, beaches, food and friendly people.

The main attractions in Penang are the historical city of Georgetown which has many historical sites including Fort Cornwallis and Padang, Cheong Fat Tze Mansion and Khoo Kongsi. Most of the sites are located along Penang Rd and Weld street. Attractions in central penang include Kek Lok Si temple and Botanical Gardens which has a nice waterfall, gardens with many monkeys.

Penang is famous for its sunny beaches on the northern coast along Batu Ferringhi and Telok Bahang. There are streches of white sand and many hotels can be found along the beaches.

Many foodstalls in Penang can found in Georgetown along Penang Road and Chulia Street and on Guerney Drive on late evenings. Some suggestion would be Roti Canai, Nasi lemak or Char Kuay Teow for breakfast. For lunch one may try local dishes such as chicken rice, laksa or even indian dishes like briyani.

People in penang are nice and friendly. Many tourist from European and Asian countries can be found travelling in Georgetown or on the beaches in Penang.

Penang is an island which is worh exploring with its many attractions.

Mobile Phone - Love and Hate

2008-02-19T04:34:00.001-08:00

Views on EPL

2008-02-18T05:27:00.001-08:00

Man U is likely to win the English Premiership. It has strikers like Ronaldo and Rooney who can score and also good defensive records. It has just beaten Arsenal 4-0 convincingly in the FA cup. With this form is it likely to do well and continue winning. Arsenal has a team of mostly young players who may be under pressure to maintain their current slim lead over Man U. It may ends up second in the premiership.