I Thought You Should Know

Happy Anniversary, Baby!!

What Color Christmas Tree Should You Have?

You Should Have a Purple Christmas Tree

For you, the holidays represent a time of creativity and expression. There's no way you'd do something bland simply for tradition's sake. You are an independent person, and you definitely do the holidays your own way. And you're decadent enough to go way over the top with any unusual holiday ideas you have. Your purple tree would look great with: Purple lights and ornaments You should spend Christmas Eve watching: A Christmas Story What you should bake for Santa: "Kitchen sink" cookies - with a ton of things in them

What Color Christmas Tree Should You Have?

Got this from Mia... thank you!
It's cute.... so true...so me!

Junkies!

Not really big fan of chips now and I’ve restrained myself from eating it mainly to help reduce my salt and msg (monosodium glutamate) intake so my system can easily flush out unwanted food toxic.

But then I love to eat junkies! So I looked for substitute to satiate the cravings and here’s what I found which I really, really love. Snyder’s of Hanover in Cheddar Cheese. They’re flavored pretzel pieces. Yum!

Here in Hong Kong, it’s available in Great and Taste. Available in Hot Buffalo Wing, Honey Mustard and Onion, Garlic Bread Flavor.

Cadbury Fruit and Nut Chocolate bar – my total stress reliever.

Mangga at Bagoong

Hilaw na Mangga at bagoong - like husband and wife, one can’t go without the other – they are the perfect combination, to be exact.

It is one of the favorite instant snacks in Philippines…. from little kids to grannies, pinoys love it... I’m crazy for it! Once its distinct flavor bite your taste bud… I’m sure there’s only one thing you’d do next – look for more.

Hilaw (unripe) na Mangga can be found everywhere. I always love Mangoes from Guimaras – it’s the sweetest in the world!

Bagoong is fermented shrimp (be sure it’s well cooked). One can immediately tell there’s someone cooking or eating it because of its unique smell, more often than not, enchants passerby. But be cautious... make sure you try a bit first. If nothing happens… continue nibbling the perfect treat!

Funny thing during the preparation - you may find yourself drooling while peeling the mango. Don’t worry – that’s a normal reaction.

Mangga at Bagoong combination is also often requested by infancipating ladies

Mangga at Bagoong – truly pinoy, truly the best! Yum!

Lan Kwai Fong 2008 Street Carnival

Lan Kwai Fong once again celebrated another year of street carnival seemingly like the Mardi Gras of Rio de Janiero (perhaps the smallest of its kind in the world), a weekend full of adventure, excitement and fantasy that brought a lot of pleasure to those who love food, drink, entertainment and fun!

Right through the parade, we were mesmerized to rhythm of the searing Latin dancers as they groove to the beat of the African drum. There were over 80 stalls around the LKF area that served beers, cocktails, wines from all over, roasted pork, crepes, cakes, cookies, satay, pizza and etc….just anything you could imagine!

Live performances for adults were everywhere like comedy shows, live singers, circus acts and cocktail flaring and this celebration wasn’t only for the grown ups, Wo On Lane was transformed into Toys R Us Kid’s Street where the little ones enjoyed lots of games, face painting, magicians, bouncy castle, toys, snack and just about anything that kept them occupy.

The mobbed Cavern Club hosted the venue for the Battle of the Band China Finals competition and the winner will represent China for the Global Battle of the Bands. Three finalists rocked the club from Shenzhen (Bolt Action), Shanghai (Dovetail Joints) and of course, the announced winner from Hong Kong – the Killer Soap. Hubby and I were so happy to watched their liver performances.

We continued to dance the night away… another unforgettable experience only from Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong.

More photos, click me.

scrapNshare - Kiss!

My favorite travel photo this year taken during my Dolphin Interaction in Aquarium, Cancun Mexico.

I used colored string to make a lolly shape to symbolize... sweetness.

Borrowed Moments

I am longing for a time that I would no longer borrow moments such as this.

**My thanks to Linda, for sharing us Neanne. She's such a cutie! Hubby kept squeezing and smelling her little toes and fingers... :)

scrapNshare - SC's Birthday Gift Card

The gift card I made for our friend's birthday.

He finally opened his presents yesterday after his week long birthday celebrations. And after he opened our gift... he immediately called (i missed it 2 times) me. When I texted him about the missed call, he replied "I appreciate your very thoughtful and lovely card. The best I've received this year! P.S. called to say thank you."

Sweet isn't?

And hubby even told me, I should be proud..

I am!

scrapNshare - My All

I love this candid shot of my husband taken of course by yours truly...

Just another thought...

Reality has its own way in "switching off" your time in wonderland, but it has its own way also of "switching it on" when you most need it :)

Festivity - Mid-Autumn Festival

Also known as Full Moon Festival, Lantern Festival and Moon Cakes Festival

This is definitely one of the most awaited festivity among children and those young at heart like us... hahaha

A time for yummy moon cakes, lanterns and most of the parks, beaches and neighboring playgrounds are filled with families to witness the full moon happening on the 15th day of the 8th month on the lunar calendar which usually falls somewhere in the middle of September.

Obviously, this is the night when everyone is asked to eat moon cakes (one must eat the yolk to have a year long luck). And a night when playing with lanterns and candles are allowed while watching the rise of the full moon.

Since it has been 5 years, we decided to join again the fun night at Shek O Beach. While hubby grabbed food (chicken and pork barbeque, hotdog and grilled squid with my favorite sticky rice with manggo) and drink (beer and soda), I've created one big circle and surrounded the area with candles. Placed a mat in the middle and sticked our lil' lantern in front and viola.... what a beautiful sight! hahaha.. comments among moon watchers are: "wow! that's nice" "lovely" "it's pretty" "may I take a picture" "ho leng ahh- means beautiful in cantonese" "woahhhh - common expression among the locals when they are in awe".

There's even a guy, about five meters away from us silently aimed his pro-cam to my Wati and our lil' lanterns... when I saw him, he said...sorry but can i take a photo of that...it's really interesting!" Verily, a fun full moon night at the beach!

We had a great lunch with our BF at Post 97 the following day. At home, hubby and I had another round of moon cake this time with wine.. hahaha

Side story:
I captured the moon in full at its best... it turned out to be my best moon photo!

Trivia: Moon Cakes were used to hide secret notes notifying Chinese citizens to revel against the Mongols who ruled during the Yuan Dynasty. The plan worked out and their success is commemorated every year with a sweet treats.

More photos, click me.

Boozeteria: Grappa's Cellar and Blues By The Bay

When Saturday Night turns out to be just one of those nights, we love to venture down in our favorite spots mostly located in Central and Tsimshatsui. While hubby frequently hang out in traditional watering holes offering intense selection of wines, like Grappa’s, I prefer contemporary but classic, simple but with character clubs like Blues By The Bay.

Hubby and I loves two Grappa’s around HK, one in Pacific Place (where service is unbelievably fantastic) and the other is in Jardine House (where ambiance and live rock and jazz music can instantly wipe out your week long stress). Truly the place to go should you crave for scrumptious Italian food and great selection of wine.

After enjoying an appetizing dinner and astounding atmosphere, we hopped across the harbour and continue the fun night at Blues By The Bay. No other restaurant/club can be as close to Victoria Harbour and is surrounded by 270° panoramic Hong Kong view. It also sits on the main tourist attraction, the Avenue of Stars. The great view incorporated with good live music and wide selection of western and asian cuisine can definitely turn your one of those Saturday night unforgettable one.

More photos, click me.

How to create adventure packed escapade:

1. Search for a place that is not often recommended on travel site – an untracked region, isolated beaches and unrated lodging.

2. Book your flights and accommodations in advance – remember rule number 1, do expect less flight schedules and accommodations may be scarce.

3. Be safe and wise - since we are talking about adventurous trip, it is recommended to get a full coverage of travel insurance. Yes, we may want to find our own moment, remember the little risk and note that it’s only temporary.

4. Less is more – if the destination offers activities limited to sun basking, swimming, resting and eating, you’d only need pairs of swimsuits, a hat, a good book, sun block lotion, a good sun glasses and a pair of flip-flops. Worry less, enjoy more!

5. Find where the locals go – food in fine restaurants are awesome, but remember, we’re on adventure. In the street is where we can find the best local food.

6. Enjoy being a tourist – when you arrived to your destination, automatically claim your new identity. Let your trip be your escape from work, emails, calls, and from your parents and even to your kids,if you have. Remember, you are taking this adventure to enjoy your moment. Everyone deserved to have that.

7. Take and share your picture – this is a good reminder that life is not all about keeping our ends met. More often than not, travel let you see boundless possibilities.

And Bedroom Bugs Start To Wander

I had a long emotional battle about getting a new travel buddy. I thought about it, a lot, since my Pagang has been traveling with us for more than 3 years now. I find it so hard since I’m not the only one who is madly in-love with this bedroom bug-turned-travel gnome… my husband is, too. But my sweetheart's size is not suitable for carrying around as we were often caught in everyone’s attention every time I take his pictures. Some kids would run towards us and start patting and squeezing its back. Of course I felt happy about it but I don’t like the slight pinched in my heart upon hearing their whispers “akin na lang sya”. There’s no way I’d let go of my sweetheart… he's been our joy, like our own baby! Hence, I always end up saying I’ll get new one for them.

Then one day, while browsing birthday card for my friend, I thought something on the corner was staring at me. So, I lowered the birthday card and check out who was there… lo and behold! A cute little green turtle with a head bigger than his shell, so soft and his eyes… the most charming eyes I ever saw…it’s like begging to bring him home. Obviously, he went home with me.



My hubby was very happy to see him and welcomed warmly just like I hoped for.

The funny face, expressive eyes and his flexible soft head is the reason why I called him, Wati (means earthworm).


I observed my Wati truly loved outdoor when one time, I brought him out to the park and saw a happy face in his pictures. Wati is our new travel buddy.

Wati and Pagang… our joy, our sweet bedroom bugs and great companion while wandering around.

Dolphin Interaction, Cancún, Mexico

And then one of my childhood dreams came true - to frolic with the dolphins.
And I'm so delighted that this experience lasted for an hour - upclose...really close.


Just want to share some thoughts....some discoveries about dolphin sharing same behavior and characteristics with me..
• That they are playful like me - we love to play and have fun all the time.
• That like me, they have mild aggression – you know.... the "we know how to fight back when provoke" and the “don’t mess with me” attitude.
• That they are great protector too – when there’s a danger, we know how to guard our love ones.
• That they establish strong bond either with family or friends – an altruistic behavior, the "I won’t leave you alone", "I’m here whenever you need me" attitude.
• That they are resourceful – we always have a way and a solution.
• That we both know how to socialize – we live in pods!
• That we both have strong sense of smell - who is the “bitchy and asshole fishes” in the sea :)
Side Story: The trainor commented during our interactions that Dolphins did liked me too, that is based on what they observed. He said that dolphins can feel our excitements and desires.

My Dolphin Foot Push
More photos, click me.

Tattoo from Miami Ink, Miami USA

Junvie's tattoo quest started when he regularly watched the famous reality T.V. show, the Miami Ink. At first I thought he was just obsessed with that tattoo show until he talked to me while in bed - that he is thinking of getting one for himself.

I went nuts for a simple fact that I've known - my husband never liked tattoo at all. Oh well, this case gave a clearer explanation as to how things could change.

The more he watched the show, the deeper his interest gets. And me - ask me no more because my answer would still be the same... a big NO!

He was very patient in convincing me, he would invite me to watch the show with him. Those people featured on the show have their own stories - some are sad, some are happy but I don't really care... the answer from me is still, NO!

Episodes after episodes, I realized tattoo is not bad at all. The more I watched the show, I learnt how to appreciate tattoo as one form of artistry, and as much as I hate to admit... I got interested in it as well. But that doesn't mean I need to get one for myself, ohh no, thank you!

It became apparent to him that I'm finally in favor of him getting a tattoo. He's very happy when I first asked him what he is going' to get... Truth is, it's hard to decide for a fact that it will be inked in your skin forever... So we gave the deciding part the longest time for this quest. We've gone innumerable tattoo websites, books and magazines...people watching along the streets, restaurants, gym, church, his hotel guests, bars, beaches… everywhere you can ever imagine. Then I told him to wait... do not force himself looking but just let it come.

And the dragon came along... :)


Additional infos:
1. Tattoo from Chris Garver or Ami James or Chris Nunez or Darren Brass or Yoji are by invitational only...depends on the production. If you really want tattoo from them, you have to book a year or two in advance and still there's no guarantee they will really do that when the time comes.
2) Hubby's tattoo was done by James Hamilton - apprentice of Chris and Ami for almost 10 years.
3.) LOVE HATE is the original name.... Discovery Channel changed the name for the show. They will name the show Love Hate Tattoo this coming season.

More photos, click me.

Bye Plastics....

I thought I really need to blog this..

I read from the newspaper today that China is finally lauching a war against the usage of plastics... thank you!

I'd say, with almost a quarter of the total human population around the globe...they should have consider this fight 20 years ago!

They must also consider the fight over the emission of gases from the factories especially in the Guangdong Province. This will definitely help clear Hong Kong skyline.

One thing for sure, China is over developing their land... please save some for people and for generations to come.

Passport 2008: New York City, USA

After reviewing all the flights going to Miami, we took the direct flight of Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong to New York then connect to Miami after 3 days.

3 days in New York? Ha!! Too short considering all the hype of this city a.k.a Big Apple. Honestly, I'm more fascinated in a place where life is more placid, where air and environment is cleaner and less chaotic. New York is New York... that there's no other place on earth like it. But that thought doesn't appeal to me much, maybe because I'm residing in a place where the way of living is almost the same. To be exact, this Empire City ranked 27th on my travel bucket lists - that's out of curiosity; I'm all agog to know why would anyone claim it is the best place on earth.

Our first day was totally unproductive... jet-lagged, wet and gloomy weather. After walking few blocks from our hotel, we headed back to the room with lots of take-away food! We considered great deal of rest so we can start fresh.

Second day, time to get acquainted with Big Apple. We just grabbed a map and walked around Manhattan. Jet lag made our pace a bit slow. Chilled out a bit in Hard Rock.

3rd day was even more disappointing. Ferry to Ellis Island to see the american icon, Statue of Liberty was suspended due to bad weather. 

Though we barely scratched the surface of New York, it is a place full of character and culture. Junvie and I decided to go back in few years time to explore more. For now... time to go to warm and sunny Miami!

Somebody Save Me!

I know this is what you've been crying for so long..
I want to make you feel better but I don't know how to..
So in my own 10 little ways, Mother Earth this is for you!

1.) Starting tomorrow, I'll turn off the faucet while brushing my teeth.
2.) Will keep the shower low while shampooing and bathing.
3.) I'll bring my own water jug and will avoid buying bottled water.
4.) I'll turn off those unnecessary lights.
5.) Unplug those appliances not in use.
6.) I will walk errands instead of taking cabs.
7.) I'll try to separate waste materials.
8.) I'll eat less meat!
9.) Will keep our air filter clean at all times.
10. Use less paper and grow more plants.

Changes should really start within ourselves, within our home.
Let's be the savior of our own world...

HAPPY EARTH DAY!
.

Upcoming Ventures - Baking?

After surfing Hong Kong's cybersphere as to what summer program can occupy my monday and tuesday nights.. I eventually landed in this site that fueled my imagination and start dreaming of creating one of my own.

I am planning to pursue conquering my long time kitchen frustration, baking. I love cakes, candies, cookies and ice-cream cakes... I have a sweet tooth, you know... but to bake and make them is the last thing I would like to do... not that I don't want to, it's because I sucks big time in it.

Complete Deelite seems interesting and their class program really are all appealing.. oh well, let's see. :)

I guess the best part of this program is to enjoy the process - baking, molding, desinging and meeting new friends. But to see my husband enjoy the fruit of my labor will give me 10x fold of happiness.

www? i do!

woohoo... the long search is over as i've just found a reliable company that will host my personal domain, i finally have my own address... www.zimonski.com

i'm going to tweak and redesign my 4 years old blogspot to make it more personalize and merge my photos hosted by multiply.

so bear with me...

Discovering Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Since Siem Reap in Cambodia is one of the great historical attractions near Hong Kong that is good for short vacation and exploration, we chose this destination to escape the bitter cold weather of Hong Kong and at the same time write a report in fulfillment of the required assignment in Travel and Tourism Development.

Siem Reap, literally means "Siam (now Thailand) Defeated", honoring the victory of Khmer over the neighboring kingdom of Thailand. Though not the biggest city in Cambodia, Siem Reap is famous worldwide for its ancient temples and innumerable sculptural carvings made entirely by stone that was taken from Mount Koulen – the Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the cultural heritage site that has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the World Heritage Site . Angkor Wat is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia, stretching over some 400 square kilometers including the forested area. Angkor Wat not only recognized as the most important monument for the Khmer Empire but also the largest sacred temple that was constructed during the supremacy of King Suryavaman at the beginning of 12th century. It is well-known for its complex ornamentation and remarkable splendor.

This once behind-the-time village now became the largest boomtown and has the fastest growing construction site in Cambodia. It is because this pleasantly laid-back small city is the perfect access in visiting the magnificent temples of Angkor and getting up close and personal to the locals for some cultural explorations.

When you stand in the city centre, you will see the two facets of living – rural old town for local and urban city for tourist and expats. Angkor transformed Siem Reap into a bustling town hosting luxury hotels, 5-star resorts, fine-dining, quaint bar and party spots, modern facilities for spas, galleries, shops. Tourist’s main reason why they love to come again and again is the overwhelming hospitality of the people whom are generally friendly and generous. For others, they prefer to visit this place because of unsurpassed opportunity to explore Angkor Archaeological Park, for some the importance of experiencing Cambodian culture and lastly, the chance to contribute in the humanitarian program example raising funds and other medical missions.

Last year, Siem Reap amazingly marked nearly a million visitors. They said it was viewed as the result of media exposure when Angkor Wat was featured in one of the blockbuster Hollywood movie last 2001 Lara Croft: The Tomb Rider and acquired even more publicity when the controversial movie actress Angelina Jolie adopted a Cambodian child. It fairly increased turnover of its tourism the following year to these date.

The rapid development in Siem Reap created great number of job opportunities and business among the locals and improved quality of living. Image of Cambodia was changed due to positive reactions and experiences of the people or tourist who visited the place.

While Siem Reap draw greater number of tourist, it would mean greater responsibilities. As tourism grows, it is putting this one of the world’s most treasured destinations in danger. Being trashed and exploited by mass tourism which is sadly supported by indifferent government policies for their economic development and some greedy developers.

I witnessed how one of the oldest and remarkable temples, the Phnom Bakheng located on the top of the hill is progressively deteriorating. Tourists are harming enormous part of the monument all the way to the platform as hundreds of people climb up and sit there for sunset viewing every day of the year. There were no regulations or policies that will help protect the historical park.

Consequences brought along by the visitors are pollutions, deforestation due to development of infrastructures, overwhelming amount of waste especially the poor water sewage system. It has been said that there are some contamination in the surface and underground water. Water quality is becoming a problem which could put public health in danger.

Nowadays, the biggest threat is the water system. Water has been pumped out beneath the ground about 70 to 80 meters by hotels, restaurants, spas and golf courses for use. This is not regulated by any branch or agencies of the Cambodian government. Concerned international agencies like the World Bank has already warned the tourism sector and the government to be guided to avoid consequences because no one was certain how it would affect once water has been dried up between layers of rocks and sand beneath the temple.

Economically, I see Siem Reap's greatest potential in future development. One Japanese businessman even sees Siem Reap as the future hub providing air links for other tourist destination within Cambodia and neighboring countries like Laos, Thailand and Vietnam.

I guess if that would happen, tourist will be diverted and distributed to other destination and not only focused in Angkor Wat. But then again, until a good decision from the local government to restrain the influx of tourist in the historical site of Angkor, this one of the most fascinating wonders of the world future will always be precarious.

I guess you already had enough facts about Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, now you can go along see what this lovely place can offer you for your future travel.