eating potatoes in london

Back-posting record

2009-12-16T15:30:00.000Z

Hello all,

I have resumed back-posting since 1o Dec, in which I've backposted from 09 June post onwards. Hopefully I can finish backposting by the end of this holidays. I'll update this post whenever I backpost so that you can keep track.

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Last update: 16 Dec
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16 Dec 09: Backposted 13 June, Day 157
12 Dec 09: Backposted 12 June, Day 156

Day 157 - Skali Skåla

2009-06-13T02:08:00.002+01:00

We arrived at Stryn at about 7.40 am. The rain didn't go away. Took another bus to our campsite.

Keng Rui's 2 man tent (green colour) vs the three men tent + porch we shared (blue colour)

It was the first time camping for Evelyn and I. Keng Rui and I somehow manage to figure out how to pitch the 3-men tent in the drizzle. "I can make it through the rain....."

A little short rapid near our campsite. It's quite scenic: one side faces the lake, and it is bordered by this river. Downside: we're in the trough of the valley. Which means super strong winds and cold air descending at night. It's already near 10°C in the day. Not quite used to it from London's mid 20°C weather.

Got any water descending in a vertical manner, must take photo with it. Bo Bian lah, we have a waterfall chaser.

Looks manmade, but it's still pretty aren' it? At the entrance of the campsite.

We treked to the base of Mount Skåla, which has a descend of about 1km and a peak of 1.8km. It's the highest peak in don't know where. Traditionally believed that the air up there is good for your lungs and cures TB. Then again, like one of the signs said, if you have the lungs to climb this, chances are, you don't have TB in the first place.

First waterfall we chance upon during our ascend.

2nd water fall. I'm kinda numbed to it?

But it is still a vertical descent of water...must take photo....

Our dare-devil approach a slippery edge.

hoping for better weather.

Snow melt tributaries. Future lessson material.

What is the point where 2 tributaries joined together called?

a) Convergence

b) Connection

c) Convergence

d) Who cares. Take group photo first (it's convergence by the way)

more rapids. Future lesson material.

Glory of snow melt tributaries. Geogasm alert.

We took a break halfway. "You see that mountain? you must put it in this square....."

Yup, that's the lake our campsite faces. Approaching the snow zone.

As we track the slipperly melting hardened snow......

Freeze-Thaw action

Another break.

We went on and on, and realise that we're tracking on hardened snow, which is quite dangerous given how we don't have proper equipmen. Besides, rough rocks and cleavages lies beneath the snow, and we've sunk our feets into some of these spots a few times. Doesn't help that the path is being obscured also. We no longer know if the route we're taking is safe.

The peak. Evelyn and I decided it's too dangerous to continue. Our Daredevil went up to recce.

While we enjoy the scenary......

Paranomic view.

Our resident daredevil returned. Conclusion: Too dangerous to go to the peak. Can't see path. That's where we turn back.

One last look at the gorgeous view. At least the clouds cleared and the sun came out for this scenary.

Aren't no joke going down the slipperly slope on snow. But it was kinda fun sliding.

Finally we've reached the bottom. It was like 7pm already. That's Skäla on the right.

The suspiciously man-made waterfall in much better lighting condition.

I last opened this bottle at the highest point we stopped. Notice the pressure difference?

And so, we ate our biscuits. Correction, I ate my biscuits, they ate their Green Giant corn (I still can't appreciate it). Hot Shower cost NKR10 for 3 minutes. That's like £1-2? We gave it a missed and just washed face. After all, the temperature is seriously dropping to sub 10ºC that we couldn't really take the cold anymore.

Day 156 - End of exchange trip - Oslo

2009-06-12T02:05:00.001+01:00

Technically, the academic aspect of my exchange has ended since my last paper. Yesterday, since I've moved out of my hostel marks the end of my stay in London. Today marks the start of a trip that ends my exchange. Who better to do it then with my good friend Keng Rui, who's also using this trip to mark an end to his time in Cambridge.

The plan is this, we will spend 2 weeks in different parts of Norway. First part will consist of Keng Rui and I, plus a friend of his, Evelyn. After the first week, Evelyn would have to return in preparation for a mission trip to Ukraine, and our good ol' Macha, Nardev, and another friend of theirs will join us for the rest of the trip. All planning done by Keng Rui. Thankfully I didn't need to leave a finger! And we'll camp for most of the trip, as we've shared the cost of a tent.

Met Evelyn at Luton airpot early in the morning for our Ryan Air flight. Keng Rui kindly inducted both of us to how the multiple straps on our backpack can be used to strap different parts of the tents. Keng Rui was almost scolded for printing multiple boarding passes double sided. But the lady was kind enough to print us new boarding pass at no extra change, given how Ryan Air charge ridiculous amount of money for every single little small thing. Yes, they even had the idea to charge £1 per toilet use on the plane, which drew them a lot of flak.

Spotted this when we were boarding the plane.

A few hours later, we've landed in Oslo. Keng Rui and Evelyn aren't stranger to Oslo, as this is the 2nd time they've been to Norway. We're suppose to catch an overnight bus to Stryn to get to our first hiking destination at 23 30h. Since we've quite a bit of time. Keng Rui and Evelyn decided to show me around Oslo, and buy some hiking maps that we couldn't get in London as well.

Gloomy Oslo central.

Oslo Cathedral

1 red man aren't enough. Need 2 red man. None of us has any idea why there are 2 red men.

Oslo Parliment House. I think this is my most favourite building in tiny Oslo.

Nobel Peace Prize Centre, the only Nobel prize that is administered outside Sweden

The palace of the Norwegian royalty. The architecture is......

Streets of shopping Oslo. I think they are Sri Lankan Tamils protesting.

Dinner at a Vietnamese restuarant. For NKR750 (about £8), this is one of the most value for money hot meal in Norway. I'm not joking.

We proceed to stock up on biscuits and camping stuff at a nearby supermarket. In London, I'll compare prices with Singapore. In Norway, I'll compare prices with London. That's how expensive things are here.

On the bus to Stryn

Day 155 - Goodbye Langton Close. Goodbye London.

2009-06-11T05:16:00.001+01:00

A sunny day. My room seemed especially empty, with everything packed in. After a few adjustments, I bid Yu Ming and Yifan, my remaining flatmates, farewell.

I'm so gonna miss this 39p cookie. A cheap and good snack from Waitrose.

Quiet Wren Street, where I stayed.

When it was winter, the trees were bare and I could see my Hall from the entrance of Wren Street. Now it is full of life for summer.

I've always wondered why the hostel is called Langton Close when the address says Wren Street.

Turns out this small little carpark-ish street IS Langton Close.

The first time I came here, I thought it means I should use the other entrance instead of this entrance. So at 7.30 am in the morning, I went from this entrance to the other entrance and back, wondering which entrance to use, since both had this sign. It was only when one of the administrative officers pop their heads out did I realise that they are referring to the left side of the door, rather than the whole entrance itself.

And so, I returned my key, dragged my barangs and took the 2pm train to Cambridge. And while I was dragging my stuff to Keng Rui's place, I bumped into Liling, who came to visit Ivan! To think that we couldn't meet up in London, we had to bump into each other in Cambridge.

Farewell London. I didn't fall in love with you, but I enjoyed my 6 months stay here. I will miss you, cause a part of my life happened here.

Ditto to room 4G2 and Langton Close. The heating may suck, the laundry may be expensive, the lighting may be too dim, the closet may be too tiny, the corridor may smell like pee, but still, I had great times while staying in you. Thank you and I'll miss the times I had.

Day 154 - A last look at UCL and Russell Square

2009-06-10T05:14:00.002+01:00

This is my last full day in London.

The other day, Ming Li and I realised that we didn't take any photos with UCL. So we met up and took photos of places which we have "a sense of place" (Tuan, whatever year lah).

The preserved body of Jeremy Bentham, whose ideals UCL base themselves upon.

Me and my favourite corner in UCL. UCL didn't have much place to hang out, so this is where i usually sit to use the plug, update this blog and have my self-packed lunch. This is also where I would bump into friends as well.

Cool building that Ming Li frequent for her sociology lesson.

I spent a lot of time researching in this building for my "Ancient Egypt in London" course.

This back alley looking entrance is the entrance to the History Department. I'm not joking!

Ming Li pointed out this cool bicycle stand.

aku and the portico - the most beautiful part of UCL.

Ming Li and UCL Portico.

All we need is Heather!

Who can forget this high-security geography department!

I never agreed that they are a "Global Univesity" and always think that they are super hao lian to put that everywhere!

I went on to the British Museum to finish up what I have yet to see.

I remembered Jan Picton, my lecturer for the Ancient Egypt course, suggesting that this was used by Ramases III as a form of propaganda against the Nubians.

Replica from Persia. I just love Persian and Asyrian styles.

The Rosetta stone that broke the mystery of hieolgraphys

Elgin marbles - 2/3 of the carvings from the Panthenoen in Athens are here.

China display. I wonder which are the ones looted from the Summer Palace.

Arabic calligraphy in expression of Islam religiosity.

yeh lah yeh lah. Justifying why you're not returning what was looted in your collection right?

I realised I walked through a lot of exhibits. Perhaps after visiting the Lourve and the countries that some of the exhibits were from (like Greece, Italy etc.), the British Museum doesn't seems so impressive after all.

Russell Square. The only park I know in London that aren't locked up after sunset.

The centre piece fountain.

Russell Square station. This was where I first step out to begin my journey.

Brunswick, where I do my grocery shopping.

The Aisles of Waitrose. Can you believe this whole aisle is dedicated to pre-cooked meals? Says a lot about the country's (lack of) food culture.

My shelf. Dividers improvised from cereal boxes.

It's time to pack.

Day 153 - Around London, one last time

2009-06-09T05:04:00.002+01:00

Tomorrow will be my last full day in London, which also means that I need tomorrow to pack up and clear-up. My itinerary tomorrow is restricted to Russell Square area, not just because of packing, but if all goes as planned, the Tube will be closed due to a strike that's suppose to take effect this evening.

Hence, today will be the day where I'll go around London one last time, to the places I haven't been, especially those that are not within walking distance. By walking distance I mean 45 minutes walk (approximately 4-5km)

A peak at the 2012 Olympic Games park.

The stadium

Stop 1: Thames Barrier Park (Redux)

Why Thames Barrier Park again? Well, on the 9th of every month, they will raise the barrier for maintenance check. It will be a good chance to see the barrier in its full glory.

The water level has retreated so much that the sand bars at the banks are revealed.

The barrier raised.

Stop 2: Natural History Museum

Aunty Melissa Lee Ling Chi highly recommended that all would-be geography teachers should go. So why not.

Rocks. So stereotypical geographer.

I like the description. Like what Melissa raved - it is very simple and easy to understand. Good to bring students to.

A huge pan of water-saturated sand for you to pour water through the taps (above the pan) so that you can see how water carves out landscapes and rivers.

They even have a mock up of a Japanese grocery shop that shakes - to simulate the lower Richter scales of an earthquake. Quite cool. I'm sure if I bring Sec 1s and Sec 2s to such a place, they will fall in love with tectonics.

Of course, the Natural History Museum is not just about rocks and the history of Earth. It's a whole collection of fossils, insects and animals. The dinosaur exhibits are really cool, but I was really bored by the album-niesd insects and stuffed animals. Perhaps cause I'm not a biologist.

The main feature of the Natural History Museum. Only 2 or 3 of such complete fossil of this species in the world apparently. Just yesterday, the London Paper (evening free tabloid) was saying that paleontologists are now suggesting that the neck of this dinosaur species is upright, rather than flatly horizontal like this.

Stop 3: Royal Geographical Society

The temple of British Geography. Went there to make full use of my student privilege to see what's in their map resource room. Other places and facilities require membership. Even talks are members only, and the only way for a non-member to enter such talks is that a member brought them there.

The entrance.

It is when I was about to enter the map room that Keng Rui called me. He's coming down to London for the afternoon, cause of an interview at Kings for his masters. Aiyah kawan, if only we arranged eariler. Could have met you for lunch.

For the map room, I must say that the collection, hmm....unless you're into imperialistic kind of geography and maps. Else, it's quite useless lah.

Stop 4: Portobello Market

I know I know. Scream all you want. Yes, I haven't been to Portobello Market. So for all those Hugh Grant "Notting Hill" fans, here's your pilgrammage site.

Very helpful signs along this long long market. Tells you what to expect ahead and help you to orientate yourself. Unfortuantely, it's a week day, so most of the antique stalls are closed. Then again, aren't interested in antiques.

The long long street of Notting Hill. Yes, I can hear you screaming you Hugh Grant fans.

Stop 5: Abbey Road

I'm not a Beatles fan, nor am I crazy over the Abbey Road recording studio. But well, when in Rome, how can we ignore something that is only found in Rome? Abbey Road is where the famous recording studio sits, as well as the zebra crossing that the Beatles crossed for their album cover.

Noh - This cover lor. Legend has it that they couldn't think of a good album cover, so they just took a photo outside the recording studio. Little did they know it became a classic.

The classic Tubular shape of the Tube (hence the nickname)

Scream you Beatles Fan.

The famed zebra crossing. I pity the locals here. The tourists were waiting for all the cars to go, so that they can do the Beatles pose. But the nice drivers stopped for them. It was quite a funny sight.

The recording studio, from a distance.

The gate to the recording studio.

Filled with very meaningful grafatti actually. Spotted a guy writing something while I was reading away.

Like this one.

My favourite.

The zebra crossing as it is, without the tourists.

And I made it back to Russell Square, before 5pm which is when the supposed strike was to start.

And the strike began. Strangely, 2 of the lines remain running.

Yikes!

Industrial action. What a nice way to call "strikes"

This is what you should do!

What a stereotypical London day. Cloudy, gloomy, windy, and Tube Strikes!

Day 152 - Overrated Phantom

2009-06-08T05:02:00.000+01:00

This week marks my last week in London. Watched my last musical in London with Ming Li, "The Phantom of the Opera"

West-End: See how many musical theatres you can spot!

Ouch!

The Chandelier that fell

Chandelier being raised during the break. Shortly after I took this photo, the usher said "No photo!"

Review? I must say it is over-produced and over-rated. It wows you, but it doesn't touch your heart. Mingli didn't like their interpretation of some of the things though. Haha, Phantom fanatic.

Day 151 - N. Ireland III - Belfast

2009-06-07T08:37:00.002+01:00

Irish breakfast. We've found out that this harshbrown-bread thingy is potato bread. We bid our nice host goodbye and took a cab with Sam back to Belfast city.

Every city wants a Ferris wheel? Belfast City Hall.

We went to the tourism office for recommendations about the murals. We were given a route and we set off.

how true.

Murals outside a school. Think it was done to remove the political stigma murals have.

Advertisement murals. Think it is meant to remove stigma also.

IRA memorial. In the Catholic area.

Those who gave their lives for the IRA

Irish flag flying on UK soil.

The martyrs of the hunger strike

Bobby Sands, the martyred for the independence cause

At the HQ of Sinn Féin, the pro-independence party

a non-political mural

and you thought Singapore is a fine city.

We wondered what were these walls. Thought it was a stadium. Turns out it's peace line, to demarcate the Protestants from the Catholics, a strategy to contain violence during the Troubles. Used in Iraq now also.

wondered if it was just un-maintained or an effect of the Troubles.

At the Protestant neighbourhood. Ulster Volunteer Force, a paramilitary group that's pro-UK

Martyrs of UVF

in memory

love this mural......

especially this part. Is it always a binary?

Protestants expressing their loyalty to the Queen.

Spontaneous memorials around the corners of the road

A UK flag in the Protestant area for political posters, but an Irish flag in the Catholic area for political posters of Sinn Féin.

Memorials against violence in general, not taking any

The graffiti is very interesting. Effects of gentrification

Day 150 - N. Ireland II - Giant's Causeway

2009-06-06T08:27:00.000+01:00

"You want the red pill, or the blue pill?" Can't resist taking this picture of this chair.

Dining room in our B&B

Irish Breakfast. We were debating if the white triangular pieces were bread or harsh-brown. Shall ask the owners tomorrow.

Royce enjoying his breakfast.

Our quaint little B&B, Ardtrabane House.

A group shot before we head off.

Royce's totoron wants a shot too.

And here we go!

Stop 1: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Was advised by Maureen, the owner of the B&B, to come here first. Well, basically because it can get quite crowded in later times of the day, with tour groups queueing up to cross the bridge.

It's quite windy

Sheep Island.

Onwards to the bridge

The bridge. It's a lot shorter than it looks. Royce felt it's ok and decided to go ahead to cross the bridge.

The gang. And my camera and tripod proceed to fall off after being blown by the wind after this picture was taken. It's fine thankfully.

Royce needs meditation to cross the rope bridge.

Future lesson material.

"Work the camera! Give it to me!"

The bridge. Not as long as other pictures make it to be.

The longest menu item I've ever seen.

Stop 2: Dunseverick Castle

Took a bus to Dunseverick Castle.

It is so disappointing that I did not take a photo of the "Castle". Royce doing so.

Since the next bus is about 40 minutes away, we've decided to walk towards the visitor centre at Giant's Causeway to take a break and wait for the next bus.

Stop 3: Old Bushmills Distillery

Took a bus to Old Bushmills Distillery, which is a 老字号 whiskey distillery. Apparently, Irish whiskey is smoother than Scotch whiskey, as peat is not involved. But it doesn't really matter to me as I don't drink.

The Distillery. Not allowed to take photo during the tour.

The tour ends off with a free drink. Them trying the whiskey,

me and my ever reliable coke.

drunks. Nah, they're just tired waiting for the next bus.

Had dinner in a pub near the Giant's Causeway area. Well, in a ulu place like here, you don't have alternative choices.

satisfied meal. Time to visit Giant's Causeway - the reason that we're here for.

Stop 4: Giant's Causeway

Well the story is that there is a similar basalt rock formation in Scotland. Legend has it there is a giant in Scotland and one here in N. Ireland. One day, the one in N. Ireland decided to settle once and for all who's the stronger giant. So he built a causeway to Scotland. When he saw how much bigger the giant in Scotland is, he ran back to N. Ireland to hide at home. When the giant in Scotland came over to challenge him, the Irish giant's wife asked him to pretend to sleep. She then greeted the Scottish Giant saying that he's not in, and only herself and the baby(referring to her husband) is at home. When the Scottish giant saw how big the Irish "baby" giant is, he was shocked that it is so big, and was worried how much bigger the actual giant would be. He then ran back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway, so that they will never meet again.

Yifan admiring the beautiful coastline.

Basalt formation - the key beauty of Giant's Causeway.

More Basalt columns.

Yifan don't bring camera when he travel. I'm beginning to see the wisdom of it.

Nardev (in brown) wanted to take a solo pic there, but that tourist just don't get it and kept admiring the scenery from there......

The causeway.

"Giants" at the causeway.

There are other formations around the area, which are named after the giant myth.

My shoe is too small as compared to the Giant's Boots.

Giant's Organs (as in pipe organ, not offal)

Giant's Atrium

Unfortunately, it's closed due to slope instability.

Nardev loving the view. It's 9.30pm by the way.

Giant's Eye.

Giant's seat.

Royce wanting a seat.

View of the causeway from the top of the cliff. Our B&B is less than 50m away from this edge of the cliff. Its that close to the causeway.

The Irish coast is simply breath-taking. So says Royce too.

Day 149 - Rrright? Off to N. Ireland

2009-06-05T08:06:00.001+01:00

Thanks to Melissa Lee Ling Chi's Facebook photo, Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland is in my must-go places list. Royce and Nardev heard about the hexagonal rock formation and its beauty, while Yifan didn't mind a weekend trip.

So here we are, 4 of us, embarking on a trip to N. Ireland.

After a torturous ride from Victoria Coach Station, Yifan and I met Royce and Nardev at Standsted Airport. It's a lot more modern than I thought it would be. Yes, people from Cambridge actually spent a lot less time travelling to the airport than us Londonites.

Royce concussed. He hasn't been sleeping well.

Once we arrived at Belfast, we took an hour ride on the cab that Royce had arranged to our B&B. Quickly settled in with a really friendly host. Thank goodness it's all single beds - no more awkward who-shall-share-the-king-size-bed moments.

We took a stroll around the area. Very pastoral. Sun set at 9.50pm.

Spotted these cows with the latest must-have bovine fashion accessories.

Day 148 - Paris III - rest of Paris

2009-06-04T04:39:00.002+01:00

7 am in my hostel room. Those curtains next to the bed? Draw it if you want some privacy when you sleep.

Unique urinals in the toilet of the hostel.

Usual free breakfast from hostel. One portion of baguette with one container of nutella-like spread. I usually eat 4 rounds of this and pack some baguette and nutella so that I don't need to buy lunch.

Scenic canal next to the hostel.

Stop 1 - Louvre Museum

One of the largest museums in the world, famous not due to "Da Vinci code", the home to the enigmatic Mona Lisa.

The controversial key icon of the Louvre Museum. Added when IM Pei was engaged to renovate the Louvre.

Interesting posters at the Louvre

Some love it, some hate it. I say i love it. It makes a wonderful main entrance for the Louvre. According to the audio guide, IM Pei's idea is "The transparent is for the living, the opaque for the dead".

Automatic ticket machine. Maybe the ticket office has enough with tourists asking if they have discounts or concessions.

Since the Louvre has just opened, I rushed to the Mona Lisa before it gets its notorious crowd.

There. The lady.

The crowd aren't gathering yet.

But I think this huge picture opposite the Mona Lisa is much better. A Venetian art piece depicting the first miracle performed by Jesus at a wedding feast.

Sculpture court. A nice way to display sculptures that were recovered from the outdoors.

Cool lift at the main entrance. This is when it is all the way up......

......and the whole columns goes down when the lifts comes down.

I forgot the name of this sculpture. Mercury is it?

The long gallery.

They sure know what tourists are here for.

The famed Venus De Milo

And the crowd awed by it.

It was a former palace and fortress, so no surprise that it's really huge.

Part of the countless statues of Sekthmeth by (forgot which Egyptian King).

My favourite Persian motif.

Persian pillar.

Former Napoleon apartments.

The overwhelming crowd at Mona Lisa now.

King Leonadas.

Coronation of Napolean. I didn't know there are so many hidden statements in this!

The touch screen audioguide. Damn high-tech right?

They have already essentalised each gallery, but there are so much to see, that I couldn't finish!

The Great Courtyard.

The inverted Pyramid, where Mary Magadelene is suppose to be buried under according to "The Da Vinci Code"

You can't walk over it, unlike the movie.

I must say the Louvre is really impressive and overwhelming. They have almost everything in the world (that was looted) being displayed. Sculptures, archaeological stuff, artwork etc. The British Museum pales in comparison.

Stop 2 - Notredame Cathedral

Decided to walk along the Seine to the Cathedral and I spotted this interesting bin design.

The Cathedral. One of the largest in the world apparently.

Intricate entrance. Each Entrance has different themes. If I interpreted it correctly, they covered the different Saints, the Nativity, and the Passion.

Modern Confession room.

Beautiful rose

Which saint is this with the head on the hands?

Unfortunately, I'm numbed to Gothic architecture. It's beautiful, it's grand, but that's the only thing I can appreciate about it.

Stop 3 - St Sulpice Church

One of the larger churches in Paris, this church has been made famous recently by "The Da Vinci Code". This is where the supposed Rose Line lies (it's not!).

The infamous line. Actually it is like a sundial, used to tell time.

I laughed out loud when I saw this.

P for Priory in "Priory of Sion"? St Peter lah! One of the two patron saints of this church.

S for "Sion" as in Priory of Sion? St Sulpice lah, another patron saint of the church.

Too bad the facade is under renovation. But I think you can spot the towers being mis-matched. Spent some time trying to look for the Rose Line, which is marked with the Arago Medallion, but couldn't. (Post-note: Found out that there were a few at the Louvre! Argh!)

Stop 4 - Centre Georges Pompidou

House to the Museum of Modern Art, this distinctive building is landmark in Paris on its own.

I didn't go in as I have enough of museums. But it's an interesting place to people watch (at your own risk)

Spotted this along the way. Only the Machas will understand. :)

Stop 5 - Back to hostel and back to London

Went back to the hostel at about 7.30pm to collect my luggage and take the train back to London.

The metro broke down along the way

Cleared UK immigration at Paris Gaud du Nord. Was wearing my "Always give 100% at work" T-shirt. The immigration officer saw it and commented

"so it's Thursday today. You're giving only 20+%?"
"No! I'm on holiday! 0%!"

As usual, clearing immigration is a bitch. It is as though as they change their policy every month.

Day 147 - Paris II - The Palace, the Arc and the Tower

2009-06-03T04:26:00.000+01:00

Objective today - to clear the major attractions in Paris, except for the Louvre, which would be done tomorrow.

Stop 1: Château de Versailles
Off to the famous French palace. Many would have heard of the "Treaty of Versailles" that ended World World I. Yeh lor, that Treaty was signed in this Versailles lor. Requires a long metro ride, and change to another train system to Versailles.

Foldable seats at the metro door. Sit when there is no one, fold up and stand when it is crowded. Good feature. :)

The entrance to the Château de Versailles, built by the Sun King, King Louis XIV.

You can see the sun emblem on the head of the bed

The famed Halls of Mirrors. So famous that I didn't hear about it before. :P

Cabinet war room. Key historical moments have happened hear. No idea where was the treaty signed though.

They converted this wing of the Palace into an art gallery.

The Queen's bed. To legitimise the royalty of the child she's pregnant with, she gives birth in public. So say the audio guide.

The glittering gold of the Sun King's Palace.

The famed huge gardens of Versailles.

Funny how the fountains are not turned on today.

I proceed to walk to the Marie Antoinette Estate at the other end of the palace compound, as my day ticket covers the entrance to this place. I tell you, there is nothing much to see there. No audio-guide, everything in French.

I think the wild flowers are more beautiful

A beautiful Gazebo

Another view of the estate.

the rare flowers in the highly-over-rated gardens of Versailles.

Other than the main path with canals and fountains, the rest of the gardens is very much like this - compartmentalised greenary. I felt like I was in a plantation.

The more beautiful side of the garden

Reminds me of the Roman representation of the Nile

I find the palace kinda over-rated. It is not as spectacular as the Viennese Palaces and the audio guide doesn't say much either.

Stop 2: Statue of Liberty
We all know the famous one in New York, as a gift from the French to the Americans. But there is another one in Paris, as a gift from the Americans to the French for their French Revolution. It is still too early to go to the Eiffel Tower, so I've decided to walk to the Statue of Liberty first.

Île des Cygnes, the smallest island on the Seine, where the Statue of Liberty is. Something dramatic happened before I took this photo. Turkish hawkers of souveniors sprint down this island as a police car stop by in an attempt to arrest them. Well, policemen with pot bellies vs nimble hawkers. I think you know the outcome.

The back of the statue

There it is.

Stop 3: Eiffel tower

Come Paris liao, how can don't see its (touristy) landmark right?

The details of the Victorian designs on the base of the tower.

It's already 7.30pm, but still too bright to go up the tower and see the night sights. Sigh, summer. Sun is down only after 10pm. So I've decided to go over to the Arc de Triomphe first.

Protests in commemoration of the Tiananmen incident anniversary.

Stop 4: Arc de Triomphe

Parisan traffic lights - 2 different levels.

The Arc de Triomphe

How to cross over?

The details of the arc

Oh forgot to tell you how to cross the road to go to the arc. There is a underground passage. You can try running across the circle road and if you manage to reach the arc alive, it is blocked anyway. So yeh, go buy the tunnel.

Every time I want to cross the road, I would press the button, and wonder why the traffic light will talk to me. Then when I saw this button with its label undamaged, I finally understand why.....

Back to Stop 3: Eiffel tower

It's time to get up the tower. Well, the lift is freaking expensive (€12) to the first 2 levels, and the queue is long. So I chose to climb up instead (€3.50)

The forgotten structures inside the tower.

View from first level. The pool in the background? That's where most people take picture of the Eiffel Tower with a reflection on a pool.

Every stair landing has trivia facts like this to make climbing up the stairs less boring.

The white lights are part of the light show the Eiffel Tower has 5 minutes after every hour (if I remember correctly). It's just random white lights flashing around the tower.

The Seine is just breath taking at night.

I heart it.

The rest of the tower. You could reach the top by jamming yourself into tins of sardines (the crowded lift). But the view at the 2nd level is good enough for me.

City of lights indeed.

Time to head down to take the photo of the Eiffel Tower at night and catch the last metro.

Isn't its Victorian designs beautiful?

The tower at the pool. Notice the 2 spot light at the top? It rotates around.

Light show.

Boo!

Day 146 - Paris I

2009-06-02T15:34:00.000+01:00

There are people who hate it (like the other exchangers), and there are people who love it. There are people who aspire to go there. Heck, ABBA even wrote a song about it.

Some call it the "City of Lights". Some call it a rude city. Some call it a City of Romance.

Heck, Eurostar, the super-fast train service got discount for tickets. Go and see for myself lah! Better than spending thousands in the future and to hate it (if I end up hating it)

Waiting at St Pancras Terminal, London. It's just next to Kings Cross, so it's a 15 minutes hassle-less walk. Even Eurostar use Google Earth.

Went there early to clear the French immigration, but have to wait for quite a while as well.

Boarding the train at St Pancras

Inside a Eurostar train.

Paris Gaud Du Nord train station.

20+ platforms. Endless.

I saw that if I buy 10 metro tickets at one go, it will be a lot cheaper. Thought it might be in the form of a pass or a card, but no.....literally a stack of tickets.

Parisan metro.

Like some European metros, open your own door.

They have a lot of mechanisms to prevent fare cheats. The doors are for exit only, with opening mechanisms on one side. As for the barriers to enter, there are several mechanisms as well. But still see people finding ways around it......

My hoste, St Chrisopher Inn. New and purpose-built.

located next to a scenic canal.

Bridge next to hostel being raised for ferries to pass.

Food is ridiculously expensive here in France. Waffles for 2 dinners and lunch tomorrow at €0.80

After settling in the hostel, I took a metro ride to Monmarte for Sacré-Cœur and a panaromic view of the city. Joy said "must go this place!"

Too bad the icon of the city, Effiel Tower is not visible from here. :( It's 7.30pm already by the way.

Back to hostel. It's already 9pm. Interesting font.

Day 145 - Trying to clear British Musuem

2009-06-01T15:30:00.001+01:00

Leaving UK soon, so this is part of my campaign to finish whatever sights I haven't seen in London. Keeping it simple today, as I'm tired from yesterday's Lake District trip, and I have to be back early to pack for Paris trip tomorrow.

So I've decided to spend a few hours in the British Museum.

Asyrian architecture.

Sculptures gallery, which I spent many lessons for my "Ancient Egypt in London" course.

The glass roof of the Great Court never fails to fascinate me.

Day 144 - Lake District II

2009-05-31T15:25:00.001+01:00

the beautiful Lake Windermere in the morning

Lake-side dining room at YIH Hostel. Bunch of Cedar (or was it Crescent) girls having breakfast.

Orrest Head, 200+m in height. Recommended by Keng Rui. We were too tired to hike too much.

The view from Orrest Head.

you could see the whole extend of Lake Windermere. Breath taking.

Royce acting Ninja

Last look before we go back.

Sunday morning. Even the bus peng san.

Aren't a tourist booth, but the name of a Supermarket!

And that marks the end of our trip to Lake District. I must say we are really lucky to have such wonderful weather. I think I'm the only person among my friends to visit Lake District without any precipitation or presence of clouds.

Is it worth the hype? It's a little touristy, but I think it is beautiful.

Day 143 - Lake District I

2009-05-30T15:23:00.001+01:00

Weekend trip with Royce and Yifan to Lake District. I wanna see it, as all those who have studied in UK says that it is "damn nice! must not miss". Royce wanted to see what's all the hype about before he returns to Singapore for good, while Yifan don't mind a weekend trip.

Anyway, both Yifan and I met Royce at Kings Cross after he came to London from Cambridge. From there, we took a 20mins stroll to Euston Station, which the rail website wanted to charge Royce £4 to transfer from Kings Cross to Euston via tube. Took a Virgin rail train, and finally changed to alight at Windermere.

Anyway, apa Lake District? It's a conserved area with lots of Lakes (hence the name), which many call it an area of outstanding beauty.

Windermere Lake, the largest and longest lake in England. ENGLAND, not UK.

Lunch. After which, we walked to Ambleside and began our hike. Couldn't check into our YIH hostel at Ambleside as they handle check in only from 2.30pm onwards.

We picked a route on the crest of a ridge. Technically we'll be walking on a watershed. That's Lake Windermere in the background

Yifan hiking for the first time, but he's always way ahead of us.

Taking a break. Weather's really hot, which is good, cause none of the people I know went to Lake District with clear blue sky. It is common in Lake District to have really bad weather.

Yifan is always way ahead.

Really hot and really thirsty. Royce wishing that he could drink up Lake Windermere.

Future Lesson Material.

Fake Wall of China. These are actually sheep wells.

Boulevard of broken bricks

We were exhausted after reaching about 670m in height and decided not to go on anymore.

Royce's Totoron as usual

Initial Plan is to loop around the crests, but looks like it aren't worth it to go up and down the crest. According to the map, we're going up and down about 200m.

the drainage basin whose watershed we were climbing on.

On the way back. It's 640pm

Dinner at YIH hostel. Vegetarian burger. When we were checking in, a lady heard us and said "Singaporeans right?" Turns out she's a tour guide taking a group of Crescent Girls (or was it Cedar Girls) for their overseas trip. Literature trip, visit the birthplace and graves of authors and watch a play in the reconstructed Shaksphere Globe Theatre. Someone please enlighten me how this help in the learning of literature. If you visit the place which the novels are based on, then I would understand. But birthplace and graves of the authors?

Chilling out at the lake. It's 9pm.

View from our room. We asked for a dorm room, but it has only 3 beds. Just nice for us. And the girls on the school trip were busy photo whoring next to the lake, giggling away.

Our 3 bed dorm room.

Day 142 - Docking at the east

2009-05-29T09:15:00.002+01:00

Aim today: cover the east side of London, especially the Docklands area. Those who have heard of London would have heard East End, being a place that is poorer. Those who have done A'level geog would have studied about the Docklands.

Stop 1: East End for some East End food

If you have heard about East End, you would have heard about Jellied Eels, a dish that is unique to London's East End. Found out about Tubby Isaacs from an episode of Al Jazeera's "Street Food", apparently it is the establishment to go to for jellied eels.

But the problem is that Tubby Issacs is a stand, not a shop. Doesn't help that I can't find much from the net about its location. But a kind old man in Peticoat Lane Market directed met to Tubby Issacs.

"Why are you heading to Tubby Issacs?" the old man asked
"Oh, to try Jellied Eels."
"You like Jellied Eels?"
"No I'm just going to try."
"Tubby Issacs has really good Jellied eels. You should go for it!"

And the old man beamed. Ways to connect to a person - their language and their food.

finally found the place!

My Jellied Eels - £2.50. It is basically eels boiled with some spices. As the eels cook, it will sweat out gelatin that will form this jelly. Verdict? Has a slight fishy taste, but very much refreshing in this hot weather. It is cold by the way.

Cockles and other seafood, qutisensially East End.

The owner of the stand. "You either love or hate Jellied Eels". I agree.

I laughed at this ad so hard.

Stop 2: Docklands fieldtrip

Part of the East Ends. Called Docklands, as they were a cluster shipping docks in the past. As ships grew bigger, and load grew heavier, the Thames lost its status as a shipping port, and the Docklands lost its business in the 1960s onwards, making the area very deprived. In the 1980s, the area was rejuvenated with much controversy. Hence a classic case study for urban rejuvenation and gentrification.

Occupants of Docklands today - atas business district at Canary Wharf.

The DLR - Docklands Light Rail - to link up the whole Docklands business district area.

A relic of its shipping docks past.

Dockland museum. Free for students!

I took so many photos of all the panels on its urban rejuvenation for lesson purposes.

You might think you're at Shenton Way, don't you? This aren't a river. It's a former dock.

Stop 3: Greenwich

Greenwich(pronounced Green-niche) is the place where the Prime Meridian lies.

Greenwich Observatory on top of the hill in the park. That's where the Prime Meridan pass through.

The red ball on top of the observatory. It would be raised at 12.55 pm and drop to this position at 13.00pm.

View from the observatory - the Docklands business district

Many tourists took photo with this.

So popular right. It's 6pm already by the way.

Singapore!

The Prime Meridian.

Some standards to follow......

Length.

and Time.

Another part of Docklands. On the bus to my next stop. My timing so wonderful right. Most of the DLR is closed for engineering works today. So I have to take rail replacement buses to be jammed with peak hour traffic.

Stop 4: Thames Barrier Park

Located near Poole Docks DLR station, the Thames Barrier was built to protect London from floods. In the 1950s, there was a devastating flood that hit London. As a result, the Thames Barrier was planned and built to defend London from any floods. Studied this in A'level Geog too.

The barrier stations. They will lift up the barrier should there be any impending floods or storm surge, so that the water level of the Thames River in the rest of London would stabilise.

I suspect these were docks. Now landscaped with "waves"

Stop 5: Stratford - Site of the London 2012 Olympics Games

According to the London's pitch, they want to locate the Olympic Village in Stratford to rejuvenate a deprived area. So what are some of the changes it has done to Stratford?

The Stadium for the games.

Barrier. Everyone's London 2012?

A new transport interchange. Very swanky, unlike the buildings in this area.

I didn't like the vibe of the people around this area. It's like they are giving you menacing stares. Anyway, most of the village is blocked by the barrier, so there isn't much to see.

And so I went back to rest and pack. It was already near 8.30pm when I left Stratford, but it felt like 6pm. Summer days are just so long.

Boat party for Langton Close Residents. Drink and drink somemore? Sorry not my kind of party

Day 141 - Library of British Food

2009-05-28T09:11:00.001+01:00

My UCL library accounts says that it will be expired on 29th May. So I thought better visit the libraries one last time.

The central piece of the main library, beneath the dome of the Portico.

No space? Bookshelves along the corridor

Didn't do much today as the weather is bad. So let's talk about cooking.

Although stereotypically, there isn't much imagination British food, there are some interesting things in British Food.

This is called a Parsnip. Was told that this is a very important part of British Food culture, but didn't had the chance to try it anywhere.

Yorkshire pudding - a light flaky pastry that is made with flour and drippings. Traditionally, it is made with beef drippings when they roast beef for Sunday lunch, but as I don't eat beef, I don't get to eat it. But found ready made ones made with palm oil instead on offer at Waitrose.

My usual mix for roasting potatoes - basalmic vinegar, olive oil, garlic and thyme from my window.

Roasted potatoes, my way. (don't sing the Frank Sinatra song please)

Roasted the Parsnip. It's like a very sweet carrot with the texture of a potato.

Rhubarb Crumble on offer. Always see this red-celery looking vegetable and tempted to try it. But was told it is sour. Yes it's sour, but it is nice in the Rhubarb Crumble.

Day 140 - Hardly changing, National Gallery and all that jazz!

2009-05-27T19:11:00.001+01:00

Joined Mingli, Ziwei and Janelle to watch the "Change of Guards" Ceremony today. I joked that if not because of this, people wouldn't come to Buckingham palace as there is nothing much to see.

But the weather is bad. So aren't no fanfare or guards playing music......

The only "changing of guards" we saw are these bunch of horsemen riding in, and another group rode out. :( My cynicism of things in UK being over-hyped is growing......

Stop 2: National Gallery

Since the famed National Gallery and National Portrait gallery is just around the corner (ok, about 1km away. Which is a short walk to me now), I've decided to drop by.

Not a art person, so I basically walked through the galleries. Kinda numbed already thanks to all the other art museums in Europe.

Chinese gone wrong - this "Plan" is more of battle plan, rather than a map plan.

Stop 3: Chicago

Did my sums the other day, and realise that I could afford to watch a few more musicals. Decided to watch Chicago, as I was told by Mingli that it was way better than the movie version. Well, I already love the movie version for the way it satires justice systems and the media, what's more the theatre one?

At the Cambridge Theatre

The stage. I was surprised that the stage is very small. There wasn't even an orchestra pit - the orchestra was on stage! But this made the whole setting of a cabaret even stronger. The cabaret jab at the media and court as a "performance" was much harder with this setting, unlike the movie, which appears only as a surreal fantasy.

I have to agree that it is one of the most exciting musicals. The leads for Roxie and Velma are extremely good. The lead who acted and Velma could kick, sing and dance around for 5 minutes to "I can't do it alone" without a panting at all!

And yes, I was "razzle dazzled". I can't agree to its claim to be the sexiest musical though. Scantily clad women doesn't mean sexy hor. Anyway, the lead for Velma? Her legs are so endless, the people behind me proclaim that her legs are taller than they themselves.

Day 137 - When the girls came visiting

2009-05-26T18:08:00.004+01:00

The girls wanted to see what my place is like. Hence, we called for another pot-luck gathering session at my place today!

Nice sunny day like yesterday, that I could walk around lup-sup without a coat when I picked them up at Kings Cross.

Photos courtesy of Esther.

Ming Li cutting up vegetables for fried rice.

They've done most of the cooking back at their place already. Hence the relax look.

Ziwei heating and tossing her Jap curry pasta.

Carbo overload session. Hence the fear.

Aiyah just eat and be happy lah.

The spread - Laksa fried rice by a few of us, Jap Curry Pasta by Ziwei, Scotch Egg by Sainsbury and baked by Janelle, Shepard's Pie by Janelle and Ying Hong (under Janelle's guidiance of course), stuffed omelette by aku. Ying Hong's cooking debute woah!

What's left? Nothing!

Day 138 - Bank Holiday Lap-sup

2009-05-25T18:49:00.000+01:00

Yes the weather is nice and warm enough for me to wear sandals out AT LAST!

Bank holiday today. Everywhere must be crowded, hence my decision to stay in. Besides, need to rest those legs from yesterday's "marketing". Getting old.

Anyway, today I shall share another pasta dish. This is if you want a more refreshing taste, instead of tomato-ish or creamy base. I usually do this to clear leftover tuna I have from my tuna-and-bread routine during travels.

You'll need : Carrots and mushrooms (to add fibre and a touch of sweetness), a quarter of a lemon, coarsely chopped parsley and chopped chilli.

First fry the chilli with a little bit of oil and MEDIUM HEAT. High heat will fumigate your kitchen with chilli and your lungs will work extra hard with the spicy feeling.

next dump in your carrots and after a while, tuna. Dumping tuna into hot oil will have your tuna splattering everywhere.

once your tuna browns a little, dump in your fast-cooking mushroom.

let everything sweat a little.......

Then dump in your pasta.

mix everything nicely......

dump in your coarsely chopped parsley.

mix everything nicely......

and finally, squeeze in your lemon juice! Make sure this is your last step, or you'll end up with uneven lemon taste.

tadah! It shouldn't taste sour, but a little bit spicy with citrusy taste.

Time Taken (Preparation + Cooking) - 5 + 15 mins
Cost breakdown (All prices, except for tuna and chilli, are from Waitrose)
Mushrooms - £0.14 (7 servings from a box at £1.00)
1 carrot - £0.038 ( 6 carrots for £0.23)
Flat leaf parsley - £0.27 (3 servings from a pack at £0.80)
Tuna - £0.18 (4 servings from a can at £0.80)
Condiments - £0.15 (salt, sugar, oil, chilli)
Penne Pasta - £0.063 (30 servings from a 1kg bag for £1.90)

TOTAL - £0.84

Day 137 - to markets to markets

2009-05-24T18:48:00.002+01:00

First thing I saw on the lift buttons today......someone stole the -1 button

Anyway, this is my last Sunday in London, as I would be away for weekend trips. So its a good time for me to go around visiting the famed Sunday markets,

Market 1: Brick Lane Market
顾名思义, Brick Lane Market is at Brick Lane, the little Bangla of London. Until I watched this Al Jazeera programme did I know Brick Lane had such a long history.

Brick Lane sells a lot of 2nd hand stuff, and fresh produce too!

Look at the fresh produce! A lot more in quantity and quality, a lot lesser in price!

More random stuff being sold in Brick Lane

Told ya it's little Bhlanga.

Freshly made Bagels - a piece of old Brick Lane where it was a Jewish enclave

The 老字号 as featured in the show. I pity the ladies at the counter. They had to keep shouting "Hello, please move forward. Thank you! HELLO! PLEASE MOVE FORWARD....."

Incredibly delicious plain bagel at 20p

Another Brick Lane Jewish speciality apparently, but aku takder makan beef lah.

Sunday Upmarket, around Brick Lane area. Selling all kinds of food and stuff as well!

cute sign.

A nice way to use Routemaster.

Spot the odd one out.

My lunch - Ethopian food. Looking at the number of ang mo stuff, I suspect it has been highly bastardised.

The mosque that was a Synagogue.

Attempt to make the place more "cultural". Reminds me of what URA has done to Chinatown.

VERDICT
I love Brick Lane Market! It's not just a convergence of all kinds of goods (including a excellent condition Edward Said 2nd hand book that I've bought). It's a convergence of ideas. Communists, Anarchists, all kinds of activists have booths to engage in meaningful discussions. There are booths set up aimed at dispelling myths of Islam as well.

Market 2: Petticoat Lane Market
Known to be 2nd hand items market.

VERDICT
Feels like a Pasar Malam place to me at UK prices. Items are really Pasar Malam stuff at Pasar Malam quality. :P

Market 3: Camden Market

Famous for having loads of fashionable stuff.

Camden Lock

Many small lanes. I hear a lot of the stall owners speaking Thai as well! Macham Chatuchak!

Lock in operation. Notice how the water level on the right of the gate is higher?

So nationalistic

I take my words back. This one even more Nationalistic.

Interesting seats

There is no such things as Chinese food my dear. China is too diverse to have a unified Chinese food. It is an imagination by the Ang Mohs, and so are the dishes.

VERDICT
A very fashionable place indeed. A lot of fashionable items. Seriously, a lot. But I'm not a fashionable person, so I spend more time walking around than looking and buying. Nice respite at the Camden Lock if you're tired of the crowd. A worthwhile visit!

Day 136 - Dorset Roadtrip

2009-05-23T18:43:00.005+01:00

Planned for this trip since a few weeks back - our first and only roadtrip. It was out of necessity as

No trains to the Dorset landmarks
Buses from London to the nearest towns of the landmarks leaves only once a day at 6pm. That means waste money for accommodation
Attractions are far apart, at least 8 km away. Buses don't stop directly near the attractions, and require you to change buses at several towns to get to the nearest stop. Doesn't help that the bus frequency is lousy, so you might spend one whole day just waiting and changing bus.
Long distance between attractions mean that you have to hike like almost one whole day from one coastal landmark to another. And there are like 4-5 landmarks to see.

So yes, by going on a road trip, we would only pay 1/5 of the amount required.

We reported at Hertz Victoria Coach Station to pick up the car. Ming Li and I have finished our exams, Esther and Janelle needed a break in between exams, and Ying hong has no exams! Heather have another paper while Ziwei initially couldn't make it, but when she later could, we had already booked a car that is only enough to accommodate the 5 of us. But it turns out we were given a larger car as they have run out of the one we booked. If we have known, we would have gotten Ziwei along.

It's bank holiday weekend, so everyone is leaving London too. They don't call it jams here. Its called "Queues"

Esther, our main driver. Who says woman can't drive? Her driving is really smooth!

The navigation system directed us to cross the Swanage Harbour with what seems like a bridge on the map. Turns out is this vehicle ferry. We cut queue unknowingly (or as the road put it, "infiltration"). It was so smooth, that we didn't know the ferry was moving until it is time to disembark.

Stop 1: Old Harry's Rock and Wife

After a long 4 hours drive and wait in the queue, we've finally arrived. We were tipped off online to park near the place instead of paying £8 to park at the National Trust carpark.

Anyway, anyone who mugged Marrionne Chiong (refer to post on Seven Sisters) would have heard of Old Harry's Rock and Wife.

At the coast

Identify the coastal feature. (Lesson material collection galore!)

Notch! Notch! Notch!

Aren't Old Harry and his Wife, but I think this is pretty pretty too!

Preparing for a lunch picnic. Guess where the mat is from? Singapore Day.

The self prepared spread!

Old Harry, and his wife, and possible would be WIVES and a slave maybe.

Old Harry is the big one in the middle of the picture, while his wife is the smaller stack further away.

An arch should be produced in a century or two. That means Old Harry will khang khang?

Yes the coast is nice, but so are the wild flowers.

Old Harry got a lot of choices hor

Only Ming Li was brave enough to walk to the end of the really narrow path.

Stop 2: Lulworth's Cove

One of the more symmetrical coves in the world. Looks really pretty on the Internet.......

but like nothing much up close leh

white pebbles

Guess its beauty shows from afar, or even in aerial photos like those on the internet.

But we found this really pretty but less noticed formation called "stairwell"

Really interesting. Spotted a few fossil shells as well.

Stop 3: Durdle's Door

Actually can walk from the carpark at Lulworth's cove one, but since the carpark ticket at Lulworth's Cove is valid for the carpark here, might as well drive there instead of walking 4 km lor.

It's quite a steep path down......

Nice Bay

Durdle's Door! Ok, now turn to Marrionne Chong Page......

Obligatory touristy shot.

I tried knock knocking on Durdle's Door, but no reply. Hence this expression.

Stop 4: Chesil Beach

By the time we were done with Durdle's Door, it was around 6pm. It takes about 3-4 Hours to drive back to London. Since the sun set at 9pm, and the highways at this part of UK don't really have street lamps, we were wondering if we should proceed to Chesil Beach, which is about 20km away. But Janelle said, since we're here, might as well lah! And there we are, off to one of the longest tombolo in the world (about 16km. measured using Google Earth during my lessons)

And we were rewarded with a really beautiful sight of Chesil Beach from Portland

Boy we were happy

"Eh is the photo taken?" "taken liao I think. I thought I heard the click sound"

I'm just amazed by it. I've taught about it, talked about it, and finally see it with my own eyes. Can I bring students here one day? Funding please?

It's 720pm

Thought they burn kim zua here in UK also.

The lovely vehicle that served us really well.

The beach/tombolo is actually quite high.

Esther back in the driver's seat, after Janelle took over from Old Harry's Rock

And why didn't we get lost? £14 for the Never-Lost Navigation system! But it can be a bit slow within the city lah. As in ask you to turn left 2 junctions later, but actually referring to the junction just in front. But oh well. At least better than maps.

And so we made the long drive back to London. Reached about 11pm. Luckily no jams. I mean queues.

Day 135 - SEA Music Social

2009-05-22T18:37:00.003+01:00

SEA Music, the group whom I play Thai music with, planned for a social karoke event today at Soho. Well, I thought it would be a good opportunity to gather with this bunch of wonderful friends I made in London and to see a side of Soho that I wouldn't know as well.

The gang who turned up.

Nan doing a "Dancing Queen"
Yes, the only non-alcholic drink on the table is mine (coke)

Thanks for telling me how long the intro is.
The most literal MTV for "No woman no cry"

Soho is still alive at 11pm. According to Roy, its the only part of the city that never sleeps.

And yes, I got approached by a "lady on the streets" quite directly. It's Soho, what to do. But I had a great time with the SEA Music people. Too bad I'm leaving London soon.

Day 134 - Borough, Tate and farewell Kübra!

2009-05-21T14:05:00.002+01:00

Now that my exams are finished, it's time for me to start clearing all the attractions in London. Yes, I haven't been to much attractions in London, cause when I was last free, it was dead in the middle of winter. Not wanting to become a huge block of ice in the streets of London, I've procrastinated until today.

Stop 1: Borough Market
This market was touted as the market that celebrates how Britains are beginning to enjoy quality food (and yet we still see loads of pre-cooked meals in supermarkets) and made more famous by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Singaporeans aren't the only ones using water-filled plastic bags to chase away flies.

Came on the right day as there isn't much of a crowd. Heard that it gets a lot more crowded (and pick-pocketer friendly) on Saturdays.

One of the many cooked-food stalls. Seems like there are more stalls selling cooked-food and raw food to me.

Vegetarian patties. The one nearer to us contains raisins. Seriously?

Speciality truffle chocolates.

I would say that Borough Market really celebrates quality food and produce. But it seems to be becoming rather touristy to me. Unlikely to come back again though.

Stop 2: Tate Modern
Pronounced as TAIT, not Tar-teh (which was how I used to pronounce it in my suaku-er days), Tate Modern is one of the more famous modern art museums in the world. It was converted from a old power station along the Thames river and was considered a successful example of re-using urban spaces as well.

The now defunct chimney.

Inside Tate Modern's foyer.

This drinking glass is so cute, I would have bought one if it wasn't so expensive. The designer was inspired by how people always say "I will be there once I finish this gulp". So he made measurement marks to show how many more sips and gulps the person has left, and on the other side, corresponding to how many more minutes and hours.

Arty? Spot the faded F.

The museum is arranged according to themes. Like this one, "Poetry and Dream", displaying works on Surrealism. I'm not a art person, so I can't really appreciate art other than saying that it is nice or not. But Tate Modern does a good job explaining what these different styles mean (like where does Surrealist works get their inspiration from, how is Expressionist different etc.)

I really love this display in Tate Modern. It pokes fun at how some Modern Art are just so totally random without meaning. They ask you to choose and object, and then choose an action......

Next, set up a location and viola! You've got art!

Spinning the wheels to decide what I should do to make my own modern art piece.

I need to get a brick, shrink it,......

......let it relak one corner lah brudder, and say "playful can be serious". Haha!

The wonderful timeline of modern art.

Names of key artists in different theme galleries.

I just love the interiors of Tate Modern, and how they made use of the spaces.

St Paul Cathedral, as I was walking back to my room.

Stumbled upon Old Bailey's, the Justice Court. Those who loved "V for Vendetta" would remember that the statue of Lady Justic on top of the building was the first thing V bombed.

Stop 3: Farewell Kübra

Our Turkish flatmate, Kübra, would be returning to Turkey tomorrow before starting her internship in the States next week. At 8pm, we've decided to take her out for a final meal together. Brought her to North Sea where we took out some food.

"Eh, don't take tak-glam pictures of me leh!" (obviously she didn't say that!)

Next she suggested that we chilled in Starbucks. As our China flatmate put it, never spend money without thinking so much before.

One last group photo

Day 133 - time to clear the fridge

2009-05-20T14:05:00.001+01:00

What do you do when you are moving out in one month's time?

It's time to clear out what you have lying in the fridge, so as not to waste food!

When you have loads of peas and some rice to clear, fried rice lor. As for the sambal from the Prima Taste Laksa pre-mix? Cooked it with a pan-fried boiled egg, ala Nasi Padang stall style. Have finally cleared all the rice I have.

Kids are playing in the park, now that it's spring!

Day 132 - Seven Sisters with 4 other sisters

2009-05-19T12:56:00.003+01:00

Back in my secondary school days where we were the last batch NOT to have the combined humanities crap, the only humanities subject I took was Geography. Yes, pure, untainted, and not-an-elective Geography.

Those who were part of this good-old-days would remember mugging the geography bibles by Marianne Chong. The green one for human, the light blue one for physical. For those who are doing O'levels now, don't bother looking for these old books. Even though it features some similar topics like "Coasts", "Rivers", "natural vegetation", "Development", the focus is at least 50% different from your current syllabus.

Well when I'm so sick of mugging this book, I would turn to the centre fold where there are nice beautiful coloured pictures. And one that never fails to be stuck to our head is the White cliffs of Seven Sisters in Sussex, England.

So since we are here, why not visit that place?

That's what we did.

I wanted to celebrate the end of exams, Janelle and Esther wanted a break before their next paper in June, Ying Hong and Ziwei needed a break from essay writing, Ming Li wanted to join but decided to bring her parents around, Heather had a paper to mug for.

So just the 5 of us, 1 brother, 4 sisters, to 7 sisters, reporting at Victoria Coach Station at 7.30am. Ying Hong barely made it in time for the bus. If not, all 4 sisters can't go as the tickets were with her!

Step 1: Take a bus to Brighton. Yes there are much faster alternatives and train routs, but given Fun Fare offers of £6 for a return trip, we're taking an extra hour of travelling time to Brighton. For some reason, our driver is in a mood to crap a lot. I emphasise A LOT!

Brighton on a much nicer weather. Although there aren't any gloomy clouds like when I was here for the field trip, it still looks kinda ugly to me. :P

Step 2: Take a bus(No. 12 if I remember correctly) to the Seven Sisters country park entrance. It takes about an hour. The TV screen there aren't no TV mobile - it shows what is captured by the CCTV in the bus. Why would I want to know?

In case of emergency, open the flap and jump down. Will I survive?

Yup, we are there in time for the low tide!

The walk towards the cliffs. Janelle is amazed

Concrete path somemore!

A channelised river in the country park.

Meander, meander, meander

It's spring. All the wild flowers blooming.

The lake that is left behind after the river got channelised. See how things are growing in it?

Wind tortured trees. The wind was so strong, birds who attempted to fly against it are stuck in the same position, cursing and swearing against the wind.

Sitting on the mat (kindly provided during Singapore Day), about to start our lunch.

There it is, the beautiful Seven Sisters cliffs.

Stupid strong wind.

Rock that has been fed on or burrowed. See, I got pay attention during my "Restoration and Management of Freshwater Ecosystem" lessons.

My attempt to show how small the notch is by using my handphone. Bad example.

Then I decided to use a penny for scale purposes. But how will my future students know the size of a penny?

Decided to stand there instead. :P

More notches with rocks inside. So what erosional process is involved?

On the cliffs. We were surprised that there weren't any barriers.

We saw loads of loose limestone lying around, and people who have formed words with it. Hence the crazy idea to form.....

THIS!

"Eh, must send this to International Relations Office!"

What we feel sometimes, especially when deadlines collide. (Just for laughs!)

The other "sisters"

Doing a Nature Wee Tribute.

Act 'seh' only.

It's time to go

This abandoned estuary looks like it's from some textbooks.

Black sheep?

We took the bus back to Brighton. Had an hour or so before our bus back to London.

At the old school pier. The weather is really bright.

Future lesson material. Guess if I'm at the updrift or downdrift portion of the beach?

The ugly Summer Pavilion - A result of the orientalistic imagination of some royalties in the 19th Century, mish-mashing everything he thought to be Indian.

Day 131 - as the liberty bells ring

2009-05-18T23:06:00.002+01:00

Last paper today. Geopolitics and Political Geography. It will sound the liberty bells for me, and the end to my academic life in UCL.

I look down upon the culture of relying on instant microwavable / oven meals. But hey, it's on offer at Waitrose. Once in a long long long time.

Saw this Chinese restaurant on my way to City Temple, my exam venue.

I didn't know I live 20 minutes walk from Leather Lane Market!

Walked around shopping for groceries instead. :P

City Temple at Holborn.

The paper was pretty ok. It confirms that I'm ageing - bladder no longer have the stamina to last a 3 hour paper. I end up using a lot of examples from last semester's Malay Studies and Southeast Asia modules.

Every time I see a "TO LET", I keep seeing an "I" between the "O" and "L"

This store's name sounds wrong......

See this quite often at most railings.

Many told me to buy groceries at markets, as the quality is better and the price is cheaper. It is useless for me to go to Borough Market or any markets I know, until I found out about Leather Lane market. I get about twice the amount at 3/4 the price!

By the way, FREEDOM!

Day 130 - Funny things around London

2009-05-17T23:03:00.000+01:00

See that stand? You place this at supermarket cashiers to separate your stuff from the person before you, and the person after you.

Found on a ice-cream truck

I've never seen scaffolds being so securatised before.

So which way do we go? The empty arrow actually indicates (I think) that you can turn left or right here. So the empty arrow is not to point to the direction of travel.

Day 129 - Last Saturday in London

2009-05-16T23:00:00.000+01:00

Today is my last Saturday in London. Why so? Next Saturday, I would be on the Dorset roadtrip with the ladies. The weekend after, I would be at Lake District with Royce and Yi Fan. And the weekend after, I would be at Giant's Causeway with Royce, Yi Fan and Nardev. And after that, I would have moved out of London.

Decided to visit Brunswick to see their Saturday's farmers' market for one last time. Today, it seems a lot more full of life, with more stalls selling food. The same guy selling Paella, the same guy selling handmade pasta, the same guy selling Turkish deserts offering samples. Skoob books have the same shelves and containers of 2nd hand books, the same expensive cupcakes and brownies, the same cheese shops, the same vegetables shop.

New stalls seem to have emerged. A Melayu kitchen, but sambal made up of eggplant? Some Korean stall, some Thai stall selling Phad Thai from a huge aluminium tray. Looking at the limp texture, I conclude I can cook a better one than them.

The small, but cosy market. There are always families and friends sitting, chatting, running around.

Murtabak? Nah, it's Moroccan Flatbread. But it taste a little like Murtabak though.

I would always see this outside International Hall, which is what I'll walk past if I'm going to and fro Russell Square and Brunswick.

I'll miss Saturdays walking around the market and looking at the interesting things. Even though I don't buy anything.

Day 128 - I'm no Dr Charles Xavier!

2009-05-15T22:51:00.000+01:00

Today's psychological experiment involves EEG. I don't know what that means, but it involves wearing this cap to monitor my brain waves. It was pretty interesting how every single twitch and movement appears as signals on the computer. Makes me look like Charles Xavier, doesn't it?

But it takes about 1 hour to put on. The researcher had to use some paste to scrub the part of my scalp where the electrodes would be. It was an interesting experience nonetheless.

And oh by the way, she's from Germany doing her PhD here. And boy is she hot! Not just physically but her personality as well!

Day 127 - cooking pasta

2009-05-14T22:51:00.000+01:00

Again, I have nothing interesting to talk about today, unless you find revising work interesting. So to let's talk about cooking then - cooking pasta. Again, cooking can be fast, quick nutritious and cheap.

Ingredients I'm using - Courgettes / Zucchini, carrots, peas and basil leaves from the resilient pot at my window. I'm adding chicken meatballs as well this time as it was on offer!

First, boil your pasta. If your meatballs aren't cook yet, cook it first. Then on HIGH heat, brown the courgettes / zucchini.

Next, dump in the rest of our vegetables until it is half cooked.

Dump in your cooked meatballs. Then, turn your heat to MEDIUM.

Dump in your passata, just enough to coat the vegetables. Remember, must be LOW/MEDIUM heat, or it will start spurting around your stove.

Next, dump in your cooked pasta. Al Dente, super soft, whatever your preference, but make sure you boil in SALTED water. Mix everything well and season. Depending on the passata/puree/chopped tomatoes you use, there can be a tendency for a tart taste. Balance it with a bit of sugar. A BIT hor, we're not making desserts here!

The LAST thing to add is your basil leaves. You could julienne them if it is big, but I had to clear the small ones for the growth of the plant. So I didn't julienne them. Mix.

Serve!

Time Taken (Preparation + Cooking) - 5 + 15 mins

Cost breakdown (All prices, except curry leaves, are from Waitrose)
Frozen Peas - £0.11 (30 servings for a big bag at £3.30)
1 carrot - £0.038 ( 6 carrots for £0.23)
Courgettes/Zucchini - £0.10 (3 servings from 1 for £0.30)
Chicken/Turkey Meat balls - £0.20 (14 servings from 2 boxes at buy 1 get 1 free for £2.68)
Passata- £0.116 (7 servings from a bottle for £0.81)
Basil Leaves - More or less Free
Condiments - £0.10 (salt, sugar, oil)
Penne Pasta - £0.063 (30 servings from a 1kg bag for £1.90)

TOTAL - £0.78

A nutritious good meal for less than £1! You can vary the ingredients according to your preferences (please do so.)

Day 126 - 3rd Paper

2009-05-13T22:37:00.000+01:00

3rd paper today - Geography of Securities. One of the more interesting among what I've taken in UCL, but I kinda hate the readings, as it can be a little airy fairy, and over-analysing speeches. Ironically, as much as I love the module, I hated the coursework as I think it is pretty airy-fairy.

Anyway, the paper was at Chemistry Auditorium, where we had our International Orientation Programme. The huge periodic table at the wall was pretty useless, but that's besides the point.

Anyway, the paper was pretty manageable. As he mentioned in the revision class (which Ming Li had kindly took notes and sent to me as I had Freshwater Ecosystem paper), the questions were indeed challenging but fair.

One more to go and I'm done!

Day 125 - Cooking Curry

2009-05-12T10:11:00.005+01:00

I have nothing interesting in my life now, other than revision. So I've decided to blog about my cooking. Why?

To let those at home know that I'm eating well. (Their emphasis - never let your health suffer!)
To let those who are studying overseas know that budget cooking still can be nutritious, good and fast!

So today's recipe would be a tomato-based curry. I have been cooking this lately to clear the curry paste I've brought over.

Please don't ask me for exact measurements, like how many teaspoons, tablespoons or Reese Witherspoon. I don't use measurements - it's all agar-ism and to taste.

What You'll need: Half an Onion, Carrots, canned chickpeas, lentils, chilli if you need it to be more spicy, julienne-d curry leaves (I had to clear that too). You can change the vegetables and pulses you want to add in. It doesn't matter if you don't have curry leaves. Chopped coriander is good too.

You would also need some tomato base. You could use chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh), or for my case, since I need to clear the big bottle of Passata (pureed tomatoes), I'm using that. Do not use ketchup!

On high heat and a bit of oil in the pan, brown the sliced onions.

Once the onion has sweated slightly, add in chopped chilli and julienne-d curry leaves. Turn down the heat to MEDIUM (or you'll have loads of chilli fumes to sting your eyes!)

Add in the curry paste and mix it well for a minute.

Once your paste is fragrant, add in a bit of water to cool down everything. It shouldn't exceed half the level of whatever you have in your pan, or you'll get a watery curry. Stir to dissolve the curry paste. When it is beginning to show signs of boiling, throw in your hardier vegetables (like carrots). Violent or long-range throws are optional.

After the carrots is pretty cooked, throw in your lentils and chickepas. Again, throwing technique is optional.

Once everything has started to boil, add in your tomato base and mix it in.

Season with some salt and a little SUGAR. Yes sugar. My mother say when cooking spicy things, must add sugar one. I finally understand why - it makes the flavour more complex and layered. If you're using chopped coriander, add it in now. Let it all boil for a minute or so and you're done!

Serve with rice. Yum!

Time Taken (Preparation + Cooking) - 5 + 10 mins

Cost breakdown (All prices, except curry leaves, are from Waitrose)
Half an Onion - £0.025 (4 onions for £0.20)
1 carrot - £0.038 ( 6 carrots for £0.23)
Canned Lentils - £0.10 (5 servings from a can for £0.50)
Canned Chickpeas - £0.12 (5 servings from a can for £0.61)
Passata- £0.116 (7 servings from a bottle for £0.81)
Curry leaves - £0.03 (10 servings from a big pack for £0.38)
Condiments - £0.10 (salt, sugar, oil, chilli)

TOTAL - £0.53

Add in cost of rice and curry paste (if you need to buy them), a nutritious good meal for less than £1!

Day 124 - Psycho fairies!

2009-05-11T10:10:00.000+01:00

I'm in one of the world's leader in Psychology and Neuroscience. How can I not find out more about what they do right? So after my flatmate showed me how to join their subject pool, I signed up for a few psychology research experiments. Today is the first time I've ever participated in one.

Looks like a medieval torture instrument, but it's not. The chin rest is to ensure that the distance from the screen is the same for all participants. Basically, the experiment is to see how one pick out words given a load of other characters.

Saw this poster in the psychology department.

Although the fairies has been cleared up a few days back, more has been released today. Not sure if you can see the specks of them flying around in this picture.

Waiting to fly again when the wind comes.

One got stuck on my coat.

I think this is the tree that's responsible for all the fairies!

Day 123 - berry berry wolfberry

2009-05-10T10:09:00.000+01:00

Before I came over, my mum insisted that I bring this bag of wolfberry (枸杞子). The ideal situation is that I would cook a little everyday.

But of course, that's just an ideal situation. In the real world, I've cooked it in large batches for 4-5 times so far. So since it is about time to leave soon, it's time to cook them "regularly" to clear it.

See, I got drink it hor. Water and wolfberry, just boil it over low heat for an hour or so, and you have a sweet drink with beta-carotene goodness.

And I made more to share with my flatmates.

Day 122 - 4th Monthsary

2009-05-09T10:07:00.001+01:00

Brunswick, the small shopping place near my area has a Farmer's Market every Saturday. Today, however, they have something bigger - some rural fair thing, complete with blocks of hays. Guess that's just people harking back to a romanticised rural past, isn't it? (is this Urban Pastoral?)

Today marks my 4th month here for exchange. Right in the middle of my exams, I'm approaching the final month of my exchange.

The amount of life and bustle in Brunswick and Russell Square Underground station typifies what I feel about my 4th month there. 4 months ago, it felt so stark, cold and unfamiliar. 4 months later, it felt all so familiar, warm and full of life.

It has become all so familiar, that whenever I see St Andrews Garden on my walk back after some travelling trip, I just have a "aah...I'm back" feeling.

Just when it is all comfortable, it's about time to go.

But I have no complaints. This opportunity is something I'm really blessed to have. 5-6 months, the time period is just right.

Day 120 - Plants in my room

2009-05-08T10:05:00.000+01:00

While taking a break from revision, I looked up at the window and this is what I saw. I couldn't help but take a photo of this beautiful sight.

Yes, I have 2 potted plants in my room - a basil and thyme. At less than 90p per pot, it is a lot more worth it than buying packets of herbs. And they are raised with old bottles to ensure that they have sufficient sunlight.

This basil plant survived for 4 months odd, from the lack of water when I was away during my travels, trauma when it dropped off the ledge onto my bed a few times etc. It's from such perspective do I appreciate how plants arrange themselves to get as much sunlight as possible.

Thank goodness for the rain - if not the fairies are going to fly around again!

Day 119 - Snow again?

2009-05-06T10:05:00.002+01:00

I thought it snowed or hailed when I saw this white stuff on the road, given how today felt a little chilly. Temperatures dropped below 10ºC after it was close to 20ºC during the past few sunny days.

On closer inspection, they are just styrofoam.

Day 118 - 2nd Paper and rest!

2009-05-05T10:03:00.002+01:00

2nd Paper - Coastal and Estuarine Environment. This time, the paper is at Bishopgate Institute, which is a lot more obvious than the previous location. The paper was quite challenging, as it take quotes from very very specific readings among its list of more than 10 readings per lecture. Obviously who has the stamina and time to read all? Hopefully the smoke bombs I've thrown into the answer booklet worked.

And I think I'm getting old. Bladder cannot survive a 3 hour paper anymore. Haha.

Met up with Ming Li and Heather after the paper, as we've decided to try the vegetarian buffet that I chanced upon near Warren Street station at Euston road.

Nope not this buffet.

Though we wonder if it was deliberate to contrast against the vegetarian buffet (red sign)

The spread was not bad, just that it has a lot of mock meat dishes (which will delight many). Chinese and Thai cuisine - a little watered down, but nothing like the oily and bastardised Chinese food you see in those "Chinese Buffet". For £5.50 per head, it's pretty worth it. They have several branches around too.

SEA music decided to end practice early today and hang out at a pub, as a reward for the hardwork and successful gig at Cambridge. I asked for Coke, but they don't have it. Only Pepsi. Frankly I can't tell the difference - just gimme my non-alcoholic carbonated drink!

Saw this on Larry's bottle. The pregnant woman sign is just so funny.

These brown stuffs are the flying seeds of some trees. It was flying all over the place this afternoon, prompting me to cover my mouth and nose as I walk. Roy, Larry and Nan referred to them as "Fairies". It's like macham bigger dandelions flying around.

Day 117 - Clearing curry paste

2009-05-04T09:59:00.001+01:00

Still have half a container of curry paste left. Decided it is time to clear it since I'm leaving London in less than 2 months, and it is highly unlikely that I'll cook it for anyone else again.

This is the tomato based one, of more Indian origin than the coconut-based style of our Southeast Asian curries. One of the spicier things in life among this exam period. :P

Ok, will post the recipe sometime. Nah, another proof that I got eat properly in London hor. So don't worry.

Day 115 - Bringing Joy around London

2009-05-02T12:55:00.001+01:00

Joy's last day in London, before she heads off to Paris. Brought her around the usual spots, but this time, taking more public transport.

The sunny skies of Hyde Park. We're lucky that the weather is good today!

Fancy sitting on a deck chair? Need to pay one. Got Season Ticket somemore!

The rows after rows of deck chairs.

People lying around on grass

The wild flowers are out

My favourite wild flower - Dandelion.

Joy taking a shot at the wild flowers too

She stepped into the picture accidentally, but I think it made it nicer.

Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.

She kept asking me "do you want to take a picture?"

The sky had a lot of lines for some reasons.

The crowded Knightsbridge area.

Atas place.

The interiors of Harrods felt like the British Museum. It's not one big hall like Takashimaya, it's galleries after galleries, and the size of each gallery is similar to the galleries of the British Museum. Doesn't help when they have Orientalistic things like this Egyptian room.

I know you're selling oysters, but need to be so exaggerating meh?

Wow! Colourful cakes!

Opps! They are actually meat!

I've never seen tuna so red and fresh before.

Press for a ticket and wait for your number for someone to serve you.

Joy treated me to food from Harrods - Shepard's Pie (£3.50, made of lamb), Fish Cake (£4), Spinach and Cheese Quiche (£2). The prices are actually similar to other supermarkets actually.

It's oh so good, that we took our time to savour. It's cold, which I think it is meant to be da-baoed back and warmed up. But it's already oh-so-good when it's cold!

Desserts. Look at the packaging!

Cheesecake and Brownies. Food-gasmic

Wellington Arch revisted.

Don't think you ride on horses very high up ok. You also need to press and wait for your turn to cross the road.

Even horse riders have their own traffic lights.

Tulips at St James park. Use it to pretend that you've been to Amsterdam!

Big Ben and Parliment Square

Sri Lankans protesting about the war. Churchill's statue seem to give the "What the hell?" look at the protesters.

I never knew that Big Ben was so glittery until today's sunny weather.

Godzilla strikes. He doesn't like the London Eye.

Downing Street has been heavily securatised. No more photos of the door at No. 10.

Nelson's Column

Routemaster!

We saw this pink limo for the 2nd time today!

After the trip, we went back to my place. Cooked her dinner and sent her to St Pancras for her trip to Paris. Hope you enjoyed yourself Joy! But this picture reminded me of this picture I took in 2006......

Maybe it is the height difference. Hehe.

Day 114 - May Day and Chippies!

2009-05-01T00:24:00.012+01:00

I thought today is a public holiday, since it's May Day. With the Bank holiday on the coming Monday, I thought it would be a super long weekend.

But turns out, 1st May aren't any public holidays for UK. Perhaps it is compensated by the Bank Holiday that occurs on the first week of May.

Anyway, what's a Bank Holiday? I used to think that it's a holiday where only the Banks are closed, but elder brother told me that it's their term for public holidays. You see, they don't have much festivals here to have public holidays for, unlike Singapore where we have almost everything from Hari Raya to Deepavali. So they fix certain days as "Bank Holidays" to give the public some additional rest dates. They are usually on a Monday, probably to ensure long weekends I guess.

Joy mentioned that she wants to try Fish and Chips. Being here in London for close to 4 months, I still have no idea where are the good chippies (local slang for Fish and Chip shop). When I googled and consulted my Lonely Planet guidebook, they both point to one that is so near my area! And it's an old establishment in Bloomsbury!

So after picking up Joy from Kings Cross to tour UCL, I brought her to this place, North Sea Fish Restaurant at Leigh Street. To think that I walk pass the street parallel to Leigh Street everytime I go to school, not knowing that there is a 老字号 nearby!

The left side is the takeaway chippies, the right side is the restaurant. A fish and chips at the restaurant would cost you £10+. Heard that the place started out as a takeaway chippies, and expanded to include a restaurant in subsequent years.

Of course we went for the cheaper option. Nothing says more British Fish and Chips than holding them all in a paper cone on one hand, and eating off with a small wooden fork on the other right?

The portions are huge! My Haddock for £4.80, and the smallest chips portions (which are really big) is only £1.30! Cod costs £4.80 as well. I can't even buy raw fish at that size!

The bag that packed our fishes and chips. Ironically, the oil is soaking through the word "healthiest".

Our feasts at Brunswick. See how huge the portion is? Even I had problem finishing the chips when I'm sharing it with joy. It is that huge. And the fish is excellently fresh - kills all the memory of the horrible fish and chips I had at Brighton. This one is much fresher, tastier, and more goods for your bucks.

After feeding our stomach, Joy went off to watch "Wicked" at Victoria. In the evening, something happened when I went to pick her up at Kings Cross.

A fire going on?

Indeed it is!

The smoke bellowing and descending on the opposite side of the road. I have no idea why the crowd form up to watch when the smoke is descending upon them!

Day 113 - First exam paper in UCL

2009-04-30T12:25:00.000+01:00

Joy came over last night from Vienna as part of her Europe trip. After breakfast, I dropped her off at British Museum and revise a little more for my first paper in the afternoon.

As UCL does not have big halls like NUS, the examinations are usually held around the London, by renting conference rooms or halls of churches.

The Exam Venue. My timetable says "Park Crescent Conference Centre", but I couldn't find it. Turns out THIS is the main building that holds the conference centre, and the only signs that says that it's the conference centre is a small sign next to the door. If not because my coursemates were gathering outside, I would have missed that place.

The exam hall!

Despite that there are already 2 cases of H1N1 in the UK, there aren't any measures to measure temperature. Heard that in NUS, they are suppose to report early and get their temperature screened and stuff, when there is not a single case in Singapore yet?

Anyway, my first paper was pretty good. What I spotted came out, so phew! Thought I wouldn't do too well initially, cause this course, Restoration and Management of Freshwater Ecosystem is very much centred around the UK and Europe. The ecology here is very different from what I've seen so far as well. But all's good I think. Should be able to bring the credit back to NUS at least.

Saw a Chinese-Thai Vegetarian Buffet restaurant on my way back. £5.50, hmm...maybe should recommend to Heather and Mingli.

Day 110 - Coursework submission day!

2009-04-27T00:23:00.001+01:00

It's finally here - the day to submit my two essays. One for Geography of Securities, the other, Restoration and Management of Freshwater Ecosystem. Barely slept the night before, but glad that I pulled it through to "give birth" to these 2 twins (one physical geography, another human geography what).

Anyway, coursework submission in UCL is more formal. Nope, it's not just dropping it into your lecturer's pigeon hole.

The lecturers have no say on the deadline. Different year modules must submit their coursework on different dates set by the Administrative side. 27th April is the submission date for all Year 3 modules. If you want to appeal for extension, your lecturer have no say - only the admin people may grant you that! So don't email your professors or pray for a magical email from him or her to extend the dateline.
A soft copy of your coursework must be submitted to Turnitin for plagiarism checking.
Hard copy must be submitted to the admin office, who will consolidate it.

Went to Science Library to get my coursework printed out. Looks like it's submission day for other departments too. The printer was a little crazy, but manage to get it out nonetheless.

But it's not just stapling your essays together and submitting it!

First, you have to grab a red folder, a cover page and a plagiarism declaration form for each coursework.

Next, you have to punch a hole on the top left hand corner and put them in the folder, fixed with some holder.

Lastly, fill up the cover of the red folder.

And I've submitted it! One coursework takes up 50% of my overall grade. Unlike NUS, where it takes about 3 different courseworks to make up 50%!

Day 109 - Eating potatoes

2009-04-26T00:22:00.001+01:00

I rarely buy potatoes cause it is quite difficult to keep them, as they can sprout even before I could finish them. But since I've bought potatoes to cook curry when Shiyang was around, I had been roasting them with other vegetables for dinner. After all, it takes less attention to cook it. Just cut, season, toss, dump into oven for 20 minutes and I have a dinner. Perfect for me, since I've been busy researching and writing for my 2 coursework due tomorrow.

Will write the recipe someday. Nah, I got eat properly here in London. So don't worry.

Day 108 - SEA Music goes to Cambridge

2009-04-25T00:22:00.000+01:00

It's Singapore Day today! But I've decided not to go for it, as SEA Music is having a gig at Cambridge. Singapore Day happens every year, how often do you get to perform in Cambridge? Besides, I'll be back in Singapore in about 2 months time anyway. So yes, all the food I crave can wait.

We drove up to Cambridge and arrived at Jesus College early. We're suppose to perform during the lunch time of a conference on cultural exchanges in Southeast Asia during the 18th and 19th Century.

Most of the photos here are taken by Larry!

Preparing for a early run through.
Looking for my soles after our run through.

We had a quite a bit of free time before our performance, so we walked around a little.
In performance gear. It was pretty good, and I ching-chapped at the right places. Guess I'm more used to these pieces which were unfamiliar to me at the start. Perhaps I have the confidence to start playing these pieces on other instruments already. Anyway, the audience was fantastic. We thought we were just background music for their lunch, but they were really attentive and appreciative, even though given their background, they are clearly not ethnomusicologist. Was told that the organisers were very happy and impressed!
Our lunch from the organisers!

Wolfing down. Eating sandwiches never felt so shiok before.

The aftermath.

We continued to explore Cambridge
Camera shoot-out competition. Went to pay Keng Rui a surprise visit at his room before we meet for dinner in the evening with Royce.
Having a picnic at one of the few areas in Cambridge where you can walk on the grass. They bought drinks from the pub, but sorry I don't drink!

CRASSH - what an acronym for your research centre.

The rest of the gang returning to London first. I went on to Royce's place and talk cock with him till we met Keng Rui for dinner.

Saw this when I returned to Kings Cross.

The new location of Platform 9 3/4

Day 104 - Free Cone Day X 3

2009-04-21T00:21:00.002+01:00

21st April 2009. It's Ben and Jerry's Free Cone Day! When there is good ice-cream handed out for free, how can a Kiasu Singaporean who's deprived of ice-cream not go for it? Walked about 40 minutes to Leicester Square, where there are 3 Ben & Jerry's Scope Shops near each other.

My first target. Queue was short. It took only 5 minutes to reach my turn.

2nd shop. See how short the queue is?

Since there are 3 shops about 100m away from each other, I went to queue for all 3 shops. And it didn't take 5 minutes to reach my turn at each shop! Guess I have fulfilled all the ice-cream and cones that I've been deprived of.

But this event is for charity after all. I did give donation to each scoop shops for the different charity they raise funds for. Like my mother always say - things for charity, cannot anyhow take advantage one!