Flying around the holidays is always crazy. Today was especially so! Was at the gate getting ready to board when a young gentleman runs up and announces to the agent that he does not have his passport. Fortunately he had some paper with some special government stamps and a Hong Kong ID so they let him board. While waiting in another line earlier I met a couple who said they had just lifted off, mere feet off of the runway when a light went on … [Read more...]
The American Film Institute Launches Landmark Chinese Cultural Exchange Program With New Scholarship Initiative
Los Angeles, CA, November 14, 2013 – The American Film Institute (AFI) today announced its AFI/IDG China Story Fellowship, a new scholarship program at the world-renowned AFI Conservatory aimed at developing feature-length screenplays that foster greater understanding of Chinese history, culture and literature. Made possible through the generosity of Hugo Shong, Chairman, IDG Greater China, the fellowship provides nine AFI Fellows with travel … [Read more...]
Fiji Airways Partners with Outrigger for Fiji Getaway Giveaway
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - Fiji Airways, in partnership with Outrigger Hotels and Resorts and Tourism Fiji, is excited to announce an all-expenses paid, seven-night getaway to Fijian paradise at Outrigger on the Lagoon-Fiji. One lucky winner (plus one lucky companion) will jet to paradise with Fiji Airways for a week of ultimate relaxation at zero cost. The Fiji Getaway Giveaway ends on October 22, 2013, and a winner will be selected on October … [Read more...]
A Journey of the Senses
Ears There is a moment of silence just before an announcement. It is that quick pause when the airline ground staff takes a breath—the gap between the crackling of the PA system and the sweet voice with calculated intonation, calling on a passenger: “Paging (insert name). You are needed at gate (insert number).” I am standing inside a store, surrounded by aisles and aisles of eco-friendly school products when I heard a page. I look up … [Read more...]
Most Popular Cities you should Visit in 2013
The world is home to many fabulous places. You can explore spectacular mountains, or you can bask on one of the stunning beaches. If you are planning to take a holiday in 2013, here are ten cities you should consider visiting. 1. Paris, France Paris, The City of Lights, is one of the most impressive cities in the world. The city possesses exciting music, exquisite art and world-famous cuisine. You can visit the majestic Eiffel Tower, or you … [Read more...]
Sumatran Blend, Ripples on the Edge of Time: Toba or not Toba?
An American backpacker treats Sumatra, Indonesia’s “Lake Toba”--filled with crunchy Elysian entrepots --as a writers’ retreat where backing off comes with the territory “Characters are just like black marks on paper. . . --William Gass, Fiction and the Right of Life I arrive by high-speed hydrofoil across the Malacca Straits to Medan, the ersatz capital of Sumatra, during Ramadan. I was, of course, on my way to flop down and relax at the … [Read more...]
Parrot Learning Digital Audio Pen Reader
Parrot Learning Digital Audio Pen Reader (Reviewed: Oct 2012) Who would have thought a talking pen could help make learning a language easier! Introducing the "Chinese Talking Travel Guidebook" from Parrot Learning. We have taken a number of trips to either Hong Kong or mainland China and in advance of another trip to the mainland - we've been using this guidebook in anticipation of our trip. Chinese, like other Asian languages is a tonal … [Read more...]
Ten Finalists Chosen: 2012 Cintas’ America’s Best Restroom Contest
Ten Finalists Chosen For 2012 Cintas’ America’s Best Restroom Contest Public Voting Begins for 11th Annual Contest Will America’s next Best Restroom be the result of a multi-million dollar renovation to the nation’s largest natural outdoor amphitheater, and set against picturesque iconic Hollywood Hills? Or will Sin City’s most luxurious loo, a sprawling 2,000 square foot space inside Vegas’ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, earn … [Read more...]
Symphony of Lights, Hong Kong – September 2012
The Symphony of Lights is a must visit free attraction that involves more than 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbor (buildings on Kowloon as well as Hong Kong Island). The tallest building in Hong Kong, the Two International Finance Centre, at 415 m (1,360 ft) also plays a role in this light show. According to the Guinness book of world records, it is the world's Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show". There are excellent views from the … [Read more...]
Magnificent Macau
As a tourist destination in Asia, Macau pretty much has it all. Bustling nightlife with amazing casinos and gambling entertainment, beautiful beaches, an amazing heritage of Portuguese and Chinese culture and luxury resorts offering accommodation at low prices all vie for your attention on this small, densely populated island. Gambling is the number one industry in Macau and the multitude of casinos are a huge attraction for visitors as Macau … [Read more...]