Moment – definition – Merriam-Webster Dictionary 1. a minute portion or point of time : instant; 2. a comparatively brief period of time; 3. a time of excellence or conspicuousness. Moment – definition – mine 1. a blessing; a slice of time that is transformative in which everything is aligned to achieve a temporary...
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I’ve just returned from a long weekend in San Francisco. Each time I visit the ‘City by the Bay”, I am reminded of how intoxicating this town is. In fact, I will go as far as saying that San Francisco is the most exciting and vibrant city in the U.S., with New Orleans a...
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In keeping with the musical theme of global influence – yet another toe-tapping song to load onto your ipod. For those who may not know Paolo Nutini (no, not nutella), he’s an addictive though decidedly- odd combination. Italian by name; Scotsman by birth; and 1930s African-American scat singer by soul and style – all...
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Few things in this world impress me to the point that I am unable to articulate decipherable words. Funnily enough, the two things that come to mind both herald from distinguished British institutions. The first is my husband Stuart and the second is the Centenary Collection from renowned British luggage maker Globe-Trotter. Both examples...
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Because frankly, there is no wrong time for a ukulele. Snapped by another well-worn traveler. Oakland Airport – September 17, 2009
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I watched a creepy film recently called “Island of the Dead”. The film was average, but I was surprised to learn that the subject matter – Hart Island – is a real place, far spookier than the movie, where over 800,000 bodies – adults and infants, and even dismembered body parts, are buried. Hart...
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Hosting a foreign exchange student is definitely not for everyone. Having someone living in your home with a different set of cultural norms and who possibly may not actually like you, or you them, can be a challenge at best, and a nightmare in worst cases. We were extraordinary lucky that our beloved Jule...
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Don’t Do What I Did! Another Oops! Travel Moment. I am thrilled, though appropriately embarrassed, to introduce my first “Don’t Do What I Did” (DDWID) oops! travel moment. While this little gem is a new addition to my fairly extensive body of work, I confess it’s grown on me. One recent afternoon in Phnom...
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When it comes to traveling, I like to think I become a senses-heightened, fully-engaged version of my normal self. That is: high-functioning, buttoned-up, sharp as a tack, in control without being controlling, street smart, friendly yet cautious, culturally sensitive, forward-thinking, spontaneous and always – always – prepared. Did I mention verbose? Given my completely delusional...
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It was just announced yesterday the Crescendas Group, a Singaporean consortium representing 21 companies, is looking to sink between $30 and $50 million into tourism in Cambodia. According to Delegation Head Delegation head Lawrence Leow, deputy honorary secretary of the Singapore Business Federation, “We see the progress, very steady progress in the country…The people...
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June 2009 For many developing countries, corruption in government is typical and pervasive. In Cambodia, it’s a well-documented fact that corruption is rampant, serving to undermine the economic infrastructure and act as a deterrent to much-needed foreign investment. On a recent trip to Cambodia, I witnessed a small dose of this corruption, a tourist’s...
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Anyone who has visited Phnom Penh will be familiar with Sambo, the gorgeous 49-year old girl who toddles into town everyday from Wat Phnom for her morning bath, and toddles back. I encountered her for the first time last month, when I was in PP and out for my morning run. The juxtaposition of...
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August 2007 Booked into the KiiKii for a 2-week stay while volunteering in Raro with my 13-year old son. Prepared for the worst, based on reviews, so booked into Oceanview room – Room 17 – corner room, ground floor. Ok – its not the Ritz, but it is charming, if a bit worse for...
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April, 2008 Overnighted at the Park Plaza last weekend – Saturday night. Starting from the top, location makes it very tricky to park while dumping bags & spouses to check in – very busy street and no real porter. You have to pull over, throw on the hazards, throw out the bags (and spouse)...
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We were so so excited to stay at the FCC after countless hours of due diligence researching hotels in SR, but despite previous glowing reviews and high expectations, it was frankly, a disappointment. Off the bat, slightly odd architecture with reception area off to side of driveway. Lovely reception staff, but English comprehension was...
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April, 2009 First time in New Orleans. Traveling with my two teens. I was looking for a hotel that had the traditional architecture and look of the French Quarter combined with the contemporary, hip, up-market feel of a boutique hotel. After time-consumingly weighing all the options, I finally settled on the W French Quarter,...
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June 2009 In PP, we wouldn’t stay anywhere else. We’re not on a backpackers budget, but don’t necessarily like the rarified isolationism of Raffles (though love the hotel’s famous piano bars), so thought the Pavilion’s brand of low-key chic might fit the bill. It did not disappoint, and we felt like we were staying...
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Boy and his Bowls
Serving up my take on life one bowl at a time
Ramshackle Chic
An eclectic state of mind
An Indian Summer