tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66648442631616951332023-11-16T10:49:06.562+00:00Posh, Broke, & BoredPosh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comBlogger181125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-49195995319875162482019-07-30T00:30:00.007+01:002022-12-16T04:28:38.661+00:00Cambridge, England: Riding My Ex's Dinner Jacket Tails into the Fantasy University Experience I Never Had<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLP9BU0qjCNVZSWdCFmAp0Nni5aSkDB-wNYGOEK218VkJBPQxsa06YftHwE-dZPhDeK6SJe-U1KRQ1Ay9S28v3H7l8eqOYMD8STQnM0y4ZAUEXbANo0k7Hzertq6cMXuQjVuM39tsYSLE/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLP9BU0qjCNVZSWdCFmAp0Nni5aSkDB-wNYGOEK218VkJBPQxsa06YftHwE-dZPhDeK6SJe-U1KRQ1Ay9S28v3H7l8eqOYMD8STQnM0y4ZAUEXbANo0k7Hzertq6cMXuQjVuM39tsYSLE/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.jpg" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-weight: normal;"><blockquote><i>Catching Feels in Cambridge</i>: In which I finally get to live out my Hogwarts fantasy, pretended to be a perfect Asian tiger cub for a hot minute, and waltzed with the Rick Blaine to my Ilsa Lund* under the moonlight on the grounds of Trinity College. Romance isn’t dead - it’s just moved to Cambridge.</blockquote></span></h3></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><h3><span style="font-family: georgia; font-weight: normal;">- 20 - 22 July 2019 -</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">*That is, if Ilsa were a bratty brunette of Malaysian-Chinese descent and if Rick - although still American and still jaded - is not nearly as bitter. The setting is Cambridgeshire in peacetime rather than Casablanca on the brink of war, but baby, between “Rick” and I, there always has been and there always will be a battle - of wits.</span></p></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: center;">#<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/yipadvisor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YipAdvisor</a> </span>#<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/pbbxengland/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PBBxEngland</a></span> </p></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RAoKqTytoxguMdRhc8Lz14T_lNP-M0eG3UE-UOQ_wOpQS8nFEajdq_pPnuLuou7N2N2L8hncmpitFLTqWwBMqpeixrCsPmnZLgjnhQfx5R141NEiqF78eWumZkr5CKYwmqzKSf-Kg08/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RAoKqTytoxguMdRhc8Lz14T_lNP-M0eG3UE-UOQ_wOpQS8nFEajdq_pPnuLuou7N2N2L8hncmpitFLTqWwBMqpeixrCsPmnZLgjnhQfx5R141NEiqF78eWumZkr5CKYwmqzKSf-Kg08/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.jpg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span></span></span></p>
<span><div style="font-family: georgia; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">For the avoidance of doubt, allow me to point out what should, but may not, be obvious: I am far from the perfect, academic child that all Asian Tiger Parents yearn for. I’m no musical prodigy, although I did take piano lessons from ages 7 to 17 and can do a semi-decent Clayderman impression if you bribe me with bubble tea. Other Malaysian CRAs (Crazy Rich Asians) my age were studying law/medicine/business - in Melbourne for those with parents with separation anxiety, or at Oxbridge if they were exceptional. Myself, however, I inverted the “she’s studying in England, so she must be a top student” trope by spending my university days being compared to the subject of the angsty class-war anthem Common People - “She came from (Malaysia) she had a thirst for knowlege, she studied (Design) at St Martin’s College, that’s where I caught her eye”. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">I didn’t leave college with a MA, a MBA, or even a MRS (unlike some women, I didn’t go to university for the purpose of finding a husband). Heck, I didn’t even get a First - I only managed a 2:1. My daughter went to England and all she got me was this lousy BA (Hons) in Design. I was extremely lucky to have a unicorn for an Asian parent - a mother who peacefully accepted that her eldest child would go down the “creative route” (imagine those words said with an affectation of delicate horror). Mummy didn’t just tolerate my “artistic inclinations” (again, another gentle shudder) - she actually supported my eccentric endeavours and only twitched silently when I committed to the bohemian roleplay by living in various hovels across London’s East End. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">So, no - I had no regrets of not studying at Oxford and/or Cambridge. Not once did I wonder how student life would be different had I swapped the mean streets of London for the hallowed halls of the Home Counties. Until I got a Whatsapp message from an American ex-lover, who I shall henceforth refer to as "Rick" (as in Rick Blaine of Rick's Café Américain, Casablanca) - “Hey, kid* - do you want to come with me to my 10-year Cambridge class reunion?” </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: times;">*and yes - like the original Rick Blaine, "my Rick " also calls me "kid".</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-O2pxbZYhwFtgjX2yqUMq43jyOUNYJJj9y3R11nW2tpGrG_Oo9XxKXFH-CHGy_gpwn7bzscYWilojQQkj2_WtNZO4NF0jK4Ac5g7T6-3E17qKKDaPgAIzc-CrgcwjRkV83iUFTGQ7Jjc/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-O2pxbZYhwFtgjX2yqUMq43jyOUNYJJj9y3R11nW2tpGrG_Oo9XxKXFH-CHGy_gpwn7bzscYWilojQQkj2_WtNZO4NF0jK4Ac5g7T6-3E17qKKDaPgAIzc-CrgcwjRkV83iUFTGQ7Jjc/s16000/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.jpg" title="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGK1wbLr6AC29q8whGJ5bjKkYBFo3s4E7lKp9FdxPRZJTrWObVJPoC54UuysqGnsagH2f9nZGDYbThu6gz1DiBpvFxlOKNgx2OTwVkYD8vkyY_rGxi9Q6IYt6WgsQfKSn5_o46xkFl50/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGK1wbLr6AC29q8whGJ5bjKkYBFo3s4E7lKp9FdxPRZJTrWObVJPoC54UuysqGnsagH2f9nZGDYbThu6gz1DiBpvFxlOKNgx2OTwVkYD8vkyY_rGxi9Q6IYt6WgsQfKSn5_o46xkFl50/s16000/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">With those words, the sleeper agent in me was activated. “Sweetie darling, long time no hear, it’s been years. Why, yes, I would like to accompany you to dinner at Trinity College. Black tie? I’ll dust off the heirloom jade, then. Could we afterward take a walking tour of the colleges and perhaps nab an official Cambridge University jacket?” Before I could even say “You can take the woman out of Asia but you can’t take the Asia out of the woman”, preparations were made. I rewatched The Theory of Everything to get myself in the mood for a weekend at Cambridge (bad move, I was sad for days). "Rick" made reservations at The Gonville, a chic boutique hotel on the Southern edge of Parker’s Piece. The Gonville is so centrally-located (a 5 minute hop, skip, and jump to the historic city centre) that we had no use for the hotel’s free bicycles nor the courtesy Bentley S1. All that was left to do was for Rick to fly in to England from USA and for me to not crash the car during the 60 mile drive from London to Cambridge. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i>Spoiler: we made the 90-minute journey with nary a temper lost. It only took 7 years for some character development...</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpbo6311VjouoT8pZd-Sv9NBhnWYLs2CbgIzvhekyeVcG225Npbhz-U5CgREhNmJGa9wVrshtISSloDnniYBlVIULlM6TaPRYLo4lODKqugOzKkeikVvvk1APbGYU5dwFfqUBQ0D5L98/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpbo6311VjouoT8pZd-Sv9NBhnWYLs2CbgIzvhekyeVcG225Npbhz-U5CgREhNmJGa9wVrshtISSloDnniYBlVIULlM6TaPRYLo4lODKqugOzKkeikVvvk1APbGYU5dwFfqUBQ0D5L98/s16000/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" title="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGpI2vqQQ3MLxswhZrgIhmA6KO0rso-9BDagdNiHWS3B1jsBZ9QAPjulWeiOt7KfopeHf_8KEA0L-eye3WTZNr66nnV6AZk4pvElSwLhIvvELd8BcN90ZWsR6Ivr04KEH8ZdGAJJk_34/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGpI2vqQQ3MLxswhZrgIhmA6KO0rso-9BDagdNiHWS3B1jsBZ9QAPjulWeiOt7KfopeHf_8KEA0L-eye3WTZNr66nnV6AZk4pvElSwLhIvvELd8BcN90ZWsR6Ivr04KEH8ZdGAJJk_34/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.jpg" title="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Rick was about to give me the “studying in England” experience I had sorely craved and missed.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">I first met "Rick" in London while trying to hail down a black cab (those were pre-Uber days) outside the now-defunct Bodo's Schloss - an alpine lodge-themed nightclub on the corner of High Street Kensington. That sentence alone should tell you how long ago it was, but for those not in the know - it was 2012. I was 25, he was 35. He called me "kid" then, and he still calls me "kid" now - although his vocabulary has expanded to include a semi-ironic "darling" and if he's feeling generous, "babe". In the 7 years that we've known each other, Rick and I have had a few passionate but short-lived and volatile affairs, which I blame on our horoscopes. We are both Leos (uh-oh). I'm a Fire Tiger and he's a Fire Dragon (oh dear). Incendiary does not even begin to describe us - Rick and I get on like a house on fire but unfortunately we burn down everything in our path. Both Western and Eastern astrology are opposed to our having a peaceful relationship. We were literally star-crossed lovers. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">Despite the fact that we are challenged both in the metaphysical and physical way (we live on different continents), "Rick" and I remain close friends. It had been 2 years since we'd last seen each other. I was already tantalised with the prospect of a catch up in Cambridge when he sealed the deal with “you can live out all your Harry Potter fantasies” at the universities. Rick was referring to all the formal and frankly, odd traditions; but what he didn’t realise was that I saw my chance at redemption. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">You see, when I first arrived in England as a sheltered 19 year old I expected all of London to look like the magical world of Harry Potter. My first ever flat was in a cute red-brick building literally right beside the Royal Albert Hall. My reaction to living in South Kensington? Meh, it’s alright - a little underwhelming. Imagine my shock when I ventured outside of SW7. Where did all these modern monstrosities come from?! Where are the stone castles overrun with wild roses and ivy? The gothic architecture? The moving portraits and the poltergeists?! And then a cheeky housemate tipped me over the edge by making me watch, in her words - “a satire that paints an accurate portrait of the brave new world you’ve left Malaysia for" - Little Britain. I burst into tears. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">It has been 13 years but I can still taste the palpable disappointment of my expected surroundings vs the reality. And this was before all the University of The Arts London colleges were consolidated into a singular modern campus in King’s Cross. My class was among the last few batches to study at the Grade II listed Lethaby Building on Southampton Row, and even that building wasn’t “Hogwarts-y enough” for me. I know, I'm ridiculous. Sigh...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><h3 style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></h3><h3 style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><span style="text-align: left;">"You had me at '</span><i style="text-align: left;">Harry Potter fantasies</i><span style="text-align: left;">'..."</span></span> </h3><div><br /></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"> I had always admired "Rick" for his worldliness and wit. Without going into any sensitive detail (we'll wait until I write an unauthorised biography which I'll then sell to Netflix), here was a man who had lived the equivalent of several lifetimes and had enough adventures to fill several tomes, yet emerged relatively unscathed - still skipping, singing, and spittin' ill sh*t on a daily basis. If there was anyone I could vicariously live out my unfulfilled "studying at Hogwarts" fantasies through, it would be Rick.
I couldn't have asked for a better guide to university life at Cambridge. Rick took me for a long walk along the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitcambridge.org/things-to-do/the-backs-p507481" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Backs</a></span> - where the rear grounds of the prime schools (<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.trinhall.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trinity Hall</a></span>, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.trin.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trinity</a></span>, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">King’s</a></span>, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.queens.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Queen's</a></span>, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.joh.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">St Johns</a></span>, and <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.clare.cam.ac.uk/Home/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Clare</a></span>) backed out to the impossibly picturesque <u>River Cam</u>. He showed me the best spots to watch tourists attempt to punt down the Cam (the most popular starting point is at <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.anchorcambridge.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Anchor</a></span>. We nabbed a prime outdoor seat and enjoyed the show over Pimm's and cheeseburgers), lose their poles (we counted 5 in one hour while having afternoon tea on the lawn at the DoubleTree Hilton), and</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"> fall off the stern and into the water (we witnessed one such mishap. It was glorious). </span></span></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5TJNDlPptRE2PPLqAcDq6mk7tqDAsjTVnVu4czIT3lBLxmB0qeffKoU_pQrL63euHYZC2Gb0JrIiDTyLg5LkvYQzFohpMq3E9QF70S2BK9gJpNe3TNvpbhSi8NA9HyPcCCJOFhXWmPA/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.jpg" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5TJNDlPptRE2PPLqAcDq6mk7tqDAsjTVnVu4czIT3lBLxmB0qeffKoU_pQrL63euHYZC2Gb0JrIiDTyLg5LkvYQzFohpMq3E9QF70S2BK9gJpNe3TNvpbhSi8NA9HyPcCCJOFhXWmPA/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.jpg" /></a></span></span></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">Rick regaled anecdotes from the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.trinityball.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">May Ball</a></span> of his year - not so much the lavish, formal end-of-exam ball but rather the notorious </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">afterparty carnage that always makes its way into the tabloids the following days. He told me that the </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitcambridge.org/things-to-do/the-bridge-of-sighs-p528361" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bridge of Sighs</a></span> <i>(above)</i> was named for the sighs of students who cross the bridge to and from their exams. He led me through verdant paths shaded by willow trees, where we could hear couples giggling from behind the bushes. He brought me to <span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/chapel/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">King's College</a></span> early in the morning so that I could have the chapel all to myself. He waited patiently while I mulled over a lovely duck-egg blue <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">University of Cambridge</a></span> jacket (I didn't buy it. I'm sure I'll regret it when autumn comes). Rick explained the difference between the <i>gowns</i> (the university population) and the <i>towns</i> (the local community). Rick insisted that the</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Reality+Checkpoint/@52.202179,0.1281774,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xc45fad7313949c71?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi2__XG0trjAhXwThUIHUfUCoQQ_BIwCnoECA8QCA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reality Checkpoint</a></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> was so-called because it was the last street lamp between the bars and the dorms, and therefore one's final chance to take a good, hard look at who you've picked up and are about to bring home for the night.</span></span></div><div style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div></div>
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<span style="font-family: times;">By day and from a tourist's perspective, the college city of Cambridge is already a world of its own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times;">And here I was, about to experience Cambridge like an insider - </span><span style="font-family: times;">dining in <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.trin.cam.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trinity College</a></span>'s hall, under the watchful eye of Henry VIII.</span><span style="font-family: times;"> </span><span style="font-family: times;"> </span></div>
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<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span>If I hadn't quite grasped how momentous this alumni reunion was, it hit home the moment the dinner gong sounded, followed by the announcement that for just this one night, we were allowed to walk on the lawns. <i>Gasp</i>. One of the more famous college traditions</span><span> is that it is strictly forbidden to lay so much as a toe on the grass - people have been banned for such transgressions. J</span><span>oyous leaps, struts, and dances on the venerated lawns ensued. You could say that the entire class had waited a decade for this chance.</span></span></span></h4><h4 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: times; font-weight: normal;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Moral of the story: date someone who studied at Cambridge. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">f you play the long game, you too might get to romp on the grass without putting in any of the hard work. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Talk about riding Rick's </span><strike>coat</strike><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> dinner jacket tails...</span></i></h4><div><i style="font-family: times; font-weight: normal;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></i></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></i></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtNysBLM7wHeHrf8XiggYq6O-aeiQqzAFJBE_kmuN3JqgKk7zhEQi-ilJCa_5BikPv-aMjSDGRNkWYNkoxFF45MrNC5wdkdD4ZZCvno5DV4702w7sAgoH8-ymEs1RT7Gq5UrljNqyAZs/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.jpg" style="clear: left; 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</tbody></table><span style="font-family: times;"><div style="text-align: center;">The rest of the evening went by in a blur of marching waiters, glasses of port, and endless eyebrow-raising anecdotes about "Rick" from his classmates (most of which he didn't even bother to deny). Under the soaring ceilings of Trinity College's Hall, my thoughts had room to wander. Rick was the age I am now when he graduated from Cambridge (we both graduated from our respective universities in 2009, what a coincidence). I wonder - maybe I’m not too old to go back to school? I could do a Rick - go to Cambridge and collect another degree just because I can, although I doubt I am compelling enough to have scholarships thrown at me. Perhaps I could read Asian and Middle Eastern Studies...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMl9iw-lk8sh13uOcnJ99Unwrakg1n93AP2ejbgGzoon8z5m59nVBjWEQdvGkC-WoBWAxfMPgXrS_nwivn2m9J6mdeTso-yJPQUjVRxaqahDegsYLsQogLRGehIdIEiz_wiJ-OHeKy2TU/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMl9iw-lk8sh13uOcnJ99Unwrakg1n93AP2ejbgGzoon8z5m59nVBjWEQdvGkC-WoBWAxfMPgXrS_nwivn2m9J6mdeTso-yJPQUjVRxaqahDegsYLsQogLRGehIdIEiz_wiJ-OHeKy2TU/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23.jpg" title="Cambridge, England: A Romantic Weekend Rendezvous by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJyd6g14i1HpllijD_2YzRiWuwbiUzmWLz0hkVEN2CcqVecltyu9A1YhyphenhyphenoiDeUwoBBk4n7wiOgMQAy8_NBJZWvBmi1MB81-M632BGEct6A6SanSZK9QhQeZwFeln22phYmV2nb2ilwWqc/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.gif" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJyd6g14i1HpllijD_2YzRiWuwbiUzmWLz0hkVEN2CcqVecltyu9A1YhyphenhyphenoiDeUwoBBk4n7wiOgMQAy8_NBJZWvBmi1MB81-M632BGEct6A6SanSZK9QhQeZwFeln22phYmV2nb2ilwWqc/s1600/A+Weekend+in+Cambridge%252C+England+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.gif" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">I had come with "Rick" to see Cambridge both through his eyes and also a Harry Potter-tinted lens. To catch a glimpse of what it would've been like to be the perfect Asian Tiger cub who studied in one of the world's most prestigious universities and to pretend that I had received my invitation to Hogwarts. I was simply here to role-play for a night - I didn't expect to literally see fireworks. We snuck off into dark, secluded, vine-covered courtyards for fresh air between courses. Afterward, surprised by the impromptu fireworks display, Rick and I danced (or rather, a champagne-soaked shuffle) on the grounds of Trinity while the explosives spelt out metaphors in the sky. We then set off for the afterparties on foot, the cobblestone streets devoid of tourists, filled instead with gowns sweeping merrily in search of more port. We paused to contemplate King's College bathed in moonlight, where, against the incomparably romantic gothic backdrop, he pulled me in for a lingering kiss. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">"Rick" had made me nostalgic for something I had never experienced - a stint at University of Cambridge. Quite the feat. But for that brief weekend in Cambridge; I felt all the romance, magic, and mystery I had hoped for my university experience. It had been 13 years in the making, and the long wait had only intensified the delayed gratification. The next day, Rick left for his corner of the world and we both went back to our own lives. But what about us? We <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpoyshqB8-o" target="_blank">never had Paris</a>, but we'll always have Cambridge.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-89815824332749689972019-07-12T00:07:00.004+01:002022-12-16T04:37:09.275+00:00Rome, Italy: A Photo Diary of 5 Summer Days in Rome<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQKVQFDRNrHVCAh0yF9ucP393bsGCT3btf3ULOSB2FaQwaga72AHFZxVQdesI5iFkhTqtjFrf5ogNvBe4VM2qpvuC1w040p7bK1yTcVCR2ia-S9MhAO8qZbnJY37tWIMJH_DXm96_XvU/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Palatine Hill" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQKVQFDRNrHVCAh0yF9ucP393bsGCT3btf3ULOSB2FaQwaga72AHFZxVQdesI5iFkhTqtjFrf5ogNvBe4VM2qpvuC1w040p7bK1yTcVCR2ia-S9MhAO8qZbnJY37tWIMJH_DXm96_XvU/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Palatine Hill" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i style="font-size: small;"><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><blockquote>
A Rome-ing Eye: My Photo Diary from the Eternal City, Rome </blockquote></span></span></h3></div><h4 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;">30 May - 4 June 2019 </span></span></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are some places that I would revisit time and again. One such destination is the appropriately-nicknamed ‘Eternal City’ - <u>Rome</u>. You’d only have to ask, and for this recent trip Luxy asked me to buddy up with her. Curiously enough, the last time we were both in Rome was 5 years ago at around the same time. Having already been there, seen it, and ran the appropriately well-informed commentary; we were unburdened by the savant’s guilt of having to experience all the city’s cultural and historical offerings. The nature of this trip would be less intellectual and more indulgent - purely devoted to enjoying the Eternal City at its best, soaked in sunshine and sorbet. Well, when in Rome...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><i>Photos of me taken by </i><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.luxlife-blog.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LUXLIFEBLOG</a></span>, </span><i><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">naturally.</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span><i><span style="font-family: times;"><a name='more'></a></span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvipB4s_vEievdxFAlCR8WHqPblOAjbJ_UqhSa_4kH14zR8d7SQWZ1wCKwjFMtSuEsltEZk6LmtpuuXDPTMG-Ms561yKG5gO_hVR0TVd3SB1BfbESe4rK1x1x-eywrAzZFDRJ6iNyWrk/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Pantheon" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvipB4s_vEievdxFAlCR8WHqPblOAjbJ_UqhSa_4kH14zR8d7SQWZ1wCKwjFMtSuEsltEZk6LmtpuuXDPTMG-Ms561yKG5gO_hVR0TVd3SB1BfbESe4rK1x1x-eywrAzZFDRJ6iNyWrk/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Pantheon" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Rome is always rammed. People pushing at the </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.turismoroma.it/en/node/1107" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pantheon</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><i style="text-align: justify;">(above)</i><span style="text-align: justify;">, crowds clamouring for the </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.il-colosseo.it/en/informazioni-colosseo.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colosseum</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;">, tourist traps by the </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.turismoroma.it/en/node/1286" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trevi Fountain</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;">. I suspect that the </span><u style="text-align: justify;">Eternal City</u><span style="text-align: justify;"> is so named for its never-ending influx of visitors. Especially when the weather is warm, as it was during those scorching 28c days in June.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqykr11mPFhQVC9jFYrtCbK203xu7bpQye3EJZ2hEaxgQZAoDyXxx2nnm8KBuzf4vT499DVHrDoZF8q-ctD_g0_P1d-f_TVsW7zllMJCtoLfeCa2s6EQJ6u7MHHQoVLBJH3S0R-6hs__M/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqykr11mPFhQVC9jFYrtCbK203xu7bpQye3EJZ2hEaxgQZAoDyXxx2nnm8KBuzf4vT499DVHrDoZF8q-ctD_g0_P1d-f_TVsW7zllMJCtoLfeCa2s6EQJ6u7MHHQoVLBJH3S0R-6hs__M/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">Even so, the ‘people soup’ seemed unusually dense, with more than a few extra ingredients. </span><a href="https://www.luxlife-blog.com/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Luxy</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> and I soon realised that we had inadvertently arrived in the lead up to <i>Festa della Repubblica</i> - the Italian National Day and <u>Republic Day</u>. We had to content with not only tourists from abroad but also visitors from the rest of the country who had come for the Republic Day festivities. Throngs of people, barely held back by the police and the army, packed around the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.turismoroma.it/en/node/1541" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Vittoriano</a></span> to watch the military parade<i> (above</i>) and of course, the <i><u>Frecce Tricolori</u></i> (Tricolour Flyby). Having been spoilt by the incomparable pomp and ceremony of Britain, I personally found the <u>Republic Day</u> festivities to be just so-so. I was especially perplexed as to why the flyby passed over a rather unremarkable building rather than flying over the middle of </span><a href="https://www.turismoroma.it/en/node/1541" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">The Vittoriano</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> <i>(below)</i>.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLiJvlflZtOzPDKMPjgNf0h-9WGSVc9FbntHEx6KDJg6rvCSzf-Iai6P-ENcpyhuEHp9cyoXZnrCsPosjYO3s4Bqp1NHAnHNbU-x9Bmz-2XKAfeVuPSeh5jdjIL-YCfcLjuZD3q8Ly8x8/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLiJvlflZtOzPDKMPjgNf0h-9WGSVc9FbntHEx6KDJg6rvCSzf-Iai6P-ENcpyhuEHp9cyoXZnrCsPosjYO3s4Bqp1NHAnHNbU-x9Bmz-2XKAfeVuPSeh5jdjIL-YCfcLjuZD3q8Ly8x8/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">WHY THE LONG FACES? THE MILITARY MARCHES BY...</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div>
<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtUj0vCM4xbGq12qMJIFbOaUZ_MNlMmWC59r_8IyiP4NyrMEVfjUpRg9w5m8uxTkS01b8N7Zh7RQ94lQVa4dmOedY3ADLTUYwL_sse7C625Tz9pXGMf9Y2r90N3krHY_hMyNU6HHGyNc/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtUj0vCM4xbGq12qMJIFbOaUZ_MNlMmWC59r_8IyiP4NyrMEVfjUpRg9w5m8uxTkS01b8N7Zh7RQ94lQVa4dmOedY3ADLTUYwL_sse7C625Tz9pXGMf9Y2r90N3krHY_hMyNU6HHGyNc/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: right;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">...FOLLOWED BY THE TRICOLOUR FLYBY...</span></div><div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" style="width: 900px;"><tbody>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZ3ohEpM7dxJt_dw1fkVgiD5cc60dVV4uuRx6XSvhtZLe4S7ESNeBICmtzrKfAOOCj_DBQyY6q9La4JBU8B3WonSiFwLOn_ozXuLgLuz7TDot-zK1-lupnkIPCqUm3vujDhixqwMa48k/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZ3ohEpM7dxJt_dw1fkVgiD5cc60dVV4uuRx6XSvhtZLe4S7ESNeBICmtzrKfAOOCj_DBQyY6q9La4JBU8B3WonSiFwLOn_ozXuLgLuz7TDot-zK1-lupnkIPCqUm3vujDhixqwMa48k/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Republic Day" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><div style="text-align: left;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">...AND THEN THE CROWDS DISPERSED, LIKE WISPS OF SMOKE.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 100px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A ROME WITH A VIEW</span></blockquote></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Our rendezvous point could not have been more perfectly placed. Luxy and I had full reign of a <u>large apartment in the heart of the luxury shopping district </u>(<i>below</i>). We were literally right above Cartier, who also owned an apartment in the building. The apartment had the gorgeous bones and generous proportions typical of traditional buildings that I love so much, but renovated to a modern standard. In fact, the place was originally 2 apartments combined to create one, which accounted for its unusually large size - it could’ve easily fit 3-4 bedrooms, but instead we got 2 bedrooms (one of them a master with en-suite), 3 bathrooms, a child’s room, a laundry room, a dining room, a kitchen, a living room, and corridors that led to Italian Narnia. The apartment was within walking distance to most of our destinations - in fact, it was right beside <u>Piazza di Spagna</u> with a view of the <u>Spanish Steps</u> (<i>above, below</i>) - and we made the most of its central location by returning for daily power naps (at least, I did - all the carbs I ate had a sedative effect on me) before heading out to the <u>Colosseum</u>, <u>Palatine Hill</u>, <u>Trevi Fountain</u>, and more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAh4BYzGImccsR1fo0JBg8wB2HcJIK2PIj3T8kXG-pHdI9vTE4N5o9-nEoHX2GDaqLoQS-z7ZMkGZErLFvxXwiEQKsGEUR_toy5rq7yU0hQhsqlBBvwkR6Kr94s2HbgaFhnXIHfzu7eU/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Spanish Steps" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAh4BYzGImccsR1fo0JBg8wB2HcJIK2PIj3T8kXG-pHdI9vTE4N5o9-nEoHX2GDaqLoQS-z7ZMkGZErLFvxXwiEQKsGEUR_toy5rq7yU0hQhsqlBBvwkR6Kr94s2HbgaFhnXIHfzu7eU/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Spanish Steps" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></span></div></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2969.389329465488!2d12.480560300308403!3d41.9059885715468!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x132f60541678ae75%3A0x7fc0d4978aae690f!2sSpanish+Steps!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1562861771205!5m2!1sen!2suk" style="border: 0;" width="900"></iframe>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZUC9rN9JRnkH32JS4RnZehaF-XMP7nrkNxchZyuRkF2gYcfCfEAz_UZ-00x6EA-RHrhAggqu70nnyiwf9wntFdXzdox_Fh6LHH7d-rP972gThmISLf4qDM2mQQ2UpUMYZYOJLYUdde8/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZUC9rN9JRnkH32JS4RnZehaF-XMP7nrkNxchZyuRkF2gYcfCfEAz_UZ-00x6EA-RHrhAggqu70nnyiwf9wntFdXzdox_Fh6LHH7d-rP972gThmISLf4qDM2mQQ2UpUMYZYOJLYUdde8/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">In <a href="https://www.turismoroma.it/en/piazza-navona" target="_blank">Piazza Navona</a>, the Bernini masterpiece <u>Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi</u> (Fountain of the Four Rivers), with four allegorical human figures representing the Nile, Danube, the Ganges and Rio de la Plataan - with its towering obelisk pulls focus (<i>above, below</i>). But it’s the buskers in all their melliflous cacophony, the ivy creeping haphazardly up the buildings, the children chasing after pigeons; and other messy and joyous trappings of everyday living that make <a href="https://www.turismoroma.it/en/piazza-navona" target="_blank">Piazza Navona</a> one of Rome’s most beloved public sqaures.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD03eF44mxnZuUFSJ9hjBHKUK8c_cZcGNIrMZep1Q-Kh5hx341x1yFkQRESgp4DWFQPOeNG0YGN5aDe6T7EHLJ8ShlQbHvmlGcivncUcnjE4FC6NwmN-1RSwFLIb777-UAFxF2gEgwhuw/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD03eF44mxnZuUFSJ9hjBHKUK8c_cZcGNIrMZep1Q-Kh5hx341x1yFkQRESgp4DWFQPOeNG0YGN5aDe6T7EHLJ8ShlQbHvmlGcivncUcnjE4FC6NwmN-1RSwFLIb777-UAFxF2gEgwhuw/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">THE ALLEGORICAL FIGURE OF THE RIVER GANGES.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div>
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</tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8PLOpm5ZVNNW9S7kPPS-mlIp3Q7vsnze0fhsQW0QP4eJxWErcNWebLbt0Cz5qpI8estlhy6YD_o1wsArDMRl7MY6MAezm4OQ96dZoOAi0dZQ_oaW6Cg3ZGnmwK_J8AunqpdxjvEUmwk/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Piazza Navona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8PLOpm5ZVNNW9S7kPPS-mlIp3Q7vsnze0fhsQW0QP4eJxWErcNWebLbt0Cz5qpI8estlhy6YD_o1wsArDMRl7MY6MAezm4OQ96dZoOAi0dZQ_oaW6Cg3ZGnmwK_J8AunqpdxjvEUmwk/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Piazza Navona" /></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">True to its origins as a stadium (up till the mid-19th century, the square would be flooded every summer to create an artificial lake), this baroque piazza is still very much a tableau of Roman life. I found my joy in </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Gift-Shop/LArtigianato-Roma-411263962301166/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">L’Artigianato</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;">, perusing ceramics adorned in quintessentially Italian motifs of lemons, oranges, and sunflowers. Right next door was </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.vinovip.it/index.php/enoteca-vinovip-senato/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Enoteca</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;">, a Roman deli (<i>below</i>) where I stocked up on most of my €300 of food souvenirs from Rome - kilos of </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Parmigiano Reggiano</i><span style="text-align: justify;">, truffle pastes, dried porcini mushrooms, pistachio spreads, cured meats; and pastas in all shapes, sizes, and colours.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJD68xZVk7Fx_1vtjx-WnZJytkFWtVCBZlbys5yTHPjvZK0RCqugLcGD-4p5WaxNwaCGgPoqQw_S14LiCFNZJjznccXnsI6aUSulmLlNiM3MUbOQoLJpACfUrwQnRkmmPMtkLQd-1jBJo/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - L'Artigianato, Piazza Navona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJD68xZVk7Fx_1vtjx-WnZJytkFWtVCBZlbys5yTHPjvZK0RCqugLcGD-4p5WaxNwaCGgPoqQw_S14LiCFNZJjznccXnsI6aUSulmLlNiM3MUbOQoLJpACfUrwQnRkmmPMtkLQd-1jBJo/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - L'Artigianato, Piazza Navona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiht88WOZdbVr1_JO3vQV8Ze8Og7Me0CRLPF73RrOlAEjQBlPbrKC8eS-JCV6JlCO9IKbwC0N_11_Yaobr3EA5X0jMrgKadVIK71VSRvqWYEOS1fPUjYQI7De3Js61wQpidwBGT1OUssFo/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Enoteca, Piazza Navona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiht88WOZdbVr1_JO3vQV8Ze8Og7Me0CRLPF73RrOlAEjQBlPbrKC8eS-JCV6JlCO9IKbwC0N_11_Yaobr3EA5X0jMrgKadVIK71VSRvqWYEOS1fPUjYQI7De3Js61wQpidwBGT1OUssFo/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Enoteca, Piazza Navona" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: right;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">ENOTECA: SO NICE I SHOPPPED THERE, TWICE.</span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJ9iY1dxXLZOBJYEy5RWTMamP8B3vOzzun4yVn3LZAYTY9ZNJFrvpEwfNFecNLaTqfRDWPOjYeDGfYyT-0LPEsoGbRlqdHeCYh9SyUNuF2aIp1h3B9XykcRwoyE9ZEIpDoS2x1qbpmlY/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Antica Trattoria della Pace" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJ9iY1dxXLZOBJYEy5RWTMamP8B3vOzzun4yVn3LZAYTY9ZNJFrvpEwfNFecNLaTqfRDWPOjYeDGfYyT-0LPEsoGbRlqdHeCYh9SyUNuF2aIp1h3B9XykcRwoyE9ZEIpDoS2x1qbpmlY/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Antica Trattoria della Pace" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">DAILY SPECIAL: CLAM PASTA AT ANTICA TRATTORIA DELLA PACE.</span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><u>ROMAN NUMERALS: OUR TRIP IN NUMBERS</u></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">15,000 STEPS WALKED DAILY</span><b style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"> </b><br /><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;">Averaged from a low of 10,000 and a high of 20,000</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i><br /></i></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">4 SCOOPS OF GELATO A DAY<b style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"> </b></span><br /><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;">My personal favourite gelataria were well-loved institution <a href="http://www.giolitti.it/en/" target="_blank">Giolitti</a> and <a href="http://www.dellapalma.it/?lang=en" target="_blank">Gelataria della Palma</a> of the famous 150 flavours.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i><br /></i></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">2 PLATES OF PASTA PER DAY</span><b style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"> </b><br /><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;">My favourites were the </i><span style="font-family: times; text-align: left;">spaghetti tartufo nero</span><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"> (black truffle) at <a href="https://www.armandoalpantheon.it/" target="_blank">Armando Al Pantheon</a> and clam pasta at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Antica+Trattoria+della+Pace/@41.8994949,12.470896,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x7ccd4636dffbf9ed?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjshZ2PpK3jAhXcUxUIHRBUCPYQ_BIwD3oECA8QCA" target="_blank">Antica Trattoria della Pace</a>.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i><br /></i></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">INFINITE SINFULLY ATTRACTIVE PRIESTS </span><br />Padre mia! <i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;">It must be something in the (holy) water...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: times; text-align: left;"><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwStl7ePNypGXUs1EB6szJIYeoEydT8p3MfMgIv3O7Zl5cQGQUuW6Dg46IbkOYXi06fjbsCCXIcwOPa-JjYQvg-hdFjEj5TB4dteL5MJHDVBsk9Tawy6O6eL1mwaSLMSO4CM76UK-jp-Y/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Villa Medici" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwStl7ePNypGXUs1EB6szJIYeoEydT8p3MfMgIv3O7Zl5cQGQUuW6Dg46IbkOYXi06fjbsCCXIcwOPa-JjYQvg-hdFjEj5TB4dteL5MJHDVBsk9Tawy6O6eL1mwaSLMSO4CM76UK-jp-Y/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Villa Medici" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlGwETA0J3atAxRQFldorPDM19PNFk0vemCryjsH9j0QykwxRM8yv5FWxwkBwEFM7bZhhmZzj7zmQxgBFtaV_y3aHZJ1h-D_8HuRHA6CdUaDl4enpjqyVqqrWfotru521iQWSqv0YkKow/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_31.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Villa Medici" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlGwETA0J3atAxRQFldorPDM19PNFk0vemCryjsH9j0QykwxRM8yv5FWxwkBwEFM7bZhhmZzj7zmQxgBFtaV_y3aHZJ1h-D_8HuRHA6CdUaDl4enpjqyVqqrWfotru521iQWSqv0YkKow/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_31.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - Villa Medici" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">If I had any regrets about this trip, it’s only that I didn’t have time to visit <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.galleriacolonna.it/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Palazzo Colonna</a></span>, which is open to visitors for only 2 hours a week, on Saturday morning. Although to be fair, if my family still lived in the largest private palace in Rome - as the Colonnas have for 20 generations - I wouldn’t even allow anyone a glimpse past the threshold, let alone gape at my (illustrious) art collection.</span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The Colonnas were otherwise indisposed, but the Medicis were more forthcoming. Just about, though. <a href="https://www.luxlife-blog.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Luxy</a> and I huffed and puffed our way up the Spanish Steps and made it to <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.villamedici.it/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Villa Medici</a></span>, <i>(above, left, below)</i> only to be told we’d have to wait an hour for an English-language guided tour. Undeterred, we joined a French tour that had already begun. Naturally, we had no idea what the guide was talking about, but I’m sure he mentioned at some point that the </span><a href="https://www.villamedici.it/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Villa Medici</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> now belongs to the French government and is home to the French academy. <i>Ah</i>. The French-speaking guide <i>did</i> however speak perfect English, which he used to admonish us for sneaking away from the group to chase peacocks in the gardens, look for Medici lions, and fawn over frescoes.</span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcGRPrMGyz1EQ0VIjvtiQglaCupBr-hY8EFjv91WBS2c4-pk5rcXlMo7VIBr9-SdNnw9Nb3dWS2mV6YCV5MnnYy0mwzp1oC1JW8bva5m2s3Afjiiycrtg21LVd6ZndM7XJr44ZOyTIrA/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_27.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - St Peter's Basilica" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcGRPrMGyz1EQ0VIjvtiQglaCupBr-hY8EFjv91WBS2c4-pk5rcXlMo7VIBr9-SdNnw9Nb3dWS2mV6YCV5MnnYy0mwzp1oC1JW8bva5m2s3Afjiiycrtg21LVd6ZndM7XJr44ZOyTIrA/s1600/Rome%252C+Italy+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_27.jpg" title="Rome, Italy by Posh, Broke, & Bored - St Peter's Basilica" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm not sure if I'll share the full story of what has happened to me since that fateful day in February (although it does go some way to explaining why I haven't updated my site since April). I <i>can</i> say that despite remaining a religious fence-sitter, I have found great comfort in faith and the divine, while being more attuned to my spiritual abilities. And it was at <a href="http://www.vaticanstate.va/en/monuments/saint-peters-basilica/the-basilica.html" target="_blank">St Peter's</a>, my thoughts and prayers carried to the skies by the voices of the choir, where I found some balm for the soul. An evocative and transcendent experience that left me feeling as enduring as the Eternal City - Rome.</div>
Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-72641184383349260012019-04-11T20:24:00.004+01:002022-12-16T04:32:18.407+00:00Welcome Home: My Staycation at The W Kuala Lumpur<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEERIykyFJUz4KVR-qoumx5AjYnWm7KqPfT5_nZ9eXaSfEyN8ePoNHsf36oNDbNwhoty_z-KfVBFiHeKA5YWt5nyN_HZKUuWH5rZD-ghq_gksXLdTQ0H1I1KyD3FbVsB5GmW9rMFubrlI/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEERIykyFJUz4KVR-qoumx5AjYnWm7KqPfT5_nZ9eXaSfEyN8ePoNHsf36oNDbNwhoty_z-KfVBFiHeKA5YWt5nyN_HZKUuWH5rZD-ghq_gksXLdTQ0H1I1KyD3FbVsB5GmW9rMFubrlI/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjC2LtmQNK8sVsBx-Hc_rCxk3MUe6UFCiQMkZ7EcbdSetkkaPYVwdr5G6f7z5d-m1nvKooQmDlPrmpZ8Oz1Srnfj_wU1DyZhyphenhyphenjVwPN1Zwfx9bRSG1SfxC6cv4DixUNIOkkZapnxVzHJk/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.jpg" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="color: #cc0000;">W</span></i>ELCOME HOME</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;">It’s no secret that I am a fan of </span><a href="https://w-hotels.marriott.com/" style="font-family: times;">W Hotels</a><span style="font-family: times;">. In the last 4 years alone I’ve stayed in and reviewed the </span><a href="https://w-hotels.marriott.com/" style="font-family: times;">W Hotels</a><span style="font-family: times;"> in </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2015/09/w-hotel-st-petersburg-russia.html" style="font-family: times;">St Petersburg</a><span style="font-family: times;">, </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2016/04/w-hotel-amsterdam.html" style="font-family: times;">Amsterdam</a><span style="font-family: times;">, </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2017/05/hong-kong.html" style="font-family: times;">Hong Kong</a><span style="font-family: times;">, and </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/07/W-Hotel-Taipei-review.html" style="font-family: times;">Taipei</a><span style="font-family: times;">; as well as hung out in the </span><a href="https://w-hotels.marriott.com/" style="font-family: times;">W Hotels</a><span style="font-family: times;"> in </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2016/07/Barcelona-summer-travel.html" style="font-family: times;">Barcelona</a><span style="font-family: times;"> and London. As I’ve said before, myself and </span><a href="https://w-hotels.marriott.com/" style="font-family: times;">W Hotels</a><span style="font-family: times;"> are an unexpected pairing given that my tastes gravitate toward the traditional and historical, but that just goes to show that their hotels are so exceptional and unique that I allow this ultra-modern, ultra-hip brand a place in my heart. I’ve been looking forward to the opening of the </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="font-family: times;">W Kuala Lumpur</a><span style="font-family: times;"> since 2015, at the </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2015/03/the-residences-by-tropicana-global.html" style="font-family: times;">launch of Tropicana Residences</a><span style="font-family: times;"> to where I was very kindly invited by </span><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2013/03/nuffnangs-6th-bday-bash-tan-sri-dato.html" style="font-family: times;">Tan Sri Danny Tan</a><span style="font-family: times;"> whose Tropicana Corp owns the </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="font-family: times;">W KL</a><span style="font-family: times;"> Having waited so long for Malaysia to have its own W, I recently took up the chance to take a staycation at the shiny new </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="font-family: times;">W KL</a><span style="font-family: times;"> Will it live up to the hype? How does the </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="font-family: times;">W KL</a><span style="font-family: times;"> compare to its glitzy international cousins? Read on...</span></span></div><div style="font-family: times; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">SOME PHOTOS KINDLY PROVIDED BY <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">W KUALA LUMPUR</a>, BECAUSE SOME AREAS OF THE HOTEL WERE TOO CROWDED TO PHOTOGRAPH.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRm3YcueUIv88hEz60hatRAEvrnfXmB7If7EoZacM_JxPznPLjaLZAZjXgeoiunPEwu7nQo692dy_xnsicBFuRldUbCe9rduneExXk0B15jfNpkGsmDsZhAhsgkw4UL8v6vS98JS6Qds/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRm3YcueUIv88hEz60hatRAEvrnfXmB7If7EoZacM_JxPznPLjaLZAZjXgeoiunPEwu7nQo692dy_xnsicBFuRldUbCe9rduneExXk0B15jfNpkGsmDsZhAhsgkw4UL8v6vS98JS6Qds/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.jpg" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><br /></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d15935.02620982913!2d101.7092483!3d3.1587534!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xcf47c4c05557a56e!2sW+Kuala+Lumpur!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1555007691436!5m2!1sen!2suk" style="border: 0;" width="900"></iframe></span><br /></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I started off my staycation at the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">W KL</a> on the wrong foot, quite literally: rather than put pedal to the metal, I could’ve taken advantage of the hotel’s WHEELS service. WHEELS not only helps with any transportation arrangements but also provides valet parking at the hotel entrance. Oblivious to such a convenient service, I parked my monstrous SUV and lugged my luggage to the ground floor rather than the 8th floor for check-in. No matter, it was an opportunity to see the hotel’s street level entrance. As expected from the uber-hip brand, the lobby was a study in futuristic glamour: a minimal space of glass and steel, the austerity of which was broken up by the undulating curves of the seating area furniture, ambient lighting, and discreet staff standing to attention.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_QNp5OLHDR_RdYxVkGlaPAjirFir_VsTgVe-oeHP8Xk733rWQvyCbeY3lvBOlxw435L-bOTyNj-cCpf5hYqrWZRsKiUV_fDUNRRNFuSMmyRc_cQFfZmYrAz1ZnjA2idkHR1O6AZQ_yVQ/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_26.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_QNp5OLHDR_RdYxVkGlaPAjirFir_VsTgVe-oeHP8Xk733rWQvyCbeY3lvBOlxw435L-bOTyNj-cCpf5hYqrWZRsKiUV_fDUNRRNFuSMmyRc_cQFfZmYrAz1ZnjA2idkHR1O6AZQ_yVQ/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_26.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I finally made it to the correct floor, where the Living Room was. Curved sheer screens created designated zones in the large open-plan space while allowing a seamless flow of movement and traffic. At the Welcome desk, I was greeted by a W Insider. As the name suggests, the W Insiders are the go-to for what’s fresh on the local scene; from ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ pop-ups to events so secret you’d need government clearance to attend. Then there’s of course the famous Whatever/Whenever lifestyle concierge service, who’ll get “what you want, whenever you want it - as long as it's legal”.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So far, so good. And then I was shown to my home for the night - the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-rooms/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/stkd/">Studio Suite</a>.</div><br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%;"><tbody></tbody></table></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nqDGWyCIcgyemXnWnayUtUHhwonDqQSi-jLpxErdY4FUOAoVU0A9Fabd8yKMLqvFo91CnTgftN_HmQcOVKsZHerwPqiUBoJfaMh0dM7zyeFQditBjsS8GqwWiLQxFO7If1uDpdrRQtU/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nqDGWyCIcgyemXnWnayUtUHhwonDqQSi-jLpxErdY4FUOAoVU0A9Fabd8yKMLqvFo91CnTgftN_HmQcOVKsZHerwPqiUBoJfaMh0dM7zyeFQditBjsS8GqwWiLQxFO7If1uDpdrRQtU/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Huge did not even begin to describe my “room”. At 92 square metres (990 square feet), the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-rooms/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/stkd/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Studio Suite </a></span>was larger than my London apartment. So large, in fact, that even my 24-70mm lens (that’s a wide angle, by the way) could barely capture the entire living room nor the bedroom, hence I had to resort to using a press photo to fully illustrate my spacious surroundings. <span style="text-align: justify;">The </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-rooms/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/stkd/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Studio Suite</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> is an open plan space with privacy options - the living area is separated from the bedroom with sliding privacy walls on either side of the rooms, likewise with the bathroom. When fully open, the entire </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-rooms/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/stkd/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Studio Suite</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> feels like an infinity hall - one could stand in the living room and gaze through the bedroom and into the bathroom</span><span style="text-align: justify;">. The effect is a fluid, intuitive space that is made for luxurious lounging.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEEC906ukrwJQ0HEX3po7jywvg11JSYUabd2LpDwTqdm8agaEFScpNKi92LYzPjMpBr5YjG39-9iUIjrrIeamGILF7AB-FRVdh6vhPZWFqBPewoY1UagGmDj_MW5Rw3ReA5d0tGCZ0Ss/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOKkg3yP8CxqP9GqITUaRELfEe1wZ233m7RfwsQE6rVedFWqzstEheQdehRPbdnp5xz6xbmCGi3Yan4CBP_mDhlEjNcu5kepI2Ed2NWuP2cSCcPbZNUnIsbAtism3qPKIe2AOLXqwbmk/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">That said, had I wanted to get into work mode, I was perfectly placed to do so. A working desk just off the living room is strategically placed beside the concealed W MixBar (above), where productivity is aided by espressos made on the complimentary Nespresso machine as well as high-speed Wi-Fi. But naturally, I got no work done - I was too distracted by both TVs (55-inch LED HDTV and Bluetooth soundbar in the bedroom, 43-inch LED HDTV in the living room) as well as views of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline from the large floor-to-ceiling windows.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKqD-dU1OiXY3knoJrH9MBR4Wvfwz72IH6aBa_uuXXxaTYlQLamlwWYpjTYgdZTkhuoBP9XVmVwDDCzAPWRrIwhRI4C95xwOcj3DJ_UYdl1U2wOEoOkWhD_rD78TPua9fYiXygmUjpSk/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sweet treats: a welcome platter of candies awaited me, including a white chocolate model of the Petronas Twin Towers. It was delicious. I ate it one tower at a time, and for a fleeting moment, it was simply <i>a</i> Petronas Tower.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtMV3KlWSAEpHKXY-pWHsI4MU_cAOM0U7pohl6N-Ar-xtSyXmJ-B4eaKAPl9BnvnXe6U-JBlPZmuGWgCfQq2a2eeBUpejlulNkF6TKJ5FCwJBrpQuArGfv1VLZvKDLOIHjFXrgkOcBfk/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtMV3KlWSAEpHKXY-pWHsI4MU_cAOM0U7pohl6N-Ar-xtSyXmJ-B4eaKAPl9BnvnXe6U-JBlPZmuGWgCfQq2a2eeBUpejlulNkF6TKJ5FCwJBrpQuArGfv1VLZvKDLOIHjFXrgkOcBfk/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When it comes to small living, I would always prefer a large living room and tiny bedroom. After all, a bedroom’s primary function is sleeping; so all one really needs it enough room for a bed, a wardrobe, and a dresser. But with the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-rooms/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/stkd/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Studio Suite</a> no such compromises were neccessary. The bedroom <i>(above)</i> was just as spacious as the living room. Taking centre stage was a king-size <u>W Signature Bed</u>, the famously comfortable likes of which <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://europe.whotelsthestore.com/en/the-w-hotels-bed?___store=wheu_en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">one can buy </a></span>from the mattress and base to the bedding sets. A walk-in-closet and dressing table flanked one side, while on the other side of the bed an armchair perched by yet another floor-to-ceiling window made for a reading nook.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjYufT4BoxvTxo3XNIb29N56WljaFL-JUI_O2dx2ehOYJvds9b9hzcyxswGwIGKaCZuDMKUTvKHgs9A_rwnbBK4p0v4ef-SU9alAV87Sabe70WOGtmi3PpqEhesMTlET_XcYJsizSYH0/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happily, these generous proportions extended to the bathroom (below). The bathroom - itself already larger than some apartment living rooms - boasted dual sinks (the key to a harmonious marriage, I always say), a toilet area with a door for privacy (again, another key to a happy marriage), a shower booth with a glorious rain shower, and most impressive of all; a large free-standing bathrub facing a 24-inch LED HDTV. The amenities, naturally, were as bountiful; plush bathrobes and slippers, and full-sized bottles of Bliss® shampoos, conditioners, shower gel, hand and body cream, and face wash.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_mInXfTwU3iWM6k2xqsYkUoWD9PrCh0Ep8ksb2lHus-go66-OFnGOqAtDtte1qibpBBhXRd8n4KPeRWy7IcDansT9NZsjpqycMXjwqG1RVT4_aBMPWp1ZihTewemtkoZPonwnxjBsNM/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.JPG" /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The gastronomical offerings at the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">W KL</a> span a large part of the globe, with 6 delectable venues encompassing Australian to French. You’d know from my <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2019/04/retox-brunch-w-hotel-kuala-lumpur.html" target="_blank">previous story about the epic monthly brunches, Retox</a></span>, <i>(above)</i> at the hotel’s modern Australian all-day-dining restaurant, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flock</a></span>. Which incidentally, is where I reacquainted myself with the beloved eggs with foie gras and kaya jam for breakfast <i>(below)</i>. Then there is the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498146/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WET® Deck</a></span> (more on that later). Followed by <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416043/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YEN</a></span>, a Cantonese restaurant where imperial ambience meets avant garde concept to present redefined Chinese classics redefined. There are 2 privately-managed dining and entertainment venues: <u>SAINT PIERRE</u>, a French fine dining restaurant that has already earned a Michelin star at its Singapore location, and <u>WICKED Club</u> for the party animal guest who is loathe to stray from the comfort of the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">W KL</a> <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498147/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WOOBAR</a></span> is the other place to see and be seen (the top award goes to <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498146/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WET® Deck</a> I’ll explain later). By day it is a relatively unassuming (but not really) and charming rendezvous spot for afternoon tea, but by night it transforms into a seductive nightspot where Kuala Lumpur’s trendiest congregrate for cocktails and tapas. Never show up to <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498147/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WOOBAR</a> looking anything but your best. I had to avoid being spotted by a few familiar faces because I arrived with no makeup on, a messy hair bun, carrying a shamefully battered Birkin (mishapened from a decade of abusing it by carrying too many art supplies and text books), and wearing...<i>Birkenstocks</i>. *<i>cue horrified gasps</i>* </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzi7m8_ghO6NWA2ctqmB9cxE2v2bhqO9MynjvZic7qiNvf_F0C_7YEUUDO1nAydzaTm893q-A07Wewlc30t2izQReTPGFiXtik6CdcWJPBmQZJOGx9adUR0qkIadQ1EqADdnX3LMLReY/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white;">Add capt</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-RmObTUidnStNrfaYvJkvTon0qtD5zL-QlurN9Z1pciZ_B11bTJBr35jPOvlB4CmE39Ygtkr8Kf4WK0t0yxsjkjY_pQGLVEV4drJpv26O-lNm2M0cTWqVi6gc3M8Zc-eL206IgbIUgw/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-RmObTUidnStNrfaYvJkvTon0qtD5zL-QlurN9Z1pciZ_B11bTJBr35jPOvlB4CmE39Ygtkr8Kf4WK0t0yxsjkjY_pQGLVEV4drJpv26O-lNm2M0cTWqVi6gc3M8Zc-eL206IgbIUgw/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Dodging the fashion police is hard work. So I decompressed at the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/fitness-spa-services/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6415514/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AWAY® Spa</a></span>. The W brand’s signature spa concept is designed for the modern-day jetsetter with a distinctly millennial mantra of <u>Detox, Retox, Repeat</u>, with </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">2 customised facilities: the <u>Beauty Bar </u>and the <u>Spa</u>. The Beauty Bar is serviced by <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://176avenue.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">176 Avenue</a></span>, an all-in-one beauty destination offering offers everything from manicures and pedicures to eyelash extensions. </span><a href="http://176avenue.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">176 Avenue</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> was a passion project of a friend which I<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2015/11/176-avenue-bangsar.html" target="_blank"> reviewed when it launched its first branch</a></span>, so it was nice to see its outpost at the </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" target="_blank">W KL</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> The Spa, too, covers all beauty bases; with exceptional facilities and high-tech treatments ranging from <u>Bio Sauna with Infrared Lights</u> to <u>Vitality Pool</u>. It’s all very cutting-edge, very future-forward, befitting of the W brand. But I opted for a traditional treatment - the specially created local massage, <u>Malay Urut,</u> which pays homage to the hotel’s location in Kuala Lumpur. My massage, natural was pure bliss. The knots and kinks in my neck and shoulders were expertly undone, while I drifted in and out of semi-consciousness to the soft pulsating purple mood lights <i>(above)</i> - guests choose the intensity and colour settings using a remote - as well as the uplifting aroma of the <u>W Hotels signature room fragrance</u><i>.</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB9MNoBjw_JJz1wbXUH9D6B_KBp-VNNb7lvJ1ky82z-TLwN-lANTLPar3zTHbd1t3fms431Eg3ICaiBa4g1Vt-V8cQQDy5sVTWF4tHsQQkOs809wCxuC1JtARzgCRbzrq1hUvZHhUp_Q/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2gKUyCIZCMR2xLedG6EJwyZ0FWMjQWKUnSys1XQxvOdPtINGdsAb3q3NH9KCmm99XiLk5x1J1DXD1ayacHEl-ck3xkfzZNG4deRW_-Zvv1wD6nq-1ZiyBRC38QauNvr7sPvJJ7IazU4/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_28.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2gKUyCIZCMR2xLedG6EJwyZ0FWMjQWKUnSys1XQxvOdPtINGdsAb3q3NH9KCmm99XiLk5x1J1DXD1ayacHEl-ck3xkfzZNG4deRW_-Zvv1wD6nq-1ZiyBRC38QauNvr7sPvJJ7IazU4/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_28.jpg" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkOXGgAr7Ce4hdnI_H93LfMRTxMzbY9iU5ZdYrmjgksfSdd80KStfIEUHUnbiQ65qTMU8Y51QBhI-ZU05yiv25vm99-8xRXyIE5Js1lrlBwal08Mle-iyn_PKpLPe_LIM0gBKhVZX11M/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkOXGgAr7Ce4hdnI_H93LfMRTxMzbY9iU5ZdYrmjgksfSdd80KStfIEUHUnbiQ65qTMU8Y51QBhI-ZU05yiv25vm99-8xRXyIE5Js1lrlBwal08Mle-iyn_PKpLPe_LIM0gBKhVZX11M/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Finally, what is indisputably the crown jewel of the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">W Kuala Lumpur</span></a>. The <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498146/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WET® Deck pool bar </a></span>cemented its spot as the hottest spot in town when it decided to build a pool with an unhindered view of the Petronas Twin Towers as its breathtaking backdrop. The night of my stay was an E! Asia party, and even the most worldly of Kuala Lumpur’s biggest and brightest names in the entertainment industry couldn’t resist taking selfies with the striking icons of Kuala Lumpur.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgnjYR7R1yHT2cvVSlVdoH3ysQEm7QOQUc2PZgZYRUQ1d6a7rV7UD4SD4Z8uv_SX8XqQcZSP9DEVckeFavasBsk3hp_I_K-bcIf1ArANHy496FnZ_PTz9HlUOhKeIG2jtef2itDtR3pA/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_35.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgnjYR7R1yHT2cvVSlVdoH3ysQEm7QOQUc2PZgZYRUQ1d6a7rV7UD4SD4Z8uv_SX8XqQcZSP9DEVckeFavasBsk3hp_I_K-bcIf1ArANHy496FnZ_PTz9HlUOhKeIG2jtef2itDtR3pA/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_35.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">By day, the effect is clearly no less impressive. Surprisingly, having such a behemoth tower over the pool did not cast a shadow on sun worshippers - there were many a sunbather in languid repose, moving a finger only to order yet another cocktail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX4nvLbw3Z7Wkyn8BIS2oMZvrqAQhNCEjAXcpdq_oZZ73u3t5opIadYKZVks0KSE7rCS54Vwc6RLHvHbLcHwaAnBMICrgB7-YkYW691OMFzMhBKdHNubRJko4omX0bFNjIEFJJpbHugI/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_34.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX4nvLbw3Z7Wkyn8BIS2oMZvrqAQhNCEjAXcpdq_oZZ73u3t5opIadYKZVks0KSE7rCS54Vwc6RLHvHbLcHwaAnBMICrgB7-YkYW691OMFzMhBKdHNubRJko4omX0bFNjIEFJJpbHugI/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_34.JPG" title="My review of the 5 star luxury hotel The W Kuala Lumpur, The Away Spa, and more by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /><br /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX4nvLbw3Z7Wkyn8BIS2oMZvrqAQhNCEjAXcpdq_oZZ73u3t5opIadYKZVks0KSE7rCS54Vwc6RLHvHbLcHwaAnBMICrgB7-YkYW691OMFzMhBKdHNubRJko4omX0bFNjIEFJJpbHugI/s1600/W+Kuala+Lumpur+Hotel+Review+by+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_34.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">So, how does the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">W Kuala Lumpur</a> fit in with the franchise? Very well indeed, I must say. The <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">W Kuala Lumpur</a> delivers in all departments, from service to stay to lifestyle. True to the too-cool-for-school brand, the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">W Kuala Lumpur</a> has already established itself as the place to see and be seen, be it at brunch with banging beats, poolside parties, or tapas and cocktails on Friday evenings. The wait was well worth it, and I’m happy to say, Welcome home.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">I WAS INVITED TO REVIEW THE <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">W KUALA LUMPUR</a>, MY STAY AND EXPERIENCE WAS COMPLIMENTARY.</div></span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-775903156080149872019-04-04T05:24:00.140+01:002022-12-16T07:08:19.724+00:00Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: #Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6btIy7SBwN3vSaKSwKqYU-nLwOrRURXvnLUEkqdfphPyR48TDNzUAleei9uN0uQ4wg9ZeZjJY_uBmsJpRodbgVeHPPB6UG9U5iWsyCyLFDn9h8ZcP2jgBSZu9q59fwwHySO0Ot5mqKw/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at W #Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & BoredKuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6btIy7SBwN3vSaKSwKqYU-nLwOrRURXvnLUEkqdfphPyR48TDNzUAleei9uN0uQ4wg9ZeZjJY_uBmsJpRodbgVeHPPB6UG9U5iWsyCyLFDn9h8ZcP2jgBSZu9q59fwwHySO0Ot5mqKw/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>On Sundays, we <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/">Flock</a> to <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">Retox</a>.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Detox? How very wholesome...and <i>utterly dreary, darling</i>. I know it is oh-so-à la mode to be a beaming paragon of clean living and clean eating, but let’s be real: behind every smug “<i>After my sunrise yoga session I had an acai and goji berry enema, now my third eye (and small intestine) has never been clearer! Namaste, b*tches!</i>” post on social media is a hangry neurotic who’d close their chakras for a fat, juicy, cheeseburger. Deprivation is passé, moderation is key, and the occassional indulgence is essential. A monthly <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/">Retox</a> is where it’s at, and no, you won’t even have to get up before noon. <i>I can hear the decadence calling!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">W KUALA LUMPUR</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">#THISISNOTASUNDAYBRUNCH</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GvXvs1IGKSyTU6W2ouzrBo-3sTxH1HgkSwft_X_Aa0kwZfPlPG69ZertDBQgHWp8-zoUJSEJZ38kmG2AAkKCAYw-l-fBkkAZFGTb7aLmeHt8zKbErElVvCnjxOTDvxb52dzBaUYXBrA/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bhtSTrOxPlLJcK0lxLptVQ_JQ1zt_z61AJ20EzLIvuzxg-JnzSWvOB995ttcO5Utk_bgs0qIYXMRAR9dBfCZ9_4cs-xcq4aayOADpAzurSkWy80he_sZWocAJ319kLB8f6A6XNRbTCc/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: right;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwr-8Qa-O9ETCx4Gk8-WuKbzFqk6sz05BCuCMoMBBqM0FEYRnqpS8dLYtSBY8tJzEL_0HOThYLbOvKkeYQ6xyMvSiscLyKLdq7k9RDcIcIm0Pxlxgju4IBTGRy6RT442CTILbROgIx4E/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Ai5FA6mypm72krJTUyhbpsu7aVigVId4Nq3IjuVYKuDdeO-fokH6TGwEqfAosbLv9wRcPV6LP2YQTWB5ccWHeAiLQCyyHOaoZpBcl_nuQYdoUr60rA5gzgmCLO6vw4ESVhl-itfQ34Y/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4hBFDiXMkMggy3o0keydXrSbzU1PhFN4R5VuC0ULDBbGU36wgrncVV2d72PaxnyjoIMbDsFaCXOGimflypJfJJT-aDINPjXdSCcov-k_IPBIVYtD5DKCxAG8mKscCBUzc9_DZKYiXcw/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="text-align: justify;">The plan was for mummy and me to meet a friend at </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">W Kuala Lumpur</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;"> for a catch up and a chat, over what sounded like a vague-ly food related rendezvous. Mummy and I were unfashionably early so we perched ourselves at the </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498147/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WOOBAR</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;">, where a cocktail-wielding crowd had convened onto every corner. I would later learn from the PR for </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">W Kuala Lumpur</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> that the bevy were actually here for the </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;">, as were we. The </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> preludes at </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6498147/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">WOOBAR</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> where guests are suitably lubricated with an array of signature cocktails (or mocktails for those so inclined). At precisely noon, guests were rounded up and ushered into </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flock</a></span><span style="text-align: justify;"> where a decadent buffet brunch awaits.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbCEDvsJ76fh1N4oP18NZmMT5Lw1XzZN-3zIMVe1DB71qDVwU5J06dy_-G7x3xzAr6MKCWxOv2HIDL2aX0cqn0x30qergBZ8He2EynUJWSWfYix6wDk5H08s4U9wG28LZz6GD_LaXmZY/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbCEDvsJ76fh1N4oP18NZmMT5Lw1XzZN-3zIMVe1DB71qDVwU5J06dy_-G7x3xzAr6MKCWxOv2HIDL2aX0cqn0x30qergBZ8He2EynUJWSWfYix6wDk5H08s4U9wG28LZz6GD_LaXmZY/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">I must say, the layout of </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Flock</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> certainly did make for a dramatic first impression. Upon entering the restaurant, one is greeted by a long gallery with a row of tables in the middle, flanked on other side by more tables - some teamed with pairs of futuristic-looking armchairs. To the left, an outdoor seating area with an up close and personal view of the Petronas Twin Towers. A cluster of pendant spotlights down the centre of the gallery drew the eye toward the DJ booth at the far end of the room, where the gaze took a right turn toward the rest of the vast dining room. It was there where things got exciting: a spread of live cooking stations including a live carving station, satellite beverage bars, and a smorgasbord of international cuisine with more diversity than a United Colors of Benetton ad.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div></div></div></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7d6h2wkN5kc5uIUKT0hOlJqVJBRDc3mtszkK1fSnu961bxN2H0qnNgEaeHLB6azpIw1o8vbSbCe-wdzHVnLpm81MtigFnF1pxRNCJE2SphxYgAyNTzG17eRfd37cl0UgH9eAOVR8ymA/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7d6h2wkN5kc5uIUKT0hOlJqVJBRDc3mtszkK1fSnu961bxN2H0qnNgEaeHLB6azpIw1o8vbSbCe-wdzHVnLpm81MtigFnF1pxRNCJE2SphxYgAyNTzG17eRfd37cl0UgH9eAOVR8ymA/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="text-align: left;">These are my picks, the standout dishes </span><span style="text-align: left;">from </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" style="text-align: left;">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a><span style="text-align: left;"> at </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" style="text-align: left;">Flock</a><span style="text-align: left;">...</span></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Executive Chef Richard Millar highly recommends starting at the Japanese section, beginning with the subtleties and delicate flavour of expertly sliced, perfectly raw fish before moving up to more complex flavours. Semi-cooked dishes like torched salmon belly with caviar on rice bridge the gap between sashimi and sushi, while those in Team Fully Cooked could head to the next counter for chicken karage and fish tempura mantou (chinese steamed bun)s.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A seafood bonanza takes pride of place on a long counter (<i>above</i>), kept fresh and chilled on a bed of crushed ice with a swirl of dried ice smoke for an extra flair. One could get their money’s worth at this buffet-style brunch from the seafood spread alone. Freshly shucked US oysters, Alaskan king crab legs, grilled slipper lobster, scallops, and prawns; all begging to be dollop-ed with bearnaise sauce for extra richness. Right beside the seafood counter is the live grill and carving station where prime rib, beef ribs, and whole snapper beckon. Smiling staff will ask you if you’d like Raclette cheese to be melted onto your surf and turf, and the only correct answer is “Yes, yes I would.”</div></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRifNvACmNEnCF_Ve4KgQUviRLJlJaMoZeiU4ZXE9xiS2M_3A6jamFFvivsff8z8ApiGHFwc_mDivwI2oTc7lW7YKvTsNGJXs6X0owTJSlygo5C_Da6tZ78MDgei19sq6KYewk__HMM0/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRifNvACmNEnCF_Ve4KgQUviRLJlJaMoZeiU4ZXE9xiS2M_3A6jamFFvivsff8z8ApiGHFwc_mDivwI2oTc7lW7YKvTsNGJXs6X0owTJSlygo5C_Da6tZ78MDgei19sq6KYewk__HMM0/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I was pleased to hear that many ingredients are sourced locally and sustainably, including fresh cheeses from local producer Milky Whey. It was at the cheese bar that I made the wonderful acquaintance of <u>Milky Whey</u>, whose cheeses <i>(above)</i> - <u>Tomme de Kiara, Hispanico, Amber Blue, Tembaga, Opal, Sarawak Pepper, Goat Sarawak, Smoked Gouda, and Paprika Lavoush</u>; to name a few - rivalled some of the best European cheeses I’ve sampled.</span><span> </span> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuvLotTFtpreoeNPAXHcg7AvDTlMerzQqAKbHeCtSzMTmwm5X7PN-MIEArGYz8Ko2jhb25y6HKML3Y12p5Bcd8RBkkZtAjfQhGeBE7YWdCPFTjgxHz2MiJgGmIk21SHvLe_y8_dX8rqU/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS16SfzqC7SqUUdMP6B8R6CE6og7XJYI2IlnR4g7Fn-aXj33a0B9jFyYDsKcKVJyZdBar-pI1N0yIG6P39PV-ix3j3kTcqt-e_nSbaz2xmOctgUe9aitbZ_Gj64XK80R9TAWzLSshIc74/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The ‘<u>cooked to order</u>' table menu was another fabulous addition to a buffet-style brunch, especially the dishes that featured foie gras. My personal favourite were Chef Richard’s <u>famous foie gras chawanmushi</u> (a wonderful way to elevate the humble steamed egg custard dish) and <u>fried egg with seared foie gras with a dollop of kaya jam</u>. I washed it all down with fresh young coconut juice. Of course, the beverages flowed freely - mocktails, juices, cocktails, wines, and beers; but I was perfectly content with my lovely bunch of coconuts.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It seems appropriate to end on a sweet note. The dessert bar (<i>below</i>) was everything I could dream of. There were of course classics such as Malay kuih (colourful bite-sized glutinous desserts), and there were also imaginative offerings: local fig caramel cheesecake, plum frangipani tart, jackfruit pannacotta, and tiny dim sum-shaped chocolates from local chocolatier Chocolate Concierge.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: justify; width: 100%;"><tbody></tbody></table></div></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVdqfq9hfsFiQGDv_eQcjQtelRgHvLFFIbZr5BHQp4SRTKw9GkwFtKi-oQLOxh2qfise51ZzhhoV6Ko0zFfwOtylHeXxScl20uesn7Ad7bpG0BkBCwiVCq_aT-yNGuraD0Jgp5SaL8OI/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVdqfq9hfsFiQGDv_eQcjQtelRgHvLFFIbZr5BHQp4SRTKw9GkwFtKi-oQLOxh2qfise51ZzhhoV6Ko0zFfwOtylHeXxScl20uesn7Ad7bpG0BkBCwiVCq_aT-yNGuraD0Jgp5SaL8OI/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.JPG" title="#Retox Sunday Brunch at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMYKiorQwF-khyQDK5Z9dl_3NP8HgJEWZ40DykKHXh6iRZMzQ709YY3D2TUu6_Ov7Z7Bo_A2U5owfhF3ML3YW6YddvCHLBOUileCiAD1S5cZFncLj7_N91ecqGEDtMofTVK9x_OXNy5w/s1600/Retox+Sunday+Brunch+at+W+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">So I’ve established that there are no shortage of delicious culinary offerings. Likewise, the aural offerings are just as abundant (if overly so): groovy electronic beats by <u>W Music Curator Victor G</u> set the tone for a very happening atmosphere; which is well-suited to the young, hip, and fashionable crowd. There is a bit of a party element to the ambience, which is to be expected from W Hotels. That’s not to say that shy and retiring foodies should avoid <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a> at <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flock</a>. <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a> is one of the best buffet brunches available in the city, price-wise and food-wise. Priced at only <u>RM188 per adult</u> (<u>RM98 per child)</u> inclusive of mocktails, juices and soft drinks, and an additional RM100 for <u>bottomless cocktails, beers, and wines</u>; <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a> at <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flock</a> is practically a steal. I mean, one could easily consume RM300 of Alaskan crab legs, prime ribs, and cocktails in an hour. I was there for 4 hours. Do the math. <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#Retox Sunday Brunch</a> at <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/6416042/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flock</a> is extremely good value for money, the frugality of which does seem at odds with the indulgence of its offerings, but hey, that’s my kind of unexpected. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Brunch is 12pm - 3pm, 1st Sunday of each month at </span><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">W Kuala Lumpur</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details-1/kulwh-w-kuala-lumpur/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Register your interest here</a></span>.</span></div></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-41244592450997046752019-03-26T08:20:00.005+00:002022-12-16T04:32:18.406+00:00Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Feeling at home at The RuMa Hotel and Residences<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH3s9FJXslbEcvS-dIAo_-ZACoQM3eUze21yFktYHcwPZgmk5KTa2pJxlgjXiKLuggQfBO835ToM8Tzg1eMEBC6sscVOj04PzTEaNaBbxuuqWPHPV58GDXZX5O4ZkGg7Y1NtKzBPekUIo/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH3s9FJXslbEcvS-dIAo_-ZACoQM3eUze21yFktYHcwPZgmk5KTa2pJxlgjXiKLuggQfBO835ToM8Tzg1eMEBC6sscVOj04PzTEaNaBbxuuqWPHPV58GDXZX5O4ZkGg7Y1NtKzBPekUIo/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></div></h3><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Home Away From Home: The Art of “Hostmanship” at <a href="https://theruma.com/en/">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a></span></span></h3><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">Home away from home. A concept that has posed a conundrum to this native Malaysian eversince I made the fateful decision to <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2016/07/love-lockdown.html">immigrate to England</a> over a decade ago. Having spent most of my adult life in London, my childhood stomping grounds of Kuala Lumpur are both familiar and foreign to me. I enjoy the unusual position of being able to offer insider advice on the capital city of Malaysia yet view K.L through the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/03/24-hours-in-kuala-lumpur.html">rose-tinted glasses of a tourist</a>. Truly, the best of both worlds. However, if there is one donwside to having homes in both England and Malaysia (West and <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/03/sepilok-orangutan.html">East Malaysia</a>, I’ll have you know), it is that when people hit up <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/yipadvisor/">#YipAdvisor</a> with “Where is the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur?” I can only reply with “My...house?” I have had no personal need to acquaint myself with the Kuala Lumpur hotel scene, and besides, what hotel can live up to the comforts of home?</span></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8GUkTSqumOn_oBS3X3-w3lvbHoLBRL6y1LIO51u1QH95CLOEkSkIFG5-QwU8K0wTypFIg-vqNv9Z0TRKQAS0KdALCJ7oVyYTUw0bXz6pNVcoV8xyeUwdwSYWQelHD01zdDIrgbOnHgrA/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8GUkTSqumOn_oBS3X3-w3lvbHoLBRL6y1LIO51u1QH95CLOEkSkIFG5-QwU8K0wTypFIg-vqNv9Z0TRKQAS0KdALCJ7oVyYTUw0bXz6pNVcoV8xyeUwdwSYWQelHD01zdDIrgbOnHgrA/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" /></span></a></div></span></div><div style="font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><span style="font-size: medium;">Enter <a href="https://theruma.com/en/">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a>: an exquisite new hotel bringing the art of “Hostmanship” to Kuala Lumpur. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span></span></span></blockquote></div><span><!--more--></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vVVAf6oV5lOP0bBOCg0QDEJRrXewZoXbPlzdXRStzI6UDL6oSfi_vSmIoRgsHJcT676mD0WaZInHagiJdT2EBWtzNypvSi4IF1p1MtQSoGOcxpAQdGws5cYpQejFjdVooTucMp9kXuI/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMaGXc9ikjFZizYeVZhw98j8W7zlFgcyRIqd0pmK9cCEXd3fbOhyphenhyphenJbNaNJw5K05qZIwHsNCxyTEIv4vYQz34hKbR7anVFSh1F3KoyoRCN66yfX4sx5YXVow0iLdCdCcIDTNxH5HcEru0/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMaGXc9ikjFZizYeVZhw98j8W7zlFgcyRIqd0pmK9cCEXd3fbOhyphenhyphenJbNaNJw5K05qZIwHsNCxyTEIv4vYQz34hKbR7anVFSh1F3KoyoRCN66yfX4sx5YXVow0iLdCdCcIDTNxH5HcEru0/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I had heard of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa Hotel and Residences </a></span>from mummy’s friend, Monica Lai of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.ireka.com.my/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ireka Corporation</a></span>: the hotel’s developers who enjoy a track record of building award-winning hotels in Kuala Lumpur. So when the opportunity for a staycation arose, I nipped over in my idea of “casual luggage for a casual stay” - just one carry-on (Louis Vuitton <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://bit.ly/2FBNZNj" target="_blank">Pégase Légèr 55</a></span>), one overnight bag (Louis Vuitton <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://bit.ly/2TWYpjj" target="_blank">Keepall Bandouliere 50</a></span>) and one handbag (<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://bit.ly/2JGoBKf" target="_blank">Hermes Kelly in box calf leather, 32cm</a></span>) in the back of my car (an SUV I dub ‘Jumbo’).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnbdkMMzvWZElVdOrTpdlS6JY763Kuqx4vzn9Ds1m7ZOFjIdv_WlHnA51auJzfrwUboRV9VpBE9OAZMBcAZ5Y94BTn032MokLjKN0O8wt6Y9x0aMw2kFx_n3q4tWVpOZ93pP5UUFMq8Y/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnbdkMMzvWZElVdOrTpdlS6JY763Kuqx4vzn9Ds1m7ZOFjIdv_WlHnA51auJzfrwUboRV9VpBE9OAZMBcAZ5Y94BTn032MokLjKN0O8wt6Y9x0aMw2kFx_n3q4tWVpOZ93pP5UUFMq8Y/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.jpg" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjd2KP_I5wLyjLxqchoshdP3jlmzGN7mYFJlhhod-S98fSf-QAZ6yxS0rWbWEBzA_OBitZw1Ytuo64CWgVnYZRp06qWdf12ZpCjgDyggOKaSsm81u30uHMo36sdIfXH4fcqly9dKeinW8/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjd2KP_I5wLyjLxqchoshdP3jlmzGN7mYFJlhhod-S98fSf-QAZ6yxS0rWbWEBzA_OBitZw1Ytuo64CWgVnYZRp06qWdf12ZpCjgDyggOKaSsm81u30uHMo36sdIfXH4fcqly9dKeinW8/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">As I stepped out of the </span><u>Birdcage</u><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> - the connecting antechamber - and over the threshold into reception, my first impression was that I had entered a transcendent space. The vast space was bathed in warm tones, lit by spotlights and pillars, further enhanced by a copper ceiling that seemed to glow from within. Large black tiles gave the impression of a fathomless floor while the reflection of the lights added to the feeling of weightlessness. A grand double wrought-iron staircase flanked a dramatically-lit golden gown, which upon closer inspection was revealed to be a kebaya - a traditional Malay dress - clad in gold butterflies, a creation by Malaysia’s “</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://bernardchandran.com/about/" target="_blank">King of Fashion</a></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">” Dato Bernard Chandran (<i>below, left</i>)</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">. I learnt that the lobby design - the vision of Andy Hall of MQ Studios - was inspired by Malaysia’s tin-mining industry: from the copper ceiling to the grand staircase</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> and chandeliers shaped like oil drills </span></span><span style="font-family: times;">(<i>below, right</i>)</span><span style="font-family: times;">.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRt9_iLbgL7yt1w8TcCxbE8YUww0YdZdefRc6hcd8nDBmuFleRoUlQRswmOnxkUKkzMYbpf1zOzVo0G6RJ4qnlMrsv_DK8Jf_ignDhxwbP7DzbVZQ3oTUhCCgldS7CDx3lvUSZ4SsgZIE/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="text-align: center;" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /> </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%;"><tbody></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">I made myself comfortable on one of the sofas with a refreshing towel and welcome drink (<i>below</i>) that, if my memory serves me well, was assam boi while the check-in process was handled just out of sight, efficiently and discreetly. With a moment to myself and a chance to soak up the ambience, I felt a vague sense of deja vu. I was reminded of the description of the Shanghai home of Colette Bing, the fictional daughter of one of China’s richest men in <a href="http://bit.ly/2TVtFiK">China Rich Girlfriend</a>, the 2nd novel in the <a href="http://bit.ly/2Ft7feD">Crazy Rich Asians</a> trilogy. In the novel, Colette’s home’s grand reception was modelled after <a href="https://thepuli.com/en/">The PuLi Shanghai</a>. My inklings were not completely unfounded. <a href="https://theruma.com/en/">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a> is one of the 4 properties that belong to Shanghai-based <a href="https://urbanresortconcepts.com/en/">Urban Resort Concepts</a> (URC), whose first hotel is The PuLi.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtApcDwEUiKkM5-GOOacYT86_coOZVwZOiAao4wRyHDfvLWgkYSZhewGlN8yIjvgPkunVMGjL1xWduf7kAjFG3F5GTcK-panBhhw9Dzmn32IKw87kTp-SKFIe1kXPiHuAXwjQlw6c9Jxw/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtApcDwEUiKkM5-GOOacYT86_coOZVwZOiAao4wRyHDfvLWgkYSZhewGlN8yIjvgPkunVMGjL1xWduf7kAjFG3F5GTcK-panBhhw9Dzmn32IKw87kTp-SKFIe1kXPiHuAXwjQlw6c9Jxw/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" /></a></div> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Visually, the similarities ended there. Each of URC’s hotels’ design are unique to their location. There are two recurring themes within the hotel design. The first is a contemporary interpretation of Malaysia’s colonial past, reflected in the natural Malaysian elements throughout the hotel: rattan weaves in the handmade furniture and lattice screens inspired by patterns of kain pelikat (sarong), to name just two. The 2nd theme is driven by the name of the hotel itself: RuMa is a play on the Malaysian word “rumah” which means house or home. The literal manifestation of which greets guests at the hotel entrance on street level: entrance pillars taken from an actual house in Terengganu, North Malaysia (<i>below</i>).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: justify; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: left;" width="50%"></td><td align="right;padding: 0px 10px 0px 10px;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgg99b0qXShOpSlekThIlmuzNwez3CReUi0vPtbj-dJaDZQyWw0WsUEN91E_ut-_BU40f-ZvQM1uGoKRoj6xPm7o31h9WIPgJBR7psu38zO4i4p0z2XbRi9E3vCBzDYwkzqVP5ZyDhAx4/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgg99b0qXShOpSlekThIlmuzNwez3CReUi0vPtbj-dJaDZQyWw0WsUEN91E_ut-_BU40f-ZvQM1uGoKRoj6xPm7o31h9WIPgJBR7psu38zO4i4p0z2XbRi9E3vCBzDYwkzqVP5ZyDhAx4/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQTlnxOx4xV_8YN-dAc2ipKWFXn0PhE50x2uAstqZc_PbSdCV0H1ezR7dIAHYaw9c50U_-z3RIqDl_fitYj7N8m1lv-hOzMuZWMQMNLC1_QhB_VP71p2Vz6Sz7uht2Wan24TtFGCfpDk/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQTlnxOx4xV_8YN-dAc2ipKWFXn0PhE50x2uAstqZc_PbSdCV0H1ezR7dIAHYaw9c50U_-z3RIqDl_fitYj7N8m1lv-hOzMuZWMQMNLC1_QhB_VP71p2Vz6Sz7uht2Wan24TtFGCfpDk/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">The “best of Malaysian arts and crafts” aesthetic is clearer in daylight. Head up to the <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/santai-pool-bar-and-lounge/">SANTAI Pool Bar and Lounge</a> to appreciate the intricacies of traditional Malaysian weaving techniques and materials, as evident in the furnishings and decor. If the sultry stylings of the <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/seven-lobby-bar-and-lounge/">SEVEN Lobby Bar and Lounge</a> - on the opposite end of the same floor as the reception - is too incandescent for one’s taste, a cocktail by the pool with a view of the Petronas Twin Towers is a fresh, sun-soaked, and airy contrast.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpow_mQ12_llyXoSbufJDmT6ulmMuzMQFlzL0HhyphenhyphenWx9iqW-1mmIGNw6T74FFMITDPyPtTv7T6AdGYM7NeFvjMxD8e0q5UzpPluQTMfhufsyrqi8K2EKYEAx9EJrqbUEj1IVcHaa657ILk/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpow_mQ12_llyXoSbufJDmT6ulmMuzMQFlzL0HhyphenhyphenWx9iqW-1mmIGNw6T74FFMITDPyPtTv7T6AdGYM7NeFvjMxD8e0q5UzpPluQTMfhufsyrqi8K2EKYEAx9EJrqbUEj1IVcHaa657ILk/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div></div></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">But I digress. The reason why I was drawn to <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa</a> was their promise of “<u>Hostmanship</u>”. The word, coined by parent group <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://urbanresortconcepts.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Urban Resort Concepts</a></span>, encapsulates the unique service culture that is practiced in all their hotels. Hostmanship means the <u>guests always come first, even at the expense of the hotel</u>. The most obvious example being the extremely flexible <u>24 hour check-in and check-out times</u>. That’s right. Even if one arrives off a red-eye flight at the crack of dawn, as long as one notifies <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa</a> 24 hours prior, one can check-in right away - even from the comfort of their own room*. Hostmanship means <u>cutting out the nitty gritty processes that are not beneficial to guests</u>, such as charging for minibar items. You’re not here to worry about hidden charges, you’re here to have a relaxing stay. Hostmanship takes the guest experience both to a higher level as well as back to its original intent: to make the guest experience as <u>intuitive, engaging and as human as possible</u>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;">*<i>Was this why, despite the hotel being almost fully occupied, there was an uncluttered feel? There were people coming and going (including a well-known socialite there for a photoshoot with her team) and yet the ambience of the hotel still walked the fine line between buzzing and hectic.</i></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplgUyeZIctcqa55lkwqACIQSZgQ0mW3sjAm75XBzNyx5avHYaa1YRy4eIdo1WOI-qzOjGs3OeruxwNcBM_faWNqtc3ytLZu3bVKiCPBYaDmxhmJMEKUFCUKzt-mV0osLE0209qDL8zqU/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplgUyeZIctcqa55lkwqACIQSZgQ0mW3sjAm75XBzNyx5avHYaa1YRy4eIdo1WOI-qzOjGs3OeruxwNcBM_faWNqtc3ytLZu3bVKiCPBYaDmxhmJMEKUFCUKzt-mV0osLE0209qDL8zqU/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtY0usGkvOgiV8Ul3rjSMLlCdO2aZ5Xmfo2l0zGjryQP2Rn-izRdvqrLJ3xIvYbtucRqA9aBgrR5vxJkILZsdDp2vKizekk53qISDCTWwuPDXkOy0YSsEJ3am7PrdWFWoMShhWoHse9Y/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtY0usGkvOgiV8Ul3rjSMLlCdO2aZ5Xmfo2l0zGjryQP2Rn-izRdvqrLJ3xIvYbtucRqA9aBgrR5vxJkILZsdDp2vKizekk53qISDCTWwuPDXkOy0YSsEJ3am7PrdWFWoMShhWoHse9Y/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.jpg" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Aside from minibar charges (so passe and petty, if you ask me), more unneccesary details were done away with. Such as a business centre. Frankly, in this day and age of digital itineraries printing is outdated and terrible for the environment too. Even so, anything one would print at a hotel’s business centre, the Concierge will do for free. That said, <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The RuMa</a> is hardly lacking for facilities. There’s <u>Librari</u>* <i>(above, below)</i>, the reading room. There are <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-meetings-and-events/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">meeting rooms for corporate or social events</a></span>: <u>Bilik** I & Bilik II,</u> ideal for private dining events and <u>Bilik III</u>, a fully equipped boardroom perfect for business meetings. There’s <u>The Pavilion</u> pre-function and meeting room with kitchen and the Board Room; and for more lively occassions, the <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/santai-pool-bar-and-lounge/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">SANTAI Pool Bar and Lounge</a> on the 6th floor.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><i><div style="text-align: center;"><i>*yes, “librari” is the Malay loanword for library. What a wildly imaginative language, I know. “Bilik” is Malay for room.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzMgfji2Mcpj36z3kDZ3UcFDvt23_Ym3Bh-cKbLoQ0qABB1V9uQqDJnpxYu3oKKPf78jC6wo_OzrjTJA6PIWv96TyRIwLTbbAk6xXGOuZBN3JYDHSyX6WTFRafqaIROu2eGX3IVDyZms/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzMgfji2Mcpj36z3kDZ3UcFDvt23_Ym3Bh-cKbLoQ0qABB1V9uQqDJnpxYu3oKKPf78jC6wo_OzrjTJA6PIWv96TyRIwLTbbAk6xXGOuZBN3JYDHSyX6WTFRafqaIROu2eGX3IVDyZms/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6poFrK8P7icuc-SHFiMNYL1f7T2hd3KhxVcTo1qH1-oo9wYVc0ajWHnoCVRiMV4eror30zsuT6cqBMZN6uGIgZLJt0N4jWFBqosQsLqIU1c-NF_OV7F_S59wwR8SS-bR6RoWM_5nc4Wg/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6poFrK8P7icuc-SHFiMNYL1f7T2hd3KhxVcTo1qH1-oo9wYVc0ajWHnoCVRiMV4eror30zsuT6cqBMZN6uGIgZLJt0N4jWFBqosQsLqIU1c-NF_OV7F_S59wwR8SS-bR6RoWM_5nc4Wg/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The biggest draw, which is a destination in its own right is <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/">ATAS Modern Malaysian Eatery</a>. I had an elevated dining experience at ATAS (the Malay word for upstairs, above), where authentic Malaysian flavours were showcased in unexpected ways on Western ingredients. And I don’t mean in a condescending “chicken rendang should be crispy!” way *clutches pearls*. Executive Chef Tyson Gee shows reverence for Malaysian flavours, using it to elevate Western dishes. Think <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2019/03/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery.html">sambal assam and kai lan (a local vegetable) used to improve wagyu tenderloin</a> (right). Now we’re talking.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fbNseWc7V4AozA-vo7Sb6H045fLoc3oPjxgSegQWDbP9om2RG1b-wOQ7bbPeN04qDkFwkaZ9hJarQwcSgm34axrQDsnZP0VF-nZ6YqOA-Hx7pgRxLZKqBrwkpy6PGA4Is7Q0Rhp-F7k/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fbNseWc7V4AozA-vo7Sb6H045fLoc3oPjxgSegQWDbP9om2RG1b-wOQ7bbPeN04qDkFwkaZ9hJarQwcSgm34axrQDsnZP0VF-nZ6YqOA-Hx7pgRxLZKqBrwkpy6PGA4Is7Q0Rhp-F7k/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u>CORNER STUDIO</u></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">45 m², City View</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The moment I reached my <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-rooms-and-suites/corner-studio/">Corner Studio</a> I kicked off my Roger Viviers and took in my home for the night. A 45 m² corner room is generous (already half the size of my apartment in London!), but the intelligent layout and abundance of light made even better use of the space. The entire length of one wall was ceiling-to-nearly-floor windows with a view of the city, drenching the <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-rooms-and-suites/corner-studio/">Corner Studio</a> with natural light by day and by night, making for a neon vision of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline. A versatile living area performed triple duty: as a workspace for my home office du jour, a dining area for my dinner (I ordered a charcoal bun burger off the room service menu, it was fabulous), and an entertainment area (thank you Netflix for picking up Rupaul’s Drag Race Season 11). A sliding floor-to-ceiling door, so well-concealed, revealed a bathroom with double sinks, a tub, and a rainforest shower.</div></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">The <u>colonial-meets-contemporary</u> style of the </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-rooms-and-suites/corner-studio/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Corner Studio</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> continued to highlight local elements: the woven headboard, handmade lounger chairs, traditional bowls upcycled as wall sconces in the bathrooms, even the subtle lattice detail on the lighting panels that flank the bathroom mirrors (which, by the way, could be flipped to create two different modes of lighting). </span></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDQluaJS2tNPlzJROcVwhglVNhyphenhyphenR1zoPf79I6SiTcYsWectCvc1cqbm5WrLpwmJZ-LnQrxSElDuxY0oVvI53lFS_3LDMeSeFruYK1OGNFeHklviBAPxbAj03QBT0OEiSej8BSHjnEjLA/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDQluaJS2tNPlzJROcVwhglVNhyphenhyphenR1zoPf79I6SiTcYsWectCvc1cqbm5WrLpwmJZ-LnQrxSElDuxY0oVvI53lFS_3LDMeSeFruYK1OGNFeHklviBAPxbAj03QBT0OEiSej8BSHjnEjLA/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.jpg" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV736M7ytevIHlJNPFnA0pFOpNHQY-XP2-VDjkPFms0X0fS_pKToYkSVrZYxrZm-fMEqyg4L1QJrhrw-jd56NvujPJNSGxqyhwfFfJexW9sJYmkmCoeFo8XgqRcfnjImNaDqbv9lNoBR4/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidMtwap024ThznL5aUizkQCTDMvLZHMrP8XltNJJFYSXHI5aHZGRNY7gNQF2uQE7RQdEQShXAjT-DUQH4c7lITG-A7e9FecI8VbHOT3PoVH2OsDBEhBY5NxkknYbbjXzgkE_IqnOMK00A/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_31.JPG" style="text-align: right;" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happily, both function as well as form enjoy the same attention to detail, be it the amenities provided or the service. Terry towels so thick and fluffy, one could make a winter coat out of them. Room slippers in a waffled weave that provided a pleasing, contrasting crisp texture to the soft, well-padded sole. The complimentary minibar I made such a big deal of was fully-stocked, no paltry offerings here: a jar full of rose and pistachio nougat, a bowl of fresh local fruit, more jars of biscuits and nuts, beer; small-batch, artisanal, local soft drinks as well as more mainstream offerings such as Coca-Cola, six 500ml bottles of still water (2 of which were in the fridge), a tea set, and Nespresso capsules among others. The Nespresso machine provided happened to be the same make as the one I own, which was a nice coincidence.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnb81F84BH2iKSSedAR2__G2wzlaUaTlvicmKF4q_2cxjKJ8qbuZgNJeYndltdfW8UgrA3714UkASILEo58vwQnS3D2laKRasGG3_fgmrn4rZoDaztEmrpG0JmpzjoRWwdjsYxmoRnAlg/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_32.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnb81F84BH2iKSSedAR2__G2wzlaUaTlvicmKF4q_2cxjKJ8qbuZgNJeYndltdfW8UgrA3714UkASILEo58vwQnS3D2laKRasGG3_fgmrn4rZoDaztEmrpG0JmpzjoRWwdjsYxmoRnAlg/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_32.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">But the true mic-drop moment happened the morning after I enjoyed a marvellous sleep in the sumptously soft 330-thread count Egyptian cotton bed linen. I had requested for breakfast to be sent to my room, which </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;" target="_blank">The RuMa</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> provides at no extra charge. My breakfast was wheeled in, and imagine my surprise when the smiling staff asked “Ms Yip, where would you like your toaster?”. Yes, a toaster. A toaster was brought to my room. For all the 5* star hotels I have stayed in, this was the first time I was offered a toaster with my breakfast. “Just...plug it in next to the bonsai tree, thank you.”</span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKOLnk3267FaXaRFlr54_KIeMpYqbXUMOQK3URb9vuRDSUwIsX6PmoA_II0RI2OhAgyDeksME_4rER1LGna5KSPRHKimy4e7SNyd5W2bcYavN2opmx8ys-Rmceo3Zys_9HPrH49hr1u4/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_33.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKOLnk3267FaXaRFlr54_KIeMpYqbXUMOQK3URb9vuRDSUwIsX6PmoA_II0RI2OhAgyDeksME_4rER1LGna5KSPRHKimy4e7SNyd5W2bcYavN2opmx8ys-Rmceo3Zys_9HPrH49hr1u4/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_33.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRMSasgTsc6qzRjLydHlbQ8igFBO_6kRuVt5smflLJIv5lRGmJbYxKBT5CYmq_aHRrL69zxUCwws107Q8avR7ItP6AK9P4BuZpa2OnsDSpB8V9nTgY2XCQwbAY3vCRd9TQpizRjJzoos/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_34.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img alt="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRMSasgTsc6qzRjLydHlbQ8igFBO_6kRuVt5smflLJIv5lRGmJbYxKBT5CYmq_aHRrL69zxUCwws107Q8avR7ItP6AK9P4BuZpa2OnsDSpB8V9nTgY2XCQwbAY3vCRd9TQpizRjJzoos/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_34.JPG" title="My review of The RuMa Hotel and Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Concept and aesthetic, check. Facilities and amenities, check. Rooms and service, check. Finally, location. </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> is situated on Jalan Kia Peng, right in the middle of all the action of the city. With the Golden Triangle on one side and KLCC on the other - accessible via a short walk through an indoor, air-conditioned passage in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, which itself is a 3 minute walk from </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> - the location is as central as they come. I could’ve done the usually-impossible: visit KLCC without having to worry about traffic or parking. But honestly I never wanted to leave the property: such is the allure of </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa</a><span style="text-align: justify;">’s</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><u style="text-align: justify;">Hostmanship</u><span style="text-align: justify;">.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">And that <u>Hostmanship</u> is what sets <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The RuMa</a> apart. Despite being relatively new - the hotel opened on 30th November 2018 - there are no teething problems as far as I could see. At the time of publication, <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a> is Kuala Lumpur’s only member of the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.lhw.com/hotel/RuMa-Hotel%E2%80%A6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leading Hotels of the World</a></span>. I had come to The RuMa to see if a hotel could live up to the promise of “a home away from home”. <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The RuMa Hotel</a>'s Hostmanship had exceeded it - <i>I mean, my own house staff have never offered to bring a toaster to my bedroom in the mornings!</i> I would thoroughly recommend <a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a>, despite that even the shortest of stays would spoil any guest to expect a rarefied new level of hosting and hospitality,</span><span> </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">to the point that leaving the hotel for home would feel like a tragedy. After all, should one miss the <u>Hostmanship</u> of </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RuMa</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">, one could always buy a </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://theruma.com/en/residences/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">residential property there</a></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">...</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-18074342527557720162019-03-11T01:25:00.002+00:002022-12-16T07:08:19.725+00:00An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, Kuala Lumpur<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTCd6isoi5WMjRxh0mlingAaA_DxKvogjfeI9r_xHRv5g2tWLvn2lHCaV3-_N2GVPbZzyVA08dq8eGvAgRDVcSq4M_KpDqQ5wqrKFZgJAo8CxHLI1r2yGRI6FIHyU-zuh0cZyEJJiFIo/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTCd6isoi5WMjRxh0mlingAaA_DxKvogjfeI9r_xHRv5g2tWLvn2lHCaV3-_N2GVPbZzyVA08dq8eGvAgRDVcSq4M_KpDqQ5wqrKFZgJAo8CxHLI1r2yGRI6FIHyU-zuh0cZyEJJiFIo/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">atas:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">(MALAY)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. adverb, preposition: above</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. adverb, adjective, noun: upstairs</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. colloquial: upper-class, high-class</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Eg: “<i>She’s so atas, her phone contacts read like <a href="https://my.asiatatler.com/300list">The Tatler 300 List</a>*</i>.”</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">*DID THAT GO OVER (I MEAN, ATAS) YOUR HEAD? I’M SORRY, I TRIED.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;">For too long, the phrase ‘atas’ has been thrown around by pressed Malaysians and Singaporeans to denote snobbery. Reverse snobbery, how quaint: I can relate. The struggle is real. Fortunately, <a href="https://theruma.com/en/">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a> seeks to reclaim the word ‘atas’ by offering an elevated dining experience at their slick yet surprisingly accessible mezzanine-level (see what they did there?) restaurant <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery</a>. Up, up, and beyond...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A metal kebaya by Malaysia’s King of Fashion, <a href="https://bernardchandran.com/about/">Dato' Bernard Chandran</a> flanks the grand staircase that leads to the mezzanine level.</div></div>
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</td><td><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">For maximum effect, access <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery</a> through the grand spiral staircase from the hotel lobby. The metaphor begins the moment one reaches the top of the stairs. The transition is dazzling; from the incandescent glow of the copper-toned hotel lobby to the daylight-drenched restaurant thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows. Immediately to the right of the entrance is the open kitchen. Seamlessly integrated into the restaurant space, the open kitchen forms part of a de-formalised dining area where one may glimpse Executive Chef Tyson Gee with his team. Beyond the restaurant - which is divided into zones with screens that allow light through while creating a sense of privacy - is the outdoor Verandah, which complements the restaurant’s offerings.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">As with the rest of the hotel (I will be sharing my review of my stay at <a href="https://theruma.com/en/">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a> very soon) the interiors of <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery</a> reference and celebrate local artisan traditions in aesthetic, materials and craftsmanship. For example, the lattice patterns of the illuminated room dividers are inspired by kain pelikat (sarong) are a nod to local elements, as are the rattan textures of the furnishings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipF2MBKvtosczEhtqGwAHdw-kMwobzAh4FndRlYmQHQq6emUZ5KWr73S-rCPyJSkOQuRp0k2zkXvnAgCTkCRLGjFKmsxc9WrRlN6lcE9AHV1K2gwkKJeaPvZe8mvdImjMh2TOLGtxBCFw/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipF2MBKvtosczEhtqGwAHdw-kMwobzAh4FndRlYmQHQq6emUZ5KWr73S-rCPyJSkOQuRp0k2zkXvnAgCTkCRLGjFKmsxc9WrRlN6lcE9AHV1K2gwkKJeaPvZe8mvdImjMh2TOLGtxBCFw/s1600/The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.jpg" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">This same spirit of rediscovering the best of Malaysia is reflected in the menu. Vancouver-born <u>Executive Chef Tyson Gee</u> (<i>pictured, below</i>) had only a week to come up with the concept of </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> Rather than claim to reinvent the wheel (or know more than the locals do in a patronising #<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-43624632" target="_blank">RendangGate</a></span> way) Tyson Gee pays homage to all things Malaysian. Authentic local spices, ingredients and produce of local and regional origin are used to elevate Western dishes. An example is the <u>cured ocean trout with sambal dressing</u> - a typically Western meat unexpectedly paired with a quintessentially Malaysian ingredient. The idea is the taste of familiar flavours and tastes. Think: the tiny pots of sambal some Malaysian travellers carry in case of an culinary emergency (bland foreign food <i>is</i> an emergency, and don’t you try to convince me otherwise).</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40Y-WGoNs-75MdC5sNCDO2KCcwpSeHrF73R0PJT6L7W83NptB8dxg5dVvUq9W58CUFcQJlozlWf7ByY46vbGPZCWzFbtYRY-ZBB5EbqyVUBpOjq-3IofLg0YHR3UFoDaQo6uBMvuH_ug/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40Y-WGoNs-75MdC5sNCDO2KCcwpSeHrF73R0PJT6L7W83NptB8dxg5dVvUq9W58CUFcQJlozlWf7ByY46vbGPZCWzFbtYRY-ZBB5EbqyVUBpOjq-3IofLg0YHR3UFoDaQo6uBMvuH_ug/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP0Kb_iQD4T-i87-9mSGN2JCOUopnwOqZvMFOhu8NDrv5bAD9Vwardi9j0fPswAnco8Ovjom0z8XOFcoAPierOqC94Uynk58C6aMVnDyroRK5fMgv0PmvAKBk2aHv23T9DrNdiip8sYkk/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP0Kb_iQD4T-i87-9mSGN2JCOUopnwOqZvMFOhu8NDrv5bAD9Vwardi9j0fPswAnco8Ovjom0z8XOFcoAPierOqC94Uynk58C6aMVnDyroRK5fMgv0PmvAKBk2aHv23T9DrNdiip8sYkk/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">The result is non-patronising modern Malaysia cuisine, presented in a contemporary way that is personal to Executive Chef Tyson Gee, the intimacy of which is heightened when he comes round to each table and asks if diners have enjoyed themselves. The ambience is that of a casual menu made to share, which indeed is the crux of Malaysian dining what with all its </span><i style="text-align: justify;">lauk-lauk</i><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> (side dishes). </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOuk09O5WpfXZ1qfwkiuc_SRusdS3d1Nf_1-9xxwz8NsYSjaP5xDT-MYUW0_gTHY7Ryb72qdIGN4gH2GelkCc_jwJ20nE0fii11wR8IClI7JiqVaQBgS7VqcMNeGf36-5JF7xTYknFDQ/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOuk09O5WpfXZ1qfwkiuc_SRusdS3d1Nf_1-9xxwz8NsYSjaP5xDT-MYUW0_gTHY7Ryb72qdIGN4gH2GelkCc_jwJ20nE0fii11wR8IClI7JiqVaQBgS7VqcMNeGf36-5JF7xTYknFDQ/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">Prior to my meal at </span><a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> I was recommended the <u>cured ocean trout with puffed tapioca and sambal dressing</u>. As a true hot-blooded Malaysian with an extremely high-tolerance for spicy food, I naturally needed no further convincing. For my non-Malaysian readers, <i>sambal</i> is a chili paste typically made from a mixture of a variety of chili peppers. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">My date and I started with the <u>raw beef tartare with smoked oyster aioli, puffed beef tendon, crispy garlic</u> (and the aforementioned cured trout with <i>sambal</i>. The beef tartare (above) was nice enough, if a little more flowery than my preferred presentation - I like my steak tartare served with a raw egg and capers to be mashed into a hideous mess - but the cured ocean trout with puffed tapioca and sambal dressing (left) was truly an exquisite experience. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">Each bite-sized cube of ocean trout yielded a blast of sambal. The spicy notes were powerful enough to create a dazzling impression even on a seasoned sambal sampler like myself, yet after the initial explosion the spiciness magically vanished and yielded to reveal the subtle flavour of the trout. Much like a controlled explosion to extinguish a raging fire, no mean feat given the skill involved to not obliterate such a delicate meat. I pondered the alchemy involved while nibbling on a curious looking purple crisp fashioned from puffed tapioca.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUwC_jFitJJmtW5mIGVTszDyLYlZ4kxVKmMaAIIuqUw2NiNBchK5o8uk90PDZEnoElZQN0HUKX3ITdW85Y9rIqyplmF-ou-Ce82lU-Zep7YnTOWqUaAqYliE3DbUTeBwkQiY6XVVeZqY/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUwC_jFitJJmtW5mIGVTszDyLYlZ4kxVKmMaAIIuqUw2NiNBchK5o8uk90PDZEnoElZQN0HUKX3ITdW85Y9rIqyplmF-ou-Ce82lU-Zep7YnTOWqUaAqYliE3DbUTeBwkQiY6XVVeZqY/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;">For mains, my date had the <u>cornfed chicken with peas, garlic, sambal, and petai</u> (a Southeast Asian bean with a unique pungent flavour). The chicken dish was well prepared; tender and juicy with distinct local notes which elevated an otherwise simple meat. But the chicken dish was far outshown by the 2nd dish that came highly recommended to me: the <u>7+Wagyu sirloin with sambal assam, kai lan </u>(a local vegetable),<u> and sour leaves</u>. If you had told me that such a coveted cut of meat would be served with such a powerful paste - sambal assam is sambal with the addition of tamarind concentrate - I would have called the culinary cops, but the combination worked. It certainly helped that the sambal assam was limited to a dash of just the right amount, allowing the meat to have its moment. And such meat. Prepared using the restaurant’s charcoal oven, the dish captured the flavour of grilling without destroying the wagyu's glorious marbled texture, tenderness, and juiciness of the meat. The result is a wonderful marriage of texture and layered flavours: tangy, spicy, and savoury.</div><p><br /></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18oHji9okGASDcS_v3FxXzjDQ71rGwcq0yL6n36yxKj80VhR1RO2XmX2Ucw3-kPiobS-y7n1HbH6g7ThcbqaDVcXHN03dFTO1FGi7UUzwqcW5A0DPyAMexjh83mEhiB1VkozqZm7dtUE/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18oHji9okGASDcS_v3FxXzjDQ71rGwcq0yL6n36yxKj80VhR1RO2XmX2Ucw3-kPiobS-y7n1HbH6g7ThcbqaDVcXHN03dFTO1FGi7UUzwqcW5A0DPyAMexjh83mEhiB1VkozqZm7dtUE/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">We ended our meal with another Western dish infused with a local flavour: </span><u style="text-align: justify;"><i>Pandan</i> creme caramel with coconut sorbet</u><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> (<i>below</i>). The </span><i style="text-align: justify;">pandan</i><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> (screwpine, aromatic leaves with a unique creamy and botanical flavour), paired with coconut sorbet on a bed of crunchy nuts and dusted with basil shavings was a sweet note to end on with local provenance.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn65OFYyPZChldlHpi7Ugl4p_hUig99eX5upWwFgC_f-Zm2cbWKDtHSsGGMQfhWBlBO_vjgIp2aaxiYhkqNTJigx0MiSkHIxoo-VzrCLwH-C5HP7KtOK4YZM84B4GdJ3REDe2AV_KalK0/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn65OFYyPZChldlHpi7Ugl4p_hUig99eX5upWwFgC_f-Zm2cbWKDtHSsGGMQfhWBlBO_vjgIp2aaxiYhkqNTJigx0MiSkHIxoo-VzrCLwH-C5HP7KtOK4YZM84B4GdJ3REDe2AV_KalK0/s1600/Modern+Malaysian+luxury+dining+at+ATAS+restaurant+at+The+RuMa+Hotel+and+Residences%252C+Kuala+Lumpur+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" title="An Elevated Dining Experience at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The Ruma Hotel and Residences Kuala Lumpur by Posh, Broke, & Bored." /></a></div></div>
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<td align="right;padding: 0px 10px 0px 10px;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><blockquote><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: center;">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery takes the diner on an gastronomical journey through Malaysia (and also with steps in its neighbouring countries that share its favourite ingredients). <a href="https://theruma.com/en/kuala-lumpur-luxury-hotel-dining/atas-modern-malaysian-eatery/">Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery</a> is a destination restaurant for all: be it the Malaysians such as myself seeking to be reacquainted with the flavours they grew up with in an exciting new way, or the <a href="https://theruma.com/en/">The RuMa Hotel and Residences</a> guest looking for to be introduced to Malaysian flavours applied to familiar dishes. Whichever of the two camps you belong to, the same direction is upwards, an elevated experience, above and beyond. The only way is Atas.</div></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"></div></blockquote><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-4389107986276406052019-02-01T02:39:00.001+00:002022-12-16T04:32:18.403+00:00A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Visit in Singapore<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9qYJu1rYo17TcnYC3WSkDaKInMGUjT0H37cfQozytvnBy3gwpRtpZ0it9qlEmqyQLhWKTdv-qbPa7yH8Lvx5UQsWrLm_59vmh9TKvXoaUIYRFSPX8iMNkeH0s6H9GDlQBfxLVLxGacU/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9qYJu1rYo17TcnYC3WSkDaKInMGUjT0H37cfQozytvnBy3gwpRtpZ0it9qlEmqyQLhWKTdv-qbPa7yH8Lvx5UQsWrLm_59vmh9TKvXoaUIYRFSPX8iMNkeH0s6H9GDlQBfxLVLxGacU/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">10 THINGS TO SEE, DO, & VISIT IN SINGAPORE: A GUIDE BY A REAL-LIFE CRAZY RICH ASIAN</span></h3><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You would’ve read from my previous story about <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2019/01/singapore-heritage-identity.html">my identity, heritage, and upbringing</a> that I’ve spent much of my childhood in <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Singapore">Singapore</a>. The ‘Little Red Dot’ on the world map that has been brought to wider attention thanks to the blockbuster Crazy Rich Asians (cue: “I prefered the book, and mine’s the 1st Edition, darling”). Even to a semi-local like me, <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Singapore">Singapore</a> is an enigma wrapped in a mystery. To start with: its juxtaposition of futuristic skyscrapers and architectural styles ranging from classical Chinese to British colonial. Some consider <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Singapore">Singapore</a> to be sterile; I prefer to call it a safe, sanitised, and condensed version of some of Asia’s best quirks. A highlights reel, if you may. In that spirit, here is my insider’s guide to this unique country and how to get a feel for Singapore’s culture and history. And you don’t even need to be a CRA, because I’m thoughtful like that, sweetie darling!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://visitsingapore.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">VISIT SINGAPORE</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee; font-family: helvetica;"><u><br /></u></span><a href="http://visitsingapore.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEBHPgZo4xX1SYatOB3g9JsThFUC3FyVYc9BKQqfcI5eIYPztgmV15CQ46KtIzfPpnQxGu5cvSy8-uR2MIfTZHqSBUJivccFqW10344wTUUvCgoqu2zPKq22uS_gjGx4XniUnYTZ75gw/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEBHPgZo4xX1SYatOB3g9JsThFUC3FyVYc9BKQqfcI5eIYPztgmV15CQ46KtIzfPpnQxGu5cvSy8-uR2MIfTZHqSBUJivccFqW10344wTUUvCgoqu2zPKq22uS_gjGx4XniUnYTZ75gw/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div> <span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLvh8KOu9ZD-F3L5yhap-nkZiRbQj9icEuMPi7DqH-tKAY4Dqh786PRDeEWqCu5dTAocwmU-p9sivaYsIUP8OQkK9iEiKGvk3fmhMVrlMBA-4emf5zKhrfpg2_k5xZz5EfJ25WCH_84M/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLvh8KOu9ZD-F3L5yhap-nkZiRbQj9icEuMPi7DqH-tKAY4Dqh786PRDeEWqCu5dTAocwmU-p9sivaYsIUP8OQkK9iEiKGvk3fmhMVrlMBA-4emf5zKhrfpg2_k5xZz5EfJ25WCH_84M/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. </span><br /><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">HAW PAR VILLA</span><br /><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">If you are a Chinese child of a certain upbringing, your parents would have certainly brought you to <span><a href="https://www.hawparvilla.sg/" target="_blank">Haw Par Villa</a></span> to scare you onto the straight and narrow. What was intended by the Tiger Balm brothers to be the “<u>Oriental Disneyland</u>” has since been a cautionary tale of what happens to children who behave badly; what with its delightfully tacky 1,000 statues and 150 dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese mythology and Confucianism morality tales. Come for the folklore, stay for the gory scenes of what happens to sinners when they reach Chinese hell. In its heyday, the Tiger Balm Gardens - or </span><a href="https://www.hawparvilla.sg/" target="_blank">Haw Par Villa</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> as it is now known - was the recreational destination; today its a nostalgic trip for my generation as well as day-trips for schoolchildren who need some sense scared into them, the old-fashioned way. The graphic scenes are pushed into uncanny valley territory thanks to the crackling soundtrack of 1920’s swing and jazz music. My personal favourite song to admire the morbid scenes of sinners being punished is the cheery tune of “Let’s Misbehave”.</span></span></span></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QLZj7zlbEof6o8gfkrGamNK4aGGm6DTJyxaGimwiNSRx-HVwNXV67k76g8FZBjoYV7pkbUO0j26yrAsvliNzCoa9SPOo5Z4QRw7KpfbMrDAF8DclBIotdlpfa3vufoAnBT8XXuMx7uo/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QLZj7zlbEof6o8gfkrGamNK4aGGm6DTJyxaGimwiNSRx-HVwNXV67k76g8FZBjoYV7pkbUO0j26yrAsvliNzCoa9SPOo5Z4QRw7KpfbMrDAF8DclBIotdlpfa3vufoAnBT8XXuMx7uo/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">THE ‘ECLECTIC CLASSICAL’ STYLE OF THE PERANAKAN MUSEUM HOUSE...</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZr9JPfyVfoxZXSzsLFfNsP33b-98EaBDyLmFeQ7BiGFkCMNgnT_lhoTLJ27F1m7rolEDEhdVLjCKPYp_ppIQIpKOsjJ6EaFBfNezko_VogJVF0SaP8hT1_zYE3ctHooNYLQcOTnftQaY/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZr9JPfyVfoxZXSzsLFfNsP33b-98EaBDyLmFeQ7BiGFkCMNgnT_lhoTLJ27F1m7rolEDEhdVLjCKPYp_ppIQIpKOsjJ6EaFBfNezko_VogJVF0SaP8hT1_zYE3ctHooNYLQcOTnftQaY/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> ...WITH CLASSICAL COLUMNS AND COLONIAL BALCONIES</span>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div>
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<tr><td><br /></td><td><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">2.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">PERANAKAN MUSEUM & NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The <a href="https://www.peranakanmuseum.org.sg/">Peranakan Museum</a> (above) is your first stop to learning about the Singapore Peranakans or Straits Chinese, many of whom form the nation’s elite. Their unique culture - a blend of their adopted country’s customs and their traditions they sought to preserve after they left China during the 15th to 17th centuries - is beautifully depicted in the museum’s collection of artefacts and rich visual arts, as well as interactive studio set up where you can dress up with props.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The <a href="https://www.nationalmuseum.sg/">National Museum of Singapore</a> (below) spans a wider narrative, from the 13th century to present day. The standout exhibitions are the permanent exhibitions <a href="https://www.nationalmuseum.sg/our-exhibitions/exhibition-list/modern-colony?sc_lang=en">Modern Colony</a> (a showcase of cosmopolitan 1920’s and 30’s British Singapore, set in a black-and-white bungalow just like the Astrid Leong’s parent’s on Nassim Road) and <a href="https://www.nationalmuseum.sg/our-exhibitions/exhibition-list/singapore-history-gallery-2015?sc_lang=en">Surviving Syonan</a> (a gritty depiction of life in Syonan-To, as Singapore was named under the Japanese Occupation during World War II). The nation’s oldest museum also hosts contemporary and interdiscplinary work, such as <a href="https://www.nationalmuseum.sg/our-exhibitions/exhibition-list/wings-of-a-rich-manoeuvre?sc_lang=en">Wings of a Rich Manouvre</a> (below), a chorus of eight choreographed swinging chandeliers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7Z-NvnzbUKdz8LoBH5ujBN7ihx2xaT4bqqUZxbtukRpj6BBfCrFCbIRwi8iSbCyi8jGh8IyGyDZsEkVAZj5ifQoWSS9j6Pq6LbMZC67xwoA29QXqRodqmW1n5vGewjCKSRBbOZoDTaY/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqAHsoSaqdKUetKiisVQEXu8d2rS_z4NENkLix6-TGrTZUXMZ87b-iSu5A-TotcfQ8GGve6Y8n7mh0JbdPi0Zp05xOfLosJhHe_VTDOdcetHyI45DgFG-gyJi61RUrvA7P6J7Ci28GEU/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqAHsoSaqdKUetKiisVQEXu8d2rS_z4NENkLix6-TGrTZUXMZ87b-iSu5A-TotcfQ8GGve6Y8n7mh0JbdPi0Zp05xOfLosJhHe_VTDOdcetHyI45DgFG-gyJi61RUrvA7P6J7Ci28GEU/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-GWTZwLDqJ6a4PYm_0BNw7NrRtuomPa6AA6r-Bs4GNrItFBtUkxFoeSi90k4oVrn4c4TcCpiPMUfASvCeiP9pq7mQ0qwNQDmNJiMoyOfTvSMVqYwitNIoPg9wAv3faJ9DHaqIO-jcUE/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-GWTZwLDqJ6a4PYm_0BNw7NrRtuomPa6AA6r-Bs4GNrItFBtUkxFoeSi90k4oVrn4c4TcCpiPMUfASvCeiP9pq7mQ0qwNQDmNJiMoyOfTvSMVqYwitNIoPg9wAv3faJ9DHaqIO-jcUE/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3. </span><br /><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">CHINATOWN</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">There is a particular scene in the Crazy Rich Asians movie which, despite its departure from the source material, neatly tied up the plot while adding a visual richness. I’m talking about the scene where Eleanor Young meets Rachel Chu for a game of mahjong. The scene is filmed in <u>Ann Siang Hill</u> in <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/chinatown/" target="_blank">Chinatown</a></span>, a district full of character. The former immigrant enclave is a mosaic of new and old: where traditional apocatheries like <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://chopwahon.com/" target="_blank">Chop Wah On</a></span>, historic temples such as <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/culture-heritage/places-of-worship/buddha-tooth-relic-temple-museum/" target="_blank">Buddha Tooth Relic Temple</a></span> jostle cheek-to-cheek with hip watering holes, boutiques, and juice bars. Start with a walk in the footsteps of Singapore’s early pioneers at the newly refurbished <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/culture-heritage/heritage-discovery/chinatown-heritage-centre/" target="_blank">Chinatown Heritage Centre</a></span>, then let your stomach lead you to the <u>world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant</u>: <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Liao+Fan+Hong+Kong+Soya+Sauce+Chicken+Rice+Noodle/@1.2831616,103.8429972,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xad48ff372d692c43!8m2!3d1.2831616!4d103.8429972" target="_blank">Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle</a></span>, where chef Chan Hon Meng’s iconic chicken rice dish will set you back all of S$2. When night falls, head to <u>Duxton Hill</u> to my favourite experimental cocktail bar <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.tipplingclub.com/" target="_blank">Tippling Club</a></span> for <u>The Jolly Green Giant</u>, a sweet blend of gin and peas</span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhWE_TwNkhDPGvtdP0IKHTiDQ_7pEBmqZ0GDN99Ehu-nOjHAg-DcdRJnID6Xajd4_OkOww1yqCi_SOYdwH7hizMk-OfvooHcJFb6zK04r4nijfRJcE_KIoDYzqwC-YsYHlayoHMYOyno/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhWE_TwNkhDPGvtdP0IKHTiDQ_7pEBmqZ0GDN99Ehu-nOjHAg-DcdRJnID6Xajd4_OkOww1yqCi_SOYdwH7hizMk-OfvooHcJFb6zK04r4nijfRJcE_KIoDYzqwC-YsYHlayoHMYOyno/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdt52ZLPt10CvHQ-B_9MLQu4B3Dh2CpbFhTkgyABHuV4VhRQ0kmiavsgidyqstr6DMkGEQ0OLwckBcM1A_Tq7UryU_pOOvzYe9Y3_gIv8madErFTvEcXNcEoSRBYcKpu-nB4Axkx8b6c/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdt52ZLPt10CvHQ-B_9MLQu4B3Dh2CpbFhTkgyABHuV4VhRQ0kmiavsgidyqstr6DMkGEQ0OLwckBcM1A_Tq7UryU_pOOvzYe9Y3_gIv8madErFTvEcXNcEoSRBYcKpu-nB4Axkx8b6c/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">4.</span><br /><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">LITTLE INDIA</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Once a district of cattle herders and brick kilns, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/little-india/?cmp=SEM_LEISURE-SEEDO-NEIGHBOURHOOD-PROD_UK_DC_ENG_little+india+singapore_NA_EM_LITTLE-INDIA_NA_NA_TXT_NA_NA_NA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7ZHi56yT4AIVDrftCh0RUQekEAAYAiAAEgJAhPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Little India</a></span> is now a bohemian enclave of artists and one of Singapore’s most colourful districts. Gone are the Europeans who lived here in the 1840s for the racecourse; but the Hindu temples, goldsmiths, flower garland vendors, and saree shops remain. Singaporeans of all ethnicities love <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.mustafa.com.sg/" target="_blank">Mustafa</a></span>, the 24-hour shopping centre institution where one can find the most obscure objects (I tracked down a subtitled copy of Bollywood classic Disco Dancer on DVD). The culinary offerings are delightful: from South Indian vegetarian food (<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.thebananaleafapolo.com/" target="_blank">Banana Leaf Apollo</a></span> is a favourite) to roti <i>prata</i> (flat, thin pancakes) and <i>teh tarik</i> (watching the brewers ‘pull’ the hot milk tea is a show in itself). Then there‘s the district’s ridiculously photogenic buildings; a mix of Hindu and Chinese temples, mosques and churches. Unmissable (in more than one sense of the word) is <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tan+Teng+Niah/@1.3070028,103.8507958,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xf1b321edf7edfe6c?ved=2ahUKEwj2x-60-pXgAhU6XRUIHV7CC5AQ_BIwDnoECAYQCA" target="_blank">Tan Teng Niah</a></span> (above), the last surviving Chinese villa in </span><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/little-india/?cmp=SEM_LEISURE-SEEDO-NEIGHBOURHOOD-PROD_UK_DC_ENG_little+india+singapore_NA_EM_LITTLE-INDIA_NA_NA_TXT_NA_NA_NA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7ZHi56yT4AIVDrftCh0RUQekEAAYAiAAEgJAhPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Little India</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> whose colourful facade is a photographer’s dream come true. <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/culture-heritage/places-of-worship/sri-veeramakaliamman-temple" target="_blank">Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple</a></span> (left) is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. Dedicated to the goddess Kali, it was a place of refuge during WWII and miraculously escaped air raids and bombing, completely unscathed.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPo4wVNslvPCKvYVNvVpUt3hmuKjBrQpgGKxtwiWTyvy2m01ZUDY6qrDBFd6Karu_p2ydVoXbD2p4zvvGnkciUER91poWir_RZ_cdAgClUXIzoJ5cZPV-41CKsU3CwTheShVcp5kM9QQE/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPo4wVNslvPCKvYVNvVpUt3hmuKjBrQpgGKxtwiWTyvy2m01ZUDY6qrDBFd6Karu_p2ydVoXbD2p4zvvGnkciUER91poWir_RZ_cdAgClUXIzoJ5cZPV-41CKsU3CwTheShVcp5kM9QQE/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RrHPug_Ae0stEM-CKcNkL_GfFm2thc0gm-s0MpRbWOMTYQdrK70HP9c-R333VHKsuu-6Ck8_ttfRMp5_5b1AEQMaG6LuoW6S05s0eQmOwFPFTGl940UKofgFKQC_OvazvD29M_mdSH8/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RrHPug_Ae0stEM-CKcNkL_GfFm2thc0gm-s0MpRbWOMTYQdrK70HP9c-R333VHKsuu-6Ck8_ttfRMp5_5b1AEQMaG6LuoW6S05s0eQmOwFPFTGl940UKofgFKQC_OvazvD29M_mdSH8/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">5.</span><br /><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">KAMPONG GLAM</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The very name Kampong (village, provincial) Glam (glamourous) is an oxymoron, but the Malay enclave of Singapore really is a wonderfully eclectic contradiction. <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/kampong-glam/?cmp=SEM_LEISURE-SEEDO-NEIGHBOURHOOD-PROD_UK_DC_ENG_%2Bkampong+%2Bglam_NA_BM_KAMPONG-GLAM_NA_NA_TXT_NA_NA_NA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlviX6ayT4AIVqrvtCh3WMgmVEAAYASAAEgLGGvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Kampong Glam</a></span>, which was allocated to the Malay, Arab, and Bugis communities is now a trendy lifestyle scene set aside the country’s oldest urban quarter. <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/walking-tour/shop/shopping-kampong-glam/" target="_blank">Haji Lane</a></span> is awash with indie boutiques, hip bars, and trendy cafes. The ever-changing lanscape of Haji Lane makes it difficult to recommend, but the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thesingapuraclub/" target="_blank">Singapura Club</a></span> (above) is a mainstay for eccentric drinks with a local flavour such as <u>Milo Dinosaur</u> cocktails. <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Arab+St,+Singapore/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x31da19b0c7046d77:0x46ab864fecfa492a?ved=2ahUKEwiqq7qp-5XgAhXDShUIHYfgBP8Q8gEwAHoECAAQAQ" target="_blank">Arab Street</a></span> and <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bussorah+St,+Singapore/@1.3009097,103.8578971,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x31da19b10895fa5b:0xc52f48954fe831a5!8m2!3d1.3009043!4d103.8600911" target="_blank">Bussorah Street</a></span> are the places to go to for traditional wares such as Persian carpets and kebaya (traditional dress), as well as a haberdasher’s dream of fabrics, sequins, and embroidery (I recommend <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royalfabricssg/" target="_blank">Royal Fabrics</a></span>). Then there is the historical aspect of </span><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/kampong-glam/?cmp=SEM_LEISURE-SEEDO-NEIGHBOURHOOD-PROD_UK_DC_ENG_%2Bkampong+%2Bglam_NA_BM_KAMPONG-GLAM_NA_NA_TXT_NA_NA_NA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlviX6ayT4AIVqrvtCh3WMgmVEAAYASAAEgLGGvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Kampong Glam</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> the 2 icons of which are the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/en_au/see-do-singapore/culture-heritage/places-of-worship/sultan-mosque" target="_blank">Sultan Mosque</a></span> and the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/en_au/see-do-singapore/culture-heritage/heritage-discovery/malay-heritage-centre" target="_blank">Malay Heritage Centre</a></span> on the grounds of the Istana (palace) to get a good sense of the rich history of Singapore’s Malay community. There are gastronomical offerings aplently, from local delicacies such as <i>nasi padang</i> (steamed rice served with various dishes. <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.hjmaimunah.com/" target="_blank">Hjh Maimunah</a></span> is a local favourite) to Malay<i> kuih</i> (sweet, bite-sized desserts)</span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqvHb97cpMg3r8EfbHbZiNe-_CafiFsi0ottvVJpuComylvdCErm4wSk168jYu40Vhpy9-QA8_R_xA5O8kBr96tBGhxIwYCLrWqPs_qAuRIooTZfl2ivSq8768TQSLExhbdEbHY-BEtI/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqvHb97cpMg3r8EfbHbZiNe-_CafiFsi0ottvVJpuComylvdCErm4wSk168jYu40Vhpy9-QA8_R_xA5O8kBr96tBGhxIwYCLrWqPs_qAuRIooTZfl2ivSq8768TQSLExhbdEbHY-BEtI/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnb_zzqV_UP5as-rUDh7P0t0IReCqTo6e8XsHPj3sld7LppHMFiFKDYNhyphenhypheng8_J4MumgTGoPm2nfaqQvaKj_6ePKPZbtmBMBcQqWY8PcIlvD3-qerthGvNF7EIFlRWbDiFEYIHyctCICs/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnb_zzqV_UP5as-rUDh7P0t0IReCqTo6e8XsHPj3sld7LppHMFiFKDYNhyphenhypheng8_J4MumgTGoPm2nfaqQvaKj_6ePKPZbtmBMBcQqWY8PcIlvD3-qerthGvNF7EIFlRWbDiFEYIHyctCICs/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 100%px;"><tbody><tr><td align="right;padding: 0px 10px 0px 10px;"><div><span style="font-size: large;">6. <br /><span style="color: #990000;">CHIJMES</span></span></div><div><br />You may recognise <a href="http://chijmes.com.sg/category/restaurants/">Chijmes</a> (simply pronounced Chimes. I don’t know what the point of the silent ‘J’ is) as the scene of Colin and Araminta’s wedding. This heritage building, built in 1852, was a Catholic convent and school. Even if you don’t plan to wed in the Gothic-style chapel (which is now a function hall) there is still a wealth to explore. Chijmes is now a complex of restaurants, cafes, and bars surrounding a lush green courtyard. I have always enjoyed the Pomelo & Tiger Prawn Salad and XO Braised Lobster Noodles (a classic childhood staple) at <a href="http://chijmes.com.sg/indochine-group/">IndoChine</a>. One of my favourite Japanese-western fusion chains, <a href="http://chijmes.com.sg/tonkatsu/">Tonkatsu by Ma Maison</a>, has an outpost here - their pork cutlets are so wonderfully hearty and filling. Japanese cuisine seem to form the majority of the restaurants at Chijmes, but there are also other international offerings such as <a href="http://chijmes.com.sg/carnivore-brazilian-churrascaria/">Carnivore Brazilian Churrascaria</a> to New Zealand-inspired <a href="http://chijmes.com.sg/moa-tiki/">MOA Tiki Bar & Grill</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ri3GyzYl5p4hBThei3ABYad6PnT12hW-kr7qSjmObHKUresCIztDbZat2mDCTDyF5drc7tETyCsGUPE4QV7Tgxfo7ShqFZ3-xAvfNFf7k5awh3OGgLpluwCkW4lv0OQzPtKOQ9fGuqM/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ri3GyzYl5p4hBThei3ABYad6PnT12hW-kr7qSjmObHKUresCIztDbZat2mDCTDyF5drc7tETyCsGUPE4QV7Tgxfo7ShqFZ3-xAvfNFf7k5awh3OGgLpluwCkW4lv0OQzPtKOQ9fGuqM/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEa_CjeY3c4IjlFF1tzzr7h7bXc2T6GuaelsXgc7VbedOpy0VwO5h-rmpfuMAOt4NA4KL5KGqOs56tYqgATKPySC5exGwHpzP2g0wXtxWTytv1QMBPVX98ifgA30VYItEc8TJFwosbU0/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEa_CjeY3c4IjlFF1tzzr7h7bXc2T6GuaelsXgc7VbedOpy0VwO5h-rmpfuMAOt4NA4KL5KGqOs56tYqgATKPySC5exGwHpzP2g0wXtxWTytv1QMBPVX98ifgA30VYItEc8TJFwosbU0/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghiO3FFvCP_3wjZearfYN6uxQicsJjqWUSAEWBw677AoALxF9-d6h770fVy2swYhle3KvgqfqOtl1ySFKq22_Og6z0BkNlOlirTHj41HP9HawriO8GLLRoTp0LlRTQqKFYcfxQDfjTowE/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghiO3FFvCP_3wjZearfYN6uxQicsJjqWUSAEWBw677AoALxF9-d6h770fVy2swYhle3KvgqfqOtl1ySFKq22_Og6z0BkNlOlirTHj41HP9HawriO8GLLRoTp0LlRTQqKFYcfxQDfjTowE/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-VYwGBH8JB65ach_yK2NteQ0_GBQ5MmVN0EcSshTXX8Dpq4XAzjNA0VHa9893l9zqXoRZm5qCs2IbNzrYUxZYVsgsWs7IpqyTWGBqTWQqjgDauWrTbPDoUb2eRXLz3ne4FDy63IC1iQ/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-VYwGBH8JB65ach_yK2NteQ0_GBQ5MmVN0EcSshTXX8Dpq4XAzjNA0VHa9893l9zqXoRZm5qCs2IbNzrYUxZYVsgsWs7IpqyTWGBqTWQqjgDauWrTbPDoUb2eRXLz3ne4FDy63IC1iQ/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">7.</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">STILL HUNGRY<span style="text-align: left;">...?</span></span></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></div></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;">By now, you might be thinking that Singapore’s attractions are overwhelmingly food-centric, and I don’t blame you. Well, just a little, but only because as a Malaysian it is my duty to be take the snob stance on Malaysian food vs Singaporean food. But don’t let that stop you from eating your way across the island. If street food is more up your alley, you’d love hawker centres: a smorgasbord of different food stalls, some of them run by owners who’ve spent a lifetime perfecting their one signature dish; from <u>satay</u>, to <u>chilli crab</u> and <u>sambal belacan stingray</u>. In the movie, Nick takes Rachel to <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Newton+Food+Centre/@1.3119888,103.8395742,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xd484e5a893032ac9?ved=2ahUKEwjQps79g5bgAhVeVRUIHdIKCWAQ_BIwEHoECAYQCA" target="_blank">Newton Food Centre</a></span>, while my destination of choice is <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.laupasat.biz/" target="_blank">Lau Pa Sat</a></span> (<i>above</i>), set in Southeast Asia’s oldest Victorian design structure.</div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;">Another dining destination I always visit when in town is <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.pscafe.com/pscafe-at-harding-road/" target="_blank">P.S Cafe</a></span>. Of all their branches, my personal favourite is the on Harding Road (<i>below</i>). Set in the verdant enclave of <u>Dempsey Hill</u> away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s the most restorative place to refuel and reenergise over a plate of <u>P.S Fluffy Pancakes</u> and <u>P.S Truffle Shoestring Fries</u>, all washed down with a <u>lychee & lime crushed fruit soda</u>. The perfect spot for brunch, breakfast, and all-day dining.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PO8AmS_sXBfP-N0zDSI5V0CT4ZxwEQsBUjMj2yBFRoXniHlO7qX0geXCwDYgcJLc2pxppAxC7fdQQvEDLmrgyvclLTbkqo6BHlL4CsqUtTBUgxwI2zV1k25RNZtE0dW2FKwMeqK-A0k/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PO8AmS_sXBfP-N0zDSI5V0CT4ZxwEQsBUjMj2yBFRoXniHlO7qX0geXCwDYgcJLc2pxppAxC7fdQQvEDLmrgyvclLTbkqo6BHlL4CsqUtTBUgxwI2zV1k25RNZtE0dW2FKwMeqK-A0k/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xHGbaylgA7NdAr4G2y7GpzA0rCrOaFWAOeyI9rvHSYbRiubnHUMZYudMcZAHdNaJywvvQ_afOv18wNCw_Xdm8BWX5No4DkK8u9VFWxi4aaP4cN4nsZTldl8vTtPJJM-6_zALjRR3_5g/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xHGbaylgA7NdAr4G2y7GpzA0rCrOaFWAOeyI9rvHSYbRiubnHUMZYudMcZAHdNaJywvvQ_afOv18wNCw_Xdm8BWX5No4DkK8u9VFWxi4aaP4cN4nsZTldl8vTtPJJM-6_zALjRR3_5g/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCjbXhK6aB3EpLUDlwYW9cKOyjlqo2YEqer7Nj9-dLS_7_1omuIyZoPhE46bc7EKUaQaelp6GctJFP0iVWKKhVcKp3JnXtv3YTsBKjn20yjN8SXZ-RLEzhMsK6ZaEFZmnvCGnuTYg7fs/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;"><img border="0" data-original-height="865" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCjbXhK6aB3EpLUDlwYW9cKOyjlqo2YEqer7Nj9-dLS_7_1omuIyZoPhE46bc7EKUaQaelp6GctJFP0iVWKKhVcKp3JnXtv3YTsBKjn20yjN8SXZ-RLEzhMsK6ZaEFZmnvCGnuTYg7fs/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" /></a></div></div></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAqU7SuMPWSTitPOM7syqo6mkD7TvnY4yRQZXb5CCFjKRRZbE7WiOmQKTxbwI0Gse1Bx52Da3yyKTO5Ivxyy_bxA910Y0Gx-ARnu-bndy1MzY1mBe3zrmwZvJg717KkLkL0cWV2cQh30/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23+copy.png"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="1237" data-original-width="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAqU7SuMPWSTitPOM7syqo6mkD7TvnY4yRQZXb5CCFjKRRZbE7WiOmQKTxbwI0Gse1Bx52Da3yyKTO5Ivxyy_bxA910Y0Gx-ARnu-bndy1MzY1mBe3zrmwZvJg717KkLkL0cWV2cQh30/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23+copy.png" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">8.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SIP A SINGAPORE SLING </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">AND THROW BACK A TIGER BEER</span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can’t come to Singapore and not have a Singapore Sling: a Collins of gin, cherry-flavored brandy, triple sec, Benedictine, pineapple juice, lime juice, and grenadine. In Crazy Rich Asians (the novel, darling) Peik Lin admits to never haven’t tried one (”Isn’t it for tourists?”) but made sure Rachel’s mother (”But I am a tourist!”) got to try Singapore’s most famous cocktail while she was in town. Ideally you’d sip a Singapore Sling at its birthplace: the <a href="https://www.raffles.com/singapore/dining/long-bar/">Long Bar</a> in Singapore’s iconic <a href="https://www.raffles.com/">Raffles Hotel</a>. I always enjoy afternoon tea at this institution, and am looking forward for the hotel to reopen this year. In the meantime, head to <a href="http://loof.com.sg/">Loof</a> where you can enjoy a Singapore Sling(and the local Tiger Beer) with a view of <a href="https://www.raffles.com/">Raffles Hote</a> and Marina Bay Sands in the distance. Two iconic Singaporean drinks against a backdrop of 2 iconic Singaporean buildings (one classic, one ultra-modern) in one of the city’s most fashionable rooftop bars. While you’re there,have the Loof Original Ramly 23 burger and Loof’s signature chilli crab waffle fries.</div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">9.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">GARDENS BY THE BAY</span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Even if you didn’t watch the movie, you would easily recognise <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIusb61_CV4AIVzLXtCh0h8gMpEAAYASAAEgJiePD_BwE" target="_blank">Gardens By The Bay</a></span> from the trailer as the reception venue for Colin and Minty’s ‘wedding of the century’ (or from almost every </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Instagram post geotagged in Singapore, for that matter). The vast verdant complex with its many sections, from pavilions to lakes and everything in between is impressive enough - my personal favourite is the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/attractions/cloud-forest/visitor-information.html" target="_blank">Cloud Forest</a></span> (below), a multilevel, misty temperature-controlled biodome packed with lush mountain vegetation which is a welcome respite from the heat - are impressive enough. But the undisputed main attraction are the evening Light Shows in the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/attractions/supertree-grove-ocbc-skyway/visitor-information.html" target="_blank">Supertree Grove</a></span>, when the giant trees light up and dance to themed musical medleys. I’d recommend watching the <u>Garden Rhapsody Show</u> at 7:45 pm from ground level, then climbing up to the OCBC Skywalk to witness the second show at 8:45 pm from 22 metres above ground.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvfn_NJ__ouJ-u-GOF6pEkiy65lYWCokfQ2ch24XxXJOLhZR_YHhAj_woctIS_6moErfsJWIB_eEIWBooGyIliDCDw7yYiXhLq0Ie76eWNGG43bAT1AxeAXBT-f71nswyHVvufel0UDk/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_28.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvfn_NJ__ouJ-u-GOF6pEkiy65lYWCokfQ2ch24XxXJOLhZR_YHhAj_woctIS_6moErfsJWIB_eEIWBooGyIliDCDw7yYiXhLq0Ie76eWNGG43bAT1AxeAXBT-f71nswyHVvufel0UDk/s1600/10+Things+to+See+%2526+Do+in+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_28.JPG" title="A Real-Life Crazy Rich Asian's Guide to 10 Things to Do in Singapore" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">10.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">MARINA BAY SANDS</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Finally, one of Singapore’s most distinguishable modern landmarks: the curiously shaped <a href="https://www.marinabaysands.com/">Marina Bay Sands</a>. Reminiscent of an enormous ship balancing precariously atop 3 skyscrapers, I imagine a biblical story in which a space-age Noah's Ark remained on its unlikely perch after the apocalyptic flood receded. Digressing: in both the novel and the movie, the closing scene takes place in <a href="https://www.marinabaysands.com/">Marina Bay Sands</a>, both versions which while wildly different still deliver sequel-ready scenarios. Outside of fiction, <a href="https://www.marinabaysands.com/">Marina Bay Sands</a> is also full of drama. It’s an enormous integrated resort with a luxury hotel (where all the gamblers flock to, so expect a lot of high-octane peacock-ing in the nightclubs, bars, and casinos) as well as the world's highest and largest infinity pool (You know, that one that you can’t escape from on social media). I am especially partial to a drink and nibbles at <a href="https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/ce-la-vi.html">Ce La Vi</a> restaurant and skybar, it is the prime spot for people-watching as it draws a stylish crowd of both locals and internationals.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote>I hope you enjoyed my little guide to Singapore as well as a glimpse into the culture behind one of my favourite novels. x</blockquote></div>Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-26301162105446109452019-01-17T00:00:00.005+00:002022-12-16T04:32:18.405+00:00Singapore: My Identity, My Heritage, and My Multi-National Upbringing<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
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<div style="font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div><u> <span style="font-family: times;">THE QUESTION: IDENTITY</span></u></div><span style="font-family: times;"><br style="text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">In the advent of social media being a breeding ground for woke-ness, the marginalised can make their voices and grievances heard. This democratisation of opinion has created a platform where anyone with access to the internet can make their thoughts heard and hold conversations in a safe space. One obvious upside is that injustices are harder to sweep under the rug, especially when topics rise on a wave of hashtags and call wider attention to issues that a majority remain blissfully unaware of. Information is power, and when used properly social media is a wonderful tool to inform and empower.</span><br style="text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">There’s a downside, naturally. Identity has become politicised, <i>weaponised</i>, even. For every well-meaning person raising a valid point and willing to engage in conversation, there may be one who use their identity to avoid discussion of differing opinions, instead throwing around unfounded accusations of (among others) racism, discrimination, colonialism, cultural appropriation, and <i>oppreshuuuuuun</i>! This is incredibly damaging because by using identity to shield themselves from discourse, they are in a way reinforcing their “otherness”, which is contradictory to the point that all deserve equality regardless of heritage and identity.</span><br style="text-align: justify;" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="padding: 0px 20px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><u>THE ANSWER: <i>MY</i> IDENTITY</u></span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">I am not part of the vocal minority who are combative when well-meaning questions about my heritage are asked. This may stem from my own ever-evolving notions of identity: from growing up as part of a large Chinese minority in Malaysia to having spent most of my adult life in the cosmopolitan capital of the United Kingdom. In between all of that I have extended family in <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Singapore" target="_blank">Singapore</a></span> and in <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Australia" target="_blank">Australia</a></span>, so I would shuttle back and forth to family homes around the region. Therefore, from a very young age I was exposed to the duality of nationality vs ethnicity, which in turn allowed me greater flexibility in my definition of my identity.</span></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">But once and for all, I am an <i>Anglo-Chinese-Malaysian chimera</i>. My nationality is Malaysian. I hold a Malaysian passport and I have <span>Settled status in the U.K where I primarily </span>reside. I speak English with a trans-Atlantic accent (a strange blend of Received Pronunciation with occasional North American twangs as well as a Malaysian accent that fluctuates depending on who I am speaking with), fluent Malay, and not-at-all-fluent Mandarin (Cantonese, even less so). I introduce myself as Malaysian-Chinese for the sake of simplicity but ultimately, I consider myself a product of my upbringing: <i>I am a global citizen</i>.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div></div></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGq-o9Sc3RmihmeKq04LgVyWYKdNLWtoTK2dpTzIJ201uy8i5B7YIgrVO-mj1PCWeK9faIIGORq1Di4HxfqLejKD4PXO2k-VBkXKvTYsTmv6RshhnuNIwdrQnvc4x2bzt7yfiqUeXOnnQ/s1600/The+pastel+Peranakan+houses+of+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Singapore: My Identity, My Heritage, My Multi-National Upbringing, & More by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGq-o9Sc3RmihmeKq04LgVyWYKdNLWtoTK2dpTzIJ201uy8i5B7YIgrVO-mj1PCWeK9faIIGORq1Di4HxfqLejKD4PXO2k-VBkXKvTYsTmv6RshhnuNIwdrQnvc4x2bzt7yfiqUeXOnnQ/s1600/The+pastel+Peranakan+houses+of+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" title="Singapore: My Identity, My Heritage, My Multi-National Upbringing, & More by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>THE QUESTION: HERITAGE</u></span></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;">With the complicated question of my identity answered (which, I must stress, is a fluid and ever-changing concept), that leaves the easier but no less complex question: my heritage. A question every mixed-raced person or person of an ethnic minority living in a predominantly white society gets is “Where are you from? No, where are you really from?” Because it doesn’t matter if you grew up in, say, Berkshire, or have a <i>Saaf Landaaan</i> accent - if you look different, you are (to some, at least) different. And their curiousity won’t be satisfied until you give them the answer they want (How far back to you want me to go? The Qing dynasty? Baby, sit down and let me tell you about the times I <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/China" target="_blank">went back to the motherland</a></span>) to enforce their perception of your otherness.</span><br style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;">“Where are you from?” is a question that is loaded, even when asked not from a place of malice. Especially when the person being asked has been subject to racism and discrimination. I have mixed-raced British friends who say they were considered “not white enough” when in Europe and “not Asian enough” when in Asia. I myself am no stranger to discrimination, whether in Malaysia for being part of a large Chinese minority (negative stereotypes include being shrewd, greedy, and money-minded) or in England and other predominantly-white countries (”You Chinese? You eat dogs?” The answer is sort of - I eat hot dogs and corn dogs. Yummy). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>THE ANSWER: MY HERITAGE</u></span></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;">Racism, I cannot abide. Ignorance, I can tolerate, because even the wise were once fools. Those who know not but know they know not and want to know more are to be lauded, and the only way to know more is to ask questions. Which is why, when I receive the question “Where are you really from?” I try not to be affronted but instead do my best to explain. After all, if I shut someone down for their innocent curiousity the experience may make them afraid to ask questions in the future, narrowing their horizons. So, if I have the time, I take the opportunity to tell them what I know about the Chinese disapora and the Chinese Civil War (not neccessarily in that order).</span><br style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;">My ethnicity is Chinese. I am 4th generation Chinese. My maternal great-grandfather was born in Imperial China. His party formed the Republic of China then set up government-in-exile in what is now modern-day Taiwan. You can read more about <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/07/taipei-taiwan-my-family-history.html" target="_blank">my family history in relation to Taiwan, here</a></span>. My grandfather was born in Singapore, his daughter (my mother) and I were born in Malaysia. As with many of the Chinese in Malaysia, I practise some Chinese traditions while I roll my eyes at others. I value my Chinese heritage and I closely follow Chinese interests. My heritage forms a part of my identity, from wearing red on Chinese New Year to taking the Chinese horoscope more seriously than the Western zodiac.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<blockquote style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Peranakan houses of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Joo+Chiat+Rd,+Singapore/@1.3099145,103.8998329,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x31da18127d2a2fa7:0x416794efcdfd6d34!8m2!3d1.3099091!4d103.9020269">Joo Chiat Road</a>. Yours for a cool S$5,000,000 and up. Personally I prefer my late grandfather’s house in Bukit Timah, at least his street wasn’t thronged with people taking photos (guilty as charged).</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">“If you’re Chinese, what are you doing outside of China?” Same as you, really - just living my life.</span>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"What kind of Asian are you?" Try "what kind of Chinese am I".</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">華人(HUA REN), 中國人 (ZHONG GUO REN), 華侨(HUA QIAO), & 華裔 (HUA YI): </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">4 DIFFERENT DISTINCTIONS OF CHINESE PEOPLE, AND WHAT DEFINES THEM.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><div style="font-family: Times;"><span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>華人 (HUA REN) - </u></span></span><u style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">ETHNICALLY CHINESE</u></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;">All people of Chinese descent are 華人 (Hua Ren), regardless of their nationality and whether or not they practise traditional Chinese customs. Grammatically, 華人 (Hua Ren) means someone of Chinese ethnicity, although it's generally used to refer to people outside the People’s Republic of China (PRC).</span><br style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" /><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>中國人 (ZHONG GUO REN) - </u></span><u style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">CITIZEN OF THE PEOPLE’S </u><u style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">REPUBLIC OF CHINA</u></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;">In oral usage in the People’s Republic of China (PRC, also known as Mainland China), 中國人 (Zhong Guo Ren) means someone ethnic Chinese-looking by racial appearance. In oral usage among the Chinese diaspora and outside Mainland China, 中國人 (Zhong Guo Ren) refers to the population of the People’s Republic of China, specifically those subjected to the Cultural Revolution. 中國人 (Zhong Guo Ren) are also known as Mainlanders and PRCs. The terms Mainlander and PRC are sometimes used with a derisive and snobbish tone by Chinese outside of Mainland China (Taiwanese, Hong Kongers, and Overseas Chinese) to distinguish themselves as more progressive, modern, and refined.</span><br style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">華 (Hua) can mean flower, splendid, Chinese, or China. 華 happens to be part of my Chinese name. Yes, I also have a Chinese name. Filling out forms is fun.</span></div>
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<div><u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">華侨 (HUA QIAO) - </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">OVERSEAS CHINESE </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">(FIRST GENERATION)</span></u></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">The PRC definition of 華侨 (Hua Qiao) is a Chinese citizen, or someone who could claim citizenship, but who is resident abroad. In actual everyday usage, 華侨 (Hua Qiao) refers to ethnic Chinese with overseas nationality but is usually restricted to first-generation immigrants.</span><br style="text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span><br style="text-align: justify;" /><div><u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">華裔 (HUA YI) - </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">OVERSEAS CHINESE </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">(2ND GENERATION OR MORE)</span></u></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"> 華裔 (Hua Yi) is similar to 華人 (Hua Ren) but signifies a slightly more distant connection. The word itself implies 'of Chinese extraction’. 華裔 (Hua Yi) can be used to refer to Overseas Chinese such as myself. I am part of the Chinese population of Malaysia who are ethnically Chinese and practise Chinese customs (some identify as Chinese more so than others) but my nationality (and to some extend, wider identity) is Malaysian.</span><br style="text-align: justify;" /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">So, to summarise: All ethnically Chinese people are 華人(Hua Ren). All citizens of the People’s Republic of China are 中國人 (Zhong Guo Ren). All first generation Chinese people outside of PRC are 華侨(Hua Qiao). All 2nd (or more) generation Chinese people outside of PRC are 華裔 (Hua Yi).</span><br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujtoGzWugufXxrVXk4NmxC_20bi5N6SZ7hoLHeFl6Qm1EsHnDbLjErb7qrvlPpx5AAL6z102XPTGX9sbmvmw2t-SnmrcQnuEiVa6rNzth5OT-vo1cR4KocEX0kGFCZZ2gWYQ84oXKCOY/s1600/The+pastel+Peranakan+houses+of+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Singapore: My Identity, My Heritage, My Multi-National Upbringing, & More by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujtoGzWugufXxrVXk4NmxC_20bi5N6SZ7hoLHeFl6Qm1EsHnDbLjErb7qrvlPpx5AAL6z102XPTGX9sbmvmw2t-SnmrcQnuEiVa6rNzth5OT-vo1cR4KocEX0kGFCZZ2gWYQ84oXKCOY/s1600/The+pastel+Peranakan+houses+of+Singapore+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" title="Singapore: My Identity, My Heritage, My Multi-National Upbringing, & More by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Identity, heritage, and all its subtle nuances can be a complex thread to unravel. Especially if you grew up and lived around the world. In my next story, I’ll show you my childhood haunts in Singapore as well as some of Singapore’s newer delights.</span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-48424206118088620482018-12-29T00:22:00.009+00:002022-11-17T03:03:34.690+00:0012 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJyMxENQr38tAounAKjKmTUI9KDEFOpRJNJvpSy-1-S7TRsOkMm90nFrmg5E8ef_bODEbKe8xKhKlZzx3LI8SHWvWfiSYVBSKSi2rffjPebDql6FzqJLgyVcK173i9MRF4KPeKUmITLwQ/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJyMxENQr38tAounAKjKmTUI9KDEFOpRJNJvpSy-1-S7TRsOkMm90nFrmg5E8ef_bODEbKe8xKhKlZzx3LI8SHWvWfiSYVBSKSi2rffjPebDql6FzqJLgyVcK173i9MRF4KPeKUmITLwQ/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><blockquote>With 36 trips (excluding some commutes between my homes in Malaysia and England*), 12 countries and over 30 cities visited (some of them 3 times this year), and my 43rd country under my belt; 2018 has been a rather good year for travel. With the clock hands inching ever closer to the new year, here is a look back at <b>My Travels of 2018: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly</b>.</blockquote></span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">*because we all know that when I am in Kuala Lumpur and/or London, all I do is (in the paraphrased words of my dear friend Sheena) “Sloth at home in pyjamas and watch RuPaul’s Drag Race”.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKrF_lqUFroBkuWILcfJKQO8RvAEj769M-Q2eVx5ZCReKRWx9Z1tY8jdel_9i0sO9d7C07xgnMNiE6rp2gakeh77tQS7NWR7S59GeTp0oedlvHT1PZ2Q1RHC_QK9uB7XfRHmJv5Q6t2o/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKrF_lqUFroBkuWILcfJKQO8RvAEj769M-Q2eVx5ZCReKRWx9Z1tY8jdel_9i0sO9d7C07xgnMNiE6rp2gakeh77tQS7NWR7S59GeTp0oedlvHT1PZ2Q1RHC_QK9uB7XfRHmJv5Q6t2o/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.jpg" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpImoqBSUew_4_FmI-5IiXTrtIje7Urvvoe-VMS5Zjb-Y-5u4f-JczdwcWZPa0x4-xry-c_VhVlAzv9nDZHdYWu3SKg7VNpBLPKr8SyDSHqqfLROKaSH4rwi4dYH1lqq1tU1DCSbCcsM/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpImoqBSUew_4_FmI-5IiXTrtIje7Urvvoe-VMS5Zjb-Y-5u4f-JczdwcWZPa0x4-xry-c_VhVlAzv9nDZHdYWu3SKg7VNpBLPKr8SyDSHqqfLROKaSH4rwi4dYH1lqq1tU1DCSbCcsM/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>JANUARY</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1. SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">2 & 3. MUMBAI and JAIPUR, INDIA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">__________________</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I kicked off 2018 in Singapore with family, watching the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BdWr1qlhhqN/">fireworks display over Marina Bay Sands</a>. It would have been a glorious start to the year if I wasn’t convalescing from a cold, which I brought with me from <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Cambodia">Christmas in Cambodia</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thankfully, I was back on form at the end of the month, although the drama didn’t end there. I meant to fly with mummy from Malaysia to India for a dear friend’s wedding, but a visa mix-up on her part meant that I was flying solo. I arrived in Mumbai and <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/03/taj-mahal-palace-mumbai.html">spent a night at the opulent Taj Mahal Palace Hotel</a>, a place I could finally tick off my bucket list of hotels. The day before my friend’s wedding - a three day ‘Bigger than Bollywood’ extravaganza with a <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/02/destination-wedding-jaipur-india.html">sangeet party in a historical fort</a> - I had a day to <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/02/jaipur-india-amber-fort.html">explore Jaipur</a>. The Pink City of India was as <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/02/24-hours-in-jaipur-india.html">unreal, intense, and beautiful</a> as I had always imagined.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNa5isu6GPEWvDEGOyxLSKm38McZSIekefGLUyU7Tk-BwuSsIPgXRaxgnIY6vgMzCUOsY6fs7_QD6m1iUQGEP45Y3Vmb-eC9q7YfqYK-5ZTouQTRbJB5Qi7ScQmqURrGcq2KXpbEikNw/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNa5isu6GPEWvDEGOyxLSKm38McZSIekefGLUyU7Tk-BwuSsIPgXRaxgnIY6vgMzCUOsY6fs7_QD6m1iUQGEP45Y3Vmb-eC9q7YfqYK-5ZTouQTRbJB5Qi7ScQmqURrGcq2KXpbEikNw/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">FEBRUARY</span></i></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">4. KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA</span></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">5&6. KOTA KINABALU & SANDAKAN, </span><span style="font-size: large;">MALAYSIA</span></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />__________________</div><div><br /></div></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">It was with some relief when I landed in <u>Kuala Lumpur</u>, where I could control almost every variable to my exacting standards. And so, the military efficiency which I had so desperately missed in Mumbai was put to work. I hosted <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.luxlife-blog.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">my dear friend Luxy</a></span> with a whistle stop tour of my home city. Even with just <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/03/24-hours-in-kuala-lumpur.html" target="_blank">24 Hours in Kuala Lumpur</a></span>, I daresay I encapsulated the diversity of the city: Hindu temples in limestone caves, colonial meets Islamic landmarks, and Taoist temples in the heart of Chinatown.</span><br /><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Luxy and I hopped on a flight to the main event in <u>Kota Kinabalu</u>, North Borneo: Chinese New Year celebrations with my maternal family and of course, to tick an experience off her bucket list. We took a day trip to <u>Sandakan</u>, hoping for a glimpse of the elusive orangutan. At Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, we ooh-ed and aah-ed at adorable baby orangutans in the nursery, held our breath when a wild adult orangutan made an appearance, then had a pinch-me moment when the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/03/sepilok-orangutan.html" target="_blank">orangutan stalked and came face-to-face to us</a></span>. With Luxy’s <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.luxlife-blog.com/2018/03/weekend-in-northern-borneo-with-orangutans.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">childhood dream realised</a></span>, I decided I had earned the right to hashtag my Instagram with <span style="color: #990000;">#YipAdvisor</span>.</div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-zv2kDs8yZGmApE0PQpKbs80MM7KZVJMrY7oSE4IwSoMEc7IfZXPBGjMvtolts5XdzcsecNNnWtsJLKN7F6EyEEhffeildqPefLGFP6h5oQMUEtuHrq3G4zc2zxLuIQNLSl5KWZCv1Y/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-zv2kDs8yZGmApE0PQpKbs80MM7KZVJMrY7oSE4IwSoMEc7IfZXPBGjMvtolts5XdzcsecNNnWtsJLKN7F6EyEEhffeildqPefLGFP6h5oQMUEtuHrq3G4zc2zxLuIQNLSl5KWZCv1Y/w265-h400/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: #b6d7a8; font-size: x-small;">MONKEY BUSINESS AT SEPILOK ORANGUTAN REHABILITATION CENTRE<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Eec47MH8Eun-WzKOLvDaR9C65tXjlnOqJqC8bamvNoRlsF_BNE9kQtzfRgLOPjOypWVal7zv0Aa30Iv_AabbWJcnje096-P7PW04kLc3Ai00xJvWij43prw0HBwB9Zs1cY7PaGjPiNc/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Eec47MH8Eun-WzKOLvDaR9C65tXjlnOqJqC8bamvNoRlsF_BNE9kQtzfRgLOPjOypWVal7zv0Aa30Iv_AabbWJcnje096-P7PW04kLc3Ai00xJvWij43prw0HBwB9Zs1cY7PaGjPiNc/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJOhKso4qBOxaKxuTqqs15Y7NT56izmqdinc2ds_UUrBcnJqlr-rGmNL5lqGBFquFxIfnz7fEQHrlcbI9uH2dDHVXudaSdhCVEJzLfEw1W0sBGRc6M00MXW28gSa-wl-l36SVD69R1is/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJOhKso4qBOxaKxuTqqs15Y7NT56izmqdinc2ds_UUrBcnJqlr-rGmNL5lqGBFquFxIfnz7fEQHrlcbI9uH2dDHVXudaSdhCVEJzLfEw1W0sBGRc6M00MXW28gSa-wl-l36SVD69R1is/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eqXaQ2WZwT6HxPhDPENp3oQGHcUoMktj0VqyQ0hh9uFgF-hz2M5S45RNA7z3892Wi8qEGdZ89mHtQa_sjkahDERX0U2_oBGuKkqs1KTytN45vsjUSGbjJG7TAPFacUj1wo08Ri9x5BU/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eqXaQ2WZwT6HxPhDPENp3oQGHcUoMktj0VqyQ0hh9uFgF-hz2M5S45RNA7z3892Wi8qEGdZ89mHtQa_sjkahDERX0U2_oBGuKkqs1KTytN45vsjUSGbjJG7TAPFacUj1wo08Ri9x5BU/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">CONTEMPLATING THE 12 APOSTLES IN AUSTRALIA</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>MARCH</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">7. MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">8 & 9. OKINAWA and KYOTO, JAPAN</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">10. KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">__________________</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In March, I moved to Melbourne for just under a month. Partly to decorate and flip a property, partly to test the waters and <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/04/melbourne-australia-itinerary.html">see if I could play house</a> in “the most liveable city in the world”. I also squeezed in a <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/05/twelve-apostles-australia.html">day trip along the Great Ocean Road</a> and appreciated the breathtaking ruggedness of one of the world’s greatest coastal roads.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Later that month, I redeemed my failed attempt at enjoying Okinawa. This time, I was at ease to explore the “<a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/09/okinawa-japan.html">Hawaii of Japan</a>” and appreciate how vastly different it is from the rest of Japan; both in climate and culture. I moved on to the Imperial City and <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/09/four-seasons-kyoto-japan.html">stayed at the luxurious and refined Four Seasons Kyoto</a> for the 2nd time. Although I arrived in Kyoto before the peak of cherry blossom season, I was lucky enough to glimpse sakura in bloom. During a <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/04/kimono-in-kyoto-japan.html">walk around the geisha district of Gion dressed in traditional kimono</a>, no less. With this trip I had come full circle with <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2017/11/kyoto-japan-fushimi-inari.html">last Autumn’s visit to Kyoto</a>. I felt so blessed to <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/09/kyoto-japan-top-10.html">complete my Kyoto experience</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ti0Ite8zQskr4xVelRc4ZofmK54bJwE_ql8eynlczspRzBC0MRvOXok2v3zsTkDUj3rw949ynDW_Jn3-pvqYm3AsU0mNxjnhtOIak4qXpe9wkQ2f-0xGYUGYXJottbjDz249YJEqs18/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1525" data-original-width="1016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ti0Ite8zQskr4xVelRc4ZofmK54bJwE_ql8eynlczspRzBC0MRvOXok2v3zsTkDUj3rw949ynDW_Jn3-pvqYm3AsU0mNxjnhtOIak4qXpe9wkQ2f-0xGYUGYXJottbjDz249YJEqs18/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkvPUa4B16G_OMr2iPcBXWx0lJbqhQb8LqS3XRZliByXDcShr3eSombVckx-KWdthtv6yFzQDsKntX9lZkQxyTCjAhd6rcFOxaefla8vSmMjEgbyt0cEJq_GhtoN3LWvr1kJya9IRbKA/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkvPUa4B16G_OMr2iPcBXWx0lJbqhQb8LqS3XRZliByXDcShr3eSombVckx-KWdthtv6yFzQDsKntX9lZkQxyTCjAhd6rcFOxaefla8vSmMjEgbyt0cEJq_GhtoN3LWvr1kJya9IRbKA/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><i>APRIL</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">11. BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, BRUNEI</span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">At the end of March I would visit <u>Kota Kinabalu</u> for the 2nd of 3 times in 2018. It was a fortuitous position to visit Brunei, a nearby, tiny oil-rich Muslim nation. I made a day trip to the capital, <u>Bandar Seri Begawan</u> to disprove Brunei’s nickname as “the most boring country in the world”. Verdict? Not entirely unjustifiable, but my opinion was certainly biased becase a) culturally, Brunei is similar to Malaysia, down to the shared language and b) of yet another airline-related mishap (and we’re just a quarter in the year, how promising!). The entire experience was so traumatising *<i>shudders delicately</i>* that it took me almost half a year to talk about it, although it did make for what is possibly <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/09/bandar-seri-begawan-brunei-darussalam.html" target="_blank">the funniest travel story I’ve ever written</a></span>. They do say that the greatest art is borne from pain...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPD-pL2TLkJnH5EW0YjDPj7DdtBkzDmd3EqvPT7amofAsU1l03T9yLrJhNRsKwb-3o9YFS-D3GftxK1cheWZFeM_RGsJ_BTltkGYEt5rdt9CL-bliLfEL1wbZWBLTHW5YRDRu8B-BRM8/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPD-pL2TLkJnH5EW0YjDPj7DdtBkzDmd3EqvPT7amofAsU1l03T9yLrJhNRsKwb-3o9YFS-D3GftxK1cheWZFeM_RGsJ_BTltkGYEt5rdt9CL-bliLfEL1wbZWBLTHW5YRDRu8B-BRM8/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgS4O8WB3QFJ06WOplg2xO60VSUyXxz0IBdUBYWz_6u2900LUcmijB9NQLsEtkyLS23hRm6mvofMU6rYZo5qVzQOpdryUW5_ETzbgCrIpwkhTSc1drh-Hn_EYSFOVXi1bO-rzZOfkWCCE/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgS4O8WB3QFJ06WOplg2xO60VSUyXxz0IBdUBYWz_6u2900LUcmijB9NQLsEtkyLS23hRm6mvofMU6rYZo5qVzQOpdryUW5_ETzbgCrIpwkhTSc1drh-Hn_EYSFOVXi1bO-rzZOfkWCCE/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">THE CHURCH OF ST ILDENFONSO, PORTO<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>MAY</i><br />12 - 15. PORTUGAL:<br />LISBON, FATIMA, SINTRA, and PORTO</span><br /><br />__________________<br /><br /><br />By May, I had deemed the climate in England to be mild enough to return. I headed back to London for a brief spell, mostly to make sure my houseplants hadn’t all fallen prey to the Beast from the East and died (Spoiler: some of them did). Mummy dearest nipped over to London for the Chelsea Flower Show, which did not meet her expectations. Just as well that we had a mini-tour of Portugal to cushion the disappointment. No stranger to Lisbon, I showed mummy how to spend a short spell in the capital city, which I condensed into my story <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/06/24-hours-in-lisbon-portugal.html">24 Hours in Lisbon</a>. Lisbon was our springboard to other parts of the country. We made a day trip to the holiest city in Portugal, Fatima, where we <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/06/fatima-portugal.html">witnessed a pilgrimage rivalled only by my visit to the Vatican City</a>. Followed by another day trip to Sintra, where we hiked (fine, bus-sed) the length and breadth of its hills exploring its <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/06/sintra-portugal-day-trip.html">collections of castles, palaces, and stately homes</a> including the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/06/sintra-portugal-pena-palace.html">technicolour trip that is Pena Palace</a>. Duly knackered, we decompressed with a few lazy days in Porto, <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/08/porto-portugal.html">promenading along the banks of the Duoro</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCK6c1yYOS72anuV-DGpfSr2U97uI0dVuiywOYZZzReLR_X9q1Rc3O_d89zTnBXAuIiO1-AsKSBN6r64S-JLYPBXpIlVAu4rA6OMaPUlPVWvl-z_GI_XOkSNY-mTH5DhrZvim5gsgsXc/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCK6c1yYOS72anuV-DGpfSr2U97uI0dVuiywOYZZzReLR_X9q1Rc3O_d89zTnBXAuIiO1-AsKSBN6r64S-JLYPBXpIlVAu4rA6OMaPUlPVWvl-z_GI_XOkSNY-mTH5DhrZvim5gsgsXc/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoC1gk3ALT-rn-W8-AqAYbZpTbr97BdCTroOhb4gveoR_CGfK7Dm9EP72ATEqHnNCXG3YRT6m7_Ans2TXebMkwjbxKxwImUSuRgQYOw7F2d8yC9AZrFKzZbzpy5up23n-nA7e_SaPCWc/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoC1gk3ALT-rn-W8-AqAYbZpTbr97BdCTroOhb4gveoR_CGfK7Dm9EP72ATEqHnNCXG3YRT6m7_Ans2TXebMkwjbxKxwImUSuRgQYOw7F2d8yC9AZrFKzZbzpy5up23n-nA7e_SaPCWc/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" /></a><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>JUNE</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">16. MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA</span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">17 - 18. TAIPEI and NEW TAIPEI CITY; TAIWAN</span></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">__________________</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">From one home (London) to a potential one (Melbourne) via another (K.L). My 2nd trip to Melbourne in 2018 was eventful, although not always for the best reasons. At least <span>brunch was good</span>. </span>My second visit this year to <u>Taipei</u>, was a trip of the heart. There, I confronted my family history; <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/07/taipei-taiwan-my-family-history.html" target="_blank">interwoven as it is with the founding of the Republic of China</a></span> (not to be confused with the People’s Republic of China), the status of which is a hotly-contested topic. Is Taiwan a country or a rogue state destined for unification with the Mainland? What is the answer to the Taiwan Question and the One China policy? I learned more about <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/08/taipei-taiwan-8-things-to-do-in-taipei.html" target="_blank">modern-day Taiwan </a></span>and of the Chinese Civil War in Taipei (where I stayed at one of my favourite hotel chains, the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/07/W-Hotel-Taipei-review.html" target="_blank">W Taipei</a></span>) through the medium of history, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/07/National-Palace-Museum-Silks-Palace-Taipei.html" target="_blank">food and art</a></span>. I then took my mind off such heavy topics with a visit to <u>New Taipei City</u>; through a scenic coastal drive, a cat village, and a former colonial Japanese mining town <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/08/new-taipei-city-taiwan.html" target="_blank">rumoured to be the inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved film Spirited Away</a></span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8F7B7E58x71DXGK21cGbvaQuV5sw8TTTy7Fru-xl9eglqjeYtZH9p5-gB9iWpQeYd5J5llBS1aPH0_cbGYG6qq_3Y_p7YAmm4w682wS42CgoGURDkk5QAOQxIYYKdzM5iPpRuMb705w/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8F7B7E58x71DXGK21cGbvaQuV5sw8TTTy7Fru-xl9eglqjeYtZH9p5-gB9iWpQeYd5J5llBS1aPH0_cbGYG6qq_3Y_p7YAmm4w682wS42CgoGURDkk5QAOQxIYYKdzM5iPpRuMb705w/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuolSkawozUgNIc4CI54yP1_NT4MQalbEd0QnIRld1A4sAvCc8L9h1-N45QhwdR0E5qzwnmTFDqQCYFxXZ_SIH2a8_5BMLmOj-IubS3wYtTjq9ebHGWQliHgY8CY6ya_w8FPf3M5lpqPI/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuolSkawozUgNIc4CI54yP1_NT4MQalbEd0QnIRld1A4sAvCc8L9h1-N45QhwdR0E5qzwnmTFDqQCYFxXZ_SIH2a8_5BMLmOj-IubS3wYtTjq9ebHGWQliHgY8CY6ya_w8FPf3M5lpqPI/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFIrI2KwO4LLMIsrUPgKHfpug38tkkGMLIFUtbkcgr30B3OH-Vr0HuiUIPTv21g9ILZ_YVabk38KHv4GlJvi4rRkN-QYTmxvFVTkTtr6GVaA9dkpsCguN74BHQ4YyAKyoRx2Jid4hCq9o/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFIrI2KwO4LLMIsrUPgKHfpug38tkkGMLIFUtbkcgr30B3OH-Vr0HuiUIPTv21g9ILZ_YVabk38KHv4GlJvi4rRkN-QYTmxvFVTkTtr6GVaA9dkpsCguN74BHQ4YyAKyoRx2Jid4hCq9o/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_19.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">MARVELLOUS MARRAKECH: THE SOUKS WERE ENLIGHTENING.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>SEPTEMBER</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">19 - 29. MOROCCO: RABAT, MEKNES, FES, </span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">ERFOUD, HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS, </span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">MIDELT, OUARZAZATE, BOUMALNE DADES, MARRAKESH, ESSAOUIRA, and CASABLANCA</span></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">__________________</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I spent the rest of summer in London before embarking on what would be the travel highlight of my year: my virgin trip to Africa. I started ‘small’, choosing one of the great continent’s Northern-most countries: <u>Morocco</u>.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">A ten-day road trip ensued. I started and ended my journey from/at <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/casablanca-morocco.html" target="_blank">Casablanca</a></span>, making my way across Midelt and Ourzazate through the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/high-atlas-mountains-morocco.html" target="_blank">High Atlas Mountains</a></span> to <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/rabat-meknes-morocco.html" target="_blank">royal Rabat and dusty Meknes</a></span>, to the craft capital of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/fez-morocco.html" target="_blank">Fes</a></span>, the sand dunes of the Sahara at the edge of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/erfoud-morocco.html" target="_blank">Erfoud</a></span>, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/todra-boumalne-dades-morocco.html" target="_blank">Boumalne Dades</a></span>, unexpectedly-European <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/essaouira-morocco.html" target="_blank">Essaouira</a></span>, and of course; the ever-enchanting <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Marrakech" target="_blank">Marrakech</a></span>. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">My visit to Morocco was the perfect introduction to the surprising diversity of the country. From the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/todra-boumalne-dades-morocco.html" target="_blank">luscious rivers that run through its gorges and valleys</a></span> to the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/argan-oil-tree-goats-morocco.html" target="_blank">tree-climbing goats of argan county</a></span>; my 10-day and multi-city tour of Morocco challenged my perception of this country and surprised me in so many ways.</span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjetEz1emV-bE5vasmIxvnSq90wHs9nP6rl2o-EltqPKrolrDXh4IrecZPBKJY_Wk5By3JqmTXsy4CIdtu0wiVCvDbvIDdXfRtKQVkBeqCHblgEzG9cs75kyq1J7dhs69pNrjjFttHHxRk/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjetEz1emV-bE5vasmIxvnSq90wHs9nP6rl2o-EltqPKrolrDXh4IrecZPBKJY_Wk5By3JqmTXsy4CIdtu0wiVCvDbvIDdXfRtKQVkBeqCHblgEzG9cs75kyq1J7dhs69pNrjjFttHHxRk/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_30.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">THE GORGEOUS GORGES OF BOUMALNE DADES<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39PLfZ_plY4QrFVB-EmiNYlLIC0DXx9UGWYl5TgO3WxMTLLBnjPzcr5vB62YEjKUnC21TeXB1aM2EHJptGszW17ijp4Q_oSFdzM909-NEBJ61H26pgVWb8M_-_VUIPBAGUBIP8Yzy8KY/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39PLfZ_plY4QrFVB-EmiNYlLIC0DXx9UGWYl5TgO3WxMTLLBnjPzcr5vB62YEjKUnC21TeXB1aM2EHJptGszW17ijp4Q_oSFdzM909-NEBJ61H26pgVWb8M_-_VUIPBAGUBIP8Yzy8KY/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_29.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">THE HIGHEST ROAD OF THE HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS, TIZI N'TICHKA</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2mq3GgURchGeV6eAWJ3osPBt4timLXRqSJxNgZUmGfHPXoUdLgeuMVPkPlpwJjMsyJc15pyDZWU2nZxyW_jbO783KiYyHD8lnBKyD6ZBSKNO7ne5Xlp6WNTICDyR8BST4_sTcf2PL9E/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2mq3GgURchGeV6eAWJ3osPBt4timLXRqSJxNgZUmGfHPXoUdLgeuMVPkPlpwJjMsyJc15pyDZWU2nZxyW_jbO783KiYyHD8lnBKyD6ZBSKNO7ne5Xlp6WNTICDyR8BST4_sTcf2PL9E/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_22.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM, BILBAO</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">30 - 32. SPAIN: BARCELONA, </span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">BILBAO, and SAN SEBASTIAN</span><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">__________________</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I saw out the rest of September in a more languid fashion. From Morocco, I headed straight to <u>Spain</u>. The first port of call was <u>Barcelona</u>, a city that <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2016/07/Barcelona-summer-travel.html" target="_blank">holds few mysteries for me</a></span>; having visited many a time. However, I did finally get round to a culinary experience that had somehow evaded me - the degustation menu at <u>3 Michelin Star restaurant ABaC</u>.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Afterward, I nipped over to <u>Bilbao</u> to check out the <u>Guggenheim</u>. Although I was not blown away (having had seen most of its exhibits either in its NYC counterpart or in other international museums), I had a pleasant day nonetheless. <u>San Sebastian</u> was more of a success for me on the art front - this charming coastal city was like a living museum, with modern sculptures cleverly juxtaposed against historical sites throughout this compact Old Quarter. The delicious pintxos (Basque country’s answer to tapas) too, qualified as works of art. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHtlcErZyjbPyXV65Ox4fcVgr2pdIjp6yRFp6l3YIxxa_0h-iflavHJBN1mjynwhFDPS_0QD9L3z_eyouB6U3i8H6LYomTkM4chSTnXDtKfW66cajf7muD2oK63xX5B8HFDtfbkkWUuog/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHtlcErZyjbPyXV65Ox4fcVgr2pdIjp6yRFp6l3YIxxa_0h-iflavHJBN1mjynwhFDPS_0QD9L3z_eyouB6U3i8H6LYomTkM4chSTnXDtKfW66cajf7muD2oK63xX5B8HFDtfbkkWUuog/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2wWCo50SblpjFm6VCiKdI-3bEuxM26BP_kh3D3ylVyclCe_ZiLLp0A0q199NAAFP1MuLs1WDGggYglm1HRYjlAfeip2yFJIlazYUmfbGpv0LCGGmdQruVOhZdy6TcPjHNvtCcCgcSww/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2wWCo50SblpjFm6VCiKdI-3bEuxM26BP_kh3D3ylVyclCe_ZiLLp0A0q199NAAFP1MuLs1WDGggYglm1HRYjlAfeip2yFJIlazYUmfbGpv0LCGGmdQruVOhZdy6TcPjHNvtCcCgcSww/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_21.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzrTS9c_VaEcE-lgEn1Q1KqPB67nUiuDkjl3CZaR9-Zzqt-4OdawBx32Bs9eewXEw9Tq2yyoojiwXzkyyYMnEJGBeDBs9BiVeV2QvMfeG6UBozCr70yDz5g1iChXkC6XpaeKdmXdtIoE/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_24.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzrTS9c_VaEcE-lgEn1Q1KqPB67nUiuDkjl3CZaR9-Zzqt-4OdawBx32Bs9eewXEw9Tq2yyoojiwXzkyyYMnEJGBeDBs9BiVeV2QvMfeG6UBozCr70yDz5g1iChXkC6XpaeKdmXdtIoE/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_24.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRWB6FNNlvj1f0C2TEuONu6DgOeYW8HGVC3TQu3JnYeQD2pLasjwyB2b6R6z3oMQ11Zrb52SPMDuhmb0VKLXHrb0_jdo6S216DRiXTL_Ux2kejReMNyHCKWB0NGHSltbFUpjq1dEF_Zs/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRWB6FNNlvj1f0C2TEuONu6DgOeYW8HGVC3TQu3JnYeQD2pLasjwyB2b6R6z3oMQ11Zrb52SPMDuhmb0VKLXHrb0_jdo6S216DRiXTL_Ux2kejReMNyHCKWB0NGHSltbFUpjq1dEF_Zs/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_23.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">OCTOBER</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">33. KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">34. SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">35. MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">NOVEMBER</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">36. BANGKOK, THAILAND</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>DECEMBER</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">...BACK TO OL' BLIGHTY, ENGLAND</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">__________________</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Another commute from London back to Kuala Lumpur, followed by the year’s 3rd visit to Kota Kinabalu, which I may have slightly miffed about: my family and I were meant to be in Bali celebrating my step-grandfather’s birthday, but my grandmother insisted we celebrated at home, so K.K it was. And then a volcano erupted in Bali, followed by my grandmother's knowing “I told you so”. In October I made my 2nd visit to Singapore, where I revisited childhood haunts as well as modern attractions. The contrast between the old and the new sums Singapore up wonderfully. The year’s 3rd visit to Melbourne which turned out to be extremely stressful but ultimately, freeing. I immediately headed to Bangkok, Thailand, to recuperate, leaving the sanctuary of the Siam Kempinski (<i>below</i>) only to shop, eat, and take afternoon tea.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipX7h5vRnSk-GVf-GS631ZXRMYp4b3Ukl3oIn2JB8O6mp4bf-4hsGjlPlMY2H4ReIwznVPRUUOVs-9REQ2PeCVq6cNISHS01as15ayD7tltYmpcNiYzWBOkBjUq1dGzhbhTcw9nWN1md4/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_25.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipX7h5vRnSk-GVf-GS631ZXRMYp4b3Ukl3oIn2JB8O6mp4bf-4hsGjlPlMY2H4ReIwznVPRUUOVs-9REQ2PeCVq6cNISHS01as15ayD7tltYmpcNiYzWBOkBjUq1dGzhbhTcw9nWN1md4/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_25.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXugGD1NqPFIyD3TEMHcV0oyMXunGTYSvkpAsUCnBhCr4XAVPyyE6reovjS5pj1DXKZQWHmelCx6ygu5BAtMJoutZ8_xTzkxl2_OlhweqoApzVJdJGofrdwmIATgtjdNeiTlLaG26LQQ/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_26.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXugGD1NqPFIyD3TEMHcV0oyMXunGTYSvkpAsUCnBhCr4XAVPyyE6reovjS5pj1DXKZQWHmelCx6ygu5BAtMJoutZ8_xTzkxl2_OlhweqoApzVJdJGofrdwmIATgtjdNeiTlLaG26LQQ/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_26.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwi68zJbPfQZWe-a-wQkXYbKG2OY6WJkHsFnApQzPsyiOdf3N9RWwFLgs4XI7bDDYoRPxTlzGd7xJgGixfPs75v7XrhL3RsKEufA3schvJVqF1Y7jDRNpRaA-EDdk365c_3kTJqDfgzk/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_27.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwi68zJbPfQZWe-a-wQkXYbKG2OY6WJkHsFnApQzPsyiOdf3N9RWwFLgs4XI7bDDYoRPxTlzGd7xJgGixfPs75v7XrhL3RsKEufA3schvJVqF1Y7jDRNpRaA-EDdk365c_3kTJqDfgzk/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_27.jpg" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">AND FINALLY, BACK IN LONDON FOR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: right;"></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">__________________</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><span style="font-size: large;">A YEAR OF TRAVEL, IN NUMBERS: <span style="color: #cc0000;">12</span> COUNTRIES, <span style="color: #cc0000;">30</span> CITIES, <span style="color: #cc0000;">36</span> TRIPS, <span style="color: #cc0000;">43rd</span>* COUNTRY VISITED</span></blockquote></div><div style="text-align: center;">*that would be Morocco. Any guesses as to what my 44th country will be? Although, 44 being a very unlucky number for the Chinese, perhaps I best not have high expectations...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">__________________</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijp9efZ0PdN7OqQPaIzjGi7G-2VGm-6GxdspsSlAOCnkLHqafWhSePFW-pLmgbefvJaltLKAry02Lg6AAMOjZ8WdkLPySewOp6gKy6T3oKsofgAd7L3-W8NmqFCxaX4g0_0zPuxD4ZYUE/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_28.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijp9efZ0PdN7OqQPaIzjGi7G-2VGm-6GxdspsSlAOCnkLHqafWhSePFW-pLmgbefvJaltLKAry02Lg6AAMOjZ8WdkLPySewOp6gKy6T3oKsofgAd7L3-W8NmqFCxaX4g0_0zPuxD4ZYUE/s1600/2018%252C+A+Year+in+Travel+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_28.JPG" title="12 Countries, 30 Cities, and 36 Trips: 2018, A Year In Travel by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div></div>
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<span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><span>The saying is: "Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer". </span>In that case, 2018 has been a year of great fortune for me. Thank you for joining me on my trip down memory lane. Here's wishing you an enriching New Year full of priceless treasures. x</span></div>
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</div>Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-12487810445652755892018-11-30T23:01:00.000+00:002022-12-16T07:08:19.725+00:00Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibyf6fRBSPvRKVO4WLxZUX-93HR5lKFiMWc2GLJpSwypjwCYBQrv9O-znuDQ_aK0XruAYS46ZeVtaX4iYYxO2v0BVmxa9T0h40rXwQej6RHoUNp6Xfaa75HA0xFib4CUnk2cwDi_HYB5Q/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibyf6fRBSPvRKVO4WLxZUX-93HR5lKFiMWc2GLJpSwypjwCYBQrv9O-znuDQ_aK0XruAYS46ZeVtaX4iYYxO2v0BVmxa9T0h40rXwQej6RHoUNp6Xfaa75HA0xFib4CUnk2cwDi_HYB5Q/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Spanish Fly: The Journey Home from Morocco, by way of Spain</span></span> </span></h3></blockquote><blockquote><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;">SAN SEBASTIAN - BILBAO - BARCELONA </span></span></h3></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p>This past summer I made my virgin voyage to Africa, with a tour of Morocco that took me through the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/high-atlas-mountains-morocco.html" target="_blank">Atlas Mountains</a>, the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/erfoud-morocco.html" target="_blank">Saharan desert</a>, and <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/casablanca-morocco.html" target="_blank">coast</a> to <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/essaouira-morocco.html" target="_blank">coast</a>. It was an extensive road trip that covered at least a dozen cities and towns, <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Morocco" target="_blank">9 of which I blogged about</a>. But sometimes, you can have too much of a good thing. As they say in France (and Morocco) - <i>c’est l'embarras des richesses</i>. After 10 days of being on the road, spending each night in a different town or city; and eating enough tagine, cous cous, and lamb to last a lifetime; I couldn’t quite head straight back to the grey skies and gravy of England, could I? I needed a transition destination - a holiday to recover from a holiday, if you will - in a country that was different enough to be interesting yet familiar enough to ease me back into reality. So I spent 5 much-needed days in Spain: decompressing and recalibrating in San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Barcelona. As one does...</p><p><br /><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug6f6MEB0osyy2ZPTk-JM79vgO9huyxbYt7e6FamF6yasYnXGeq0HzmyXcIWooKlS_pxjJKJfm7kkQNNqyZul9b7GoEm5Ez5SOr74VUE2qj_wRwyqlouNmjgRAcDmi9X0GhC6oqtBBhs/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug6f6MEB0osyy2ZPTk-JM79vgO9huyxbYt7e6FamF6yasYnXGeq0HzmyXcIWooKlS_pxjJKJfm7kkQNNqyZul9b7GoEm5Ez5SOr74VUE2qj_wRwyqlouNmjgRAcDmi9X0GhC6oqtBBhs/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkr-t-tVpDaFrPFwd2YXwq7xFzfpHpCJpqnouyJ05K5A1-h9yOAvDFQCtc7GDvJpyVXTDCkaBNAHXCKPS2Vqoijh8mQ26S12QR-mUMU86x00vZ0yw95zlmgagIlxYTlV7cp27CkpcWjM/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkr-t-tVpDaFrPFwd2YXwq7xFzfpHpCJpqnouyJ05K5A1-h9yOAvDFQCtc7GDvJpyVXTDCkaBNAHXCKPS2Vqoijh8mQ26S12QR-mUMU86x00vZ0yw95zlmgagIlxYTlV7cp27CkpcWjM/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-family: times;"><u>SAN SEBASTIAN</u> </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-family: times;">Though not my first post-Morocco-port-of-call (that honour went to Barcelona), I felt truly relaxed in San Sebastian. How could I not? San Sebastian was designed for languid repose: geographically (perched on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country, the landscape itself is a hindrance to productivity), in design (the compact old town is made for walking - narrow, polished stone streets dotted with modern sculpture in surprising situations), and culturally (their answer to Spain’s tapas is pintxos, pronounced “pinch-ohs” which itself is so adorable that you feel compelled to pinch your way through every tavern’s entire menu). Clearly, the visiting crowd got the memo: Dutch tourists who merrily squeezed 4 to a car headed to Bilbao (clearly unbothered by the constraints of physics), an elderly French couple with their Cavalier King Charles spaniel (my favourite breed of dog, so naturally I’m biased), bronzed beach bums, hikers with walking sticks and all the time in the world. And then there was me, unwinding from my Morocco trip in full-unglam ie. without a stitch of makeup, hair in a messy top knot, and feet in Birkenstocks.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc2dNEBC87AJvIioIUzVG0jWUESp-mSQYLeLgtnvgfgFOab28joQbc4_CoLV-4TYShPaXqenBvYG6bKJsC_yejy7wWxnk5QIgX-HN9Bb_ritkm9wSVNshEllSTeFw5Lw8oyL8wNRXT1E/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc2dNEBC87AJvIioIUzVG0jWUESp-mSQYLeLgtnvgfgFOab28joQbc4_CoLV-4TYShPaXqenBvYG6bKJsC_yejy7wWxnk5QIgX-HN9Bb_ritkm9wSVNshEllSTeFw5Lw8oyL8wNRXT1E/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Q8i1YwbCBhdfo_uXfxSVdkYfU6BPQGqOOdnXiba1Ym95rXnTjfHf7Fnc2IbwLrez0GjIRfrcN7-JrqGBlVynUDkkIpnFRIfZCugFMVLOwJABfiadh3s_xxYs9KbbDL-hXllbngE_qbI/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Q8i1YwbCBhdfo_uXfxSVdkYfU6BPQGqOOdnXiba1Ym95rXnTjfHf7Fnc2IbwLrez0GjIRfrcN7-JrqGBlVynUDkkIpnFRIfZCugFMVLOwJABfiadh3s_xxYs9KbbDL-hXllbngE_qbI/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Take an apartment at <span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="https://sansebayhotel.com/?lang=en&gclid=Cj0KCQjwyLDpBRCxARIsAEENsrLXj3N7eu-sRbhNes_Q9xG353EiyGLxaQSwg6epfN7f09uvwIGqF5MaAkXuEALw_wcB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hotel SANSEbay</a></span> - </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">a hip boutique hotel carved into a stone wall, facing the sea. </span><a href="https://sansebayhotel.com/?lang=en&gclid=Cj0KCQjwyLDpBRCxARIsAEENsrLXj3N7eu-sRbhNes_Q9xG353EiyGLxaQSwg6epfN7f09uvwIGqF5MaAkXuEALw_wcB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hotel SANSEbay</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is right in the thick of the action - every evening, a jolly crowd congregates on the steps of the tiny alley outside (which lead right up to Urgull Mountain and down to Concha Beach) while literally 10 steps in the opposite direction you find yourself in the Old Town. </span></span><span style="font-family: times;">Hike to the top of </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.sansebastianturismoa.eus/en/to-do/what-not-to-miss/mount-urgull" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mt. Urgull</a></span><span style="font-family: times;"> where </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Mota+Castle/@43.325048,-1.9889411,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xff2839f774c4ae3b?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjr6-D34rfjAhWC3KQKHVPoBdwQ_BIwCnoECA8QCA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">La Mota Castle</a></span><span style="font-family: times;"> awaits - a small castle with ramparts that date back to the 12th century. A heavy lunch at </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/La+Cuchara+de+San+Telmo/@43.3245377,-1.9853282,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x189474ae514bff1?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwin7OuH47fjAhXB_KQKHfFqBY8Q_BIwDnoECAsQCA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">La Cuchara de San Telmo</a></span><i style="font-family: times;"> </i><span style="font-family: times;">is in order. You’ll need the fuel for a very long promenade along </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.sansebastianturismoa.eus/en/to-do/beach-parks/let-s-go-to-the-beach" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">La Concha Beach</a></span><span style="font-family: times;">, although you can take a break to admire </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.sansebastianturismoa.eus/en/to-do/culture-art-architecture/mansions-and-castles/miramar-palace" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Miramar Palace</a></span><span style="font-family: times;">, the former summer home of the Queen of Spain. At the end of your walk you’ll take the </span><u style="font-family: times;">funicular</u><span style="font-family: times;"> - a quick rumble through a dense, sun-dappled hill. When you reach the top of </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.monteigueldo.es/monte-igueldo-funicular" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monte Igueldo</a></span><span style="font-family: times;">, catch your breath then have it taken away when you behold the Bay of La Concha. Head back downhill and get lost in the </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.sansebastianturismoa.eus/en/to-do/district-by-district/centre-old-town" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Old Town</a></span><span style="font-family: times;"> until its time for dinner. Finish off the day with yet more pintxos at </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: times;"><a href="https://atarigastroleku.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Atari</a></span><span style="font-family: times;">.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7xqv7Yy91l6NhXQLmlwyFyy3sLolmCA0Fg0B1lbccF4QwUy_4R5heavgczCqJ5G5AoM9BHxwyQX3Mq9ns94bVApKkYdr9r5lrj_1BUN1IB7K-vpHp20BdshHw-Pa-oSYs6I8Jr020fs/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7xqv7Yy91l6NhXQLmlwyFyy3sLolmCA0Fg0B1lbccF4QwUy_4R5heavgczCqJ5G5AoM9BHxwyQX3Mq9ns94bVApKkYdr9r5lrj_1BUN1IB7K-vpHp20BdshHw-Pa-oSYs6I8Jr020fs/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzAk2fW8EHtR-RDJS627mJq0hBDYtPVYaIX_baaBHvgXYjoiuojaDzEqwaQZ4_dESekC444iiYhDJ6EGb-e8uhdg2BI-kJIPEsbV3vkdo8vARybCLTbN37dho2FAhaHoXGtjVM_ilOBk/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzAk2fW8EHtR-RDJS627mJq0hBDYtPVYaIX_baaBHvgXYjoiuojaDzEqwaQZ4_dESekC444iiYhDJ6EGb-e8uhdg2BI-kJIPEsbV3vkdo8vARybCLTbN37dho2FAhaHoXGtjVM_ilOBk/s1600/San+Sebastian%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 50px; text-align: center;"><br /></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 50px; text-align: center;"><p></p></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 50px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"></span></blockquote></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><u>GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM BILBAO</u></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">I nipped over to Bilbao for the sole purpose of comparing the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to the original in New York. I wasn’t the only one - the museum was opened as part of a revitalisation effort for the city of Bilbao. It worked, with visitors flocking to Bilbao to behold the Frank Gehry masterpiece (groundbreaking for its Deconstructivist design and also for being constructed on time and on budget). To be frank, I wasn’t as impressed by the exhibits as I had hoped to be. There was a bit of a “seen it already” - from the Louis Bourgeois spider (above) which I saw at her 2008 retrospective at the Tate Modern to the Koons tulips which seem to pop up everywhere. However! The <a href="https://www.guggenheim-bilbao.eus/en" target="_blank">Guggenheim Museum Bilbao</a> outshone the Guggenheim New York with its uncensored display of <u>Art and China after 1989: Theater of the World</u>, a provocative and political exhibition of Chinese contemporary art from 1989 to 2008. In the US, Huang Yong Ping’s “Theater of the World” was met with outrage in for its use of live animals in its sculpture and thus removed. In Bilbao; the lizards, toads, and snakes roamed free, adding a much-needed surrealism and absurdity to the proceedings.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4_RyfI9NPFUKVwgmS5CEPJBh-6MnXutloXOPMrp7tTCqgWfDeKBj9SnV8bhjo-ACUcvwKzO7Qvl6TJ9RHxlbpgOfHKPBq1QhgXyJ9XW_l1bYac2SN0R190RZuzQacp09LT5ZW2oxuYg/s1600/Guggenheim+Bilbao%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4_RyfI9NPFUKVwgmS5CEPJBh-6MnXutloXOPMrp7tTCqgWfDeKBj9SnV8bhjo-ACUcvwKzO7Qvl6TJ9RHxlbpgOfHKPBq1QhgXyJ9XW_l1bYac2SN0R190RZuzQacp09LT5ZW2oxuYg/s1600/Guggenheim+Bilbao%252C+Spain+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWd73ucVQbYTm0M6b54gyoJUyJ-2B9x2hMPryDarLjUEU1qRJ1PTgSeKfbVHEtTVAk4mtTuoE89WPtwW87zCmK-7hwhw62DLHIe5QpfeKRpzmDNHEaJhAw-MKNDCpZKGChBLEka-cT4E/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWd73ucVQbYTm0M6b54gyoJUyJ-2B9x2hMPryDarLjUEU1qRJ1PTgSeKfbVHEtTVAk4mtTuoE89WPtwW87zCmK-7hwhw62DLHIe5QpfeKRpzmDNHEaJhAw-MKNDCpZKGChBLEka-cT4E/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4urquykriQBMyjFP1rG7jgTUlX7QymBnCI-UsED2ZrPtU513hrbunzA8xZ-ZiBoQIXp2kb2MOtK1-VvBEm44PrLUfMJI_r9d6RZPzXrurUW2LcCEbGXdZHTBfDfKNIzVR_h3KrZf5hJs/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4urquykriQBMyjFP1rG7jgTUlX7QymBnCI-UsED2ZrPtU513hrbunzA8xZ-ZiBoQIXp2kb2MOtK1-VvBEm44PrLUfMJI_r9d6RZPzXrurUW2LcCEbGXdZHTBfDfKNIzVR_h3KrZf5hJs/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u>ABaC RESTAURANT, BARCELONA </u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In Barcelona I ticked a box on my culinary bucket list - dining at <a href="http://www.abacrestaurant.com/en/#home" target="_blank">ABaC</a>, <i>that</i> famous Catalan restaurant. Bestowed the highest Michelin award - 3 stars. The journey begins on the outdoor terrace, through the kitchen, and finally in the dining room - all while eating one’s way through one’s choice of seasonal tasting menu. I wimped out of the 25-course tasting menu and plumped for the (slightly) more manageable 18-course tasting menu. But of course, that’s as far as conservativeness goes at <a href="http://www.abacrestaurant.com/en/#home" target="_blank">ABaC</a> on the menu was lime cactus, Bloody Mary On The Rocks with tomato juice ice cubes & celery salt - really, an elevated gazpacho, “Chinese Box” - salty, buttery eel brioche with charcoal aroma, and a pudding served on a marzipan pillow that tasted like a tea-flavoured frost cloud tinged with malt-flavoured crystals; but to name a few. <i>Verdict</i>: <a href="http://www.abacrestaurant.com/en/#home" target="_blank">ABaC</a> is a must-eat when in Barcelona especially given the value for money - €190 for 18 courses and €210 for 25 courses at a 3 Michelin star restaurant. Book way, way, in advance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Rg-52t5Sh1d0Ohco9QD_Kn8CHjeung2MjCVkzPqah-8VnEtdxkbNPbPmd-elNT5e1Ey7iKMiGIYdACcZ3GIu-AtoY4uNRwsizIF8aYp1PZtszbPOgj8FXEgTrTsENHcmNRpCLED7MQA/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Rg-52t5Sh1d0Ohco9QD_Kn8CHjeung2MjCVkzPqah-8VnEtdxkbNPbPmd-elNT5e1Ey7iKMiGIYdACcZ3GIu-AtoY4uNRwsizIF8aYp1PZtszbPOgj8FXEgTrTsENHcmNRpCLED7MQA/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>ABaC MENU: OUR TRADITION </u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lime cactus, tequila, and green leaves (above)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cecina chip with Café de Paris butter (below)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caramelised bread macaron with spicy tomato sauce and basil </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nori crumble, tuna belly, soy butter, botargo with cured egg yolk and spicy shoots </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fine Mediterranean herbs coca with anchovies and cured cecina infusion </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA46QrCJ_0vbkJvij-lTTftmjZIz2OpEDNew87-tfalkeFRfn36zlwCPnIKesUNXOrQpfOd1w8BqfRJDkkeQYpF57y9XsaEszJgpTABy3ilnfvDMyVVd_jnFn3wmtiUd8P9jbxP0NjuTE/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA46QrCJ_0vbkJvij-lTTftmjZIz2OpEDNew87-tfalkeFRfn36zlwCPnIKesUNXOrQpfOd1w8BqfRJDkkeQYpF57y9XsaEszJgpTABy3ilnfvDMyVVd_jnFn3wmtiUd8P9jbxP0NjuTE/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouvEvDhUmXi1pwDiyjtaa60Abe5ncrbimp3YZm1-n9I3kujp__4l5Zo9D0WQuEgmKJf30UBjOXwdj37_yDVN-_xs9swuuO7xxbHfq0olul0yTvE0JMtPRuvhRo945eVKjdGDsT6XK_kY/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouvEvDhUmXi1pwDiyjtaa60Abe5ncrbimp3YZm1-n9I3kujp__4l5Zo9D0WQuEgmKJf30UBjOXwdj37_yDVN-_xs9swuuO7xxbHfq0olul0yTvE0JMtPRuvhRo945eVKjdGDsT6XK_kY/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrygcnXzF-8iMWX6eV6xI9an82WjFcgRr-mbFtW5ypIVLC_kkobmW-6TphzHzf8cZECGTCKLWqWOj6lJxRYV9fQS6cisIXJQXLChSfyE92CV5aVb2dcc9zP9QfngBDesDUHpu9PWmoHCo/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrygcnXzF-8iMWX6eV6xI9an82WjFcgRr-mbFtW5ypIVLC_kkobmW-6TphzHzf8cZECGTCKLWqWOj6lJxRYV9fQS6cisIXJQXLChSfyE92CV5aVb2dcc9zP9QfngBDesDUHpu9PWmoHCo/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Gilda de mar Bloody Mary on the Rocks (above) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Green Salmorejo </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Whipped hazelnut butter with bread crusts and caviar </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chinese box: Chinese bread, fried brioche, grilled eel and wasabi </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Onion soup with Parmesan spheres, walnuts, and kumquat </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Black grouper, suquet & picada with romesco sauce, hazelnut and anise-flavoured leaves</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tuna rice, Mediterranean tomato stew, tuna belly, and pecorino romano </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Matured sequence: steak and tendon tartare and asparagus</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0L2U0njkmtbZGbeW0p06nAUD_iENyR1whUfywL9pvrt3bIG8M7tF_38BB3Ypub0SSneq1X2GNnY_hZDfXqZoo0djtEGveOGvyyY5a9bXUIUzDN5Xi2Jp7X65EZ23JJLo8J_OGBmS7DJ0/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0L2U0njkmtbZGbeW0p06nAUD_iENyR1whUfywL9pvrt3bIG8M7tF_38BB3Ypub0SSneq1X2GNnY_hZDfXqZoo0djtEGveOGvyyY5a9bXUIUzDN5Xi2Jp7X65EZ23JJLo8J_OGBmS7DJ0/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXL9kMWzwf18QqxdFnSWRuf5YIc4RGgWRRObdUYNRikj9OiT2X_ijT9TDe8D7q1Ys1X0842b7QOSPmFDRe78pDbHChCqECETeYTeNhg1B2wd8lJzaM9lnnseDN83ov-1hEKlYMsTXyNw/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXL9kMWzwf18QqxdFnSWRuf5YIc4RGgWRRObdUYNRikj9OiT2X_ijT9TDe8D7q1Ys1X0842b7QOSPmFDRe78pDbHChCqECETeYTeNhg1B2wd8lJzaM9lnnseDN83ov-1hEKlYMsTXyNw/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3onhnCal9zfIo8KNsTM84_3UoI4mhyphenhyphenT_HCEwC0JbogAPwzxygKGz2hoQBaGnT5o_jxxCwjainIrtXNz278d-lirCRhMU8RzAATdFNKvYnFBdXzKTGCthYFMrkJfehrB5J-r3VlBbOMRw/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3onhnCal9zfIo8KNsTM84_3UoI4mhyphenhyphenT_HCEwC0JbogAPwzxygKGz2hoQBaGnT5o_jxxCwjainIrtXNz278d-lirCRhMU8RzAATdFNKvYnFBdXzKTGCthYFMrkJfehrB5J-r3VlBbOMRw/s1600/ABaC+3+star+Michelin+Catalan+restaurant%252C+Barcelona+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" title="Spain: San Sebastian, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, & 3 Michelin Star Restaurant ABaC Barcelona" /></a></div>
<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Camomile “pillow”, milk and biscuit roll with a touch of lightly spicy citruses (above)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Chocolate fragile crate (below)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Frosted tile with fresh and dried flowers, yogurt textures, crumbled biscuit, and violet ice-cream </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">“Sweet pumpkin”</div></div><div><br /></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Successfully acclimatised from the sensory overload of Morocco via the comforting charms of Spain, I was ready to head home to London. Tell me - Do you plan post-holiday holidays? Do you ease yourself from the exotic back into daily life by extending your trips to familiar territory</span>?</div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-91953423336926055972018-11-09T02:15:00.007+00:002022-12-16T07:02:49.756+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 10 of 10: Essaouira<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3tqZH1mrRbxlfxuPYjSy_OlarNW-Ohu5awHoGVARn-xud5HHdaJQGwumH7V0DBzbnpD-ecz5sfyvQ-lxr_TDhJm22nEYOjgV8f9MyFILXCF4fYcrUwfdR1KCprQDLURPJJo1gqod0gQ/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3tqZH1mrRbxlfxuPYjSy_OlarNW-Ohu5awHoGVARn-xud5HHdaJQGwumH7V0DBzbnpD-ecz5sfyvQ-lxr_TDhJm22nEYOjgV8f9MyFILXCF4fYcrUwfdR1KCprQDLURPJJo1gqod0gQ/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_1.JPG" title="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><blockquote style="font-size: large;">The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco.</blockquote><br /><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 10 of 10 - ESSAOUIRA</span><br /><br />My tour of <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> was approaching its zenith. After a week on the road that took me in a circle from the coast across the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/high-atlas-mountains-morocco.html">High Atlas Mountains</a>, the final city to be discovered (before ending where I started, in <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/casablanca-morocco.html">Casablanca</a>); I was ready for a laidback day and night in the coastal city of <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/locations/essaouira/">Essaouira</a>. Although only a couple of hours’ drive from <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/marrakech-morocco.html">Marrakech</a>, the atmopshere of <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/locations/essaouira/">Essaouira</a> is a world apart: the seaside town is uncrowded and calm - here, the only crowds are of seagulls. Then there are the city’s colours. Everything is blue here; from the vibrant cobalt doors and window shutters to the turquoise taxis that linger around the gateway to the Medina. The Medina itself, an 18th century Unesco Word Heritage site, is a fine example of European military architecture in North Africa. With its strong European influences, a constant refreshing salty breeze, and next to no crowds; <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/locations/essaouira/">Essaouira</a> was a serene scene that was unexpected but very welcome.<br /><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><br /><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">MUCH MOROCCO</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a name='more'></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO62AjP9q7yOxQp_kDu-4gNF7lDz0d5W2LCGh1VGQlBQ6EXdf0nsYarigJBqq3uqzAtQGfXe5Lye-N6NAefUbzVAzEBrHjpjO-pZmbGi30KsTqSxd26d1ng6l-npoKrSmLudKZ3s3pw4I/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO62AjP9q7yOxQp_kDu-4gNF7lDz0d5W2LCGh1VGQlBQ6EXdf0nsYarigJBqq3uqzAtQGfXe5Lye-N6NAefUbzVAzEBrHjpjO-pZmbGi30KsTqSxd26d1ng6l-npoKrSmLudKZ3s3pw4I/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_2.JPG" /></a></div></div></div></div>
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The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I quickly learnt that the mighty coastal winds -<i> alizee</i>, or <i>taros</i> in Berber - is what makes <span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/locations/essaouira/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Essaouira</a></span> unique and allows it to remain so. The fierce winds drive most beach-going tourists away, keeping the city uncrowded even in summer. However, the ‘Wind City of Africa’, attracts its own crowd - windsurfers from April to November, and visitors in the know who come in spring and autumn to enjoy </span><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/locations/essaouira/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Essaouira</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">’s off-the-beaten-track allure.</span><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;">Oh, there is plenty of allure. Dramatic waves lash and crash against the ramparts of the Medina. The beach bars (dotted with cobalt blue parasols, naturally) are the perfect place to while away an afternoon watching fishing nets being mended, kite surfers soar in the sky amongst the gulls, and traditional blue-tailed fishing boats being constructed in the port. Even within the walled Medina, the winds follow. Here, the sea breeze travels through the narrow streets, adding a salty tang to the heady aroma of the smogarsbord of spices and argan products for sale in the souks. It is as intoxicating as it is relaxing. The Medina of Essaouira was unlike any other I had visited in Morocco - not just for its ubiquitous accents of blue - cool, calm, and devoid of crowds. It made for an extremely pleasant and unharried browse of the many art galleries, shops, and stalls; where I could actually strike up conversations without feeling rushed or talked over. And then at noon, church bells tolled alongside the mosques’ call to prayer; reaffirming the feeling that Essaouira was a unique marriage of the best of Europe and North Africa.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: times;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4LsWizlgyGvuZs7hoVxvr6fQGvyZeCWzPBNH3tErDo7BnF9MReI85nlfSpmuyt0P785qtAul_rJ0YPcCE5Nhn21LRzM2Gy5ZuCOR_ZN44-25M5MYlTRLyGQJnOAZLQe_AgfYh-rT_ng/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4LsWizlgyGvuZs7hoVxvr6fQGvyZeCWzPBNH3tErDo7BnF9MReI85nlfSpmuyt0P785qtAul_rJ0YPcCE5Nhn21LRzM2Gy5ZuCOR_ZN44-25M5MYlTRLyGQJnOAZLQe_AgfYh-rT_ng/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_11.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUGI3xylFBSRqqlLOTFX8uyEsceMHQrPMWzKLPu0DnprdSF8XTBBywiZaIztqAa44NKeViDfrIdn2_2ajVyg1ENXYmgoNyA7A39Lmpg2Tr1gjjQ7NeqRmwys9APp3vs0Fbu7ShYp-55g/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_12.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUGI3xylFBSRqqlLOTFX8uyEsceMHQrPMWzKLPu0DnprdSF8XTBBywiZaIztqAa44NKeViDfrIdn2_2ajVyg1ENXYmgoNyA7A39Lmpg2Tr1gjjQ7NeqRmwys9APp3vs0Fbu7ShYp-55g/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_12.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJiLAZbHF5GNO8GgOmG78ZR32GV5h3Wi_CuMwd-XncVEG10on96kGdYrVrPmNsOK6wNCkhkgNdvBSIfC9PnriATfu3pnE1iTB4yYpTyQD9F8feob4gIDtrErORjRLMILP-dWxjI56RRQ/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_13.JPG" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJiLAZbHF5GNO8GgOmG78ZR32GV5h3Wi_CuMwd-XncVEG10on96kGdYrVrPmNsOK6wNCkhkgNdvBSIfC9PnriATfu3pnE1iTB4yYpTyQD9F8feob4gIDtrErORjRLMILP-dWxjI56RRQ/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_13.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: right;"></div></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRySdFemADgsJUKPJtrCFJQLyev0hprTRtAzvPFdt7MVdzItdbnVF8VrYDNGR1T5rem44gPqzDsnlGsiJLBBQ_4wGgqnW1OGdXgrp7O6DFCT1BJ_4RB9UFRrQSYX_szBxm7IzIc51D8c/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_15.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRySdFemADgsJUKPJtrCFJQLyev0hprTRtAzvPFdt7MVdzItdbnVF8VrYDNGR1T5rem44gPqzDsnlGsiJLBBQ_4wGgqnW1OGdXgrp7O6DFCT1BJ_4RB9UFRrQSYX_szBxm7IzIc51D8c/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_15.JPG" title="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMYd96FaPyTlCS2c3saqqvlvfaAo3JhEPH2rSEUmphKYorZo6MISwJSR0EmtBtRZXNceRfsOLeCuEph4j30pI-5flNc7Z8c9In2O-mmm24R7QvHSrcH7fgRTKhu0LF_2n11W6pl7pWM8/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_16.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMYd96FaPyTlCS2c3saqqvlvfaAo3JhEPH2rSEUmphKYorZo6MISwJSR0EmtBtRZXNceRfsOLeCuEph4j30pI-5flNc7Z8c9In2O-mmm24R7QvHSrcH7fgRTKhu0LF_2n11W6pl7pWM8/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_16.JPG" title="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTJmkuLfYnlnIXwaQdTS1Cw1L2ncT1R1BUcrPvqWDFN105IbhyvQaih6e1J5iWuZPnczRFDgKKcnp5S0bMNqpNqbd0uOswkFWfbasU6Zwyjt3mpO3uAfoS6wZ9B3t0r7NDypCYcu9BAE/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_17.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTJmkuLfYnlnIXwaQdTS1Cw1L2ncT1R1BUcrPvqWDFN105IbhyvQaih6e1J5iWuZPnczRFDgKKcnp5S0bMNqpNqbd0uOswkFWfbasU6Zwyjt3mpO3uAfoS6wZ9B3t0r7NDypCYcu9BAE/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_17.JPG" title="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxMUsLl30Hp0ypgasNUwmzJVzy3-t8_UKDHe7EXyzg4taYW9ysAU9hg0OZVs5chlHbQWvKQNwquZlmhqMJLXppHHT3jb0toBGGrGIiqLvx_u1txmvXAynh1V8PefNVSSSwwtCq06RrE3A/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_18.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxMUsLl30Hp0ypgasNUwmzJVzy3-t8_UKDHe7EXyzg4taYW9ysAU9hg0OZVs5chlHbQWvKQNwquZlmhqMJLXppHHT3jb0toBGGrGIiqLvx_u1txmvXAynh1V8PefNVSSSwwtCq06RrE3A/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_18.JPG" title="The Santorini of North Africa? The seaside town of Essaouira is the antithesis to everything I had yet experienced in Morocco." /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MGtRqOHm3x2XtTJ8SZXyB-BVf-p-dJ6Z2VfuRe-ecq5hlO7zqUKaDux7yDxrm_J1suKsmThe9Ppz171iGfJsjACQFLmJp57wW0wbZNkWcy-UqIfQs5e4hqBFNtg2Nu-tBPHF6gttCZM/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_19.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MGtRqOHm3x2XtTJ8SZXyB-BVf-p-dJ6Z2VfuRe-ecq5hlO7zqUKaDux7yDxrm_J1suKsmThe9Ppz171iGfJsjACQFLmJp57wW0wbZNkWcy-UqIfQs5e4hqBFNtg2Nu-tBPHF6gttCZM/s1600/The+Morocco+Diaries%252C+Part+10+of+10+-+Essaouira_19.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">From the<a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/argan-oil-tree-goats-morocco.html"> tree-climbing goats of the argan country</a>, to the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/marrakech-morocco.html">markets of Marrakech</a>, and the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/erfoud-morocco.html">Sahara’s sand dunes</a>; my Moroccan journey was as diverse as it was thrilling. I felt like I had experienced a proper overview of what the country had to offer. I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to a country that I had waited so long to visit. <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Much Morocco</a>, indeed.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Relive my Moroccan experience:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/casablanca-morocco.html">PART 1 of 10: CASABLANCA</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/rabat-meknes-morocco.html">PART 2 of 10: RABAT & MEKNES</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/fez-morocco.html">PART 3 of 10: FES</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/erfoud-morocco.html">PART 4 of 10: ERFOUD</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/todra-boumalne-dades-morocco.html">PART 5 of 10: TODRA GORGE </a><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/todra-boumalne-dades-morocco.html">& BOUMALNE DADES</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/high-atlas-mountains-morocco.html">PART 6 of 10: HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">•<a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/jardin-majorelle-marrakech-morocco.html"> PART 7 of 10: JARDIN MAJORELLE</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/marrakech-morocco.html">PART 8 of 10: MARRAKECH</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/11/argan-oil-tree-goats-morocco.html">PART 9 of 10: ARGAN COUNTRY</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">• PART 10 of 10: ESSAOUIRA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div>
Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-44974439631220405522018-11-05T02:51:00.001+00:002022-12-16T07:02:49.756+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 9 of 10: How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5dwnkBK8oYMB3eO77QgkOBr8s4EX2CvI_hozlEO10nBLOM4gOY1VrfORhlqhQHhtOcrs9SfCIaZStk3v3aLPV5-ildo35jlbBkiI4KAAvLPfNGjjs9l5OsM9mRSK0Lqw2EBHbWrXGw4/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5dwnkBK8oYMB3eO77QgkOBr8s4EX2CvI_hozlEO10nBLOM4gOY1VrfORhlqhQHhtOcrs9SfCIaZStk3v3aLPV5-ildo35jlbBkiI4KAAvLPfNGjjs9l5OsM9mRSK0Lqw2EBHbWrXGw4/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Grease me up, buttercup!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 9 of 10: THE ARGAN OIL ROUTE FROM MARRAKECH TO ESSAOUIRA</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Argan oil. Blessed liquid gold. The darling of the beauty industry - nourishing, lightweight, and versatile. Ladies in the know use it on their skin, their cuticles, in their hair. Myself, I’ve stopped washing my waist-length hair with conditioner, instead using argan oil on the mid-to-ends to keep my tresses happy. I knew that the best argan oil comes from and is native to <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a>, but I had only the vaguest idea of how it is harvested and produced. So it was rather a treat to visit a women’s cooperative and see the traditional methods used to produce this precious ingredient, buy my beloved argan oil (and other) products straight from the source, as well as witness for myself the legendary tree-climbing goats of <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a>.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9duYhxH3mQemq0OifaOwl1HBG86enkH_obHI7TbojVpftRk4pdENJl5bf6r02vwlHybCYzhWX85JZkvGurb73OLnb0N9LORk_DQtJa3ZWLPT0V6DP16XmTnlopPkZ8wMsb_FmkBRQq4Y/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9duYhxH3mQemq0OifaOwl1HBG86enkH_obHI7TbojVpftRk4pdENJl5bf6r02vwlHybCYzhWX85JZkvGurb73OLnb0N9LORk_DQtJa3ZWLPT0V6DP16XmTnlopPkZ8wMsb_FmkBRQq4Y/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOegGzS-E4P5lzEFVeC0IP6eW8ahXy6_lWSuKGUqtwU_LL1rS7oo-uWJdv3IbErgQAJfPIsqhY6mOHbMzk1f5D5O2clet6C3-PTjmBq56cGBO_isBzfVGofh6pxV_lOMTk279DkorMlM/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOegGzS-E4P5lzEFVeC0IP6eW8ahXy6_lWSuKGUqtwU_LL1rS7oo-uWJdv3IbErgQAJfPIsqhY6mOHbMzk1f5D5O2clet6C3-PTjmBq56cGBO_isBzfVGofh6pxV_lOMTk279DkorMlM/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJsZoRF3w5V-LZRfxEot5XEeRUs9Zpg1-XVlYcywaa4lCKpOy1JbE0nEnR_Zj2WICuv0WG3_34dr8T_YeIOPQhAVn7WGBMbq1l6xUBWMSv3-2gOn0v28Q0pRCxLFhlZqWTogQKE1vnuUE/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJsZoRF3w5V-LZRfxEot5XEeRUs9Zpg1-XVlYcywaa4lCKpOy1JbE0nEnR_Zj2WICuv0WG3_34dr8T_YeIOPQhAVn7WGBMbq1l6xUBWMSv3-2gOn0v28Q0pRCxLFhlZqWTogQKE1vnuUE/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Goats in trees...Why? How? Where?</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Why</i>? Well, these sure-footed creatures do the literal dirty work for argan oil farmers. The goats eat the fruit of the Argan tree (Argania Spinosa) and the seeds from their, um, waste it what argan oil is extracted from. A sh*t situation in name only - as the goats are mad for argan fruit and people are mad for argan oil as beauty, medicine, and food products. Everybody wins.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>How</i>? Well, this is where it gets interesting. The reality of how these goats end up at such heights is not quite one of nature’s strange quirks. In fact, it is entirely a human machination. The goats are trained to climb and stand in the argan trees. First, the farmers places the herd there. Then, the goats’ feet are bound to the branches for additional support, then left that way for a few hours. The process is repeat daily until the goats are accustomed to and comfortable with their new roles. And do they take to it like fish to water, sorry, goats to argan fruit! The goats will happily hang out in trees all day, taking naps between grazing while standing upright in the trees.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Where</i>? I saw these critters on the route between Marrakech to Essaouira. It was extremely straightforward, the 2½ hour journey between the cities follows a single straight road, the National Route 8.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipihFuQFb5UKqcTWzeuSTrPFR_XaSLYCmYTvl0yno4rcib7Is-zQj3uC0KSLCPoQ1u_Y7Y3Dl436bo6pCb21cnnS138zZAKgH_RN72BDWGGG0vHZyZzS4ZOKGq54rrMyfs3sZbheKtBRM/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" style="clear: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipihFuQFb5UKqcTWzeuSTrPFR_XaSLYCmYTvl0yno4rcib7Is-zQj3uC0KSLCPoQ1u_Y7Y3Dl436bo6pCb21cnnS138zZAKgH_RN72BDWGGG0vHZyZzS4ZOKGq54rrMyfs3sZbheKtBRM/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" /></a></div></span><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">As novel as it is to see goats in trees, any connoisseur will tell you that the highest grade of argan oil is that which is derived not from goats but extracted by hand. The highly physical, time-consuming process of which you see in women's cooperatives, the likes of which I visited next...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXNVQ3QvSQ6vqtYRbN2EtfdUVhhqcVNuZQxflmslU_mUTqXwMn2-wICHYtfswp7F4cLFWL1JMKpjSsNpbScojoc7Ho2hv7fzodiej0uyBzeGxpbPO_SrwfBn9EaJ7-iJ5ewquRdJTwbk/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXNVQ3QvSQ6vqtYRbN2EtfdUVhhqcVNuZQxflmslU_mUTqXwMn2-wICHYtfswp7F4cLFWL1JMKpjSsNpbScojoc7Ho2hv7fzodiej0uyBzeGxpbPO_SrwfBn9EaJ7-iJ5ewquRdJTwbk/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3uWmcD0jpAsQjqebZ-Y7Oqs6WCKbDWT0L_mnFtB_b36ETiJSwoMJgQjYVu0YKkvK08ABb6NqZir64rVOBPbntVVJp8OuS5G_EqEzI_O505PXJ4KjXlcmSFEu_IZM5e3YKhSj2K_Pzy0/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3uWmcD0jpAsQjqebZ-Y7Oqs6WCKbDWT0L_mnFtB_b36ETiJSwoMJgQjYVu0YKkvK08ABb6NqZir64rVOBPbntVVJp8OuS5G_EqEzI_O505PXJ4KjXlcmSFEu_IZM5e3YKhSj2K_Pzy0/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0CQmk7pAH0LXWtVK1nnUqguCEYj2-UY4wlVm9g48VU5QfMMNMVz0ALva9Fp9GjjMiCJ2JA2fELuRvn49joA_JOtB0Q3ukyL6JGc8hFaxUjgTzAySWC8uJLWKWlzjyZzBBB86DJgpV50/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0CQmk7pAH0LXWtVK1nnUqguCEYj2-UY4wlVm9g48VU5QfMMNMVz0ALva9Fp9GjjMiCJ2JA2fELuRvn49joA_JOtB0Q3ukyL6JGc8hFaxUjgTzAySWC8uJLWKWlzjyZzBBB86DJgpV50/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sgz05q4hopmLrpSaLCcC8tnt86ta-eNnAiX5aqz-6mS8KWyAfAI1QElXWh1hDEPu-poCbw3RnTLHA-Vdlh15VFv-Z6pLbrLNwMSkRgLMeBygb-h80KrBQNDLEcx-QEjrtDwrW8cYn78/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sgz05q4hopmLrpSaLCcC8tnt86ta-eNnAiX5aqz-6mS8KWyAfAI1QElXWh1hDEPu-poCbw3RnTLHA-Vdlh15VFv-Z6pLbrLNwMSkRgLMeBygb-h80KrBQNDLEcx-QEjrtDwrW8cYn78/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1wgxvB_JKk-pmeTVDw5KS_aHaxeoUeutz7DhlIodgLhZtyZpw4GwEr1HBz2YvNC_-dnhJANPDPTn-P3LfeNxcAr5vc3CM5J5SNMGZUBtQxh2NU5TMT1naoNOnZD0dDkKRrrmOgvTMsk/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1wgxvB_JKk-pmeTVDw5KS_aHaxeoUeutz7DhlIodgLhZtyZpw4GwEr1HBz2YvNC_-dnhJANPDPTn-P3LfeNxcAr5vc3CM5J5SNMGZUBtQxh2NU5TMT1naoNOnZD0dDkKRrrmOgvTMsk/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">How interesting it was to visit a women’s cooperative and see the journey of Moroccan argan oil from farm to beauty shelf. There are many buildings in <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> purporting to be argan oil cooperatives, but only the ones in Arganeraie - the region in southwest <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> colloquially known as ‘Argan Country’, where the Argan tree (Argania spinosa) is endemic to - are authentic. Such was my good luck that one of the best-known co’ops is between Agadir and Essaouira; the latter of which I was heading to from Marrakech. AFOUS ARGAN is the real deal - a government-approved argan oil cooperative run by Berber women, produced using traditional methods.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And how. The production process is tedious. The argan fruit has to be cracked by hand, then roasted, grounded and pressed into a fragrant brown mash. This delightful goop - with an aroma I’d describe as a mix between peanut butter, hazelnut butter, and something so indescribably rich I still fantasise about it - expels pure, unfiltered argan oil. Finally, the oil is decanted into vessels, where they are left to rest for 2 weeks so that the suspended solids settle to the bottom. The mostly-sediment-free argan oil is filtered even more, depending on the required clarity and purity. Cosmetic argan oil is produced in the same way, minus the roasting of the kernels to avoid an overwhelming nutty scent. Nothing goes to waste - the remaining protein-rich mash is fed to livestock.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VxhulrFTGPWk9qRCpIp2-DTNAnFKBOXM2sxTfBk-51UhBWBteQSsyw8ZpXulG65bN_Pdg1uMthL3Qlv-GOQcQRwfB-Ysgq7mMgHu9ZnZhnn6XPYnEy-cVh7PmNzFIXU9APbEw8uiUN8/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VxhulrFTGPWk9qRCpIp2-DTNAnFKBOXM2sxTfBk-51UhBWBteQSsyw8ZpXulG65bN_Pdg1uMthL3Qlv-GOQcQRwfB-Ysgq7mMgHu9ZnZhnn6XPYnEy-cVh7PmNzFIXU9APbEw8uiUN8/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zD_DawS2kRGm5TFySvHRNaiKp3f0hiwYpVfKEzKDMNVtdoum17v0seKeBqMzhYRHaMpARrYY11D7VjsVrjj_5S5CdGdyp7PeGToiuA0N2YMd0EOIM3z_wxcWGUIlwq4hMR9mj4p_a84/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zD_DawS2kRGm5TFySvHRNaiKp3f0hiwYpVfKEzKDMNVtdoum17v0seKeBqMzhYRHaMpARrYY11D7VjsVrjj_5S5CdGdyp7PeGToiuA0N2YMd0EOIM3z_wxcWGUIlwq4hMR9mj4p_a84/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOinoVVXpExDKyKyF6CnBZQdRGgTYOujZqLSlrMOwVQecTt9TSncDp250okXAYwHt72e2ZYOgWu47T4VmIS1ANeag67wJ_L7V-6x_YykeyMRlG4z3A0QbHVRZSLdcbqhKM7EQiudwrm_8/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOinoVVXpExDKyKyF6CnBZQdRGgTYOujZqLSlrMOwVQecTt9TSncDp250okXAYwHt72e2ZYOgWu47T4VmIS1ANeag67wJ_L7V-6x_YykeyMRlG4z3A0QbHVRZSLdcbqhKM7EQiudwrm_8/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwVH0ihZNRlOMcMLIS0krwEUZjATIMGJBXKN2r0NGHqOWjei4SzRRug8M92HqfpQ7Cei5ao6w39PcVliKfZMNmRwGk3w-TYYZT1K2Z-BCFU5Xk6P-2AE4xMZ3iOz9dulvqglOwkCGT58/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwVH0ihZNRlOMcMLIS0krwEUZjATIMGJBXKN2r0NGHqOWjei4SzRRug8M92HqfpQ7Cei5ao6w39PcVliKfZMNmRwGk3w-TYYZT1K2Z-BCFU5Xk6P-2AE4xMZ3iOz9dulvqglOwkCGT58/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">More than just developing a newfound appreciation for the ardous effort that goes into one of my favourite beauty products, <b>AFOUS ARGAN</b> was highly satisfying in so many ways. Knowing that many interntional cosmetic companies (big ones, too) source their argan oil from co’ops such as these, buying directly from the co’op’s vast shop appealed to the savvy shopper in me. My head spun at the selection - shampoos, soaps, face and hair oils, cooking oils...and that was just the argan products; there were also others such as cactus, rose, and many more.</span></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I splurged on argan oil (for my hair), argan balm (for my lips), cactus oil (for my face), rose oil (ditto), jasmine oil (as a fragrance), orange flower honey and a tub of delicious argan paste. All of it certified organic, fairtrade, and wholesome as can be. </span>Now, I must say that my haul didn’t come cheap. In fact, I’ve heard that you can get similar products for less elsewhere. But the cost wasn’t an issue. I was happy to support a cause that empowers women, especially in a rural environment where employment opportunities may be otherwise limited. Knowing that these community initiatives also contribute to socioeconomic and enviromental development (the latter in encouraging the planting and protecting of the endangered argan tree) added more feel-good factor to my cosmetic and cooking purchases.</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZb4HvoCRzh9cD94IVakmMXkqjjbjnzG3NQVizNTwWuOoFZ5Wu6xjYy9NDE2Eit_ofvAHRN7J9uavQcYbyM05TjOd0rN1Rr6-n3qJ9P2Hx9CCD2vQ24_l11EDK0ffHEhwMJWL090K990/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZb4HvoCRzh9cD94IVakmMXkqjjbjnzG3NQVizNTwWuOoFZ5Wu6xjYy9NDE2Eit_ofvAHRN7J9uavQcYbyM05TjOd0rN1Rr6-n3qJ9P2Hx9CCD2vQ24_l11EDK0ffHEhwMJWL090K990/s1600/Argan+Oil%252C+Goats+in+Trees%252C+and+Afous+Argan+Co%2527op+in+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" title="How Argan Oil is Made - From Tree-Climbing Goats to Women's Cooperatives in Morocco" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I left AFOUS ARGAN, enlightened and significantly more moisturised and fragrant for the last leg of my journey - </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">the surfing capital of Morocco. Next stop, <i>Essaouira</i></span>.</span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-5311782468538759032018-11-02T08:59:00.003+00:002022-12-16T07:02:49.754+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 8 of 10: 4½ Things to Do with 1 Day in Marrakech<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOx1-9PH7D8p9GfTXVpK0cst2cm6Qu_xMztsMKnzNOsA0xEQ71D_Tb9le-1P1mRfApDTSIscQFe1hGm2auoVQxKF6o6hiqR1ePx95RwNiDp8D1DEat_rn3sQasrzl7tbJdM5P3yIeb2K8/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech, Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOx1-9PH7D8p9GfTXVpK0cst2cm6Qu_xMztsMKnzNOsA0xEQ71D_Tb9le-1P1mRfApDTSIscQFe1hGm2auoVQxKF6o6hiqR1ePx95RwNiDp8D1DEat_rn3sQasrzl7tbJdM5P3yIeb2K8/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="My 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech, Morocco" /></a></div>
</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 8 of 10: MARRAKECH, MOROCCO</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">At last, I had arrived in <a href="https://visitmarrakech.com/">Marrakech</a>. The iconic city that I had mistaken to be the capital of <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a>. A colourful, cacophonic, chaotic cauldron of sights, sounds, scents; and of course, souks. <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/rabat-meknes-morocco.html">Rabat may be regal</a>, <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/casablanca-morocco.html">Casablanca may be cosmopolitan</a>; but <a href="https://visitmarrakech.com/">Marrakech</a> is the city that endures in the imagination of those yet to visit <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> mine included. Alas, I had only a day to soak up the best of what this famous city had to offer. Although I daresay my attempt proved to be fruitful - from shopping in the souk to languishing in one of the most luxurious hotels in <a href="https://visitmarrakech.com/">Marrakech</a>. Should you, too, find yourself in <a href="https://visitmarrakech.com/">Marrakech</a> for the first time with just a day to spare, this guide is for you. These are my 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">JARDIN MAJORELLE</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a></span> is an otherworldy oasis: a vast garden of flora from 5 continents against the striking blue backdrop of the villa. The vision of artist Jacques Majorelle was rescued and restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge, now in the care of the Saint Laurent foundation to ensure its perpetuity as Marrakech’s most-loved and most-visited destinations. Be the first to arrive to enjoy </span><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> at its most serene, then when the crowds arrive move on to the cafe for a snack and to the galleries for air-conditioned inspiration.</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">Read <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/jardin-majorelle-marrakech-morocco.html" target="_blank">my full story on Jardin Majorelle</a>.</span></span></i></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">11:00 AM</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">2</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">SOUK OF THE DAY - FROM JEMAA EL FNA AND BEYOND</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even if you’ve just come from <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/fez-morocco.html">Fez, the so-called capital of crafts</a>, a visit to the souks in <a href="https://visitmarrakech.com/">Marrakech</a> is a must. It’s the quintessential portrait of this city’s street life; where witch doctors, snake charmers, and minstrels jostle side-by-side in glorious sound and colour (the best time to witness this is by night at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jemaa+el-Fna/@31.6260627,-7.9909235,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0xdafee43ab0b6b61:0x57ed2f1977f7ae51!8m2!3d31.6260582!4d-7.9887348">Jemaa el Fna</a> - Central Square); where locals and visitors alike come to buy sundries and souvenirs. The fun lies in getting lost in the labyrinth, uncovering treasures as you go along. The best items to shop for include traditional Berber rugs and woven baskets (the likes of which are oh-so trendy yet oh-so-cost-inflated in the Western world of decor and fashion), porcelain dishes, and lanterns (although, beware of aluminium lanterns - these will fold and get crushed in your luggage).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">To learn more about medinas, how to haggle in souks, and Moroccan crafts in general, <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/fez-morocco.html">read my full story on Fez</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6qUzuc3kMZCRPf38Jmbi1Zqk9RcKUepsYFF-e3RpAF2S4T9R7V9wTN5c9mhLTeQ792YK1jZRJwDu3iR5JCeURrBNtjVL-RvH_NLpKeCNBZPWdPRhZeSnOuBt2dVZt12UxwIVnw1jH9o/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech, Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6qUzuc3kMZCRPf38Jmbi1Zqk9RcKUepsYFF-e3RpAF2S4T9R7V9wTN5c9mhLTeQ792YK1jZRJwDu3iR5JCeURrBNtjVL-RvH_NLpKeCNBZPWdPRhZeSnOuBt2dVZt12UxwIVnw1jH9o/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_11.JPG" title="My 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech, Morocco" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">1:00 PM</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2½</span></span><br /><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">CAFE DES ESPICES</span><br /><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Rise above it all at <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://cafedesepices.ma/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cafe des Espices</a></span>. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">This charming cafe is the best vantage point to survey the outdoor area of the souk. From the roof terrace, sip an ice-cold beverage (or blazing hot mint tea) while looking down on the action below. Bonus: if you’re in the market for an embroidered woven basket but are overwhelemed by the vast selection, from the roof of </span><a href="https://cafedesepices.ma/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cafe des Espices</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> you get a fantastic angle to window shop. Another plus point - there’s decent wifi there, so you can immediately update your social media with the stunning scene of the souk below.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJ8QDVw2kdOkuMJqnpYyt3t1IgjbXhcdWpsqTu0WOc_mn0limloUqZvZE5q6jAb63VAb-htVevYkyUazsu56Ep07PGljnJl2A5NMPyXdkayHpli9MvWeZC7E2URS7CDj0btLo9oVlIws/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJ8QDVw2kdOkuMJqnpYyt3t1IgjbXhcdWpsqTu0WOc_mn0limloUqZvZE5q6jAb63VAb-htVevYkyUazsu56Ep07PGljnJl2A5NMPyXdkayHpli9MvWeZC7E2URS7CDj0btLo9oVlIws/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-3gE4qWgJtkb4wQNnL3W6JO8o_NfemxCdE8Zc_ky2A1ZuL2UpFe3JaY1rXvMQK4VYd_NATNIldaVCLFx2ZVjP5QCUX2Blv6WLiM06USstcJEc31RzdoBwLTE23uJ6PnXMBbxv9P6QPo/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-3gE4qWgJtkb4wQNnL3W6JO8o_NfemxCdE8Zc_ky2A1ZuL2UpFe3JaY1rXvMQK4VYd_NATNIldaVCLFx2ZVjP5QCUX2Blv6WLiM06USstcJEc31RzdoBwLTE23uJ6PnXMBbxv9P6QPo/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">3:00 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3</span><br /><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">PALAIS BAHIA</span></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Should you find yourself besotted by Moroccan interiors and want to bring home the riad fantasy, look no further than <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://palais-bahia.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Palais Bahia</a></span>. Palais Bahia (Palace of the Beautiful/Brilliant) was built in the late 19th century, intended to be the greatest palace of its time. The master of the castle, Si Moussa, grand vizier of the sultan had Morocco’s top artisans at his service for 14 years, and the result is the best of Islamic and Moroccan style and craftsmanship. Intricate marquetry and zouak (painted wood) ceilings adorn the salons of both the petit riad and grand riad (because why have one riad when you can have two?). A vast grand courtyard of marble (left) trimmed in yellow and blue gleams in all its sparkling clean glory. The 2-acre garden (above) of the harem leads to rooms opening onto courtyards. The harem itself serves up yet more dazzling interiors; with original woven-silk panels, stained glass windows (below) and rose-bouquet painted ceilings. If your decorating budget doesn’t quite stretch to living like a king, </span><a href="http://palais-bahia.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Palais Bahia</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> will at least show you how to live like a sultan’s vizier.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWuvpJL2hlmCDdPWumX7rNOugA1Lj7S-vTDH71tcTE6CPzkmF6Y68Dd7WAzjckn51Hw3x1UXXeokiEGi4fiPC9BIvRu2jsR_LgKwnzVX0nV4hMlj-s3Ea6SvgzkOXO6qHn43awCiM6wQ/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech, Morocco" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWuvpJL2hlmCDdPWumX7rNOugA1Lj7S-vTDH71tcTE6CPzkmF6Y68Dd7WAzjckn51Hw3x1UXXeokiEGi4fiPC9BIvRu2jsR_LgKwnzVX0nV4hMlj-s3Ea6SvgzkOXO6qHn43awCiM6wQ/s1600/4+Things+to+Do+With+24+Hours+in+Marrakech%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" title="My 4½ Things to Do with 24 Hours in Marrakech, Morocco" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">6:00 PM</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">4</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mamounia.com/en/"><span style="font-size: large;">LA MAMOUNIA HOTEL</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Last but not least; that other Marrakech hotel that you always see on Instagram. Now, I’m not saying that everyone should splash out hundreds of £s a night just for the ‘gram - that would be irresponsible of me. Certainly, a lot of people would simply sneak into the salon (above) to take a photo with these now-iconic columns, although I’m told that <a href="https://www.mamounia.com/en/">La Mamounia</a> have now closed it off to hotel guests. If <a href="https://www.mamounia.com/en/">La Mamounia</a> is not in your budget, fear not - I’ll explain to you how to enjoy this iconic hotel for less.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">First of all, why you should stay here - <a href="https://www.mamounia.com/en/">La Mamounia</a> has been voted the #1 Hotel in Africa in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Award 2018. <a href="https://www.mamounia.com/en/">La Mamounia</a> is steeped in history: for nearly a century, the hotel has been the beloved destination for the discerning international travelers such as the likes of Churchill. No wonder - despite its prime location, <a href="https://www.mamounia.com/en/">La Mamounia</a> is an oasis of peace from the bustle of Marrakech, hidden behind 12-century ramparts and tucked within sprawling gardens heaving with citrus trees, fragrant rose bushes, and ancient olive groves.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-20824586355999187472018-10-25T01:54:00.001+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.755+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 7 of 10: Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>...I’ve got a case of the Majorelle blues...</i></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 7 of 10: JARDIN MAJORELLE, MARRAKECH</span></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">If roses say “<i>I love you</i>”, does cacti snarl “<i>Stay far away!"</i>...? Forget everything you think you know about the language of flowers. <span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/ang/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a></span>, Yves Saint Laurent’s love letter to Marrakech, </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">subverts the trope with his evergreen tribute to the Moroccan city that adopted him.</span></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/ang/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">JARDIN MAJORELLE</a></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUCH MOROCCO</a></span> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="padding: 0px 20px;"><div style="font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: large;">“This garden is a momentous task, to which I give myself entirely. It will take my last years from me and I will fall, exhausted, under its branches, after having given it all my love.”</span> </span></span><span style="font-family: times;">- JACQUES MAJORELLE</span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;">A labour of love, nearly lost. What began as a passion project by the acclaimed French painter <u>Jacques Majorelle</u> (1886-1962) would eventually become his magnus opus, surpasing even his famous portraits and paintings of Moroccan street life. Jacques Majorelle first painted the facade of his studio in what is now known as “<span style="color: #0b5394;">Majorelle Blue</span>” - an intense ultramarine inspired by the Atlas Mountains, intended to “evoke Africa”. Majorelle Blue then spread to the gates, the pergolas, and the pots; turning the entire property into a monochrome vision. Likewise, his garden grew: Majorelle would bring from his travels plants from five different continents. The amateur botanist would become a master gardener; acquiring hundreds of rare varieties of flora: cacti, palms, bamboo, white water lilies, and bougainvilleas; to name a few. The result, arranged along a long central basin and acres of meandering walkways, would be an exotic and otherworldy vision, a “cathedral of shapes and colours”.</div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;">It would take Majorelle forty years to create his living masterpiece, but far less time for a series of personal tragedies (accidents, financial difficulty, abrupt passings) to very nearly destroy one of Marrakech's most-loved and iconic sites.</div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span></div></div><div style="padding: 0px 20px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">“When we heard that the garden was to be sold and replaced by a hotel, we did everything we could to stop that from happening. This is how we eventually became owners of the garden and of the villa.” </span></span><span style="font-family: times;"> - PIERRE BERGE & YVES SAINT LAURENT</span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><u>Yves Saint Laurent</u> and his partner, <u>Pierre Bergé</u>, bought the villa and the garden in 1980. The restoration of <span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/ang/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a></span> was done with the upmost respect to the vision of Jacques Majorelle. A team of 20 gardeners were brought in to mantain the property, new plant species were added (more than doubling the total number from 135 to 300), and Majorelle’s studio was transformed into a public museum dedicated to Berber culture. After Saint Laurent’s death in 2008, Berge donated </span><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/ang/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> to their foundation in Paris. Saint Laurent’s ashes were scattered in the rose garden. A poignant resting place for the designer who resurrected </span><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/ang/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> so that it would live on to inspire others as it did him. In his honour, the street in front of the Jardin’s entrance was renamed <u>Rue Yves Saint Laurent</u>.</span></div></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="http://jardinmajorelle.com/ang/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jardin Majorelle</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is one of Marrakech’s most-visited destinations, and a must-visit for anyone in town. To truly experience the tranquility it was designed to inspire, arrive as soon as it opens (8:00am) to enjoy the place before it gets too busy. Take refuge from the heat and the crowds in the <u>Berber Museum</u>, galleries, boutique, and cafe.</span></span></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></div></div></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-30698689745583742682018-10-22T00:38:00.001+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.755+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 6 of 10: Conquering the High Atlas Mountains<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>On Top of the World (well, Morocco)...of Hollywood studios, Game of Thrones, </i></span><i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">and the highest point in Morocco</i></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 6 of 10: THE HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS</span></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">So far, it felt like an inordinate portion of my Morocco trip had been dominated by the </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>High Atlas Mountains</b>. This would be the final leg of my journey through the mountains. Take a good look before we say goodbye to them...</span></span><br /><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000; font-family: helvetica;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUCH MOROCCO</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a name='more'></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2OuQYSOXowqPgZOwjk46ardxsjK0LXBDTWI8wqqUPInC5nBWxVXC33zFIsqaP-ZUaD2mNRU8fzl2zobbiqk2nCADszNB6D60l9YwFKWCrfPL7xT5fh7wlmKzZ14pOy8UKnm1Qw33Hfc/s1600/High+Atlas+Mountains%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2OuQYSOXowqPgZOwjk46ardxsjK0LXBDTWI8wqqUPInC5nBWxVXC33zFIsqaP-ZUaD2mNRU8fzl2zobbiqk2nCADszNB6D60l9YwFKWCrfPL7xT5fh7wlmKzZ14pOy8UKnm1Qw33Hfc/s1600/High+Atlas+Mountains%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQkScH3RK8nT-DwWDgE9LibUdR6MJAgMbZHhmSskJlDhxKOAF_dxlcMM9A_azIp868rmc1A4HIKxM07UtFj87U71RWxotBW-9vUGXrd_JTuYXatmsM7Q7PLjWEJtwMEohn-mfzZQafpI/s1600/High+Atlas+Mountains%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3_Ksar+Ait+Benhaddou.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 6 of 10: Ksar Ait Benhaddou, The High Atlas Mountains, and Ourzazate by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQkScH3RK8nT-DwWDgE9LibUdR6MJAgMbZHhmSskJlDhxKOAF_dxlcMM9A_azIp868rmc1A4HIKxM07UtFj87U71RWxotBW-9vUGXrd_JTuYXatmsM7Q7PLjWEJtwMEohn-mfzZQafpI/s1600/High+Atlas+Mountains%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3_Ksar+Ait+Benhaddou.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 6 of 10: Ksar Ait Benhaddou, The High Atlas Mountains, and Ourzazate by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">KSAR AIT BENHADDOU</span><br /><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">It was going to be a long drive to Marrakech, so curiosity had to be sacrificed for efficiency. Fortunately, I’m not crazy for Game of Thrones so I didn’t feel the urge to get up close with <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/444" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ksar Ait Benhaddou</a>,</span> the filming location of the slave-trading city of Yunkai that Daenerys Targaryen laid siege to. </span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/444" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ait Benhaddou</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is a <i>ksar</i> (a fortified town) built into the side of a hill. Since its inception in the 6th century, the residents have enjoyed a roaring trade due to their strategic location on along the caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. For that reason, </span><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/444" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ait Benhaddou</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is built to be defended: with outside walls of mud and clay reinforced with corner towers as the first layer of defense. Marauders who breach the outer walls would be met with steep, narrow pathways that wind around each other. If and when the invaders finally make their way out of the maze, the residents would have retreated to the fortress at the top of the hill. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Thankfully, these days </span><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/444" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ait Benhaddou</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is a lot more welcoming to outsiders. Ait Benhaddou has been a <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/444" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987</a></span> for being one of the best examples of Southern Moroccan earthen clay architecture.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">TIZI N’TICHKA</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Driving through the High Atlas Mountains felt like a lifetime, what with the extremely narrow and winding roads. Numerous shops selling minerals and fossils, women’s cooperatives selling argan oil products, trees laden with apples, dates, and walnuts clung on dangerous to the edge of the soaring mountains, as though their precarious position were but a mudane fact of life. My journey through the High Atlas Mountains peaked at <b>Tizi N’Tichka</b>. </span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Tizi N’Tichka</b> links the mountain range to the Southeast of Marrakesh. It was surreal to think that this gateway to the Sahara Desert often receives snow from November through March. At 2,260 metres above sea level, it’s the highest road of the High Atlas Mountains. In hindsight, it was incredibly dangerous and foolhardy of me to clamber onto and sit on the edge of a slippery cliff for a better look. My only excuse? “<i>I was high</i>...”</span></div></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody><tr><td align="left" width="50%"></td><td align="right;padding: 0px 10px 0px 10px;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPO21LSKke_TgWin-6vKRgVVYYsHGkGmazx2qBULQaj0vpqQHD-Vg91TpGqk_tnM7ib5X9P7dRmacUPyrtoqrwDbZvvcDJKWwjyUys9sfwXI2YNQf_WWUn8WGcwVFPcd5GK-OnXfaSEUE/s1600/High+Atlas+Mountains%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3_Tichka.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="499" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPO21LSKke_TgWin-6vKRgVVYYsHGkGmazx2qBULQaj0vpqQHD-Vg91TpGqk_tnM7ib5X9P7dRmacUPyrtoqrwDbZvvcDJKWwjyUys9sfwXI2YNQf_WWUn8WGcwVFPcd5GK-OnXfaSEUE/s1600/High+Atlas+Mountains%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3_Tichka.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In my journey through the High Atlas Mountains, I had reached the highest road in Morocco. </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Yet my journey had far from peaked. Stay tuned for the story you’ve all been waiting for - </span><i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Marrakech</i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">.</span></span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-28409527513385017752018-10-19T04:13:00.002+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.755+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: Todra Gorge & Boumalne Dades<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHG5v-TzU2xLFAoRFJkjJ7gNgbUn8OyIUbG2ZTW5TqypUOuiQUmcYxuxKUL18fUS8O5rb-pM398oeGC-isXbKyTK0Wnd53zZ9dcnCj6gGfgzagIbnkSo4Qql4buPM0xxLXnyJxndniEk/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHG5v-TzU2xLFAoRFJkjJ7gNgbUn8OyIUbG2ZTW5TqypUOuiQUmcYxuxKUL18fUS8O5rb-pM398oeGC-isXbKyTK0Wnd53zZ9dcnCj6gGfgzagIbnkSo4Qql4buPM0xxLXnyJxndniEk/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Gorgeous Gorges: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 5 of 10: TODRA GORGE & BOUMALNE DADES</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Before I had embarked on my virgin trip to <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> my perception of the country was that of a barren land. But after being <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/erfoud-morocco.html">unexpectedly rained on in the Sahara Desert</a> the night before, I now knew to not judge a book by its dusty cover. A visit to Todra Gorge - the Grand Canyon of the Sahara - would challenge everything I thought I knew about this beguilling country.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXUKcUSt3rDvjPAvNJhJi5nAnAqjJLUeuO-9jvAevC8nmTAOQo1-ULkw6XEXEuDZtuaeFUErqt4hhidwYbgfKseaEdNdrDllWENpYahWtVobT4BB3uHx2oaKNh8oWSEOB7-IYxeuoc4M/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXUKcUSt3rDvjPAvNJhJi5nAnAqjJLUeuO-9jvAevC8nmTAOQo1-ULkw6XEXEuDZtuaeFUErqt4hhidwYbgfKseaEdNdrDllWENpYahWtVobT4BB3uHx2oaKNh8oWSEOB7-IYxeuoc4M/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_17.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fKJ7Mq4PKxwItJGh5u_C3Vap0vy3jOpiGEXXEdwTJGrGKOVbJiqGayspo7Rm3wX5dHRcyauL_RVpavVthaQZ1avvtRxTBLg6WJDJapOSSAfso5ygcMppVp0NqBRrsDsHz42K1JqxWq8/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fKJ7Mq4PKxwItJGh5u_C3Vap0vy3jOpiGEXXEdwTJGrGKOVbJiqGayspo7Rm3wX5dHRcyauL_RVpavVthaQZ1avvtRxTBLg6WJDJapOSSAfso5ygcMppVp0NqBRrsDsHz42K1JqxWq8/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_2.JPG" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXC8MsxXmfAGrIUPcp4ffWBbSKaLJvWkUhvZ2X-Jub7DEhOEkNrMm9vLffGnYlplaruZwqQVmuej3n-eAd8hGE79BQRlsbwQYHdSZqDcz0kyL48g4efjPtoq5HXMe1sC0RCDqIqA7iS54/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXC8MsxXmfAGrIUPcp4ffWBbSKaLJvWkUhvZ2X-Jub7DEhOEkNrMm9vLffGnYlplaruZwqQVmuej3n-eAd8hGE79BQRlsbwQYHdSZqDcz0kyL48g4efjPtoq5HXMe1sC0RCDqIqA7iS54/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_8.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">TODRA GORGE</span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> </span><br /><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morocco</a> existed in my imagination as a sun-scorched land. The numerous dried up wells and abandoned <i>kasbahs</i> I passed on my drive through the <u>High Atlas Mountains</u> fueled that impression. Yet, almost every rocky corner would yield a green patch - the life source of which seemed to be a mystery. </span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">In <b>Todra Gorge</b>, at least, there was no shortage of water to be found. Located in the eastern part of the Atlas Mountains, </span><b>Todra Gorge</b><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> (also spelled Todgha Gorge) was birthed by the Todra River and the Dades River. The rivers carved out what is called the <u>Grand Canyon of the Sahara</u>. Todra Gorge is a literal breath of fresh air: a constant cool breeze skims over icy-cold streams and rivers that gush through terracotta-pink corridors of rock. The limestone walls of </span><b>Todra Gorge</b><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> reach up to 400 metres, providing a cool shade uncharacteristic to <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morocco</a> I was told that during wetter times of the year, the canyon floor is flooded with strong torrents; but in this dry season, hikers and rock climbers come to explore and conquer its unusual landscape.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><b>Todra Gorge</b><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is not as remote as it once was, but it is still somewhat off the beaten track. The nearest town, Tinghir, is tiny and decidedly untouristy. How wonderful to have explored, albeit briefly, </span><b>Todra Gorge</b><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> while it is still a little-known treasure.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7yaxH2bIKT19rbZrfG3q1Jvjs6tIgHT1MEJVzaUCCIlm2YCOtNgCwIOOqcTKaPmjzP5NHMXavC6STbP0bBFf0w1Sh7wSZxwPWHEMh-Ma-KAfOlPl_lUTFDx7agdtXInwJOaUoqM1XwM/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7yaxH2bIKT19rbZrfG3q1Jvjs6tIgHT1MEJVzaUCCIlm2YCOtNgCwIOOqcTKaPmjzP5NHMXavC6STbP0bBFf0w1Sh7wSZxwPWHEMh-Ma-KAfOlPl_lUTFDx7agdtXInwJOaUoqM1XwM/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">EVEN AGAINST THE PINK AND RED ROCKS...</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDwOcT6Kwuv0lIAR-vc0Tr_xtUVWM0V_Gwsx2AH7birnmtd3OMBsGskxq75uo5tN1VWq3d_SuAAtei61DpEbvKK0hOBx20mFOAtdQEmPuB_SGUy6anTJ6cev6yhwW-_XsoY0hOLgY-vg/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDwOcT6Kwuv0lIAR-vc0Tr_xtUVWM0V_Gwsx2AH7birnmtd3OMBsGskxq75uo5tN1VWq3d_SuAAtei61DpEbvKK0hOBx20mFOAtdQEmPuB_SGUy6anTJ6cev6yhwW-_XsoY0hOLgY-vg/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_9.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">...THE CLEAR WATER APPEARED ICE-BLUE IN PARTS.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><table border="0" style="width: 900px;"><tbody>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZAr2PISArZc5VOG1MEDgsZXuNvER9QN6pxEhX25jKUrraoZINpM26kAlYMrX0v-qv9h6zE_GILC8h7plA5ywyMbxhfvNKFOvDzwSopHmpGewHXLtjm4ah4IckkPbsiUd2tTXEHQf2lk/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZAr2PISArZc5VOG1MEDgsZXuNvER9QN6pxEhX25jKUrraoZINpM26kAlYMrX0v-qv9h6zE_GILC8h7plA5ywyMbxhfvNKFOvDzwSopHmpGewHXLtjm4ah4IckkPbsiUd2tTXEHQf2lk/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jIR4gQdvOf0-JreWFi6hdKpN5umgvZS9C20pD2NUy488gH3wRLRjvZD7UFCwExw5GNsghjZmi-oSHKWCkBWKic5gnXXj8iJaQN-5QrQDalctoZW4MBEsNKbEdeID9QaklWK7l586GyU/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jIR4gQdvOf0-JreWFi6hdKpN5umgvZS9C20pD2NUy488gH3wRLRjvZD7UFCwExw5GNsghjZmi-oSHKWCkBWKic5gnXXj8iJaQN-5QrQDalctoZW4MBEsNKbEdeID9QaklWK7l586GyU/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">BOUMALNE DADES</span><br /><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Another path less-travelled, another pleasant and unexpected discovery. An hour way is the town of <b>Boumalne Dades</b>. If Todra Gorge was off the beaten path, Boumalne Dades is even more so. The town is small (population 12,000), unassuming, and has little attractions to offer aside from its lively markets on Wednesday and Sunday. Indeed, the few visitors it receives are usually those making the town a base for exploring Todra Gorge.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">But it was at a traditional nomad guesthouse, near Dades Valley, that I had one of the more memorable and hilarious moments of my </span><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morocco</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> trip. We had dropped in for a cuppa at <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kasbah+Ait+Kassi/@31.3108574,-6.0266101,21z/data=!4m7!3m6!1s0x0:0x54cdf1e5c521f49c!5m1!1s2018-11-13!8m2!3d31.3121387!4d-6.0217942" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kasbah Ait Kassi</a></span>; a family-run guesthouse, prepared in the authentic Berber way by the owner’s wife. There, amidst the traditional surroundings and old-world hospitality; I sat on the carpeted floor, across our hostess, as she demonstrated how to make a proper Berber brew: with water boiled in a silver teapot over hot coals; poured from a height into cups of freshly plucked mint and rocks of sugar. The mint tea was more potent, more flavourful, and fresher than anything I’d ever tasted.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The real tea was when our smiling hostess shyly and cheekily joked - through our guide who translated for us - that she would like for me to marry her brother!</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqduNZClHndH7CKyQ1GdXM6OXYbxEuqBglj5NlZde-5OVSxlg44aZb2K4xu7vmrm3-7FYyUtG2zIMhr0PLqbE4VHpHihOe1A7_sKhg6SYsePBPkpqT9oaUGgvJJr9yAZiBRClEGPTbBxI/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqduNZClHndH7CKyQ1GdXM6OXYbxEuqBglj5NlZde-5OVSxlg44aZb2K4xu7vmrm3-7FYyUtG2zIMhr0PLqbE4VHpHihOe1A7_sKhg6SYsePBPkpqT9oaUGgvJJr9yAZiBRClEGPTbBxI/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14.JPG" /></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2CVWIw79psGYxokmfIRNhkBr9SmHjfhBI4C9n_k-8FiwpMC2eSXgrl4-nwiQ1D8mFFR1ZBSpwkTelCn8SWIkOP-3CmLv3lUlw18VVSFXE6SIvbIKWLTLzOrX1iszyf-9a__CaWEZ2Ac/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2CVWIw79psGYxokmfIRNhkBr9SmHjfhBI4C9n_k-8FiwpMC2eSXgrl4-nwiQ1D8mFFR1ZBSpwkTelCn8SWIkOP-3CmLv3lUlw18VVSFXE6SIvbIKWLTLzOrX1iszyf-9a__CaWEZ2Ac/s1600/Todra+Gorge+%2526+Boulmane+Dades%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_16.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 5 of 10: How Todra Gorge completely changed the way I see Morocco, and how I got married off to a Berber family in Boumalne Dades by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">At least, I <i>think</i> she was joking. My potential sister-in-law offered my mother 100 camels and 2 houses in Morocco for my hand in marriage - a prospect that was very welcome to mummy dearest who squealed, joyfully: “Yes! I can finally wash my hands off my daughter! And I get to have holiday homes in Morocco!” Thanks a lot, mother. Although, 100 camels <i>does</i> sound rather tantalising...Ladies and gentlemen, you are now looking at the future proprietess of </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kasbah+Ait+Kassi/@31.3121387,-6.0239882,17z/data=!4m7!3m6!1s0xdbcc923527c4d8f:0x54cdf1e5c521f49c!5m1!1s2018-11-13!8m2!3d31.3121387!4d-6.0217942" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kasbah Ait Kassi</a></span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"> in Boumalne Dades, Morocco.</span></span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-3137398524607945612018-10-15T03:45:00.001+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.754+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 4 of 10: Erfoud<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWGkZWHLwUwSBO7QprTQ6f0GRx0WWa6_3vSmMGyDyup3j5KhCuG-BP56PK05-kXygld7SHmxbpwDCwA90psU2wHiOnv9sBsrBx0ATH-NIxDwwbl7LcY3Pl4r2pdCInFcbiWJpeytTMy0/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Erfoud, Morocco: When a sunset camel ride on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert doesn't go as planned... by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWGkZWHLwUwSBO7QprTQ6f0GRx0WWa6_3vSmMGyDyup3j5KhCuG-BP56PK05-kXygld7SHmxbpwDCwA90psU2wHiOnv9sBsrBx0ATH-NIxDwwbl7LcY3Pl4r2pdCInFcbiWJpeytTMy0/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="Erfoud, Morocco: When a sunset camel ride on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert doesn't go as planned... by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Desert Storm: of sunsets and storms on the sand dunes of the Sahara...</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 4 of 10: ERFOUD</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s the journey, not the destination, that matters. At least, that’s what I console myself when my plans don’t go my way. I had come to the edge of the Sahara desert to ride, for the first time, on camels as the sun set on the sand dunes. A fairly reasonable request given the desert’s proclivity for blazing sunsets or at least dryness. However - as I would find out after a long and arduous journey - the bizarre and the unexpected have a tendency to follow me around the world...</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSykWNJcAZjhRYwW0nnTyYKfbYDcBAoiRO4Cq0q3qn-Jr0MUkMKY3w_q6whv1tF5_ErLfitxj9VWwlt_spa3WX-E8sjhCf5LsO3bYa6yPgUCYA3y1PVbsneDoWAPwzlI2hEGsus3HPVI/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Erfoud, Morocco: When a sunset camel ride on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert doesn't go as planned... by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSykWNJcAZjhRYwW0nnTyYKfbYDcBAoiRO4Cq0q3qn-Jr0MUkMKY3w_q6whv1tF5_ErLfitxj9VWwlt_spa3WX-E8sjhCf5LsO3bYa6yPgUCYA3y1PVbsneDoWAPwzlI2hEGsus3HPVI/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3.JPG" title="Erfoud, Morocco: When a sunset camel ride on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert doesn't go as planned... by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: times;"><div style="text-align: center;">After a hectic day spent <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/fez-morocco.html">navigating the maze-like Medina of Fez</a>, rising at dawn to make my way to the next destination seemed like a special kind of punishment. Especially as the drive from Fez to Erfoud would take 9 hours (including breaks) over 500 kilometres. I would’ve have napped throughout; but some of the scenery was too beguilling to sleep on. The long drive took me through a mostly barren landscape, but every now and then a winding road would reveal an unexpected treasure - oases of dazzling turquoise and lush green palms - and a number of equally surprising crystalline streams carving themselves out of a bed of stones as they made their way down the High Atlas Mountains.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9ybh6YYFrNJoHsbQ5tTv33ZTXBGH-bTXZGW4MW1HklMMbuDbEWF9bqerLKakGIllC7xMDQ9XCJvR4VqWbp2fhzrBZSXERxtCveALun3ucTxV8hbLKxv3FuHblLEcH9JbjnzIqn13pOQ/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="clear: left; font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9ybh6YYFrNJoHsbQ5tTv33ZTXBGH-bTXZGW4MW1HklMMbuDbEWF9bqerLKakGIllC7xMDQ9XCJvR4VqWbp2fhzrBZSXERxtCveALun3ucTxV8hbLKxv3FuHblLEcH9JbjnzIqn13pOQ/w427-h640/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" width="427" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbpxXHKnFXytIQXyRFf3nfytOs4gFGokq7BULtNaxh_c3f-OSOPsDBnNxVvExNqyf4Lysyh2fDEJiqXAUVlYKQE7sebQkKPRs2nmcRZJcoBkpzXK2orWp3e70rCKb71koBvudN_HHbkY/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" style="clear: right; font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbpxXHKnFXytIQXyRFf3nfytOs4gFGokq7BULtNaxh_c3f-OSOPsDBnNxVvExNqyf4Lysyh2fDEJiqXAUVlYKQE7sebQkKPRs2nmcRZJcoBkpzXK2orWp3e70rCKb71koBvudN_HHbkY/w427-h640/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_5.JPG" width="427" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I passed through the Ziz Gorges, Ziz Valley, and Zaabal tunnel, stopping for lunch at Midelt. It became clear, from the foreign-run guest houses, that this otherworldly natural setting attracted hikers and campers. Aside from these visitors it seemed that the population were mostly a mix of Arabic and Berber people. I learnt that my destination, Erfoud, is <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a>’s capital of fossils, especially ammonite. Tables made of or inlaid with fossils are considered the height of elegance. The street sellers who linger on highways to sell crystals and such indicate the national fondness for natural stones, as did the multitude of shops with rows of fossils of stones laid outside to entice.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Upon finally reaching our kasbah in Erfoud, I had less than an hour to freshen up and prepare myself for the next leg of my adventure. I was to travel to the edge of the Sahara Desrt, to a particular spot that was about 45 kilometres from Algeria. Precautions had to be taken - before hopping into an SUV our hosts expertly tied headscarves, the ends of which should be wrapped around our noses and mouths to protect from the relentless sand. Naturally, I flung the end of my scarf off my face: my lipstick is too expensive, and I didn’t endure the heaviest hoop earrings to have them hidden.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The drive through the desert in a convoy of SUVs was...eventful. You’ll have to imagine a dozen SUVs playing dodgeball with each other, as I was too busy clinging on for dear life to capture any of it. I caught my breath when we stopped to meet a nomadic family. It was interesting to hear about how they couldn’t see themselves living any other way; instead choosing to roam with their livestock wherever the wind and weather took them.</div><div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">They say that animals have an instinct that can sense natural changes that humans are oblivious to. I should have known, when the goats rushed back from the fields on their own back to base camp, that the weather was going to take a turn for the worse.</span></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">...and so it did. By the time we reached the edge of the Sahara, the sun was beginning to set yet the skies were not a fiery red but a cloudy pink. Lo and behold, and it began to rain. Hard.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Rain on the Sahara, what are the odds? It was the first time this year, apparently. The Sahara is the world's 3rd largest desert after Antarctica and the Arctic. Although the Sahara is one of the most arid locations on Earth, its not uniformly so. The central part of the Sahara (the Libyan Desert) receives 0.0338 inches of rain per year (sometimes going without rain for decades at a time) while other parts of the desert are endowed with up to a whooping 4 inches of annual rainfall. And yet, on the very </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">occasion that I would ride a camel through the sand dunes for the very first time, the Sahara was blessed with a downpour that would completely obscure any chance of seeing a sunset! I was immediately reminded of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, around the same time last year. That day, for the first time in a dangerously hot summer a vicious storm broke up, the temperature plunged to 10c (in August!) and I </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2017/10/plitvice-lakes-croatia.html" target="_blank">nearly drowned trying to make my way out</a></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> of Croatia’s most famous beauty spot.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbM-wb9Lac_OvUnplUmqzuWcyQEJTIcyj2F4uxPLZRrukUJiG7r3C5gCrOfcgLiiTezlXgygj4Sm0TerK6pFUkKMDUR_mhNk1wy8nwJr3p5hwLIjVnJsxEwhshzJyn-MNWkeNGdIS9Jq8/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbM-wb9Lac_OvUnplUmqzuWcyQEJTIcyj2F4uxPLZRrukUJiG7r3C5gCrOfcgLiiTezlXgygj4Sm0TerK6pFUkKMDUR_mhNk1wy8nwJr3p5hwLIjVnJsxEwhshzJyn-MNWkeNGdIS9Jq8/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I refused to brave a desert storm to ride an increasingly irritated camel on the dunes for an hour with no chance of a sunset. My first ever ride on the sand dunes would have to be an experience for another time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrII_gGb11JBcgVtBQH26lPi7od-KAP_gNBpC0wsL5xboqq-jPMRemUfmLDvnVILELh5GZNY9hDBLumMYW890qEq32EaNS6LYP8uMZYKtl3xnfhpi54oi0_bYnF1_O5ROHNxSwrQfSMgk/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Erfoud, Morocco: When a sunset camel ride on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert doesn't go as planned... by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrII_gGb11JBcgVtBQH26lPi7od-KAP_gNBpC0wsL5xboqq-jPMRemUfmLDvnVILELh5GZNY9hDBLumMYW890qEq32EaNS6LYP8uMZYKtl3xnfhpi54oi0_bYnF1_O5ROHNxSwrQfSMgk/s1600/Erfoud%252C+Morocco+-+Camel+Riding+on+the+Edge+of+the+Sahara+Desert+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" title="Erfoud, Morocco: When a sunset camel ride on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert doesn't go as planned... by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">On the plus side, I got to play out my Vogue Arabia cover girl fantasy with the Kate Spade </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">lantern-shaped handbag that I brought for this occasion. Have you ever had a well-laid plan go </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">unexpectedly awry? How did you cope with the disappointment? Was your face as long as a camel’s?</span></div></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-17169419470703202412018-10-12T07:20:00.005+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.755+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 3 of 10: Fez<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>SOUK OF THE DAY: A STATE OF A-FEZ</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 3 of 10: FEZ</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">What a way to reach a climax. I had begun <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/10/rabat-meknes-morocco.html">my tour of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities</a> with Rabat (current and deceptively modern but for its UNESCO Heritage landmark), followed by Meknes (at a glance, modest and even shabby but home to one of the world’s greatest doors). The next destination would be <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/fez-meknes">Fez</a>; arguably the most exciting of the country’s former capitals (although Marrakech would beg to differ; it being Fez’s biggest competition). What is indisputable is that <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/fez-meknes">Fez</a> is the oldest of the Imperial Cities, first established as capital in the ninth century under Sultan Idriss II, a great-great grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/fez-meknes">Fez</a>’s status as capital has since come and gone with different dynasties, but its fixture in the imagination has remained, for its famous medina - the largest in the world - and its souks, the likes of which are nothing like anything else in the country...</span></div><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: darkred; cursor: pointer; font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">MUCH MOROCCO</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 30px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">THE ROYAL PALACE OF FES</span><br /></blockquote><div style="text-align: center;">As if to announce its importance, the seven gilded gates of <a href="http://visitefes.com/en/archives/3481">The Royal Palace of Fez</a> radiate with the power of the sun. Even on an overcast day, like when I visited, the famous brass doors seem to glow with a light from within. Or perhaps the shine is thanks to the many tour guides who pluck the lemons from the nearby trees and rub the juices on the palace gates to demonstrate the fruit’s astringent properties. One can only wonder; is it the brass or is it the lemon? Fruit for thought. Likewise, the Golden Gates are a pathway to the imagination - <a href="http://visitefes.com/en/archives/3481">The Royal Palace of Fez</a> is closed to the public, so visitors can only fantasise about the grandeur behind these imposing doors.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SPpza0ypzLOD1MoA9p9gWJJY-xFFMy6N4LrPYjrm6wxeZcGZQdF0YWOM3vlqTq7ty5h4xCZZ884i6QJWE_hM_WGrG6-mrebdJpYZgAJ_5Ionbd84WYz8UhukjF6it76BM7HUDcdIhX0/s1600/Fez%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3_Royal+Palace.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SPpza0ypzLOD1MoA9p9gWJJY-xFFMy6N4LrPYjrm6wxeZcGZQdF0YWOM3vlqTq7ty5h4xCZZ884i6QJWE_hM_WGrG6-mrebdJpYZgAJ_5Ionbd84WYz8UhukjF6it76BM7HUDcdIhX0/s1600/Fez%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_3_Royal+Palace.JPG" /></a></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">But doors that do not open are no place to linger. Not when the greatest attraction of this Imperial City is in fact <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/170">Fez el Bali</a>: the medieval city, or simply, the Medina.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Home to half of Fez’s population, little has changed in this medieval city. The </span><a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/170" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Medina</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is a maze - a warren of narrow alleys, many of them barely wide enough for a single person to navigate. Some streets, especially the ones leading to homes, are so low you have to stoop to walk through. In the </span><a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/170" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Medina</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">, mules and donkeys have right of way as they are the only form of transportation here - the beasts of burden not only deliver supplies to the little shops in the souk but also carry waste from the homes. To the uninitiated, every step is a potential adventure, not just because the roads are unpaved and exposed with planks of wood laid over some of the larger potholes, but also because it’s all too easy to get lost in the warren - which I daresay is part of the fun. </span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I whiled away an entire afternoon in the </span><a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/170" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Medina</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">. From catching glimpses of mosques; stepping out of the way when I heard the shout of “<i>balak, balak</i>!” (moving aside, here comes a mule laden with goods), watching people go about everyday life, and doing some window-shopping of my own; the </span><a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/170" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Medina</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> was a thoroughly gratifying, if dizzying experience.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9EPyXC6RU8uOSaCAVzednSdfygSUsjuAoVGGtbV9K7O6x0cdz9oGoNZPe4Ge1NfNiiT0krWIntb6W2AJwc39ldPFBWQLsvEYQuQXTa1HKCluG8qWtY4lGwcj9zBW2wVqVeJ3t3oU_FE/s1600/Fez%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_Medina.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9EPyXC6RU8uOSaCAVzednSdfygSUsjuAoVGGtbV9K7O6x0cdz9oGoNZPe4Ge1NfNiiT0krWIntb6W2AJwc39ldPFBWQLsvEYQuQXTa1HKCluG8qWtY4lGwcj9zBW2wVqVeJ3t3oU_FE/s1600/Fez%252C+Morocco+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_Medina.JPG" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><table border="0" style="width: 900px;"><tbody></tbody></table>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">HOW TO SHOP FOR RUGS (AND MORE) IN THE MEDINAS OF MOROCCO</span></div>
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<br />Not even an hour into exploring the Medina and I had been roped into a lesson on carpet-making. It is said that one is unlikely to leave a souk without being schooled on the art of carpet-making. I can attest to that. I stepped into a a vast, double-height cavern more suited to a cavern of treasure troves than a humble carpet shop. Forget wall to wall carpets; this shop was covered in rugs from the floor up to the walls and touching the ceilings. Needless to say, I was floored. The proprietors, having found a willing audience - I was indeed in the market for those oh-so-trendy Berber rugs, you know, the minimalist white ones with grey lines forming a diamond pattern that you see all over interior design magazines - began the song and dance that is a tale as old as time. <br /> <br /> I was presented with a freshly-boiled glass of mint tea. The proprietor encouraged us to open our minds, our hearts, and our pockets (straight to the point, I appreciate that). With a flourish, he explained what made their carpets so unique: 1) Morocco is the only country whose carpets contain triple knots, 2) The carpets are coloured with vegetable dyes: saffron, henna, indigo, 3) The quality of the carpets are regulated and set by the government (however, the prices are not), 4) These carpets that are exactly identical on both sides, the only ones with two weavers working on both sides at the same time... I watched the assistants bring out carpet after carpet, unroll it with much fanfare as the proprietor boomed with pride; all the while sipping on my brew, thinking, the tea, oh the tea! <br /> <br /> After the lesson was over, it was time to get down to business. Bargaining is a dance in Morocco, and both the sellers and the shoppers should know these steps. Start to haggle only when you are serious about buying - negotiations are an expression of interest. First: you decline the initial price quoted - the opening figure is always many times higher than a reasonable price. Second, you offer about half as much. Finally, you and the seller move toward a compromise figure, usually 2/3 of the original quote. Axnd then you decide what to do with your gorgeous new rug/copper tea set/leather jacket - do you want to take it with you? Or sent to your hotel? Or shipped via DHL or FedEx to your home address? <br />
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">CHAOUWARA TANNERIES</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Another must-see sight in the Medina of Fez are the <u>Chaouwara Tanneries</u>. The 11th-century tanneries, the oldest in North Africa, are an iconic sight (and smell); using natural methods of producing that have changed little since medieval times. Animal skins are placed in limestone vats, where the hair is soaked off in a solution containing sulphur and pigeon dung before being washed and transferred to the dyeing vats, then dried out on the flat roofs of the buildings around the tanneries. The only way to see the tanneries in action is through one of the many leather shops that surround the site. Ignore the touts, just follow your nose. The ‘pong’ of </span><u style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chaouwara Tanneries</u><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is potent, even on cool days - the sprig of mint visitors are given to sniff do little to hide the stench. But the pungent odour is worth enduring to witness this traditional process, which produces some of the best leather in the world. Naturally, the salesmen who take you up to the roof to see the tanneries hope for a sale, but if you’re not there to buy, a tip for their time will suffice. There are worse places to shop - 1) <i>These are the best selection of leather goods in Morocco</i>, 2) <i>The prices are as good as they get</i>, 3) <i>The business model is ethical</i> (the leather shops form a cooperative with the tannery workers), so the experience is authentic and uniquely Fez</span>.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">PALAIS AL FIRDAOUS</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The perfect dinner to end a day in Fez would be at <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Riad+Palais+Al+Firdaous/@34.0692294,-4.9755007,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0xd9ff359323cc4b5:0xef1e6d47626c96ec!8m2!3d34.069225!4d-4.973312" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Palais Al Firdaous</a></span>. This well-known hotel, situated in the heart of the old city, was a former 16th century palace. The restaurant has enjoyed the patronage of diners such as King Mohammed VI, royals from Saudi Arabia to as far as Holland, the Prime Minister of Japan, and numerous European and Middle Eastern politicians. I later learnt that a fire completely destroyed the restaurant but for this wing, whose original Mooorish architecture and stylings remain intact. It made the experience of </span><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Riad+Palais+Al+Firdaous/@34.0692294,-4.9755007,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0xd9ff359323cc4b5:0xef1e6d47626c96ec!8m2!3d34.069225!4d-4.973312" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Palais Al Firdaous</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> that much more poignant: dining on traditional Moroccan cuisine (lamb and chicken tagine with figs and apricots, breads and cous cous) while being entertained with a live band, magician, and belly dancer; in such sumptous surroundings that barely escaped devastation. A bittersweet and beautiful close to an evening in Fez.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-28054406752028525742018-10-09T01:58:00.001+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.755+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 2 of 10: Rabat and Meknes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, PART 2 of 10: RABAT & MEKNES</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">How many Imperial Cities does a country need? Many nations have a historical capital (usually the seat of the royal family, whether reigning or deposed), and modern capital (Kyoto and Tokyo, St Petersburg and Moscow; to name two). But for <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a>, one former capital won’t do: instead, the country has had three previous capitals in addition to the current one, <a href="https://rabat-tourisme.org/index.php?lang=en">Rabat</a>. By the end of my trip I would have visited all 4 of Morocco’s Imperial Cities - <a href="https://rabat-tourisme.org/index.php?lang=en">Rabat</a>, <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/meknes">Meknes</a>, Fez, and Marrakech. In this story, Part 2 of my 10-Part Moroccan Diaries, I glide through 2 of Morocco’s Four Imperial Cities: <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/meknes">Meknes</a> and the capital (for now - you never know if Morocco will change her mind again), <a href="https://rabat-tourisme.org/index.php?lang=en">Rabat</a>.</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">HASSAN TOWER</span></div>
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Though Rabat may seem unassuming, the city holds a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rows of 200 marble pillars of varying heights, flanked on one side by what looks like the remnants of a wall swept away by the tide, and dominated by the curious monument that is Hassan Tower. These are what remains of a mosque conceived in the 12th century for an entire army of Sultan Yaqub Al-Mansour to worship at. Hassan Tower would’ve been the largest minaret in the world, had the sultan not passed away in 1199. Construction halted immediately and indefinitely. Despite the esplanade’s incompleteness, there’s a certain charm and wistfulness to Hassan Tower and the surrounding pillars. The field of stumps and the looming 44 metre tower, in a way, is a symbol of the king and his army that it was meant to be built for.
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">MAUSOLEUM OF KING MOHAMMED V</span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>On the other end of the esplanade stands the other of Rabat’s most famous landmarks: the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V. The final resting place of the present king’s father (the late Hassan II) and grandfather, this mausoleum is a palace in its own right. The royal tombs - which respectfully-dressed visitors can look down into from a gallery - are carved from white onyx and rest on a slab of dark blue granite, lending them the appearance of the moon reflected in a shimmering and fathomless ocean. Surrounding the tomb are rows of flags with a Koran reader seated opposite, his words to God floating up into the mahogany dome carved from cedar gilded in gold leaf and perforated with stained glass. Completed in 1971, the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V is a masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, with its white silhouette, topped by a typical green tiled roof. Outside, royal sentries stand guard. TheMausoleum of King Mohammed V is one of very few holy places that non-Muslims are allowed to enter, making Rabat not just a city to pass through but also a destination in its own right.
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<div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">MEKNES</span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;">If Rabat seemed like an undiscovered superstar, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/meknes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meknes</a></span> is even more so. My first impression did not blow me away. A small, quiet city whose only inhabitants seemed to be bitter orange trees, and whose only visitors were people from the countryside doing their shopping in town before heading back to their rural homes. Then there’s the dust - a pervasive, invasive veneer of chalkiness that the city seems to wear with a badge of pride, or at least resignation. Had I not known that </span><a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/meknes" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Meknes</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"> was one of the Imperial Cities, I would have kep on driving on to the far more popular city of Fes. Yet, </span><a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/meknes" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Meknes</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"> was the capital of Morocco in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismael. The clues are in the urban planning: remnants of no less than three sets of fortifications are ingeniously incorporated into the city's road networks, a throwback to when city’s was the heart of the country. At the centre is the 17th-century imperial headquarters: a fortified city within a city; of palaces, mosques, gardens, dungeons, royal stables, and of course, the incomparable royal granary.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">BAB EL-MANSOUR</span></div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">It‘s the royal granary that keeps </span><a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/meknes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meknes</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> clinging on to relevance. In its heyday, the granary held enough food for the populace for a year as well as stabling for 12,000 horses. The entrance alone is worth the visit. <u>Bab el-Mansour</u>, often named as one of the world’s most impressive doors, is the grandest of all imperial Moroccan gateways. Conceived as an elaborate homage to Sultan Moulay Ismael, </span><u>Bab el-Mansour</u><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> was created with materials pilfered from other Moroccan monuments and palaces, such as marble columns from the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis and Corinthian columns from El Badi Palace in Marrakech. The facade is intensely adorned by green and white zeillij tiles and engraved Koranic panels, creating the illusion of an embroidered cloth. While the gate is faded by the omnipresent dust that dulls even the vibrant colours of <u>Bab el-Mansour</u>, not even the patina of time can take away from its impressive size. At 16 metres tall and 8 metres wide, </span><u>Bab el-Mansour</u><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> seizes attention and demands the reverance this former sultanate once commanded.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Having seen the best of what these less-traversed Imperial Cities had to offer, it was now time to move on to one of Morocco’s most well-known former capitals - Fez. With not a moment to spare, as night was beginning to fall and I knew I would need a full night’s sleep to prepare myself for the day ahead. Coming up, the dizzying and enthralling medina, souks, and shops of Fez...</span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-80626485267191704522018-10-05T05:41:00.007+01:002022-12-16T07:02:49.756+00:00The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBVImTN7wBvLnApv2P9rZ3bYk-3kMyLuvTv_LzN9vzihc14uRxPpgheolOG0_JiJOfAod-fZCmdQHYVjrao7PnSl_gZYK0v_KtXAFel3eYJEMG0nJBKiEqewAhjVrBVhEO_lsalJdSaE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBVImTN7wBvLnApv2P9rZ3bYk-3kMyLuvTv_LzN9vzihc14uRxPpgheolOG0_JiJOfAod-fZCmdQHYVjrao7PnSl_gZYK0v_KtXAFel3eYJEMG0nJBKiEqewAhjVrBVhEO_lsalJdSaE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>We'll always have Casablanca...</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">THE MOROCCO DIARIES, <i>PART 1 of 10</i>: CASABLANCA</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">It was an adventure long in the making. I have always dreamt of Africa, but until my recent trip to <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> I had never stepped foot in any of the continent’s 54 countries. Several years ago, I was taking a summer in the south of Spain with a group of friends. On a whim, the group wanted to go to <a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/">Morocco</a> that very same day. Our spontaneity was dashed when we realised that I needed to apply for a visa, which would’ve taken weeks. Fast forward to 27 December 2017 and the Kingdom of Morocco agreed that all Malaysians could visit visa-free. I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas present. So a trip to Morocco was booked for the following September: a tour spanning several towns and cities with sights and experiences so diverse that I felt like I got a decent overview of what this country had to offer. From the tree-climbing goats of Agadir to the urban cacophony of Marrakech, my Moroccan experience was everything I had dreamt of and more.</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">I’m so very excited to share with you my journey with my Moroccan Diaries, a 10-part series of travel stories spanning 13 cities and towns. The first and the last of the destinations was the port city of Casablanca. Although often overlooked for its more atmospheric (read: Insta-worthy) siblings such as Chefchaouen and Marrakech, <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/casablanca">Casablanca</a> is the best representation of the modern nation. The former pirate lair-turned economic capital of the country, <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/casablanca">Casablanca</a> Morocco’s largest city, has its sights set firmly across the Atlantic and onto the future. Here’s looking at you, kid.</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">MUCH MOROCCO</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0034583/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">classic movie Casablanca</a></span> is still relevant today as a spotlight is constantly cast on the plight of refugees, and will <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9ID5DHsX8g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">continue to endure</a></span> for its immortal dialogue including the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vThuwa5RZU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">oft-misquoted “Play it again, Sam.”</a></span> The movie itself was filmed in a Californian studio, but thanks to the loving efforts of the late former-American diplomat Kathy Kriger, fans of Casablanca can wine and dine at <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.rickscafe.ma/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rick’s Cafe</a></span>.</span><br /><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">And what a recreation it is. The legendary “gin joint” is housed in a traditional Moroccan mansion; complete with riad. Just like the film, </span><a href="http://www.rickscafe.ma/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rick’s Cafe</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is packed with foreigners. Thankfully, the nervous tension of the original film is not present: the atmopshere is nostalgic and thoroughly inviting, with jazz music lulling guests to while away an afternoon over the sumptous surroundings and exquisite dishes. I had <u>goat’s cheese croquettes</u> with honey, lavender, crushed almonds, <u>lamb shank</u> with sesame caramelised prunes and saffron rice, and <u>peach melba</u>. All of it generous and delicious, with attentive and friendly service by Samer - who pointed out the handsome upstairs lounge, decorated in movie paraphanelia where one could watch Casablanca (both the film and the city, the latter from the balcony).</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02TXKlkanhtwbg4OnDOeZD1aTjVrqCHsgYtbPxl4_5dRwzz2tutg1ctvQk7IadjDd-9YKJJympcZIL-jVD_3d0rOTiE0dbvU7ZheFey72MRVO5i604kkVePMD480Vpm73PfQul0eeCwM/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7+-+Rick%2527s+Cafe.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02TXKlkanhtwbg4OnDOeZD1aTjVrqCHsgYtbPxl4_5dRwzz2tutg1ctvQk7IadjDd-9YKJJympcZIL-jVD_3d0rOTiE0dbvU7ZheFey72MRVO5i604kkVePMD480Vpm73PfQul0eeCwM/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_7+-+Rick%2527s+Cafe.jpg" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiSHdqm9Dpa1eyGCR8n5hFbVgVIVEJxMJdapRub1RiI1VFp3lud0-4Y_hYxg9DNw5DDSnbTJY90vYxwqcK7Ezq_mr6AhjFVyjHb7bOneYvM55HMMO3Hj-BFz0hhcI_wA5V35Twy6w8XBk/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6+-+Rick%2527s+Cafe.jpg" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiSHdqm9Dpa1eyGCR8n5hFbVgVIVEJxMJdapRub1RiI1VFp3lud0-4Y_hYxg9DNw5DDSnbTJY90vYxwqcK7Ezq_mr6AhjFVyjHb7bOneYvM55HMMO3Hj-BFz0hhcI_wA5V35Twy6w8XBk/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6+-+Rick%2527s+Cafe.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">The first and the last meal of my Morocco trip were at </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.rickscafe.ma/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rick’s Cafe</a></span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">. Both of those meals were the best I had in that country. My experiences at </span><a href="http://www.rickscafe.ma/" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;" target="_blank">Rick’s Cafe</a><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"> were the perfect beginning and ending of a trip I had anticipated for so long, not just for the romantic ambience and the gorgeous food, but also for bringing to life a Hollywood classic that has been one of my favourite movies for as long as I can remember.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Casablanca is often passed over by travellers seeking to visit Morocco, for this modern city’s charms are less obvious. But a closer inspection reveals more, such as this charming restaurant I stumbled upon when I explored a hole in the wall beneath a cannon embedded in a fortress.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">THE OLD MEDINA</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">...likewise, the Old Medina (Old City) of Casablanca lacks the characteristics you’d expect from such a quintessentially Moroccan attraction. Though the lanes are charmingly crooked and the walls lovingly weathered, the Medina feels much newer than its medieval counterparts in other cities. At first glance, the wares for sale seem perfunctory and dare I say, prosaic; but that’s not to say that the Medina doesn’t deserve a closer look. I certainly would not have thought to thoroughly explore, had a friendly local not come up to me and ask where I was from. When I told him “Malaysia”, his face lit up - according to him, Malaysians enjoy a good reputation amongst Moroccans for being compassionate, polite, and not-pushy at Haj, the pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca. So it was his absolute pleasure, he insisted, to guide me through the Old Medina Honestly, without his help I would’ve been absolutely lost - the Medina was a maze of 4,000 stalls! I didn’t care much for the designer knockoffs, but the local crafts; oh my! Woven baskets, hand embroidered dresses, bejewelled kaftans! I bought a lovely round basket with rope handles, covered in fluffy tassels for 200 dirham (€18) that I would’ve paid £70 for in a shop in London. I’m certainly glad I gave the Medina a chance. I later learnt that it was a popular route for those walking between downtown <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/casablanca">Casablanca</a> and <a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/">Hassan II Mosque</a>. The Old Medina of Casablanca might not be the most scenic in Morocco, but it had its charms, even if it wasn’t the postcard from the past I had hoped it to be.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqea4gQJOoAnQxUCXPud9OituzzL4SzVpUV5ewOxOhHUN97QXNclsVv0bnJ-WMkU9jorf0u6RY1jq4psQBgxygXTT6HyaounRzJ0D2QSjGJj1KNrA_bu7BuwIRNIlxm3A-6NSVSMNEmkE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_La+Corniche.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqea4gQJOoAnQxUCXPud9OituzzL4SzVpUV5ewOxOhHUN97QXNclsVv0bnJ-WMkU9jorf0u6RY1jq4psQBgxygXTT6HyaounRzJ0D2QSjGJj1KNrA_bu7BuwIRNIlxm3A-6NSVSMNEmkE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_La+Corniche.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqea4gQJOoAnQxUCXPud9OituzzL4SzVpUV5ewOxOhHUN97QXNclsVv0bnJ-WMkU9jorf0u6RY1jq4psQBgxygXTT6HyaounRzJ0D2QSjGJj1KNrA_bu7BuwIRNIlxm3A-6NSVSMNEmkE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_La+Corniche.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">LA CORNICHE</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">La Corniche is even less traditional than the Medina. The long stretch of beachside boulevard personifies what makes <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/casablanca">Casablanca</a> so different from other Moroccan cities. Think Malibu Beach, Moroccan edition: rows of palms fringe the strip, where lanky teenagers repping in Gucci and Supreme hang out by the Golden Arches, nicknamed by the locals as Mohammed-Donald’s. Glamourous women jog along the boulevard in full makeup and jewellery, no doubt from their swanky villa homes in nearby Anfa, the Beverly Hills of Casablanca. The gleaming and upscale hotel, <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/casablanca/">Four Seasons</a>, was occupied by the national football team, who that night would play in Casablanca and score 3-0, so their VIP escort to the airport the next day was well deserved. Then there are posters of King Mohammed VI and his family emblazoned with championed values including tolerance.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As well as being the economic heart of the country, <a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/casablanca">Casablanca</a> is the most liberal and progressive of Morocco's cities. Casa’s cosmopolitan nature is laid bare for all to see on La Corniche, making the kilometres-long walk along the beach one that is not only pleasant but refreshing, in both literal and figurative sense.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqea4gQJOoAnQxUCXPud9OituzzL4SzVpUV5ewOxOhHUN97QXNclsVv0bnJ-WMkU9jorf0u6RY1jq4psQBgxygXTT6HyaounRzJ0D2QSjGJj1KNrA_bu7BuwIRNIlxm3A-6NSVSMNEmkE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_La+Corniche.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqea4gQJOoAnQxUCXPud9OituzzL4SzVpUV5ewOxOhHUN97QXNclsVv0bnJ-WMkU9jorf0u6RY1jq4psQBgxygXTT6HyaounRzJ0D2QSjGJj1KNrA_bu7BuwIRNIlxm3A-6NSVSMNEmkE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_14_La+Corniche.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEBqptaZh63Vm7rBWKQ73Wl79poSL-E7i4rD_0c8KSCAxj6tXxuAjJZ53LtOcwbz9_tk38a8sqvrsj_ItD_riG5iHQ_74P2EpdbDlenj9lw8Tekg6OPriJeCSoJnyDY9CETVQOkRDpsg/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18_Hassan+II+Mosque.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEBqptaZh63Vm7rBWKQ73Wl79poSL-E7i4rD_0c8KSCAxj6tXxuAjJZ53LtOcwbz9_tk38a8sqvrsj_ItD_riG5iHQ_74P2EpdbDlenj9lw8Tekg6OPriJeCSoJnyDY9CETVQOkRDpsg/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_18_Hassan+II+Mosque.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 30px;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">HASSAN II MOSQUE</span></blockquote>The star of Casablanca would be <a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/">Hassan II Mosque</a>. Its 210-metre tall minaret dominates the skyline and is the city’s major landmark. The showstopping monument, built on an outcrop over the ocean, seems to float on the Atlantic, echoing a verse from the Quran which states that God’s throne was built upon the water. <a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/">Hassan II Mosque</a> was built to commemorate the former king's 60th birthday. No expense was spared - <a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/">Hassan II Mosque</a> is a showcase of the very best Moroccan artisanship and materials; including cedar from the Middle Atlas and pink granite from Agadir, all of it intricately hand-carved by a team of over 6,000 master craftspeople. Worshippers pray on a centrally heated floor, and can see the Atlantic breaking over the rocks underneath the glass floor in the basement and feel the sunlight through the retractable roof. The mosque was built to impress; and it certainly does: from its marble-inlayed courtyard floors to its dramatic position on the Atlantic and most of all, its sheer size. <a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/">Hassan II Mosque</a> is commonly thought to be the world's third-largest mosque after those in Mecca and Medina, and can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div></div></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkynshqph38mp-MKDlCVtUGMVUk5BirSmEA2StiVL7naO3PUtWrD1y5tw1VYg-3F4VekZbXtkREsXnQX58W13gSAv_W_rS7U293UX_8YpHaMJj5QnefiTvoRM_c6MyL4aC-KieeJt3mE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20_Hassan+II+Mosque.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkynshqph38mp-MKDlCVtUGMVUk5BirSmEA2StiVL7naO3PUtWrD1y5tw1VYg-3F4VekZbXtkREsXnQX58W13gSAv_W_rS7U293UX_8YpHaMJj5QnefiTvoRM_c6MyL4aC-KieeJt3mE/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_20_Hassan+II+Mosque.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Mosques in Morocco are closed to non-worshippers so as not to disrupt and distract those who come to have their conversations with God. The exception is <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hassan II Mosque</a></span>, where people of any creed and faith can visit even the interiors, as long as they come outside prayer times and are ‘decently and respectfully dressed’ ie. knees and upper arms need to be covered. Women are not required to wear head coverings.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I popped in for a quick look on a Sunday morning, knowing that </span><a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Hassan II Mosque</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> would be mostly empty at that time. The saying in multi-fatih Morocco goes; <i>Friday is for Muslims</i> (mosques), <i>Saturday is for Jews</i> (synagogues), and <i>Sunday is for Christians</i> (churches). I’m told that there has never been conflict between the 3 groups in the history of Morocco. This reiterates’s the country’s current reigning monarch’s ideals of coexistence and fraternity, a quality His Majesty inherited from his grandfather Sultan Mohammed V who protected his Jewish subjects and answered the Nazis’ Jewish question with: “<i>There are no Jewish citizens, there are no Muslims citizens, they are all Moroccans.</i>”</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02TJVvCrm0Z8xAND8EyM4aThZW0ht65U2tHEKUByTRvxlDloBbX61jsilEysrioyiiLN3IPSG1B_hZ81JvWOvdMr3ujfxVdyIG4uOJWq81gMuqKaoRsTUqgh6nGPZEOSPkQg1B9bkEhQ/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_25_Hassan+II+Mosque.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02TJVvCrm0Z8xAND8EyM4aThZW0ht65U2tHEKUByTRvxlDloBbX61jsilEysrioyiiLN3IPSG1B_hZ81JvWOvdMr3ujfxVdyIG4uOJWq81gMuqKaoRsTUqgh6nGPZEOSPkQg1B9bkEhQ/s1600/Casablanca%252C+Morocco_Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_25_Hassan+II+Mosque.JPG" title="The Morocco Diaries, Part 1 of 10: Casablanca by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">With its uniquely relaxed attitude toward receiving non-worshipping visitors, <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.mosquee-hassan2.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hassan II Mosque</a></span> was an appropriate landmark to close my introduction to cosmopolitan <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitmorocco.com/en/travel/casablanca" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Casablanca</a></span>. Casablanca’s modernity would prove to be the perfect foil to the rugged charms of the rest of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.muchmorocco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morocco</a></span>. Casablanca’s liberal and progressive attitude certainly made me feel welcome in a <span>country I have waited so long to visi</span>t.</span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Next stop: the Imperial cities of </i></span><i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Meknes and the capital, Rabat.</i></span></div></div>
</div>Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-22129840915321632912018-09-24T00:00:00.001+01:002022-12-16T04:32:18.404+00:00Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">BORED IN BRUNEI: STRANDED IN <u>BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN</u>, THE CAPITAL</span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"> “THE MOST BORING COUNTRY </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">IN SOUTH EAST ASIA” (MAYBE EVEN THE WORLD)</span></span></div>
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“<i>Why</i>...” my step-grandfather frowned quizzically, “...would you want to go to Brunei?” Coming from an expert on Borneo (Malaysian, Indonesian, and Bruneian - here’s a photo of him as a schoolboy <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/OldSchoolCool/comments/88rf92/1950_ish_north_borneo_my_stepgrandfather_as_a/">giving The Duke of Edinburgh the lowdown</a> on Bornean industry), this was not encouraging. “Well,” I explained, “My <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2017/12/2018-travel.html">mission for this year</a> is to visit all the countries of South East Asia that I haven’t yet, and I thought Brunei would be the easiest since it’s only an hour flight from here.” We were in Kota Kinabalu, one of the two East Malaysian states that comprises North Borneo. “Besides,” I continued, “I know there’s not that much to see, so I’ll just be making a day trip to Bandar Seri Begawan...” My Uncle Robert snickered, “That’s one day too many.” I ignored him: “...I’ll have more than enough time to see the capital’s highlights and be back in time for dinner.” </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Or so I thought. You know the saying “The road to hell is paved with good intentions?” Well, despite my best of intentions to debunk Brunei’s reputation as <u>The Most Boring Country in South East Asia</u>; despite my research, preparation, and aptitude at speaking the language, I would find myself trapped in purgatory thanks to a series of unfortunate events. So much so that I was traumatised by my day trip to Bandar Seri Begawan and hadn’t touched these photos in 5 months. Well, it’s time to crack open Pandora’s Box. I shall tell you my story, or rather, cautionary tale. So many questions to be asked! Is Brunei really a dry country? Does B.S.B - the abbreviation for Bandar Seri Begawan - actually stand for <i>Boring, So Boring</i>...? Is this what it sounds like when doves cry? Read on...</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNnd_lmFrCd9Owby_h62pdYzP4Smjdgeudh-nRHRWYBx966gkc8TPdwRWkj7U2Z7c0frxthC_5NSC7JygpiqihsWhhhr5624dAc4ujJlh0zxYGApSpc2R00fqu-Y37Sp7BqsUqgjECfQ/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_4.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNnd_lmFrCd9Owby_h62pdYzP4Smjdgeudh-nRHRWYBx966gkc8TPdwRWkj7U2Z7c0frxthC_5NSC7JygpiqihsWhhhr5624dAc4ujJlh0zxYGApSpc2R00fqu-Y37Sp7BqsUqgjECfQ/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_4.JPG" title="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrpRilXKZYMtaM5AoZdwrx9UGCDE0l58tFrd6BdIunsCKb2StvFdtHl66yKdPDp7Kgkmna8iBhUAvkGVD2pKp9poSlUT2JxoWcjaXF3Ie87hLUQDMH9FkQDz08D7cUqujQaADkoVHloU/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrpRilXKZYMtaM5AoZdwrx9UGCDE0l58tFrd6BdIunsCKb2StvFdtHl66yKdPDp7Kgkmna8iBhUAvkGVD2pKp9poSlUT2JxoWcjaXF3Ie87hLUQDMH9FkQDz08D7cUqujQaADkoVHloU/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_8.JPG" title="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NTau7nXFSFeEJJDdgl4vZGCZHNn_yEdvs8Yrdy2N_Ch9UjwCt8qRtp1Br_AdAPjO3916h3xngKzpUfxGbVhD7rOwa6ntzywYpkyjvDq3jGI8bMXdNUJTtR4gcmvsYy2T4a5Liub8nac/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_6.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NTau7nXFSFeEJJDdgl4vZGCZHNn_yEdvs8Yrdy2N_Ch9UjwCt8qRtp1Br_AdAPjO3916h3xngKzpUfxGbVhD7rOwa6ntzywYpkyjvDq3jGI8bMXdNUJTtR4gcmvsYy2T4a5Liub8nac/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_6.JPG" title="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Before I tell you the tale of how my trip went awry, let me first introduce some of the sights I enjoyed in Bandar Seri Begawan.</span></i><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> </span></span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">JAME’ ASR HASSANIL </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">BOLKIAH MOSQUE</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Let’s answer one of the most common questions about Brunei - are the streets really paved in gold? No, but the dome of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/jame-asr-hassanil-bolkiah-mosque/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah</span> Mosque</a></span> is. It’s the country’s largest mosque, built to celebrate the 25th year of the current sultan's reign. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">With four terrazzo-tiled minarets and 29 golden domes, the complex is impossible to miss. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">And so you shouldn’t - it’s one of the grandest sights in Bandar Seri Begawan. Knowing that </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/jame-asr-hassanil-bolkiah-mosque/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah</span> Mosque</a> is on the way to the city from the airport (about 3km from the city centre), it was the first destination of my day trip. I tipped my taxi driver to wait while I had a nosy around the vast grounds, sneak a peek at the interiors (but I didn’t go inside as prayers were happening) and gasp at the lavishness of it all: from the Sultan’s personal escalator at his private entrance to the rows of Gucci loafers lined up outside the prayer halls.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJpWbjeo9-j3ENmfbMNTN9VcM58pmAJ5FKNha1YtrAVBqKRD8Q21Eydgk8M1jmYax2t_1A1FY3SVKBJ1p8L54KRhqm0XAABVLCW4iTDvQEj-9-Mbh8jVvb996cdsi9a6s_CQIFNre32E4/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJpWbjeo9-j3ENmfbMNTN9VcM58pmAJ5FKNha1YtrAVBqKRD8Q21Eydgk8M1jmYax2t_1A1FY3SVKBJ1p8L54KRhqm0XAABVLCW4iTDvQEj-9-Mbh8jVvb996cdsi9a6s_CQIFNre32E4/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_7.JPG" title="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fm4_D25VxjvB-2h7-Ee5Z89LhiRzh6vDZyBrv7NEh24KHHoBXrwG5IGlFX9mX-JjkRYD4eUjpH5a9JU47vcpzwfIrLm64NnGFxsvfSc4I8UOFktwksn0cGp-6N7uxwZ-fWnRb72vjyE/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_9.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fm4_D25VxjvB-2h7-Ee5Z89LhiRzh6vDZyBrv7NEh24KHHoBXrwG5IGlFX9mX-JjkRYD4eUjpH5a9JU47vcpzwfIrLm64NnGFxsvfSc4I8UOFktwksn0cGp-6N7uxwZ-fWnRb72vjyE/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_9.JPG" title="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" /></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SULTAN OMAR ALI SAIFUDDIN MOSQUE</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/sultan-omar-ali-saifuddien-mosque/">Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque</a> is the most iconic sight in Bandar Seri Begawan, the likes of which you’d find on postcards and that sort of thing. A ceremonial stone boat (a replica of a 16th-century royal barge) floats on an artificial lagoon against the backdrop of yet another gold-topped mosque. In the evening, the grounds around the mosque is the place to mingle, pray, and promenade. Not necessarily in that order, but more or less an accurate description of nightlife in Brunei. The interiors are lavish, if a curious juxtaposition of Islamic and Florentine style: Italian marble, chandeliers, and mosaics. Photos inside <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/sultan-omar-ali-saifuddien-mosque/">the mosque</a> are not usually allowed, but the staff were so impressed that I could speak fluent Bruneian/Malay - your run-of-the-mill Chinese woman of a certain upbringing who speaks fluent Malay is uncommon enough; but one that is also tall, has a British accent, and looks vaguely mixed race? I’m a unicorn, baby - that I was okay-ed to take two photos. These exclusive images that follow are brought to you by my linguistic talents and exotic charms.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">KAIZEN SUSHI</span><br /><br /></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The most highly-rated and apparently best restaurant in B.S.B is...a <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Kaizen+Sushi/@4.886587,114.94158,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x2d380e73400a4c57?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiA-9XBudHdAhXTX8AKHfOwDkUQ_BIwD3oECAoQCw" target="_blank">sushi restaurant</a></span>. Which suited me just fine - Bruneian cuisine is similar to Malaysian, and damnit, I didn’t come here to eat <i>nasi lemak</i> in a <i>warung</i> when I can get the same thing back in Kuala Lumpur. Besides, the rain was coming down and I knew that <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Kaizen+Sushi/@4.886587,114.94158,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x2d380e73400a4c57?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiA-9XBudHdAhXTX8AKHfOwDkUQ_BIwD3oECAoQCw" target="_blank">Kaizen Sushi </a></span>was on the waterfront, with a view of Kampong Ayer floating villages. So I settled in and waited out the storm with <i>sashimi</i>, <i>sushi</i> (dragon rolls), and <i>chawanmushi</i> (steamed egg). I daresay it was rather good.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">KAMPONG AYER</span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I politely declined the many offers from water taxis to ferry me across <i>Sungei Brunei</i> (Brunei River) to <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/kampong-ayer-water-village/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kampong Ayer</a></span>. I was perfectly happy to just appreciate from a distance the 1,000 year old <span shaltyle="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/kampong-ayer-water-village/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">floating village</a></span> - the largest stilt settlement in the world where 30,000 people call home. A century ago, half of Brunei's Malay population lived here, and even today many Bruneians still prefer the lifestyle of the water village to residency on dry land. It’s an interesting mix of contrasts: modern houses next to traditional timber ones, gleaming luxury cars parked on the banks across a neighbourhood that looks like what Venetian scholar Antonio Pigafetta described in 1521 as the 'Venice of the East'. That description of </span><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/kampong-ayer-water-village/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kampong Ayer</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is a bit of a reach; but the village does has its charms - visitors can see traditional artisans at work; such as boat making and weaving.</span></span></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; padding: 0px 30px;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">ROYAL REGALIA MUSEUM</span> </blockquote>Some of us post flatlays of our presents (#BirthdayMonth #LeoBaby #SoBlessed ) - and then there’s the Sultan of Brunei, for whom only an <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/royal-regalia-building/">entire museum</a> will do. If you’ve ever wondered “what do you gift a man who has everything?” then head to the <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/royal-regalia-building/">Royal Regalia Museum</a> for inspiration. The answers, apparently; range from a solid silver model of Angkor Wat to jewelled miniatures of mosques. Even more mind-blowing is that the display of gifts to the Sultan of Brunei is on constant rotation to make room for shiny new presents. This is a “PR Unboxing” on a whole new level.<br /><p>Both shoes and cameras are banned for most of the museum; the latter allowed only on the ground floor, where a life-sized replica of the Sultan’s 1992 Silver Jubilee chariot dominates. Throughout the rest of the vast, marble-clad <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/royal-regalia-building/">museum</a> are photos depicting the story of his life (including a photo of the Sultan smiling at his circumcision ceremony, which has very “Get Ready With Me” vibes). In a hot, tropical city with not much else to see; the <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/royal-regalia-building/">Royal Regalia Museum</a> was the highlight of my day: for whiling away the long hours, for the opulence of it all, and for the air-conditioned relief the museum provides. </p><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZtP7B_1UvD3M9HubcWlSwOqn57IbWOQrttllBq7bkmHjKxe8S8yQyCYThlo0OM81rT_4fTYyIiqWsnco7C7uIGUmvTOG2oqvaTDP4oNtOMNMieJXk2YhgIGsJAFgd-yPw6ieHh8a_pI/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_20.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZtP7B_1UvD3M9HubcWlSwOqn57IbWOQrttllBq7bkmHjKxe8S8yQyCYThlo0OM81rT_4fTYyIiqWsnco7C7uIGUmvTOG2oqvaTDP4oNtOMNMieJXk2YhgIGsJAFgd-yPw6ieHh8a_pI/s1600/A+Day+Trip+to+Bandar+Seri+Begawan%252C+Brunei%253B++the+%2522Most+Boring+Country+in+the+World%2522_20.JPG" title="Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: A Day Trip in the Capital of "The Most Boring Country In Southeast Asia"" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">RIGHT, ENOUGH PRETTY PICTURES & INTERESTING TRIVIA. </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">LET’S HEAR THE DRAMA OF MY TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE!</span><br /><br />
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</div><br />When did I realise that my well-laid plans would unravel? Quite literally from the moment I stepped foot in the country. I flew into Bandar Seri Begawan on the first, early morning flight from Kota Kinabalu with plans to take the evening (about 6:00pm or so) flight back. As I got off the plane, trundling sleepily toward immigration, I was met by airport staff bearing a placard with my name on it. Sweet! Am I being singled out for special treatment? Not really. The airport staff asked me, apologetically, “Miss Yip, were you made aware that your return flight this evening has been delayed by 3 hours?” I blinked as I registered the fact, and half-jokingly said: “No, otherwise I wouldn’t have got on my flight here.” <br /><br /> <br /> But that’s fine...! I would simply take a more leisurely pace on my day trip in B.S.B. Unfortunately, it’s hard to go slower in a city where the pace is already glacial. Two of the attractions I wanted to visit - Bubungan Dua Belas (Twelve Roofs House) and <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/istana-nurul-iman/">Istana (Palace) Nurul Iman</a> were closed to the public Not even a <i>verrrrry</i> slow walk around <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Galeri-Seni-Waterfront/493909247377398">Galeri Seni</a> (Arts Gallery) at Customs House, depicting Brunei’s relationship with Singapore, could help while away the extra hours. And there were a lot of extra hours - B.S.B was a lot more compact that I had prepared for; and even its landmarks did not warrant more than an hour per visit. I spent up to 2 hours at these 4 destinations above - also out of necessity, as the rain came down hard which made a visit to <a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/kampong-ayer-water-village/">the floating villages</a> seem like a very bad idea - and yet the hours dragged on. <br /> <br /><br /> When I reached the airport, I learnt that my flight was further delayed...to past midnight. At least 6 hours past the original departure time, in a city where time is not of the essence. I narrowly escaped another mishap when I resisted the urge to book another flight back to Kota Kinabalu: at the last minute, that flight too was delayed to past midnight. I couldn’t have boarded my (very, very delayed) flight quickly enough. When I finally landed in Kota Kinabalu International Airport - hot, sweaty, exhausted, and bored out of my mind - I practically wept and kissed the tarmac, vowing to never again complain that Malaysia is dull! <br /> <br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">DOES B.S.B REALLY STAND FOR BORING, SO BORING? </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">SHOULD YOU VISIT BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">First and foremost, to a Malaysian such as yours truly, Brunei’s charms are nothing that I can’t find at home. Government-commissioned travel pamphlets boasts mosques (a dime a dozen in Malaysia), rainforests (we have those too, and <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2018/03/sepilok-orangutan.html" target="_blank">ours have orangutans</a></span>), water villages and markets (ditto), and cuisine that is more or less the same. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">But for visitors further afield, the cultural differences as well as lack of tourism resources can pose a challenge. First of all: Brunei doesn’t seem to have yet fully capitalised on its potential for tourism. <u>Taxis are few and far between</u>. In the one taxi I managed to get to the airport (which I did by lingering in a hotel lobby), the driver told me there were about 40 taxis in the whole city, half of which serve the capital. Even so, he said, the taxi drivers struggle to find work as car ownership here is high, about one car per every 2 residents. Then there is the <u>tourist information or rather lack thereof</u>. When I googled “Brunei tourism board” I was led to 3 options; one being the website for the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.tourism.gov.bn/SitePages/Brunei%20Tourism%20Board.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tourism Development Department </a></span>(government news and stuff), <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://tourismbrunei.travel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this website</a></span>, and finally; <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://bruneitourism.travel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">another that says “Under Construction”</a></span>. If anything, the website for Royal Brunei, the country's national airline, is the <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online portal with the most information for tourists</a></span>. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">The other issue some travellers may have is Brunei’s status as a Muslim nation and hence dry country, which means <u>zero nightlife</u> (everything closes at 9:00pm) and <u>zero alcohol</u>. The only way to get turned up is to drive to its border to the Malaysian town of Miri, where you’ll find many locals hitting up the booze at bars. This isn’t an issue for yours truly - <i>who likes to be in bed by 10:00pm with a sheet facial mask and a book</i> - but might be pose a head-scratcher to those with nocturnal (and alcoholic) inclinations.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">So the question is: <i>Is Bandar Seri Begawan a worthy destination</i>? Yes, if you manage expectations. Don’t come looking for nightlife: the capital’s offerings are <u>purely cultural and thoroughly wholesome</u>. Brunei is extremely safe and the locals are very friendly: at the sight of a foreign face they’re keen to strike up a conversation with you in perfect English. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Consider, too, <u>Bandar Seri Begawan</u> as a springboard to the rest of the country. Brunei has its share of Bornean wildlife; from the pristine rainforest reserves of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.uluuluresort.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ulu Temburong National Park</a></span>, the mangrove forest island of <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://forestry.gov.bn/SitePages/Pulau%20Selirong%20Forest%20Recreation%20Park.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pulau Selirong Recreational Park</a></span>; and <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/plan/destinations/borneo/beautiful-brunei/reef-and-wreck-dives/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reef and wreck diving</a></span>. </span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">If you’re already in the region and it won’t put you out, you may want to pop in and see for yourself the so-called “<u>most boring country in South East Asia</u>”. If not for its natural charms, then for the novelty factor and to tick it off your list (which is what I did). Brunei itself may hold more interest for you than it did for me. But as for the capital, my day trip to <u>Bandar Seri Begawan</u> was more than enough.</span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/en/brunei/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Royal Brunei</a></span> fly direct from Kota Kinabalu to Bandar Seri Begawan. I highly recommend making <u>Bandar Seri Begawan</u> a day trip from Kota Kinabalu. As for currency, Singapore dollars can be used in Brunei (and vice versa) along the Bruneian dollar as are both on par. The language spoken in Brunei is the same form of Malay as in Malaysia, and most Bruneians speak fluent English.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Oh, Malaysia. Your quality of life and your currency may not be as high as Brunei’s. The streets of Kuala Lumpur are not as clean nor as safe as Bandar Seri Begawan. But I’ll choose your chaos, your confusion, and your colourful ways over this peaceful </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">and laid-back country; anytime.</span></i></span></span></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-27134615845336864782018-09-20T07:08:00.001+01:002022-12-16T04:32:18.405+00:00Busan, South Korea: What to See in Winter<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Beyond the sea: There's more to <u>BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA</u> than its beaches, as I discovered on a cold winter's day...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.bto.or.kr/eng/main/main.php">Busan</a> has been lauded as South Korea’s answer to Barcelona: a coastal town with a wide beach and more urban edge than its glossy inland cousin. Beyond its seaside charms, South Korea’s second largest city would have you know that you are in ‘Dynamic Busan, City of Tomorrow’. They’re not wrong. Some parts of <a href="http://www.bto.or.kr/eng/main/main.php">Busan</a>, especially downtown, rival the modernity in <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Seoul">Seoul</a>, if not outstrip it’s braggadociousness (braggadocity?). I’m talking about you, We’ve The Zenith - I’m not sure what this so-called zenith is, unless it’s a reference to being the tallest residential building in the world. <a href="http://www.bto.or.kr/eng/main/main.php">Busan</a> wants to talk about its vision for the future, while visitors think of its coastal charms (seven, count ‘em, seven beach districts). Both are very worthy reasons to visit. But of my brief sojourn in <a href="http://www.bto.or.kr/eng/main/main.php">Busan</a>, two things stood out the most to me; one of which was a pristine relic of its past, the other a exemplary case of urban regeneration done right. There is more to <a href="http://www.bto.or.kr/eng/main/main.php">Busan</a> than its beaches, as you’ll see (sea?)...</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bto.or.kr/eng/main/main.php"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">BUSAN TOURISM BOARD</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">IMAGINE YOUR KOREA</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9POxi28uhHvnts8XwqM8vl794qWexYyi5Yx-UwQD3MOjgEqDGiY-TcyLC76Hge-QzeAU6TJEKlczPfbq71NJvEZdD-84nYdp1U5u_6WA4pFK-MqfLMGYsxgkR9S3EVIwR8RJTiHXPpI/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beyond the sea: What to See in Winter in Busan, South Korea by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9POxi28uhHvnts8XwqM8vl794qWexYyi5Yx-UwQD3MOjgEqDGiY-TcyLC76Hge-QzeAU6TJEKlczPfbq71NJvEZdD-84nYdp1U5u_6WA4pFK-MqfLMGYsxgkR9S3EVIwR8RJTiHXPpI/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_15.JPG" title="Beyond the sea: What to See in Winter in Busan, South Korea by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #ffe599; font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span>...but of course, I’ll show you what Busan looks like. I’d be doing you a disservice otherwise. The </span><span><a href="http://www.busanaircruise.co.kr/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Busan Air Cruise</a></span><span> is the most striking way to get the bigger picture. The cable car runs from its base on </span><u>Songdoh Beach</u><span>, climbing high above the seas to a mountain park on the other side. The view is literally breathtaking - look downward and you see, through the glass floor, the sea; and in every direction you get views of this metropolis, the beaches that make Busan such an attractive destination in summer, and mountainous woodland.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8nUcSQR7PcCh31p4XHOQGD6K2MNQzjcE_Ua1Jb29_G2kclE6UO68ZN-lvyZHnSi-2p1kqVe-2gk0eetLL7xqfvIdK_o6w4DQOuiHWRAXLzNNRVwzdmgXlgXrvYToClJJjKQeEmSiFtk/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8nUcSQR7PcCh31p4XHOQGD6K2MNQzjcE_Ua1Jb29_G2kclE6UO68ZN-lvyZHnSi-2p1kqVe-2gk0eetLL7xqfvIdK_o6w4DQOuiHWRAXLzNNRVwzdmgXlgXrvYToClJJjKQeEmSiFtk/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_10.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">GAMCHEON CULTURAL VILLAGE </span><br /><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> <i>Lego Village. The Santorini/Cinque Terre of South Korea</i>. Whatever your nickname for <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1998211" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gamcheon Cultural Village</a></span>; there’s no taking away from the fact that the village is a successful example of urban regeneration. At first glance, </span><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1998211" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gamcheon Cultural Village</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> is a charming cheek-by-jowl cluster of tiny, colourful buildings cascading down a steep hill, overlooking the sea, accessed through a winding maze of narrow streets and far too many stairs. </span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The fact is, </span><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1998211" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gamcheon Cultural Village</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> wasn’t always a quaint place. The village developed during and just after the war, when the relative safety of Busan made it the prime destination for refugees who proceeded to make for the hills to build makeshift homes. After spending most of the 20th century as one of Busan's poorest areas, </span><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1998211" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gamcheon Cultural Village</a><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> began a transformation in 2009. Under a Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism project; students gave the town a colourful makeover with murals, sculptures, and street art. </span><br /><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Five years later, and this former slum-turned-living contemporary art gallery attracts thousands of visitors. Art galleries opened, artists tried to outdo each other with more surreal and more colourful installations, and local businesses boomed. By appealing to art lovers, the selfie generation, and just the plain curious; this once shabby village turned itself into one the prime destinations in Busan. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_FG51dMJMP0mcYFsdEzZkg0QAf_LPmpWC4jAT7MKebqDnizzweXk7wGCdYqIWS4D-YoH3C3o_3Y2pv6loN3F3l3Tt7vuK8C9Dk_SwEu0sCnVh7JkLzp9GSe42ztAwuG3u4cyeCgOI3c/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_FG51dMJMP0mcYFsdEzZkg0QAf_LPmpWC4jAT7MKebqDnizzweXk7wGCdYqIWS4D-YoH3C3o_3Y2pv6loN3F3l3Tt7vuK8C9Dk_SwEu0sCnVh7JkLzp9GSe42ztAwuG3u4cyeCgOI3c/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaT5GmSe5Eu8VAMLRcZdqqYuyuI_HEHj4lkPfHIGiuO6grDdudAikXMGXg6ylzmDyf5zRatiq8B9-t6fvf5_3MuSYIUniE6HQ7dSin5YqhxM9r9h0EQ6IJAmt3iyMJBpfOxxzuMxOHp80/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaT5GmSe5Eu8VAMLRcZdqqYuyuI_HEHj4lkPfHIGiuO6grDdudAikXMGXg6ylzmDyf5zRatiq8B9-t6fvf5_3MuSYIUniE6HQ7dSin5YqhxM9r9h0EQ6IJAmt3iyMJBpfOxxzuMxOHp80/s1600/Busan%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_12.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;">I hope you’re enjoyed the contrasts between 2 of Busan’s most beloved sights; and see that there’s more to Busan than just its beaches, making it a destination not just for warmer weather.</div></span>Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-76688998856603387122018-09-17T07:55:00.001+01:002022-12-16T04:32:18.408+00:00Seoul, South Korea: The 3 Places to See a Traditional Side of Seoul<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I'm an Old Soul living in this strange world...The 3 Places in Seoul to See the Traditional Side of South Korea </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A field of LED roses beside the <a href="http://www.ddp.or.kr/main?hl=en_US">Zaha Hadid-designed plaza</a> in Dongdaemun. Shopping for skincare infused with snail secretion, starfish, seahorse (or whatever animal ingredient is in vogue) in <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264312">Myeongdong</a>. That <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bZkp7q19f0">earworm</a> that both satirised and introduced to the wider world the flashy, luxury district of Gangnam. Whatever you know about Seoul, the capital of South Korea; it’s likely to be trend-led, modern, and futuristic. In fact, the highlight of my <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/search/label/Seoul">visit to Seoul in 2014</a> was the <a href="http://www.poshbrokebored.com/2015/11/cafe-dior-seoul.html">Dior Cafe</a>, housed in a building that resembled an oversized tooth. But there are parts of the city that still clings on to the classics, where you can get a feel for the old soul of Seoul. I visited three such places in my previous visit, last winter. Here are my 3 Places in Seoul to See the Traditional Side of South Korea.</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">IMAGINE YOUR KOREA</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://english.visitseoul.net/index"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">VISIT SEOUL</span></a></div>
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<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWYLw-fYxJmp9QFHOAUtcYyGEw8AxBDGTTmJpjpn0fsOme_GFJAKABL7UW-0ChhuvnDfKJ33IQP_QCdZGdcNF07JpSXj2bXyIQpMdeouZzQBDmFE2e4RF22AxySrMcW-o4vnve3bHBZs/s1600/Seoul%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWYLw-fYxJmp9QFHOAUtcYyGEw8AxBDGTTmJpjpn0fsOme_GFJAKABL7UW-0ChhuvnDfKJ33IQP_QCdZGdcNF07JpSXj2bXyIQpMdeouZzQBDmFE2e4RF22AxySrMcW-o4vnve3bHBZs/s1600/Seoul%252C+South+Korea+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_6.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You just can’t keep <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264337">Gyeongbokgung Palace</a> down. The principal palace of the Joseon Empire (the complex houses 330 buildings and in its heyday commanded 3,000 staff) has been torched by invaders more than once, but like a phoenix; <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264337">Gyeongbokgung Palace</a> rose from the ashes. King Taejo - the founder of the Joseon dynasty - might have been bemused by the many visitors (some of which come clad in traditional dress) but I daresay His Majesty would be impressed by the reconstruction.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">From the ornate two-storey Geunjeongjeon (the main palace building) to Gyeonghoeru (a large raised pavilion resting on 48 stone pillars and overlooking an artificial lake with two small islands, where state banquets were held and kings went boating on the pond) and everything in between; the faithful restoration of <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264337">Gyeongbokgung Palace</a> has elevated the royal complex to its rightful position as the crowning jewel of the Joseon Empire. There are no eunuchs and concubines here, but there are changing of the guard ceremonies at the main entrance. Arrive early for the 10:00am changing of the guard (the second ceremony is at 2:00pm) and dedicate the better part of the day to best enjoy the grandest of Seoul’s traditional architecture.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d12647.830246767817!2d126.977041!3d37.579617!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x8b3046532cc715f6!2sGyeongbokgung+Palace!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1536068917522" style="border: 0;" width="900"></iframe></div></div>
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<span style="font-family: times;"><br />For a more down-to-earth experience and to see how the other half lived back in the day, make the journey to <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=561382">Bukchon Hanok Village</a>. Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Royal Shrine; <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=561382">Bukchon Hanok Village</a> dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. This is where nobles who served in the palace would live with their families. Aside from the inhabitants, little much has changed. The 900 or so hanok (traditional houses) remain, preserved, like a time capsule. It’s quite surreal to meander past these 600 year-old houses and see the modern skyline of Seoul, just yonder. <br /> <br /> The neighbourhood begs to be explored: hundreds of alleys twisting this way and that, with graceful wooden houses built on slopes. The entire village is a living breathing museum. Guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses provide visitors the opportunities to experience the atmosphere of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s all very immersive, even if you choose to simply stroll through the streets without popping into the cultural centres. <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=561382">Bukchon Hanok Village</a> does get busy, but there are enough winding streets to get lost in to escape the crowd, as well as unexpected look out points to admire the tiled roofs contrasting with the concrete city on the horizon. For those looking to learn, there’s a Bukchon Traditional Culture Centre as well as English-speaking guides with maps, dressed in all red. </span><br />
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-17817642417700886552018-09-13T07:32:00.001+01:002022-12-16T04:32:18.404+00:00Okinawa, Japan: The Hawaii of Japan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Na3T6tK9_Pcx4mZvvqMYdGnHu9ZGXrzTFdCVdPtVUD8yDHAoiO62dkzyqmf3aknV9l1FRJkAR7LW1fbNUpBUBr-QeNY7Kk_ekUpNNt8N21beUh_iL0hfXcJRtS70gmJaXxRhKoCEj3U/s1600/48+Hours+in+Okinawa%252C+the+Hawaii+of+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Okinawa: 48 Hours in The Hawaii of Japan by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Na3T6tK9_Pcx4mZvvqMYdGnHu9ZGXrzTFdCVdPtVUD8yDHAoiO62dkzyqmf3aknV9l1FRJkAR7LW1fbNUpBUBr-QeNY7Kk_ekUpNNt8N21beUh_iL0hfXcJRtS70gmJaXxRhKoCEj3U/s1600/48+Hours+in+Okinawa%252C+the+Hawaii+of+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_1.JPG" title="Okinawa: 48 Hours in The Hawaii of Japan by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a><br />
<br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCurYWE1imtqrxUuF6EWRZnf7V3t0oMgS01wOQOOVV77KaDuw0anNEvDDmnAYhUSCFvbmd3neYxCx8iSoNfx7XVAqeEFfIk8Z8KlKXwR775bMD0GkzA6FHxk53nWJ9w2ILvgAJHyWTiU/s1600/TITLE+2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="104" data-original-width="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCurYWE1imtqrxUuF6EWRZnf7V3t0oMgS01wOQOOVV77KaDuw0anNEvDDmnAYhUSCFvbmd3neYxCx8iSoNfx7XVAqeEFfIk8Z8KlKXwR775bMD0GkzA6FHxk53nWJ9w2ILvgAJHyWTiU/s1600/TITLE+2.png" /></a></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Japan, Unexpected</i>: With Tropical Climates, Cherry Blossoms in Winter, and a Distinct Culture to the Rest of Japan, The Island of OKINAWA is a World of Its Own </span></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Southwest Islands reveal a side of Japan that may not exist in the common imagination: tropical islands surrounded by azure waters and fringed with coral, teeming with hibiscus and pineapples. <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.visitokinawa.jp/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Okinawa</a></span> means "<i>rope in the open sea</i>", a poetic and apt description of this chain of islands between the four main islands of Japan and Taiwan.The difference is more than skin deep - the culture of Okinawa is uniquely 'un-Japanese', for the islands were the Ryukyu Kingdom for most of their history. </span></div><div style="font-family: Times; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Times; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The “Hawaii of Japan” has long been a exotic destination even to the Japanese: an all-year-round holiday spot for big spenders in luxury resorts, intrepid nature lovers seeking ocean adventures, and families escaping for a more relaxed pace. Okinawa is the default destination for domestic sun, sea, and sand; but even so, it’s not very accessible to Japanese as domestic flights to the prefecture can be prohibitively expensive (indeed, it cost me less time and money to fly from Taipei than it did to fly to Kyoto). I visited Okinawa twice this year - once in February and once in March - and both times I was based in the capital, Naha; but I ventured slightly further that I may have a better understanding of this island’s history, landscape, and customs. I daresay you’ll find this Japan story a contrast to my others from Kyoto and Tokyo. Without further ado, let’s jump right in...</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.visitokinawa.jp/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BE.OKINAWA</a></span></div><div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMGMp5tyayXxwSoEywWnxdRwzjkK3D1UisWpkYCpB_O2pQ0aR8JBG-9A7hAMRanYKI0z3mF0ME1uTOI77_l2XVfMDgQVL52C_IQDlpiYZAgkcBXIM6gme_SKEOISJBjC1tZGAZw35QUNs/s1600/48+Hours+in+Okinawa%252C+the+Hawaii+of+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" style="clear: left; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Okinawa: 48 Hours in The Hawaii of Japan by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMGMp5tyayXxwSoEywWnxdRwzjkK3D1UisWpkYCpB_O2pQ0aR8JBG-9A7hAMRanYKI0z3mF0ME1uTOI77_l2XVfMDgQVL52C_IQDlpiYZAgkcBXIM6gme_SKEOISJBjC1tZGAZw35QUNs/s1600/48+Hours+in+Okinawa%252C+the+Hawaii+of+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_4.JPG" title="Okinawa: 48 Hours in The Hawaii of Japan by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">CAPE MANZAMO</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">One of Okinawa’s most beloved beauty spots is <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Cape+Manzamo/@26.5049491,127.8479515,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e503788741a7f9:0xdfec3d6fcce75918!8m2!3d26.5049491!4d127.8501455">Cape Manzamo</a>, a scenic rock formation near Onna Village in the Kunigami District. On his visit to <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Cape+Manzamo/@26.5049491,127.8479515,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e503788741a7f9:0xdfec3d6fcce75918!8m2!3d26.5049491!4d127.8501455">Cape Manzamo</a>, the 18th Century Ryukyuan king Sho Kei commented on the immensity of the cliff hence its name - Cape Manzamo means “A field for 10,000 people to sit”. Certainly a more dignified name than “The Toilet Bowl”, a popular scuba-diving spot in one of the tidal pools at the bottom of the rock formation. The “elephant trunk” shape of the cliff (<i>above</i>) was amusing enough, but that’s far more than the sum of <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Cape+Manzamo/@26.5049491,127.8479515,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e503788741a7f9:0xdfec3d6fcce75918!8m2!3d26.5049491!4d127.8501455">Cape Manzamo</a>’s parts. Even on an day with approaching storm clouds, such as when I visited; the waters were clear as could be. Layers of blue; from cyan to turquoise with white foam crashing against the coral. <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Cape+Manzamo/@26.5049491,127.8479515,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e503788741a7f9:0xdfec3d6fcce75918!8m2!3d26.5049491!4d127.8501455">Cape Manzamo</a> is one of the most popular places among both Japanese and international visitors to Okinawa, not just for its dramatic crashing waves and precipitous heights. The cliff at <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Cape+Manzamo/@26.5049491,127.8479515,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e503788741a7f9:0xdfec3d6fcce75918!8m2!3d26.5049491!4d127.8501455">Cape Manzamo</a> faces the East China Sea, making it even more picturesque during the sunset, which is when the cape is at its most crowded.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">CHURAUMI AQUARIUM</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I was already in the area, so I made the trip to <a href="https://churaumi.okinawa/en/">Churaumi Aquarium</a>. Not because I’m especially fascinated with sea life (unless its served freshly sliced on my plate) but because <a href="https://churaumi.okinawa/en/">Churaumi Aquarium</a> - one of the largest in the world - had succeeded in raising whale sharks in captivity, a worldwide first. Watching the Kuroshio (the North Pacific equivalent to the Gulf Stream) marine life from behind soaring acrylic windows was interesting enough, but they were all instantly overshadowed when this whale shark swam by (below). Everyone was in awe at the size of this lad. Absolute unit.</span>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8qhzDdh6k5CUoCOwgRkgQAaK8dthdClC9InkmaggRfhOMZeiy1HQT7hvg9PI2pKV8W52jnfboxeP6hX-nLtAKzgZsc3Cjno5o1lkOl2G7NhlqFp4FR8ym-NDqc5oCFSf5voGYlmts7yo/s1600/48+Hours+in+Okinawa%252C+the+Hawaii+of+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8qhzDdh6k5CUoCOwgRkgQAaK8dthdClC9InkmaggRfhOMZeiy1HQT7hvg9PI2pKV8W52jnfboxeP6hX-nLtAKzgZsc3Cjno5o1lkOl2G7NhlqFp4FR8ym-NDqc5oCFSf5voGYlmts7yo/s1600/48+Hours+in+Okinawa%252C+the+Hawaii+of+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_13.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">OKINAWA PREFECTURAL PEACE MEMORIAL PARK & MUSEUM</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As idyllic as life on Okinawa may seems, the island has suffered greatly in recent history. We all know how World War II was brought to an end, but less of us know the devastation in Japan that led up to it, which played out on Okinawa Island. The island was the site of one of the war's bloodiest battles when US forces invaded and occupied the island in a bid to reach the capital. The Imperial Japanese Army fought to hold them there to prevent them from reaching Tokyo, prolonging the battle from April to June 1945. As a result, an estimated 200,000 people (including more than 100,000 civilians and 12,500 Americans) were killed in the battle.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The main memorial to the Battle of Okinawa is the <a href="http://www.peace-museum.pref.okinawa.jp/english/">Peace Memorial Park</a>. The "Cornerstone of Peace" (similar to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial) is a sobering and haunting sight - never ending rows of large stone plates inscribed with the countless names of all fallen soldiers and civilians. The <a href="http://www.peace-museum.pref.okinawa.jp/english/">Peace Memorial Museum</a> is a place of education and reflection, with graphic descriptions of the Battle of Okinawa and the subsequent reconstruction of Okinawa. Not easy to swallow, but very necessary food for thought.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3583.0700818793994!2d127.7234682504201!3d26.09663088340484!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x34e565d5b84db139%3A0xdc0f5ea4fab771f5!2sOkinawa+Prefectural+Peace+Memorial+Museum!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1535914131263" style="border: 0;" width="900"></iframe></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">HIMEYURI PEACE MUSEUM</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Equally if not more haunting is the <a href="http://www.himeyuri.or.jp/EN/info.html">Himeyuri Peace Museum</a>, given who it commemorates. The <a href="http://www.himeyuri.or.jp/EN/info.html">Himeyuri Peace Museum</a> is dedicated to the role and fate of the female high school students of the Himeyuri Student Corp - also known as the “Lily Corps” - during the Battle of Okinawa. They were a group of 222 students and 18 teachers of the Okinawa Daiichi Women's High School and Okinawa Shihan Women's School formed into a nursing unit for the Imperial Japanese Army. Mobilised on 23rd March 1945, many of the Himeyuri students thought that the Japanese army would defeat the Americans in a matter of days and would return to school, so they brought school supplies to continue their studies. The reality was that most of them would not survive the war.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">During the 3-month-long battle, the students were on the front lines performing surgery, living in horrendous conditions: in dark, dank caves filled with injured and dead soldiers. A plaque sits at the opening of one such cave, which visitors enter a recreation of in claustrophobic tunnels filled with the faces of the students and their stories. The experience is especially disturbing knowing that of all the children’s faces before you, 123 out of the 222 students would not live to see the end of the war. Of the few that did, many of them helped build and maintain the <a href="http://www.himeyuri.or.jp/EN/info.html">Himeyuri Peace Museum</a>, keeping the memory of these brave souls alive since April 7, 1946.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3583.078572942481!2d127.68825365042032!3d26.09635368340496!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x34e566fa5f0e2d0d%3A0x539ca294349868d1!2sHimeyuri+Peace+Museum!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1535914301569" style="border: 0;" width="900"></iframe>
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The two times I stayed in Naha, the capital of Okinawa prefecture, I was right in the middle of the action. My hotel, Hyatt Regency Naha, was right at the start of one of the local attractions - <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Tsuboya+pottery+center/@26.2138629,127.6883181,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e5697072d1e361:0xdad249a10c9123be!8m2!3d26.2138629!4d127.6905121">Tsuboya Pottery Street</a>. The neighbourhood, one of Naha’s cultural highlights, has been the centre of ceramic production from 1682, when Ryukyu kilns were consolidated here by royal decree. The main thoroughfare is a traditional street of classic old Okinawan houses and old-timey shops filled to the brim with the Ryukyu Kingdom’s best known craft. Okinawan ceramics spill out of these charmingly rustic shops and onto the street: shisa (lion-dog guardians placed on rooftops and at gates to protect homes and other spaces from evil spirits), containers for serving awamori (Okinawan liquor distilled from rice), and funerary urns. <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Tsuboya+pottery+center/@26.2138629,127.6883181,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x34e5697072d1e361:0xdad249a10c9123be!8m2!3d26.2138629!4d127.6905121">Tsuboya Pottery Street</a> harkens back to a nearly-lost past. Fittingly, some places leave ceramics outdoors overnight without fear of vandalism or theft, harkening to more innocent times.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">NUCHIGAFU</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Take a detour off the beaten path and you’ll be rewarded with a hidden gem. Off the southern end of Tsuboya Pottery Street is an uphill path that leads to Nuchifagu. Formerly a historic Ryukyuan residence and Okinawan teahouse, Nuchifagu is now a cosy traditional restaurant surrounded by a charming garden on a hilltop. By day, Nuchifagu serves lunch and frothy buku-buku tea. Here, guests can make their own buku-buku - a traditional bubbling tea whose froth signifies "bubbling with joy" - that has been made since the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom. A lovely spot for afternoon tea. By night, Nuchifagu serves up exquisite Okinawan dinners. I had the great pleasure of enjoying a birthday dinner here; an elegant, beautifully-plated multi course dinner of both Okinawan and Japanese dishes. From seagrapes to sashimi, pork belly to wagyu beef, every course was as detailed and delicious as the last. An elegant, memorable experience; and certainly my favourite culinary moment in Okinawa.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another nearby attraction is <a href="https://kosetsu-ichiba.com/en/">First Makishi Public Market</a>. Just off Kokusai-dōri (Naha’s main street) is the covered, arcade-like 2-storey market. Dubbed the “Kitchen of Naha”, Makishi Public Market boasts 150 stores that sell Okinawan products like seafood, meat, fruit & veg, condiments, and souvenirs. The first floor of the market is a profusion of colour, neon, and electricity; with tropical motifs that wouldn’t look out of place in the South Pacific. Indeed, from May to October “business casual” means kariyushi - colourful shirts adorned with Hawaii shirt-like print. The second floor is a food court of sorts. On any given day, the 1st floor is full of visitors sampling soft-serve ice-cream laced with hibiscus salt or loading up on Okinawan sweets. The more savvy buy fresh seafood here, and have it taken up to the 2nd floor where the food stalls there will it cook it for you. Pay attention to Market Day - around the 18th of every month - when many shops offer discounts and you may get to see a tuna cutting show.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"></span><blockquote><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Okinawa had thrilled me with her unexpected offerings, but the greatest of all was yet to come...</span><i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">.</i></blockquote><i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"></i></div>
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<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><blockquote>...I saw cherry blossoms in February.</blockquote></i></div><br />
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<div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Sighting cherry blossoms in the midst of winter came as a surprise given that they are traditionally associated with spring. What I didn’t realise was that the first of Japan’s sakura season begins first in Okinawa in January, moving North and ending in Hokkaido in May. </span>It was also strange to see such intensely-coloured flowers compared to the pastel, nearly-white pink buds commonly associated with sakura season. I later learnt that the cherry blossom trees in Okinawa are a different species than mainland Japan. These cherry trees, which resemble plum blossoms, originated in southern China and Taiwan.</div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div></div><div><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">What made my unexpected sighting all the more special was learning that the visibility of the cherry blossoms in Okinawa is extremely limited compared to the rest of Japan. Okinawan cherry blossom make appearances only in specific places within Naha’s city limits: the most popular are <u>Mt Yaedake</u> in MotobuTown, <u>Nakijin Castle</u> in NakijinVillage, and <u>Nago Central Park</u> in NagoCity. </span>To have spotted cherry blossoms on a highway, against a backdrop of tropical foliage, in one of the coldest months of the year, before sakura season began in the rest of Japan made the chance encounter all the more precious.</div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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</div>Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664844263161695133.post-21900753064356735292018-09-10T15:17:00.001+01:002022-12-16T04:32:18.404+00:00Tokyo, Japan: 1 Day (24 Hours) in Tokyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Tokyo Express: 24 Hours in The World's Largest Megacity</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Go, go, go! It’s no wonder that the official Tokyo city guide is called <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/plan/getting-to-tokyo/">Go Tokyo</a>. This megacity of 38 million people has a reputation of being fast, forward, and futuristic. From robot restaurants to capsule hotels (let’s not even mention Tokyo Drift), the capital of Japan is a frenetic city of skyscrapers, electric lights, and concentrated craziness. <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/plan/getting-to-tokyo/">Tokyo</a> is like the most extra of Blade Runner and Ghost In The Shell combined, with maid cafes (where doe-eyed waitresses in French maid costumes fawn over customers: “Welcome home, master!”). The future is here, and it looks like this. Having just come from Kyoto, the former imperial city and the spiritual and traditional heart of the country, <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/plan/getting-to-tokyo/">Tokyo</a> was a rapid change of pace that threw me for a loop. Even more so because I had only a full day to reacquaint myself with a city that is too fast for my tired, bootie-clad feet to keep up with. This is not a city guide, but rather my photo diary of the electricity of this insane city as well as the contrasts of its pockets of tranquility. Here are the sights I saw in my 24 Hours in Tokyo, Japan.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/plan/getting-to-tokyo/"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">GO TOKYO</span></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In a manner befitting my futuristic, fast-paced destination, I reached Tokyo from Kyoto on the <a href="http://english.jr-central.co.jp/about/index.html">Shinkansen</a>. The <a href="http://english.jr-central.co.jp/about/index.html">Shinkansen</a> (bullet train) is a pointy-nosed thing of aerodynamic wonder. Achieving speeds of up to 320km/h, the <a href="http://english.jr-central.co.jp/about/index.html">Shinkansen</a> network of high speed train lines was built to connect Tokyo to the rest of the country. Relatively silent, comfortable, safe, cost-effective, and extremely punctual (if your train departs or arrives a few seconds late, expect an apology); the <a href="http://english.jr-central.co.jp/about/index.html">Shinkansen</a> has changed the way people commute and travel - saving commuters 400 million hours per year by connecting distant towns to major cities and making it extremely easy to travel between prefectures. I got from Kyoto to Tokyo in just 2 hours and 20 minutes, no mean feat as the distance is 360km as the crow flies. Crossrail who?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">TOKYO SKYTREE</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>To truly appreciate just how dense Tokyo is, the only way is up. At <a href="http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/">Tokyo Skytree</a> on <a href="http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/floor/">Floors 340, 345, and 350, 445, and 450</a>; the soaring 5 metre-high glass walls allowed for a panorama of Tokyo (on the clearest of days you can see Mt Fuji) from 350 metres above. Tokyo at ground level can be claustrophobic, and from up here the bigger picture confirms it. High-rises, tightly packed as far as the eye can see. Traditional structures - you can just about see Senso-ji temple rising for a breath of air (<i>above</i>) - seem to be swallowed up by the urban sprawl. I started from the lower observatory - the Tembō Deck on Floor 340 - where I walked on the glass floor panels, nearly giving myself a heart attack as I looked down all the way to street level. Next, I took the elevator with the glass front and watched, knees trembling, the city shrinking beneath me as I raced up to Floor 445. I ended this dizzying excursion on the upper observatory - the Tembo Galleria on Floor 450 - where the highlight was a circular glass corridor (below). <a href="http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/">Tokyo Skytree</a> is well worth the visit, especially on a clear day or at night. The ticket counter area on the 4th floor has signs noting the wait time and the current visibility; and staff that speak Japanese, English, Mandarin, and Korean. <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;">TOKYO SKYTREE</span></a>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzhj2ZPW3Lnrwcp8ZGHoRjY48R18Kw8Lxe4Rv_GAQ3MUw5mQh8-pLJaThWrETEtSgZ-EleHqm0Ph4cAffYajGqAAAQOy97jJVWXqIZfOlKPP-782mxh7JDMJ4w-YfO7iXKd2khEWK_Vw/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Senso-ji_5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzhj2ZPW3Lnrwcp8ZGHoRjY48R18Kw8Lxe4Rv_GAQ3MUw5mQh8-pLJaThWrETEtSgZ-EleHqm0Ph4cAffYajGqAAAQOy97jJVWXqIZfOlKPP-782mxh7JDMJ4w-YfO7iXKd2khEWK_Vw/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Senso-ji_5.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">SENSO-JI</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I needed to soothe my nerves after the thrill of Tokyo Skytree. I headed to Tokyo’s most visited temple - <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/15/">Sensō-ji</a>. Legend has it that a golden image of the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Guan Yin (Kannon in Japanese) was miraculously pulled out of a river by two fishermen in AD 628, and has since been enshrined in <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/15/">Sensō-ji</a> eversince. That the image has never been on public display doesn’t stop a steady stream of worshippers from visiting - the entire temple complex is always busy, especially at the large incense cauldron in front of the temple where before waft the smoke onto their bodies to bestow good health.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I entered the temple compex from the red Kaminari-mon (Thunder Gate), where a camera crew for a TV station pulled me aside to film a segment “Foreigners do their best impression of Japanese” (I didn’t do the whole “kawaii! peace!!!” thing - I’m looking at you, dude who pulled your eyes upward), I just made my most contemplative face and said “<i>Sou desu ka? Ah, sou</i>.”). I navigated the huge crowds, through the temple complex of food stalls, fish ponds, and finally to the eastern edge of Asakusa-jinja - a shrine built in honour of the fishermen who discovered the Kannon statue that inspired the construction of <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/15/">Sensō-ji</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LT-PZPSpM1oi7OtyAmFtHOIhBruqw045k9Aem21MzM4ybl0evpdpmZd8d0PebDdecSzKjivZh6AzRRbn-pSqpaSyxSV5TdeeM2-j2Zgj6KEhb4TBlaaCpUHtjys_5G8Qe1RZ-FnSoaA/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Senso-ji_6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LT-PZPSpM1oi7OtyAmFtHOIhBruqw045k9Aem21MzM4ybl0evpdpmZd8d0PebDdecSzKjivZh6AzRRbn-pSqpaSyxSV5TdeeM2-j2Zgj6KEhb4TBlaaCpUHtjys_5G8Qe1RZ-FnSoaA/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Senso-ji_6.JPG" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTbcW5xjylGWwWu8aJniRh35qkoVcxTDLAEPo1p_TBGpZDkz0YkrcjeephwiMGm8C-smRYRcIq5TAaNYR_vSIKrVYQKbGCjqUjZidH0HUVZ5r_2tJ0Cyk41XIQD4cPXuac_zCxrcSB-wE/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Senso-ji_4JPG.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTbcW5xjylGWwWu8aJniRh35qkoVcxTDLAEPo1p_TBGpZDkz0YkrcjeephwiMGm8C-smRYRcIq5TAaNYR_vSIKrVYQKbGCjqUjZidH0HUVZ5r_2tJ0Cyk41XIQD4cPXuac_zCxrcSB-wE/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Senso-ji_4JPG.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div></div><table border="0" style="width: 900px;"><tbody>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">YOYOGI PARK & MEIJI SHRINE</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: times;">With such tight living spaces in Tokyo, its inhabitants descend upon parks to meet, socialise, and stretch their legs. The sprawling forested grounds of Yoyogi Park and its 120,000 trees offer a verdant respite from the crush of the city. It’s also the site of Tokyo’s grandest Shinto shrine, </span><a href="http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/" style="font-family: times;">Meiji Shrine</a><span style="font-family: times;">. I entered Yoyogi Park through a towering torii gate, noting the locals who stopped to bow before passing. Despite the crowds - of students holding society meetings, lovers walking hand in hand, families and their impeccably behaved children, and tourists stopping every second to take selfies - there was plenty of breathing room. Sights such as a wall full of wine barrels and a flower competition made the long walk through Meiji-jingū Gyoen (the Strolling Garden) all the more pleasurable. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: times;"> When I arrived at </span><a href="http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/" style="font-family: times;">Meiji Shrine</a><span style="font-family: times;"> (after of course, purifying myself by pouring water over my hands - purity is a tenet of Shintoism) I learnt that most of the shrine was undergoing renovations in preparation for its 100th anniversary. Not that it deterred visitors from coming to make offerings of money, food, and prayers (the ceremony is called nikkusai, and happens twice daily at 8am and 2pm) and buying omamori (charms). Nor did it take away from the powerful spiritual energy of the shrine and the sense of wellbeing I felt (or perhaps it was the fresh air after the smog of the city). I even had the great good fortune of witnessing a traditional Shinto wedding procession (the bride and groom, below, are shielded by a red umbrella), as well as seeing so many adorable children dressed in colourful kimono and yukata. I can attest to the invigorating powers of Yoyogi Park and </span><a href="http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/" style="font-family: times;">Meiji Shrine</a><span style="font-family: times;">, having left with such a feeling of wonder and calm.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><br /> <a href="http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/">MEIJI SHRINE</a></span>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SHIBUYA CROSSING</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Out of the frying pan, into the fire. To go from the tranquility of Yoyogi Park right into the chaos of <u>Shibuya Crossing</u> - <i>the busiest intersection in Japan, and possibly even the world</i> - was madness. And yet it had to be done, for a true Tokyo experience. With hundreds of people (at peak hours, over a thousand) crossing in all directions every time a light changes yet managing to dodge each other despite the urgent pace, <u>Shibuya Crossing</u> is quintessential Tokyo. A city full of people on the go, coexisting in a suffocating space, yet avoiding and ignoring each other with a well-rehearsed ninja-like agility. Except of course for the <i>baka gaijin</i> (stupid tourists) such as yours truly who try to take photos while crossing and end up bumping into each other. You can tell who are the foreigners are, they’re the only ones colliding - the locals have seen it all and know how to navigate around them. The best and most popular vantage point to see all the action of <u>Shibuya Crossing</u> is from the Starbucks on the 2nd floor of the Q-front building across the street. But to truly absorb the breathtaking absurdity of it all, you need to be on ground level, in the thick of it all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWVwZu-2qsI7dfh1bps_g58HmxtSlMwcTT6DX0nBgW8VUB14P4GezEsBCmDomjhj5cnE-xRiogMES2sL1ufaKJJMqyzQcLEwhD3yGcDsIgAD2bUhnaYqjfYhULF2uFyM8e13TpOb73BE/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Shibuya+Crossing_8.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Go Tokyo! 24 Hours in Tokyo, Japan by Posh, Broke, & Bored" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWVwZu-2qsI7dfh1bps_g58HmxtSlMwcTT6DX0nBgW8VUB14P4GezEsBCmDomjhj5cnE-xRiogMES2sL1ufaKJJMqyzQcLEwhD3yGcDsIgAD2bUhnaYqjfYhULF2uFyM8e13TpOb73BE/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Shibuya+Crossing_8.JPG" title="Go Tokyo! 24 Hours in Tokyo, Japan by Posh, Broke, & Bored" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Thoughts on Tokyo...</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had been to Tokyo once before this trip, as a teenage otaku (anime enthusiast) and borderline weaboo. It’s interesting to see how my perception of Tokyo has changed. As an 18-year old who wanted nothing more than a set of Copic markers and to be a <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?safe=off&biw=1341&bih=720&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=RYmJW4z-HNCsgQaul7SoBA&q=gothic+lolita&oq=gothic+lolita&gs_l=img.3...4802.6761.0.6860.13.11.0.0.0.0.216.716.3j2j1.6.0....0...1c.1.64.img..7.4.354...0j0i67k1.0.aD1f5uh14Sg">gothic lolita</a>, my dream was to hang out in Harajuku hoping to have my picture taken for street style magazine <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fruitsmag/?hl=en">FRUiTs</a>, as well shop for manga in Akihabara. As a 30-something year old with far less exciting ambitions I noticed that on this trip I gravitated toward attractions that were less...colourful. I was much more at home in the luxury district of Ginza (left), perusing stationery shops for washi tape, loading my shopping basket with drugstore skincare at <a href="http://www.donki.com/en/">Don Quixote</a>, and hastily slurping ramen ordered from vending machines.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Curious, then, that I eschewed the more “typically Tokyo” destinations and creations (I don’t “get” <a href="https://www.tokyobanana.jp/language/en/">Tokyo Banana</a>. There, I said it) that celebrate the unusual subcultures of this unique city. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/">Tokyo</a>. I appreciate it for what it is - a beguiling megacity that looks to the future and moves towards it with a rapid speed. I just prefer to take it at a slower pace, something anyone can do even in a <a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/">city that shouts </a><a href="https://www.gotokyo.org/en/">GO</a>!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8SXT16ZwajPq5jeTFXYZt7f3rNA0CQ_GmXrvg0WwZkqz1q4FYXv2D324pH_-g0gGO9FNaIFDkXgK6h4york8DLgr7S84WoC_Gn15lx7RU4zhHglsRhzeXrs7pNx-m77PgGin1oJrg18/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Ginza.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8SXT16ZwajPq5jeTFXYZt7f3rNA0CQ_GmXrvg0WwZkqz1q4FYXv2D324pH_-g0gGO9FNaIFDkXgK6h4york8DLgr7S84WoC_Gn15lx7RU4zhHglsRhzeXrs7pNx-m77PgGin1oJrg18/s1600/Tokyo%252C+Japan+-+Posh%252C+Broke%252C+%2526+Bored_Ginza.JPG" /><br /></a></div></div></div>
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Posh, Broke, & Boredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004605203086122625noreply@blogger.com