Korea: Bus to the airport

Korea: Day 5

I have come full circle since my first posting from Korea this trip. I am now on the bus back to the airport.

The weather is a strong contrast with rain and cold approaching to when I came with warm sunshine.

Like camp, the time spent with Kim was like a dream and it hardly seems that 7 years had passed since our last meeting. Hopefully not so much time will pass next time.

So I ate, slept, drank and relaxed. I also met some interesting people and gained a new perspective on adoption and adoptees that I will still need to digest.

I'm happy I came and sense I will be back....

-Tara
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Korea: B boys and the ballet dancer

Korea: B boys

Korea: Day 4 part 2

We went to a show called "B boys" with the Korean all-stars hip-hop dance crew. The show told a love story between a ballet dancer and a B-boy. While the story was a bit cheesy, the dancing was great to watch.

Apparently Korean hip-hop dancers are putting the Americans to shame in competitions. All I know is that the Step-In club at school could take a few lessons from these guys.

After the show Kim took me to the local "dyke club" - W - where the underground gays can be accepted. I guess they are not even recognized here, which I find strange and yet not too surprising considering the fairly conservative culture here. A drink and tequila shot later, we
went for more shots, food and drinks at another place. SY and I had a good time giving Kim advice on how to get a phone number.

The night ended successfully and I totally passed out once in bed as the drinks worked through me. Unfortunately, mosquitos are still around here too so I was rudely awakened by one having bit me twice.

Eventually, I will sleep again...

-Tara
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Korea: Day 4 part 1

I may be finally catching up on my sleep since I woke up around 830 this morning without feeling too groggy and was quite happy to feel relaxed. Kim even brought me coffee as I was waking up! Now that is service!!

After chatting online and another nice breakfast, we headed out. Kim made an appointment to visit a volunteer organization called G.O.A.L. to continue with her birth mother/parent search. It was nice to finally see the organization since I have only heard about them on Facebook and through Kim. We were there for a bit and then stopped at the local cafe for drinks.

I am search of some gifts so went down towards Sinchon to the Daiso but I couldn't find what I wanted so we headed back to SY's place.

Now Kim is studying and I am sated by the mandu I just had. It may be time for a short nap before we go out again later!

-Tara
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Korea: Day 3

Vacation is what life should always be instead of a break from it.

After a late night last night I thought I was doing well sleeping for 7 hours. So getting up at 930 or so and reading, chatting with friends and waiting for my hosts to wake up was a great way for me to start the day.

Once we got ready to go, SY took us to Yongsan to look for electronic items or rather I was looking for cheap movies and Kim needed a new battery for her phone. Me being an enthusiast (note sarcasm) for shopping wasn't so successful, though I was being particular about the movie I wanted. However, we found a battery and ate a tasty lunch and got to walk down the red light district street. So not at all a waste of a trip!!!

Sadly, SY had to leave us to work, so Kim and I braved the subway on our own and we went to the Namdaemun market where the locals go for everything! I was in search of Christmas gifts, though it was tough to know what to buy. Still we had a good time walking around and knowing
Japanese came in handy to buy things though I think perhaps some prices were raised due to them thinking I am Japanese. However, I got a few purchases and am happy with them.

We then headed back with a stop at the nearest grocery store, which was slightly different in that the concept of a line differs for Koreans but yet there is still order to the madness.

Since we still had to pass time before dinner, what else were we to do but to warm up with soju?? At last we had a reasonably good meal at Shanti, a nearby Indian restaurant.

Tonight is an early night as we sit in, still drinking soju and relax.

Sleep is quickly overtaking all thoughts and actions...

Until tomorrow,

- Tara
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Korea: Yongsan Electronics Market (Day 3)

Korea: Day 2 part 2

After the coffee shop, Kim and I went to have a snack of dukbokki (spicy Korean mochi) at a nearby place. Then, we went back to SY's place to drink soju and eat chips while we waited for SY to finish teaching.

A bottle later, we went to eat pulgogi, which was sooo nice! We tried to get SY to catch up but she was smart! Once our stomachs were full we headed to a bar called Mike's cabin. It used to be owned by a Korean adoptee but now his ex runs it or so goes the story!

We had drinks there while playing Apples-to-Apples and some foosball. We were also joined by a very strange French-Korean adoptee. He was cool but a bit too crazy for me. Though he did say to me that he wanted to see me go wild - hahaha. He was strangely quick to read me... Maybe I am becoming less of a mystery to others.

We stopped at another bar for a last drink before heading home for bed at 2am.

-Tara
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Korea: Day 2 part 1

One of the things I have noticed in the past 24 hours is that Koreans not only love to eat - evidenced by the ever-present food stalls and numerous restaurants- but also they love coffee shops! On every corner I have seen a coffee shop and so now I write in Coffee Lab near SY's
place where they are working/studying and I, for the first time in ages, sit and ponder where I am.

I slept well last night. After waking at 9, which is already amazing, I fell back asleep until nearly noon!!! I haven't done that in ...who knows how long!!

Kim made a tasty brunch while we chatted and then we were off to Hongdae area so that Kim could get her cell phone sorted out with SY's help. We walked around noting all the food areas, stopped off for a coffee at Angel-in-us Coffee and then are back in another shop. Hahaha, what a life, huh?

For the first time, I actually considered what my birth mom might look like if she is in her early 50's and does she dress in the typical middle-age outfits that others wear? Strange question.

Before I didn't sense such a similarity to Japan, but this time it feels almost like the same place only in a different language. Hmmmm... What does it mean???

- Tara
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Korea: Coffee Lab (Day 2)

Korea: Day 1 part 2

It's been a long, but fun day.

After arriving at Hapjeong bus stop, Kim met me and we walked back to her friend's place, who has very kindly allowed me to stay as well. Once I dropped off my stuff, we went around the comer for lunch and coffee.

While I am quite comfortable with not speaking Korean, it would definitely come in handy to know a few phrases for ordering food. Somehow we managed base on Kim's prior experience there. So a lovely meal and much needed coffee was enjoyed as we started to catch up for the past 7 (according to Kim) years. While we have kept in touch seeing each other and talking is different.

Sated by the coffee and food, we went to window shop on the streets nearby the top art uni in Korea. Walking made us tired so we went to the 405 cafe for some sangria. Mmmm sangria!! Feeling relaxed and in need of a snack before the concert, we moved on.

We passed time in the Art Square building looking at books and where I bought a mini subway map. Around the time we agreed to meet we went outside and SY arrived saying the concert had started nearly an hour before.

Dear Cloud performed tonight as a club opener and perhaps released a new album. They were good and fun to watch even if we missed a bit.

After the concert, eating commenced. Nothing on earth is comparable to Korean food in my opinion! We ate, talked, drank, and watched Korean TV, which is sadly too similar to Japanese tv.

Now the end of the day has come. The second major goal behind eating is to sleep and so I sign off for today!!!

-Tara

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Korea - Dear Cloud concert

Korea: Day 1 part 1

I am on a bus going into Seoul from Incheon airport. I have already had to adjust to the culture and body block an older woman from cutting in front of me to buy a bus ticket.

It smells like kimchi on the bus and I am enveloped in sounds of a language I barely know anything about. Yet as the other two times I have been to Korea, I feel a sense of calm and peace even though I have no clue as to what people are saying to me.

Somewhere in my memory must be a time when I felt safe though I was not yet fluent in the language.

So I am on my way to see a friend I have only met a handful of times since we were 8/9 years old, but with whom I share an experience - of being adopted from Korea. The years have passed as letters were exchanged, emails sent, facebooked and with sharing our stories of life so far.

Now we reunite again in the land of our birth...

More to come -

-T
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Korea - from the airport bus...

NYC - Thoughts 1

I arrived in the City on Friday after a 15 hour direct flight to Atlanta and then a short flight to JFK.

Since arriving I have gotten my hair cut and highlighted, had dinner with a friend from grad school, spent the day with another friend from grad school by having lunch, getting soaked by Hannah, going to MoMa, then went out with more friends in the evening, fallen asleep in a cab, gotten lost in Soho, had brunch with the same group of friends, walked around the village and Soho, saw a play at half price, watched the women's finals of the US Open on Tv and figured out how to post on blogger from my iPhone.

So, you could say I have been busy! I still have a day left as well.

I miss this place. I feel like I can be me here and no one will judge me except if I don't loudly claim to be and agree with all things Democrat! It is a place full of passion, culture, diversity, love, fashion, poor and rich, green and buildings, old and new - basically everything! I need to come back but we shall see where life takes me.

- T

Dubai Day 21

One more day....

More of the same on Wednesday - had to finish studying. I managed to get caught up and a bit ahead in one course. So, I shouldn't have to worry about it while I am in NYC. I have readings to take with me for the second course, but the tasks can be done once I get to Oregon, if I focus! My first assignments are due the first week back at work, so that should be interesting....

Anyway, I went to the pool in the afternoon, but they were cleaning it. So, I took a nap laying in the sun while trying to finish up my book, _Collapse_. I realized for the first time, though, that I am brown. Imagine what I would look like if I lived here!

In the evening, Allan was still not feeling well with a very sore throat, so we stayed local and went to a Chinese restaurant, called Spring Bamboo. It was actually quite nice and it was good to see Chinese people eating there as well since that is usually a good sign. Afterwards, we had Coldstone Creamery ice cream at Lamcy Plaza, which was very hard to finish and then came home to relax.

Tomorrow is my last day. I may not write until I get back to Oregon, but if I have a chance while in NYC, I will try to post a bit then. Nothing planned for the day, tomorrow, packing and sunning. My flight is at night, so at least I have the day to relax and make one last meal at Allan's. :D

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 20

Only two more days left.... :(

Unfortunately, Tuesday was all about getting studying done. I plowed through another module (unit) in my "Discourse in Professional and Organizational Contexts" course. It's not my favorite I have to admit, but it has interesting bits here and there. I started a module that I should have finished last week for my "Concepts in Managing Language Programs" course, which is much more interesting for me, but I only got half way through the module, so it will require another day of studying.

I did stop early afternoon to do some cooking since we were having guests over for dinner. Michael (pronounced Me-hal) and his wife, Maride (Marith) from Ireland came for dinner in the evening. Michael and Allan work together and Maride works at a high school in Dubai. They have been here for about 9 years, so there must be something nice about it here. ;D Anyway, we had a nice time.

Before that, I made it down to the pool as I needed a break from everything for a bit. Somehow the pool was only about half level full, so not sure what is going on. Maybe they are cleaning it for Ramadan?? Will have to see if it stays that way tomorrow.

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 19

My days will be very quiet for the next few left in Dubai.

For Monday (Day 19), I ended up getting up fairly early since we did go to bed around 9:30pm. Allan has caught a cold or something, so hasn't been so energetic the past couple of days. So, on Sunday night, we relaxed, watched soccer and went to bed early!

Thus, I woke up early on Monday and was determined to get some work done as I'm a little bit behind on things. I managed to get work-work done, but still have one syllabus to put together, which will have to wait until I get back to Japan.

Then, it was on to studying. For some reason I cannot get into this discourse course I am taking...so, I spent most of the morning trying to plow through that with very little success. I finished a few tasks in the assignments, but was distracted by laundry and finally gave up around 10am and went to the City Centre to get groceries.

So, at City Centre I intended to just get the groceries and go home, but instead shopped for sunglasses since I recently determined that mine are all scratched and lacking in some style, though still good. So, I searched. I had searched before, but as I have a very flat face and high cheekbones, it is often difficult for me to find a pair of glasses that fit just right on my face. In other stores, I found that Armani and D&G glasses fit me relatively well with still some style to them. Though, the style I most like will NOT fit my face no matter how many pairs I try on.

I walked into a store. Tried a few on. The salesman was unusually less stalking or watching than other stores, so I felt comfortable to keep trying on different styles. He knew what would fit my face and gave me a few others to try on. I found a pair that worked. I held on to them as I tried on more. I kept going back to the pair in my hand to confirm I liked them and they fit. After looking at basically everything, I bought the pair in my hand. They are Giorgio Armani and they cost a pretty penny - never spent so much on a pair of sunglasses before, but I'm living on the edge. They aren't gaudy, but still somewhat stylish, I think. Maybe you'll get a photo of them on later!

After that, I tried to go to Starbucks to buy coffee beans. Forgetting that Ramadan had started, I found it eerie that all the food stalls including Starbucks were closed!!! So, I bought groceries and headed home.

In the evening, we went out to Thai food at the nearby Lemongrass restaurant near Lamcy Plaza. It was really good Thai food and since the sun had gone done, the Ramadan fast was broken for the day and people were out and about eating. We stopped in Lamcy Plaza again to look for some medicine and gifts before heading home. It was another early night for us, but I suppose it will make getting back to work easier!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 18

Ah, the time is flying.

Yesterday was my Ski Dubai day. It is an amazing experience to ski/snowboard in the middle of the desert. I almost forgot that it was actually hot outside. The Ski Dubai slope is located in the Mall of the Emirates, which is a 40 dirham taxi ride from Allan's apartment. (Can we say incentive to rent/buy a car??).

To ensure that I had the freedom to ski as long as I want, I bought a day pass and then signed up for Discovery snowboarding lessons (pre-beginner). With the day pass I was able to switch to snowboarding after a few hours of skiing. Now, the two-hour pass is 180AED. If you are a pretty good skiier, this is more than enough time. I skied for about 2.5 hours and made close to 30 - 40 runs. They claim to have 5 runs, but from what I could tell there were about three and short still, though challenging and long enough to work on form or race down the slope. Since I haven't skied in a year or so, it was really nice to be back on the snow again and I like just practicing form and style more than racing down, so it was worth it to pay for the day pass at 300AED (or $30US more).

After about 90 minutes, I took a 45-minute lunch break at the Avanlanche Cafe where they serve a mean hot chocolate, though I skipped the whip cream, M&Ms and marshmallow topping.

It was time to switch to the snowboard after that. So, I did a couple of runs on the shorter slope, but got tired since my last ski run had me biting it hard and my leg got sore.... Once I finished the second run on the board, I took a wee break and then went to meet up for the lesson. The lesson was 160AED for an hour. There were 4 others in my group and we did basic moves to get down the training slope. It wasn't so hard for me since I had boarded before, but it was good to remind myself of the basic skills required. If I were here a bit longer, I would go regularly and take the different lessons and I think I could actually board down the main slope after a couple more lessons. Still, it is hard, but I didn't fall hard on the board, which is amazing!

I could have gone again to keep boarding, but by then I had been on the slope for 4 hours and my ankles were sore from the boots, so I called it a day. Financially, it probably would have been cheaper to just have done the 2-hour pass and lesson, but hey now I know and I did have the freedom to go back if I had been up for it. I am getting old as I felt very sore and unable to move much once I got home. Then, I was out for the count before 10pm!

If I were to live here, I would be a regular on the slopes, though. For a couple of hours a day, I'd pay it! Rumor is that they are making an outside slope for the winter months. Should be interesting to see the ocean and desert while skiing!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 17

:( Only 5 more days left....

Today was a lazy day of sleeping in, cleaning house, doing laundry and watching James Bond on the TV. I was quite tired after yesterday, so I took an afternoon nap.

Finally in the late afternoon, we made it out of the house. Allan was in search of a barber and so we walked to the Lamcy Plaza area - yes another shopping mall - and I looked around while he got his hair cut. It's a small mall, but nice to have close-by with a Starbucks, Daisou on the top floor, Coldstone Creamery (didn't have any though...) and other necessities for a quick mall fix.

We didn't stay too long and then moved to the Movenpick Hotel to watch the first half of a soccer game with a few drinks. I found it ironic that we went to a bar to watch soccer when it can be watched in Allan's living room. He claims it was just because it was on the way home. ;D

On the way home, we ordered a pizza for delivery from Papa John's and then watched another game at home. It was a relaxing evening and I was passing out by 9pm...sad, but true!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 16

Once upon a time, a dude named Juha and his friend Sinbad got stranded on an island and the beautiful location seemed a great place to make an entertainment zone for people to come and enjoy the water rides they had created. Thus, is the condensed legend of Wild Wadi - Dubai's famous water park!

If it is too hot to do anything outside and the beach is still a bit too warm, what is one to do in Dubai? You can go skiing or if you don't ski, you can go to Wild Wadi. Since Allan doesn't ski and we had a whole day of fun ahead, it was time for the slides and rides.

The first ride we did after finding a place to drop our towels was hit the big rides. The first up was a 33 meter high slide called Jumeirah Sceirah. I was a bit nervous as we climbed up the stairs to the top and not knowing where the bottom was sort of freaked me out. However, once I began the descent and came to a very bumpy halt, I determined it wasn't that bad. Sadly, Allan got a bit of a skinned elbow since he didn't cross his arms quite enough on the way down.

We then went on to enjoy the waves, intertube slide rides, body boarding zones and the view of the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel for the rest of the afternoon.

On the way, I got to get an upclose photo of the Burj Dubai - slated to be the world's tallest tower. It is still incomplete, but when it is done, I imagine it will be quite amazing.

After six hours at the water park, we headed home and got ready to go to a house-party in Sharjah of one of Allan's colleagues. She lives in a medium-sized villa, which means large house in my world! Amazing accommodations are provided here....

Anyway, thus the day in the water was ended.

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 15 (Week 3)

Sadly, I have no idea what I did all day. I did not leave the apartment, not even for the pool. I did shower around 1pm. I did watch Li Na beat Venus Williams in the quarterfinals of the Olympic tennis match with Arabic commentary. I did make spaghetti sauce. I did talk to J for a while. I did not work. I did not read. Oh, I did finish postcards that need to be mailed. Hm...

In the evening, we did go out. I wanted to check out the Bur Dubai Souk. Unfortunately, I did not take any pictures. Why? Because the taxi driver got us lost and we had to walk an extra 10 minutes and by the time we found the souk, I was hot and sweaty. Then, it wasn't very lively and we walked for ages through all the textiles, but I didn't need to buy any fabric that I could think of. So, by the time we found some jewelry places I only went in to cool down in the air conditioning. Since I am not much of a jewelry wearer or buyer, it wasn't so interesting. I am looking for gifts.... Another time. Finally, I called it quits and we headed for drinks at Waxy O'Connors, which was mercifully nearby as I had hoped in the Ascot Hotel.

So, we had a few drinks, danced a few dances, people watched and relaxed. It was a good time out despite the heated walk through the souks without any purchases and the lack of productivity of the day. As I have been told - I am on vacation, after all!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 14

Today was my biggest day out and probably the last for the trip, but it was a good one.

After my run-in with the Emirati fellow the other day, I decided that doing a tour might not be a bad idea since it is $36 for a four hour tour. So, they arrived and two of us were taken around in a mini-van to see bits of Dubai.

We started with a stop at the Dubai Creek Dhow Wharfage to see the Dhow ships and bldgs lining the Creek on the Deira side. We were on the Bur Dubai side, which is the side I am staying on as well.

Then, we moved on to see the Dubai Museum, which used to be Al Fahidi Fort to defend Dubai on the sea. This was a small museum, but big enough for me. More pictures will be available back on my Photo Journeys section when I get back, but for now you can enjoy just a few.

We drove past the Bastakia, which is a historical neighborhood. I will have to go back at a cooler time to walk around. We also drove past the Bur Dubai souk and gold souk areas, where I want to drag Allan back to for an evening out since the locals seem to do their shopping at night and I want to see a local nightlife in action. I will bribe him with a nice place for drinks! :D

We went past a few neighborhoods with textiles, fish, wholesale cosmetics/bath items, where I think it would be fun to shop or know to shop if I were to live here. (Taking notes!)

Then, we were off to Jumeirah Road to see the Jumeirah Mosque, which is claimed to be the most beautiful, but not the largest. It seems to be the only mosque that visitors can enter on certain days. Further along the road, I saw another mosque and I thought was just as beautiful.

Along Jumeirah Road there are a lot of large villas where expats or rich Emiratis live. These residences are absolutely huge. The tour guide claimed that real Emiratis don't like to live in these kind of places.

We continued to see the Jumeirah beach and Burj Al Arab building - shaped like a sailboat. We passed the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which was apparently the first 5-star hotel in Dubai and is shaped like a wave.

Then, we drove on to the Palm Jumeirah. From above, the shape of the construction in a palm tree. The residences on this island are going for about one million dollars for a 49-year lease contract. It is actually quite reasonable considering the fame and location of the place. This area of town is still under major construction. So, the office buildings are nearing finished and the island is nearing finished, but like much of Dubai, everything is under construction.

Finally, the trip ended with dropping me off at the Mall of Emirates where I had planned to ski, but decided to shop instead. I will probably try to go back for the skiing/snowboarding since the costs seemed better for longer, though the slope is small, so I wonder how much I can take. :D

After I finished wandering the mall, I headed to the Madinat Jumeirah to meet Allan and colleagues at a bar called Bahri Bar. It has a lovely view of the Burj Al Arab, but sadly my camera died and I still haven't worked out how to get my iPhone photos online yet. So, those may have to go with the other photos on my Photos Journey section when I return to my beloved Mac. ;D

Thus ends my big day out!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 13

True to the pattern I have been keeping, Tuesday was a pool/work day.

The morning was a bit lazy, I admit and I spent the usual working time before the pool updating my blog, emailing, etc. Sometimes these things must be done!

I enjoyed the pool and realized I am getting a good tan without having burned myself yet, so that is a bonus. Probably doesn't matter for the eventual skin cancer possibilities, but hey whatever.

After cleaning up, having lunch and settling in to get some work done, I decided to check my online courses to see what postings I needed to do for the week. It became clear to me that one of my courses had Tasks that should have been done last week for the first unit and I had no idea they even existed!!! WTF??? So, I frantically began working. Well, 4 hours later when Allan got home, I was still typing away with a headache and pure frustration at the system of NOT telling me that these assignments existed beforehand. Luckily, I finished shortly thereafter, took a bit of a rest and tried to calm myself. Now, I seem to be ahead of the game and know what I am suppose to do. So, I guess at least I didn't go the whole course clueless. ;D

Allan's Showtime TV setup saga continues. It's a long story, but he still doesn't have TV connected and it has been a bit of a stressful event with that. After finding out that they still weren't coming out, we decided we needed to get out of the apartment. So, we went to Carter's in the Wafi Center for a few drinks and snacks. It was definitely nice to get out, have a few drinks and try to forget about the stresses in our lives.

The pains of settling in to a new apartment, new job and all within a new country takes a toll. It's a wonder that we continue the jobs that we do, but at the same time, the stress from the new-ness and change is only temporary until other ones take over! So, that was the day.

Wednesday promises to be much more interesting!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 12

It seems that every other day I get out and try to do something....

Monday, I made up my mind to see some souks (markets) on my own. Not too far away from Oud Metha Rd, where I am staying, is an area of town called Karama. The travel book mentioned a section of town with lots of shops for tourists and locals, so I thought it sounded like an interesting venture out.

Setting out by 10am when shops are meant to be open in the morning, I easily snagged a taxi and arrived in a short 5 - 10 minutes. The taxi driver dropped me off in the middle of a 5-block shopping area, which is like a strip mall only smaller. There were a lot of clothing items for sale with a few touristy-type stores, where I did manage to buy a few gifts for people. It must have been far too early for locals to be up as the only people I saw were the shop attendants trying to get me to go in their stores and other crazy tourists like me. As I wasn't looking for knock-off clothes, bags or sunglasses, I wasn't their ideal client. Still, I was enjoying the walk through until...

I was nearing the end and thinking about going to another section of town where they have a gold souk and other highlights, when a man came up behind me quickly and said "Excuse me". I went to the left of the walkway since it was easier and as he passed he said, "No, it's the right side". I simply said, "Sorry" and let him carry on. He appeared to be going to his car, so I continued on and stepped into a shop. About a minute later, the same man entered the shop as well and seemed to know the shop clerk. It made me a bit suspicious, but I ignored him and continued looking at the item I wanted to purchase. The man pretended to look at some other things and sort of got in my way, but I ignored him. After about 5-minutes, he took his leave and I happily finished my purchase. When I left the store, I saw the man standing outside, but I continued to ignore him and completed my circuit through the shops and began considering what to do next.

I knew there was a larger mall in the area or I could try the other part of town. So, I began to look for a cab. As I stopped to ask one, the driver shook his head that he wasn't available. I crossed the street and a white car came up beside me with the man from before inside. He said, "Get in, where do you want to go? I'll take you wherever you want to go." WTF?? I thought and politely refused, continuing to look for a real taxi. He followed me along the road trying to get me to get in his car, but thankfully there were cars lining the street keeping him away from me on the sidewalk. I looked for a store to jump in to if necessary and slowed down ignoring him. Finally, he left saying "I'll be seeing you." So, feeling flustered and irritated that he had disturbed my adventure, I quickly got a cab and had him take me to the BurJuman mall.

While it wasn't my plan to visit another mall and I did want to see more of the local sites, I enjoyed just walking around this mall. It had more style and ambience than the other malls I have seen so far. So, it wasn't a total waste of the day or experience. The BurJuman was quiet with very few people, higher-end stores (Saks), and interesting design.

In the middle of the mall was a model of the city of Dubai with a night-scape setup. So, I got a land and aerial view.

Still, I made a couple of realizations: 1) There are very few women outside walking alone during the day - a. there are just very few women out and b. if they are out they are generally with another woman or a man. 2) People basically do not do much shopping in the mornings, so for a real non-mall shopping experience, it is better to go out at night.

Thus, ends my adventure in Karama. Tomorrow will probably be another pool day and work day. ;D

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 11

It is still weird to think of Sunday as the start of the work week, so I pretended it was still the weekend and decided to do nothing in particular. In fact, I have learned to sleep in a bit (though still up by 7am).

After a short hour and a half at the pool side, I did a full sweep of the house and tried to do some household things that I might do at home on a Sunday or Saturday. Strange, but true. Then, I enjoyed the afternoon on the internet just checking stuff here and there and avoiding any thoughts of work. he he he.

In the evening, we decided to join Pam (another colleague of Allan's) on a car ride to the Deira City Centre again. I swear this place is going to be the bane of anyone's existence if you live in this area, just because it is always crowded and seems to be the place to go for anything. Since we had forgotten to do a couple of things there the day before, we thought it was a good chance to do that and to get an iron since Allan's travel iron seems to have died - not from overuse, let me be sure to point out!

Since driving is a new experience still for everyone, we got a bit lost in trying to ensure that we did not end up in Sharjah and a two hour detour trying to get back. Instead, it took us nearly an hour to get there when it should have only taken about 15 minutes tops! oops! We had fun anyway...well, I did. We only managed to get the iron - good for me. Struck out on getting the wireless kit for the surround sound system and trying to upgrade the internet to wireless (why did the man not listen to me from the beginning???). Oh well... it was a way for me to get out of the house, experience more of the city and convince me that despite the crazy crowds during rush hour, I do believe I can drive in this city. I admit I would still get lost and road rage could become an issue.... :P

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 10

I just realized I cut Day 9's events a bit short. I was so excited and long-winded about the alcohol purchasing that I forgot the evening activities! oops!

Day 9 Evening

After getting back mid-afternoon, we relaxed before heading out to The Boardwalk, which is a nice restaurant at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. It is shaped like a boat. So, we had a couple of very tasty appetizers and a nice bottle of white.



Since it was one of Allan's new colleague's birthday, we headed to the Irish Village for more drinking and socializing. A few more glasses of wine and I was a goner...luckily we managed to find our way home despite the poor new taxi driver's claim that he had no idea where we were going. ha ha ha.

Now Day 10:

After a nice sleep-in, we decided to try to catch a film and then do some shopping before getting back in time to watch some soccer. So, we taxied it to the Deira City Centre mall (again) and saw "Tropic Thunder". While I am generally not a comedy watcher, I enjoyed this silly film. Not so sure it was worth the money to see it on the big screen, but it was a good laugh with big names and some surprising appearances. If you are a comedy lover, then I would definitely recommend this film.

The next stop was Carrefour. We asked about the stereo surround system and connecting it to the cable TV (long sordid affair) and so technicians will be out on Monday to hopefully make everyone a happy camper. Then, it was shopping. Shopping on a Saturday (aka Sunday) is crazy! It is much like Japan where people shop at the same time of day or same day of the week because that is when it can be done. While it was very efficient and there is a learned method to the madness; it is an experience. Trying to take a taxi was crazy as well, but again the efficiency was impressive. So, we were back with a half hour to spare before kick-off.

Shopping called for a drink of not-so-tasty red wine in a smoke-smelly bar during the game, but it was a good game of Liverpool vs. Middlebrough (it is meant to be spelled that way!). So, it was a nice end to the very short weekend.

Now it is back to the work week and I need to start deciding what all I want to be sure I see this trip. It can't all be just malls, can it??? ;D hm....

Until next time...

-T

Dubai Day 9

Weekends in the UAE are generally Friday and Saturday. This sort of throws me off in my Western mentality that all work weeks start on Monday. Since I am on vacation, it is definitely easier for me to take it in stride, but many of the new people I have met say Friday when they mean Thursday because it is the last working day. It is humorous in a weird way. :)

So, luckily I was feeling better by Friday morning, but did sleep in a bit. Some mover came to get the extra washing machine and then we hung out while I tried to set up Allan's work computer to connect to his home internet. It didn't work..., but I didn't get any computer rage. Just acceptance.... Then, I got to go out and see the world a bit!

The 31st is the start of Ramadan. This means that people fast during the daylight hours, which means no drinking in public - that is water or anything! It also means no alcohol sold anywhere for a month, though in Dubai, there are some hotel bars and such type places open after the sun goes down and people gorge themselves! So, despite the fact that alcohol cannot be bought without a liquor license, there are a few known localities where such items can be bought. Not only can it be bought, but it is duty free and not taxed, unlike the stores where you can buy alcohol with a liquor license.

Thus, we hopped in the car with Heather and sped through three new Emirates - Sharjah, Ajman, and Umm Al-Quwain. So, now I can say I have been and seen four of the seven Emirates. Cool.

In Umm Al-Quwain is a supermarket that alcohol-lovers flock to. Friday was packed full of those stocking up. I found a bottle of much-loved Patron tequila there. It was a bit expensive, but since I have never actually seen it for sale, I bought a bottle in hopes of trying to transport it safely back to Japan...we'll see if it lasts that long! So, many bottles of wine, cases of beer and other spirits were purchased under the auspices of stocking up for Ramadan which is still a week away and lasts for a month. Somehow I doubt that what was purchased is going to make it that long, but you never know. :P

I did get photos, but they are on my iPhone since my camera battery died, so I will have to figure out the best way to get them online. I saw camels (no photos sadly) and lots and lots of sand. It was quite a different scene than the one I normally see in Dubai, so when I visit next time, I most definitely want to be sure to do a Desert tour and try surfing in the sand!

On to Day 10!

Dubai Day 8 (Week 2)

I am a little behind...oops!

Day 8 was suppose to be the best and most relaxing day ever with my day-long spa treatment at Cleopatra's Spa. However, I woke up with chills from a fever and a bit of a headache. Still, I went in hopes that it would do some kind of detox to rid my body of whatever bug was taking over.

The treatment was as follows:

Step 1: Enter and change to bathrobe, slippers and prepare to forget about the outside world

Step 2: With swimwear on, take a jacuzzi soak, sit in the sauna and begin to relax

Step 3: Head for the jet massaging bath. (A regular bathtub with jets coming out of the sides that offer a massaging sensation on your muscles and skin)

Step 4: Relax in the relaxation room for a bit until the massage and facial. Drink some lovely peppermint tea.

Step 5: Have a nice oil massage and facial treatment

Step 6: Eat meal and relax in relaxation room

Step 7: Enjoy an hour rest in the Dream Room

Step 8: (added by me) Get nails done

Step 9: Shower and return to the real world

Overall, the experience was amazingly relaxing. However, being sick didn't let up and by the time I got my nails done, I just wanted to go home and lay down again. The massage was a bit short, I thought, so I was a little saddened by that. Still, the facial was quite nice and the rest of the treatment was very, very relaxing as was the intention of the day. I would definitely recommend it and may go again for just a massage later in my trip here.

I waited about 40 minutes for a 5-minute taxi ride, but was too sore and tired to do the 15-minute walk. When I got back to the apartment, I collapsed on the couch after taking some aspirin until Allan got home to take care of me. A sad "Friday"-Thursday night for him, but thankfully, I was slowly beginning to feel better.

More to come soon!

Dubai Day 7

I'm thinking about changing my nationality to Chinese or at least just saying "Yes" when people ask me if I am.

On Day 7, my morning pool plans were foiled when the telephone/internet guy decided to take about three hours to get the job done. So far, most the technicians or people who do grunt work in Dubai seem to be the Pakistani. It seems they really don't make much money. Some are friendly, others are a bit ignorant. Typical of mankind. Anyway, Allan is now set up with a telephone landline and mercifully, has internet connection at home! No more slow connections at the cheap kiosk across the street. :D

Since I had nothing else to do, but wait around, I made a big lasagne to keep until dinner time. Yes, when I have free time, I cook. Shocking, isn't it??

When the man was finished checking that everything worked, we chatted a bit. I struggled to understand parts of what he was saying, but inevitably the question of "Where are you from?" came up. I said "America". Like everyone else who lives here (non-whites), I get a look of surprise and doubt. So, I must be Chinese. My constant battle to not be Chinese continues...maybe I should just give in!!! I politely explained I was born in Korea. Then, he asked more about my parents, then I explained I am adopted, which he didn't understand...ah...it is somewhat amazing I do not have a really serious identity crisis. Or maybe I do!!! (or am starting to develop one, ;P)

Well, with the internet fully installed, I spent the rest of the afternoon reacquainting myself with blogs, facebook, email and everything! It was like being in a candy store! Pathetic....

I did get to the pool in the late afternoon and then in the evening, the last of Allan's furniture made it's way in. He's set up with a dining room table, six chairs, a dish cabinet (low and long - what are these called? hm... will take a picture when for when I post his apartment photos), a king-size bed and bed-side table and a washing machine he purchased without realizing one would be provided. So, he is fully furnished and it looks like a home. Very very different from his Japan apartment, but "this is what happens when the company pays for you to settle in", he says. TRUE!

My lasagne dinner was, of course, fabulous! ha ha. Then, we got to go out!!! We just went for drinks over at the Wafi Center, which I and my readers are starting to know well! We first went to a Spanish tapas bar, Seville, but they were having salsa night, so it was a little crowded and loud. After one mojito, we went to a different place called Ginseng. It had a cool Asian theme, but modern. We enjoyed some very dangerous Cosmos, which went straight to my head. So, a relaxing and happy day!

Day 8 is my spa treatment! Can't wait!!!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 6

I think I am going to have to stop counting the days as I do have three weeks here…. Hm…

Anyway, Day 6 found me at the pool in the morning after doing a bit of work. Then, I headed to the Wafi Center again to check out the mall, find the Arabic Souk and check prices for a massage at the Cleopatra Spa. The mall itself wasn’t so fantastic for me as there are a lot of high-end name brand stores where I wouldn’t buy anything. So, after a quick spin, I did stop in Marks & Spencer’s, which I compare to a Macy’s. There, I found a few cute items for my wardrobe (as if I needed more!), and then headed on to find the Arabic Souk.

I had thought it was a gold souk (souk = marketplace), but it was actually an underground area where each corridor had stores and items from various Arabian nations. Though I wasn’t in the mood to bargain or really buy anything, I enjoyed walking around and seeing what there was on offer. It still felt a bit high-end or at least catered to the tourist with money to burn. So, I will have to get myself to a real souk for the locals to get the full experience of bargaining and shopping.

Satisfied with my find and wander, I decided it was time to consider pampering myself. In Japan, I have Dolphin Hands and was concerned I may not find an equal place. However, I am going to give the Cleopatra Spa a go. I will write on it after I have had my full day experience. I managed to make an appointment for a full day ordeal of spa treatment, massage, and nails! Yippee!!!

By the way, I think I may be able to get the pictures up now at a slightly faster speed than before, so hopefully more will be on the way!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 5

Today was a relax-at-the-pool day. I may have found the best schedule. Get at 6:30, have coffee, water and breakfast. Do some studying/work from 7:30 to 9. Hit the pool from 9 to 11. Shop, relax or whatever until about 3pm when the temperature starts to cool down. Sit back at the pool from 3 to 5pm. Have dinner around 6 or 6:30 and then relax the rest of the evening. This could be the perfect life! Ha ha ha.

I did a variation of the above-schedule. I didn’t actually get any real work done until around 3pm, when I decided that I needed to at least accomplish my goal of getting a couple course-syllabi updated for next semester. Now, I just have one more class to work out, but that will require a bit of waiting.

Well, not much interesting to write since I was either at the pool or inside today. More to come tomorrow. I hope I can figure out the picture uploading somehow….

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 4

Since the sun rises around 5 or so, I was awake at 6am trying to decide what to do with myself for the day. So, I determined to read a bit, go to the Starbucks in the nearby Lamsy Plaza, come back, work out and then get ready to make a visit to the Deira City Centre Mall.

Well, waking at 6am makes for a bit of a slow passing of time especially when most things do not open before 8 and malls at 10. So, after reading a little bit, I decided that rather than use the gym, I would walk to Lamsy Plaza first to find out what time it opened and then come back and get my stuff to study there. I left at 7:30am. It is just a short 12-minute walk. By the time I arrived, I was already very hot. The mall opens at 9am. Too late for me today and for walking outside I decided. So, I trekked it back home and was very happy for the air-conditioning. How crazy is that? It wasn’t even 8am and I thought I was going to melt away in the heat!

Instead, I did work at home and was quite productive, if I do say so myself. Then, I headed for the mall at 11am. Note to self, 11am is a low-taxi time…. It took me nearly 5 minutes to get a taxi while standing in the heat and finally got one as I started to sweat, though nothing sticky like in Japan.

Deira City Centre used to be the biggest mall in Dubai until they opened up the Mall of the Emirates (to be visited later). It is still quite large. I had a quick lunch in the food court and then began my shopping. Luckily, I didn’t buy much except a few things on sale at H&M, though I did spot a beautiful purple jacket at Mango that I may just have to go back for when I pick up my jeans which are being hemmed. :D Inside, there is also a Carrefour where I bought some more groceries and four hours later, I was finally ready to call it a day. Sadly, the taxi line was 45-minutes long and so I was exhausted by the time I got back.

Thinking I wouldn’t go out again, I stopped at the internet kiosk first and then headed home. It was then that I found out that Allan had gone to where I had just come from!!! He finally got his resident visa, so he wanted to get his driver’s license, check on his cable setup and try getting the Internet and landline hookup. So, because it was dinner time, he asked me to go back to have dinner. Thus, another taxi ride back to Deira City Centre. He got the driver’s license and organized contact with the cable setup, but sadly still no joy for the Internet and landline hookup (more paperwork needed). So, we had a food court dinner and walked around a bit more, though I was in pain from back and neck soreness. It’s been ages since I have done that much walking!

We finally got back and I was ready to drop. I think Day 5 will be a pool-side kind of day!

Until next time,

-T

Dubai Day 3

After waking up to construction work, I realized that yesterday there was no noise in the morning. Friday is the holy day in Dubai, so there were hardly any cars on the streets, few people out and mercifully no construction work at the crack of dawn. It gets light here around 5ish, much like Japan. So, I have been awaking a bit earlier than usual on vacation.

With a leisurely start to the day, we made a trip to Ikea and the Dubai Festival City (aka visited shopping mall #1).

Allan wanted to buy a couple of tables for the living room and a nightstand for the guest bedroom (yes, I said guest bedroom!). So, we wandered around Ikea for a bit, then headed for a Thai lunch. I haven’t yet really eaten much Emirati food, though I did have a falafal and hummus the other day as a snack. I will though, I promise!

After lunch, we went to a few stores in the mall, but I didn’t really feel like shopping much for anything that I could buy in the States since it seems a little silly considering I am a tourist at the moment. So, instead, I bought groceries at HyperPanda. Apparently, this is a Saudi owned store, but is much like a Walmart or Target, but with a large grocery food section. So, I have mostly stocked up for a few meals to make to save on money a little bit and such.

The rest of the day has been spent relaxing since Allan went off to watch a soccer game. The tables are up, though, but the nightstand is still waiting. :D If I were kind I would put it together while he is gone, but I think perhaps a movie on my iPhone or even reading my book is competing for my attention!

Tomorrow, I have big plans to go to Deira City Centre mall, which is suppose to be quite large and lovely. Perhaps in the afternoon I will do something touristy. I know I have been a bit slow, but I am trying to space out my tourism as I also am balancing having to study and keep up with this blog!!! ;P

Until next time,

T

Dubai Day 2

My second day in Dubai was pretty quiet as Allan felt the need to clean his entire apartment floor and some of the outside windows despite the insane heat outside. So, I relaxed and did some homework.

In the evening, we went to happy hour in the MovenPick hotel nearby. No pictures there, but it was basically and ex-pat’s type bar where we could see some Olympics and he could enjoy a few cold beers.

After that, we got ready to go out with some other of Allan’s new colleagues – all lovely women! We shared a taxi in to Jumeirah and went for drinks at a very nice Persian style bar called Rooftop. It is located in the One & Only Royal Mirage, which was quite cool in the front with camel statues, though we were in the annex building. We had drinks with four others who are all very well-travelled and experienced in teaching, life, etc.

(this picture took 5 minutes to upload...I am gonna have to figure out something else for the pictures....)

It was such a change to meet people in the same field and yet have so much more knowledge of the world through their own experiences. Japan is very sheltered. People who work in Japan tend to get the island attitude and never leave Japan. Thus, it is thought that when something good comes along in Japan, life doesn’t get any better. Well…I have now seen what else is out there and I have to say if it weren’t for the doctorate I may not return after summer break!! At least I know that I will come back and I think that I could at least live here easily, but still don’t know about the work yet as I haven’t met anyone who has really started their jobs yet.

Anyway, that was the end of Day 2.

Dubai Day 1

I am in my second day in Dubai and have to admit that I haven’t really seen or done much just yet. However, I thought that I would write anyway. :D

Starting with my nearly 24-hour travel from Portland, Oregon to Salt Lake to Paris to Dubai, it was a very long day to say the very least. The travel was okay for most of the journey. However, we were a bit late arriving in to Paris and I had about a half hour to de-board, find my next gate, go through security and get on my next flight. Of course, my next gate was the furthest from where we came in and the security line was ridiculous long. After sweating and wondering if I was going to make the flight, I just barely went through the ticket gate and found myself waiting on a crowded bus to get us to the plane, which was a good 5 minutes away! Thinking that I would be one of the last groups to board the plane, I was a little concerned about finding a place for my carry-on backpack. However, when I got to the plane, it was relatively uncrowded and I had no problems finding space. Thinking that it might not be a full flight, I settled in to my seat…and proceeded to wait for another hour in the plane!!!! We were an hour late and though the pilot claimed that we would still arrive on time in Dubai, I had my doubts.

I have to give props to the flight attendants on Air France. They were professional, nice and efficient. I wish I could say the same for those on Northwest and Delta….

Anyway, I arrived around 11pm in Dubai and got out of customs by midnight. We caught a cab after a mad dash and I finally went to sleep around 1:30am!

Thus, my first day was spent basically trying to orient myself to the time change and place. Allan’s apartment is ridiculously HUGE! I will try to get some pictures soon, I promise!

I took advantage of the free gym downstairs, where there is also a pool (I’ll be using that later!). Then, around 11:30am, I decided to brave the outside and see just how hot it is mid-day. Well, I have concluded IT’S HOT! The humidity is really nothing at the moment, but by the time I made a short 5 minute walk to the nearest supermarket/mall, I was sweaty and knowing why there seemed to be no one around. They are all inside!!!! So, I got a few food necessities and headed back with a stop off at Subway for lunch. By the time I got back, I determined it is not wise to go out at all between 11 and perhaps 3 or 4pm. I did venture out again with Allan in the afternoon to use the Internet at a kiosk. I managed a short nap in the afternoon and then we went out to Wafi for drinks with one of Allan’s new colleagues, who also lives above him. I did get a couple of photos of Wafi, so I will put them up in the next post.

So ends my first day posting!

San Francisco ~July 27, 2008~

On my way to Oregon, I had a layover in San Francisco. Realizing that I had a full day to spend in the city, my officemate who lives in San Jose/Santa Cruz offered to show me around the city. So, he and his wife kindly picked me up from the airport and whisked me away through the city for the day. You can see the photos on the Creative Meanderings site. (I hope the pictures are working!)

After stopping off for a quick cup of coffee at Peet's Coffee& Tea, which brought back memories of my time in LA, we were off to see the city a bit. With a drive through downtown along the waterfront, I saw the Bay Bridge, Pier and port of San Francisco. As we drove up the main center area, I saw the cool triangular looking building though I still am not sure what the building was, but it was near the financial district. I also got a glimpse of the colored houses (no photo due to speedy car ride) as we headed towards the Fisherman's Wharf area.

In hopes of seeing the fog lift, we walked around the wharf area where I got to see the outside of the Ghiaradelli chocolate factory, Pier 39 and had lunch by the harbor. Unfortunately, the fog never lifted...so seeing the Golden Gate bridge was not in the cards! So sad.

We went on the cable car, which has been a long time thing I have wanted to do and I had the tune of the Rice-a-roni advertisement running through my head at parts. Still, it was amazing to go up and down the hills in the cable car.

With some shopping downtown, we taxied it back to the car to head to North Beach to see a free jazz festival. My officemate's good friend and former band members were playing, amongst whom was Eddie Gale. I know nothing about jazz, but apparently he's a big name in the genre. The music was good and it was great to people watch! Finally, due to extreme coldness, we headed for dinner in the Italian area and enjoyed a delicious meal at Caffe Delucchi nearby.

Finally, we headed to the hotel where I repacked and relaxed before an early flight home to Oregon.

Overall, my impression of San Francisco was as a combination of Portland and New York. It is, of course, much bigger and sprawled out than Portland, but the buildings are more quaint like Portland. Also, the Pearl District reforms of Portland had a similar feel. The hilliness of the city, though, was much like driving and getting around Seattle. When we were walking around we heard a number of different languages and all kinds of people. While there may have been a higher density of hippy-like people, it was similar to a walk through the streets of New York. The weather was a big cool and cloudy, which is supposedly common during the summer months, but milder during the rest of the year. So, I am not sure that I would want to live there due to the climate, but the city life felt great! Even though I was only there for a day, I definitely think I would want to visit again for a few more days to see the surrounding areas in the Bay Area!

Thanks so much K & SB!!! I had a great time!!!

So, that was my layover in San Fran.

Until nex time...

-T

Welcome!

Due to having my webpage built through my iWeb application, it is difficult to be able to update my Travel Blog when away on trips. Therefore, it make things easier and to allow readers access to my travels and thoughts in real time, I have set up this blogger format. Any feedback is helpful!

More to come soon!

Until then,

T