tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78328725859728454062024-03-13T21:55:46.853-07:00The Amateur AnthropologistSeeing beauty in the ordinary...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-51322443039282746442017-08-05T08:02:00.000-07:002017-08-05T08:02:09.730-07:0099 and Moving OnAccording to Blogger, this post would be my 99th article since I first started blogging in late <b>2013</b>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting off with a picture of me</td></tr>
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<br />I know right? <b>I CANNOT believe that I've written 99 blog posts in 4 years time.</b><br />
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<b>Time is a strange thing</b>. From an anthropological perspective, it can be both cyclical (i.e. everyday is the same) and linear (i.e. there are 24 hours and then boom, it's Monday); it just depends on what society you live in. In my case, it's the latter. And like all things in life, there is eventually a point when time will simply run out.<br />
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<b>Yes, my dear readers, I am in fact referring to the end of my blogging life as The Amateur Anthropologist. </b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then moving on to Tiny Tee</td></tr>
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To tell you the truth, I was actually <b>incredibly hesitant</b> when I first started writing this blog. I'd never been a decent diary keeper and was certainly not that keen on doing something similar online. However, I decided I'd give it a chance. And there we go, it's been 4 <b>amazing</b> years. From simple UK day trips to full on reviews of majestic castles (like <a href="http://theamateuranthropologist.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/bamburgh-castle-and-berwick-upon-tweed.html" target="_blank">Bamburgh</a> and <a href="http://theamateuranthropologist.blogspot.hk/2015/08/conwy-north-wales.html" target="_blank">Conwy</a>), British beaches (<a href="http://theamateuranthropologist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/saltburn-by-sea.html" target="_blank">yes they do exist</a>), and, of course, <a href="http://theamateuranthropologist.blogspot.hk/2015/08/haworth.html" target="_blank">Haworth</a>, the <b>travel</b> section of my blog will definitely be the <b>most unforgettable</b> part of it for me.<br />
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They say that when one door closes another door opens, and I do believe that this is true. Because honestly, blogging gotten me through the tough and triumphant times. It's not something that I'd want to give up that easily, but I do need a fresh start. So I've <b>packed all my blogging equipment </b>in my bags and traversed the globe from the UK by air (you didn't think by foot right?) and landed back in good ol' Asia.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the last you'll see of "Le Head"</td></tr>
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It's a <b>goodbye</b> to academics, and a <b>hello</b> to career. It's a <b>farewell</b> to England, and a timid "<b>sawadee ka</b>" to Thailand. It's a <b>momentous end</b> to <a href="http://theamateuranthropologist.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Amateur Anthropologist</a>, and <b>an even BETTER beginning to my brand new blog</b>, <a href="https://blogsimplyt.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Simply T</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because we're off on a a brand new adventure, full steam ahead.</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-46825138060755995522016-09-12T06:09:00.002-07:002016-09-12T06:09:33.821-07:00Cauliflower rice with mixed veggies<h3>
Speedy and super tasty</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A scrumptious dinner in less than 10 minutes</td></tr>
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Love carbs but hate the feeling of getting bloated? Like rice but don't have the patience to cook it? Have no fear, for cauliflower rice is (finally) here. A recent discovery of mine (thanks to reading the Minimalist Baker's superb blog post), this white rice dupe is the perfect light supper option. Simply buy some cauliflower, mince it up in a food processor (or a box grater if you don't have this fancy gadget), saute it in a pan and hey presto, there's your dinner! To avoid blandness, I recommend adding a good sprinkle of salt, pepper and lemon/lime juice when you're cooking the rice. I also topped mine with some red chilli flakes, just for an extra bit of spice and tastiness. Serve it with whatever you want (in my case, boiled veggies).</div>
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A healthy but filling way to end the day. Totally beats a microwaveable TV dinner. </div>
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<i>Recipe from</i>: http://minimalistbaker.com/how-to-make-cauliflower-rice/ </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-46301648694433873642016-09-11T07:28:00.000-07:002016-09-11T07:45:19.406-07:003 ingredient pancakes<h3>
Monday morning inspiration </h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy + nutritious = perfect brekkie combo</td></tr>
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If you're always rushing to work and can't afford to spend hours cooking a decent breakfast, then this pancake recipe by the internationally renowned top model Karlie Kloss is definitely for you. Simple and easy to make, you only need 3 common household ingredients, specifically 1 egg, 1 banana and some porridge oats, to whip up this delicious and vegetarian-friendly morning treat. Feel free to spruce it up with some other add-ons like cinnamon, blueberries, and maple syrup to make your breakfast extra scrumptious. </div>
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Guaranteed to taste waaaay better and more filling than a shop-bought muesli bar (which used to be my go-to brekkie option whenever I was dashing out to beat the morning traffic). </div>
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<i>Recipe from</i>: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DI0Nr3wPQA </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-9348603058070659212016-07-09T20:33:00.000-07:002016-07-09T20:33:06.141-07:00Brighton & Whitby<h3>
When it rains, it pours</h3>
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That was precisely what was happening outside my window at around 9pm last night till the early hours of today (i.e. Sunday). Fortunately, the wet and thundery weather appears to have made its departure before I woke up this morning. Although it won't be long till it returns...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When will it stop?</td></tr>
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As much as I appreciate the rain, it wouldn't be a "Sun"day if there was no sun.</div>
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There's no way we can control this inclement weather. But what we can do, or at least what I usually do, is to think back to all the good ol' days when the sun actually kept its promise.</div>
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<h3>
Brighton</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Lunchtime in Brighton</td></tr>
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I'm sure the majority of you would have heard of this place. However, if you haven't, Brighton is essentially a large seaside town located in East Sussex. It's become a popular destination for those craving a day away from the hectic city life in Southern England or simply overseas tourists. </div>
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The one thing that did sort of surprise me when I went was the lack of sand on the beach. Obviously, this didn't fit my existing schema of a white, sandy beach that I'd grown up to love whilst I was living in Australia. However, with a variety of other Georgian inspired attractions, vintage shops, plus funfair rides and games, I think these landmarks have clearly made up for what the beach itself lacked. Plus it wasn't that uncomfortable to sit on the beach (just make sure you bring a mat).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amusement attractions at Brighton </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset ferris wheel ride</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking out towards Brighton pier</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div>
If I had to pinpoint a favourite moment of my visit, it would definitely have to be exploring the Royal Pavilion. It was simply an amazing building on the outside <i>and </i>the inside. Totally not what I would have expected from a seaside town.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brighton's Royal Pavilion </td></tr>
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<h3>
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<h3>
Whitby</h3>
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When I was studying in North East England, people would often ask me how much sunlight we got each day. Their assumption was that the weather was probably horrid, dark and gray. However, my photos have often proven them wrong, especially the ones I took at my favourite UK seaside town: Whitby.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out at sea</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strolling on Whitby's beach</td></tr>
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<div>
From boating trips and a steam train adventures, to Captain Cook's memorial museum and confectionary shoppes, Whitby is definitely a place where you need to spend an entire day at (especially since this place ACTUALLY has sand!).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whitby train station</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All aboard the Whitby boating tour!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate!! </td></tr>
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<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;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FqwNmGCKzwg/V4GlY0BqMhI/AAAAAAAADGY/f7ra2zt-OSIzGNHMCTYaUpmYYoQdtHC0gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FqwNmGCKzwg/V4GlY0BqMhI/AAAAAAAADGY/f7ra2zt-OSIzGNHMCTYaUpmYYoQdtHC0gCLcB/s320/IMG_3816.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Replica of Captain Cook's ship</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Obviously I cannot guarantee that you'll definitely be graced by stunning weather. However, if you do happen to be blessed, I suggest walking around the entire town to explore every nook and cranny before you narrow down on what you want to see first.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gub5J2no4YY/V4Gk6DQq-SI/AAAAAAAADGM/LjqMu1f5pZo80qigkwjrZE-cWwsvSoNCwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gub5J2no4YY/V4Gk6DQq-SI/AAAAAAAADGM/LjqMu1f5pZo80qigkwjrZE-cWwsvSoNCwCLcB/s320/IMG_3815.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading out to sea, Whitby lighthouse on the right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWeo-ee_Gkc/V4Gw6itTKJI/AAAAAAAADIE/6TSBbUMFcIEqdeZfhaIIe6JtmVEcpKdZACLcB/s1600/IMG_3812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWeo-ee_Gkc/V4Gw6itTKJI/AAAAAAAADIE/6TSBbUMFcIEqdeZfhaIIe6JtmVEcpKdZACLcB/s320/IMG_3812.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aAYNP5sYmiU/V4GnPgmcPKI/AAAAAAAADHE/LdLhtW3yKoYxPVfETEvQSgb39JhdFSXHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aAYNP5sYmiU/V4GnPgmcPKI/AAAAAAAADHE/LdLhtW3yKoYxPVfETEvQSgb39JhdFSXHQCLcB/s320/IMG_3985.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up towards the Church of Saint Mary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
Aside from its seaside attractions, Whitby is also home to the famous Whitby Abbey. Ever read about or at least heard of Dracula? That was the historic ruins that inspired Bram Stoker to write his thrilling but fascinating tale. It's definitely worth visiting, although you do have to walk up the famed 199 steps staircase in order to reach it. Was good exercise for me especially since I'd just had a really unhealthy but ever so delicious ice cream from one of the local stalls...<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0NMHgk4Q4Ik/V4GmqnXVSqI/AAAAAAAADG4/w2kmmvEiIGcdo8QQ47HEJQF_sB5N-PSzACLcB/s1600/IMG_3933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0NMHgk4Q4Ik/V4GmqnXVSqI/AAAAAAAADG4/w2kmmvEiIGcdo8QQ47HEJQF_sB5N-PSzACLcB/s400/IMG_3933.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading towards Whitby Abbey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IeWxzSEpXV8/V4GmuNA9qbI/AAAAAAAADG8/2K4ldKXfWksdvdafRZC60NGT413oxgYAwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IeWxzSEpXV8/V4GmuNA9qbI/AAAAAAAADG8/2K4ldKXfWksdvdafRZC60NGT413oxgYAwCLcB/s320/IMG_3942.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MksHbOuPPlY/V4Gmi2W54-I/AAAAAAAADG0/1n9DM3dmFxA0hQwIaTMjiY9vk5WbIP4-wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MksHbOuPPlY/V4Gmi2W54-I/AAAAAAAADG0/1n9DM3dmFxA0hQwIaTMjiY9vk5WbIP4-wCLcB/s320/IMG_3954.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the glorious sun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
That was despite the fact that I decided to end the day off with a good old fashioned meal of beer-battered fish (minus the chips) before taking the 6pm train back to reality.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<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;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-adC4XygHFZY/V4G8YYz9hMI/AAAAAAAADI8/r-9fOq1oFhA0hE0MIst4_Xul4EIXjI9BACLcB/s1600/IMG_3998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-adC4XygHFZY/V4G8YYz9hMI/AAAAAAAADI8/r-9fOq1oFhA0hE0MIst4_Xul4EIXjI9BACLcB/s320/IMG_3998.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yum!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjcNykK9_Gk/V4Gn8PTB6tI/AAAAAAAADHY/hXQAzuW8JnAViJzvTysAFWMlCrvy9XOtACLcB/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjcNykK9_Gk/V4Gn8PTB6tI/AAAAAAAADHY/hXQAzuW8JnAViJzvTysAFWMlCrvy9XOtACLcB/s400/IMG_4030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last photo at Whitby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-55190162604603794092016-06-18T01:46:00.003-07:002016-06-18T02:11:14.709-07:00Castle Combe<h3>
A rainy day adventure</h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes you encounter the unexpected whilst travelling. In the UK, this generally relates to weather conditions. A grand day out is always better with plenty of sunshine, there's no doubt about it. But there's got to be a bit of rain every so often to balance things out. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rT2L7JnPyDU/V2R9Dto7rfI/AAAAAAAADDk/2mBvmD30EFsn_kdZTUjDlLmQ_Sav76RwACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9364_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="82" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rT2L7JnPyDU/V2R9Dto7rfI/AAAAAAAADDk/2mBvmD30EFsn_kdZTUjDlLmQ_Sav76RwACLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_9364_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving in Castle Combe </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CH-It3CelF4/V2R9CgckuYI/AAAAAAAADC0/WN-nvzeMXS4tq_J2RF2sUvKSOc6M-5oiACLcB/s1600/IMG_9385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CH-It3CelF4/V2R9CgckuYI/AAAAAAAADC0/WN-nvzeMXS4tq_J2RF2sUvKSOc6M-5oiACLcB/s320/IMG_9385.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Yellow House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And that's precisely what happened when I first ventured into the picturesque county of Wiltshire.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Clearly, heading outdoors would not be ideal under such wet conditions. But I like to be daring every once in a while, so it was off to Castle Combe for me.</div>
<div>
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<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;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjn_5NI_fRU/V2R9DEbFrMI/AAAAAAAADDI/d8Y00iJSdrE16vtxRLy9d1DMcx_ymqNtQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8680_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjn_5NI_fRU/V2R9DEbFrMI/AAAAAAAADDI/d8Y00iJSdrE16vtxRLy9d1DMcx_ymqNtQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8680_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quackers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DnqDzeoLFrU/V2R9Df3XOJI/AAAAAAAADDU/KC1eXIBG6B08hxU3ws2X4-gnOpAQeYJ-ACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8693_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DnqDzeoLFrU/V2R9Df3XOJI/AAAAAAAADDU/KC1eXIBG6B08hxU3ws2X4-gnOpAQeYJ-ACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8693_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d6MU57hqTyo/V2R9DBd3XHI/AAAAAAAADDQ/DwZ22yzZzaY5UuxE0eWkJnvK-IYrkRnmgCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8689_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d6MU57hqTyo/V2R9DBd3XHI/AAAAAAAADDQ/DwZ22yzZzaY5UuxE0eWkJnvK-IYrkRnmgCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8689_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lone bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With a population of only 344, this is probably one of, if not the, smallest and prettiest villages I have ever visited in England. Despite its size and demography, it's played a major role as a backdrop for several poignant films and TV shows. Think War Horse, Agatha Christie, and also Downton Abbey. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oFxwHZmvTLg/V2R9DGXQmxI/AAAAAAAADDM/9y_VyHMWKYQoUZWk8VtFTZpOY9pMn8mlQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8687_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oFxwHZmvTLg/V2R9DGXQmxI/AAAAAAAADDM/9y_VyHMWKYQoUZWk8VtFTZpOY9pMn8mlQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8687_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zVLNrlTVOqo/V2R9C89XsbI/AAAAAAAADC8/gWEN2WRR4PYGLVSSV9NNzyUytM6wbs1FACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8663_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zVLNrlTVOqo/V2R9C89XsbI/AAAAAAAADC8/gWEN2WRR4PYGLVSSV9NNzyUytM6wbs1FACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8663_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time for (another) cuppa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-US17EBghDzo/V2R9D8x_xrI/AAAAAAAADDs/MsKBEaO0FCohHQAnfyqpqoF-rfW1n0PxQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9369_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-US17EBghDzo/V2R9D8x_xrI/AAAAAAAADDs/MsKBEaO0FCohHQAnfyqpqoF-rfW1n0PxQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9369_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Taking photos is clearly a must. If you want a photography bucket list, then I suggest including pictures of doors, postboxes and souvenirs - they've all been so uniquely designed haven't they? There's a nice array of signage dotted all over the place as well. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j3mfkD6_T7g/V2R9CHwrrnI/AAAAAAAADCs/Le9emCSkDJMuVbIj8Yz7286kUaiiQ-7tQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j3mfkD6_T7g/V2R9CHwrrnI/AAAAAAAADCs/Le9emCSkDJMuVbIj8Yz7286kUaiiQ-7tQCLcB/s320/IMG_9355.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birdie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n6Vq7bvEdZY/V2R9DoXZCOI/AAAAAAAADDg/DttjDR5Hm3QRjjs11j9Zf2CCIExtIc7mACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9368_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n6Vq7bvEdZY/V2R9DoXZCOI/AAAAAAAADDg/DttjDR5Hm3QRjjs11j9Zf2CCIExtIc7mACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9368_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade delicacies </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q3ZKpcriFw/V2R9DoBtyGI/AAAAAAAADDo/V7a2WxgJfu8_JPFhKI42cbTZypF_mnCvQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8701_1024.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q3ZKpcriFw/V2R9DoBtyGI/AAAAAAAADDo/V7a2WxgJfu8_JPFhKI42cbTZypF_mnCvQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8701_1024.png" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still really pretty though!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh and don't forget about the scenery. Definitely a worthwhile snapshot.</div>
<div>
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<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;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svGJ6KAGH_M/V2R9DV8oz2I/AAAAAAAADDc/4VIiMrFgVW4X60bbCtuFhV1C-ODVe_KRgCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8698_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svGJ6KAGH_M/V2R9DV8oz2I/AAAAAAAADDc/4VIiMrFgVW4X60bbCtuFhV1C-ODVe_KRgCLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_8698_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture perfect</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdfPoPiCHUo/V2R9Cv0JWYI/AAAAAAAADDA/NP_LpQxJN-8aLCCoG3jjQAlX-sO-oUKVQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="86" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdfPoPiCHUo/V2R9Cv0JWYI/AAAAAAAADDA/NP_LpQxJN-8aLCCoG3jjQAlX-sO-oUKVQCLcB/s400/IMG_9390.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pano again!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another highlight of my day trip was lunch. The salmon I ordered at The Castle Inn hotel was delightfully scrumptious. There's also the Manor House Hotel in case you fancy a taste of 5-star luxury dining experience. </div>
<div>
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<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;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zi2aYkcMtL4/V2R9CULQtDI/AAAAAAAADCw/K4kKdGLaEk0ZxoJO7ZXAaIZHt3ZuGkRwgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zi2aYkcMtL4/V2R9CULQtDI/AAAAAAAADCw/K4kKdGLaEk0ZxoJO7ZXAaIZHt3ZuGkRwgCLcB/s320/IMG_9376.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All in all, another wonderful UK adventure. Who would have thought that a rainy day could be so beautiful?</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-14715577866678278912016-06-08T01:05:00.002-07:002016-06-08T02:19:38.666-07:00Worcester, Witley Court & Church<h3>
I've never been THIS excited about blogging before</h3>
<div>
Usually it takes me about a week of relaxing to recover from the exhaustion (and thrill) of travelling. During that period, I most commonly begin to contemplate whether or not I ought to blog about that particular experience. It generally is a big fat "yes" from me, but for some reason, writing somehow gets delayed by all the other interesting things I get involved with in life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In other words, I procrastinate (sometimes).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But definitely not this time! After visiting Witley Court on an incredible sunny Monday (yes this was just yesterday), I was motivated to start blogging about it (almost) immediately. So, here goes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<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://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IkLezlP7dl8/V1cZ69-nQXI/AAAAAAAAC8w/RTHuuThkSnIx2QfZGgSEuEvh62XAnzGPgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IkLezlP7dl8/V1cZ69-nQXI/AAAAAAAAC8w/RTHuuThkSnIx2QfZGgSEuEvh62XAnzGPgCLcB/s320/IMG_9138.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Entering Worcester Cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QAq0S5m5IZ4/V1cZ7byPxZI/AAAAAAAAC84/x1bTIk3NmwYuVmMb-FDes7-xaQVWZ27mACLcB/s1600/IMG_9143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QAq0S5m5IZ4/V1cZ7byPxZI/AAAAAAAAC84/x1bTIk3NmwYuVmMb-FDes7-xaQVWZ27mACLcB/s320/IMG_9143.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The medieval church of Saint Andrew</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_H67TqpEr5c/V1cZ60tDitI/AAAAAAAAC80/lOkzGVMb26sv7JSpclYZGVnz3BuRBj85QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_H67TqpEr5c/V1cZ60tDitI/AAAAAAAAC80/lOkzGVMb26sv7JSpclYZGVnz3BuRBj85QCLcB/s320/IMG_9137.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Sailing down the River Severn</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Worcester</h3>
<div>
To get to Witley Court, which is located near Great Witley in Worcestershire, I had to head to the city of Worcester by train in order to catch the 758 bus to this English Heritage property. I'd made sure I'd left enough time to explore Worcester, mainly its Cathedral, as well.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJHY_JQW3cY/V1cZ8J_WmMI/AAAAAAAAC_U/WFhLhMR6M-MBrVVDNncwbmsI-BK7SQsuACKgB/s1600/IMG_9160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJHY_JQW3cY/V1cZ8J_WmMI/AAAAAAAAC_U/WFhLhMR6M-MBrVVDNncwbmsI-BK7SQsuACKgB/s320/IMG_9160.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seagulls on patrol</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QwEGFPZjMIM/V1cZ70JkYjI/AAAAAAAAC_U/3O3qLblYxxswOE2e1wMdEidWewnph8P6gCKgB/s1600/IMG_9154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QwEGFPZjMIM/V1cZ70JkYjI/AAAAAAAAC_U/3O3qLblYxxswOE2e1wMdEidWewnph8P6gCKgB/s320/IMG_9154.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frequent flyer</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">A fine day in Worcester</td></tr>
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<div>
If it's a very sunny day when you go, you should definitely take a walk by the River Severn as it looks absolutely stunning in the sunshine. There's also an opportunity to take a cruise up and down the river. Unfortunately, I didn't have time for this but I guess this, and the fact that I didn't get to see the other museums in Worcester + buy Worcestershire sauce, means I'll definitely have an excuse to go back again!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wNh2pFbBIm4/V1cZ9yFFm5I/AAAAAAAAC9c/Lw7pqJoICNUDgxBQCOHv42QPy6pyROrhACLcB/s1600/IMG_9171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wNh2pFbBIm4/V1cZ9yFFm5I/AAAAAAAAC9c/Lw7pqJoICNUDgxBQCOHv42QPy6pyROrhACLcB/s320/IMG_9171.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking to Witley Court</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Witley Court's river</td></tr>
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<br />
<h3>
Witley Court</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HV-mLfJRnVE/V1cZ83SKgbI/AAAAAAAAC9M/4YmazERDBTk5mHt6PIMLz622aADwZNRBwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HV-mLfJRnVE/V1cZ83SKgbI/AAAAAAAAC9M/4YmazERDBTk5mHt6PIMLz622aADwZNRBwCLcB/s320/IMG_9166.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hooray!</td></tr>
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<div>
This was the main highlight of my day trip. And I am thoroughly pleased to say that I was NOT disappointed by it <i>at all</i>. In my opinion, the history of Witley Court is to an extent bittersweet. Although originally one of the most extravagant country houses in the UK, it suffered from a terrible fire in 1937 that has left the majority of it in ruins. Fortunately, a great portion of its beauty and charm has still been retained as the pictures show. And with the help from a series of info panels accompanying the key highlights of property, it's still possible to imagine how luxurious and spectacular the decor used to be.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OdGLMrNOQ8/V1cZ-nmHJ4I/AAAAAAAAC9k/tcTolNXAcMsqQjPdtHAyddCK-kSAmsYjwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OdGLMrNOQ8/V1cZ-nmHJ4I/AAAAAAAAC9k/tcTolNXAcMsqQjPdtHAyddCK-kSAmsYjwCLcB/s400/IMG_9188.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The south facade</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ug0wvTe0m6Y/V1caA0BvgwI/AAAAAAAAC98/p0YXkPSYqPoLrU43L1RqyHKa9KQZFJFIgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ug0wvTe0m6Y/V1caA0BvgwI/AAAAAAAAC98/p0YXkPSYqPoLrU43L1RqyHKa9KQZFJFIgCLcB/s320/IMG_9217.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the conservatory</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xym9ldT5igc/V1cZ_izx0xI/AAAAAAAAC9w/6BDh2xV5E4EauY5wHHg-2ui29q33X1gMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xym9ldT5igc/V1cZ_izx0xI/AAAAAAAAC9w/6BDh2xV5E4EauY5wHHg-2ui29q33X1gMQCLcB/s320/IMG_9191.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peeking through Witley Court</td></tr>
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Personally, I would say that it is genuinely one of the most romantic and attractive Grade 1 buildings I have EVER been to in the UK.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The east parterre</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nam5zOYSziQ/V1caDHZBgkI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/cPAMVzBNTiA9So67S0QSNZiskJ_hDKXfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nam5zOYSziQ/V1caDHZBgkI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/cPAMVzBNTiA9So67S0QSNZiskJ_hDKXfQCLcB/s320/IMG_9248.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roaming around the garden</td></tr>
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<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fz6Xpr6k4A4/V1cZ_syvwGI/AAAAAAAAC90/cKaykMi_NxMwtpk8Em0Xxn9dF0ucnPJiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fz6Xpr6k4A4/V1cZ_syvwGI/AAAAAAAAC90/cKaykMi_NxMwtpk8Em0Xxn9dF0ucnPJiQCLcB/s320/IMG_9189.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next to the south facade</td></tr>
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<div>
When I travel, I like to go in whatever direction my mood and guts take me in. Having ground rules can make travelling too stressful! However, if you did want me to recommend a must-see part of Witley Court so that you can plan out your route, then you should certainly pencil in the Perseus & Andromeda Fountain. It's design based on the Greek myth about Perseus flying on Pegasus to save his to-be-spouse, Andromeda, from a terrifying sea creature. An eye-catching masterpiece, water is shot from the fountain at every hour between 10am to 5pm. It's definitely something you HAVE to photography (and also film!).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptJkvCtcbRY/V1ceD3fwuUI/AAAAAAAAC_o/hGBnLx94Nhk1TLOwRw6LDYDnIaUG-pWRgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptJkvCtcbRY/V1ceD3fwuUI/AAAAAAAAC_o/hGBnLx94Nhk1TLOwRw6LDYDnIaUG-pWRgCLcB/s320/IMG_9226.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Fountain's sleeping</td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ae-2dHAhNZA/V1caByi6HTI/AAAAAAAAC_U/aO8216QFntwyzzj4elsb0BdRdwjEQ18CwCKgB/s1600/IMG_9225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ae-2dHAhNZA/V1caByi6HTI/AAAAAAAAC_U/aO8216QFntwyzzj4elsb0BdRdwjEQ18CwCKgB/s320/IMG_9225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QEdBSkHv3DI/V1caC1pU4AI/AAAAAAAAC-Q/jtK0ykuTFKw1H3_OtDD1tS4rY-jSP_3bACLcB/s1600/IMG_9239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QEdBSkHv3DI/V1caC1pU4AI/AAAAAAAAC-Q/jtK0ykuTFKw1H3_OtDD1tS4rY-jSP_3bACLcB/s320/IMG_9239.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The Fountain's alive!</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Great Witley Church</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor tearoom</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HuORNqmf4GM/V1cRmcBlxCI/AAAAAAAAC8Y/XZbdfNoohL0OMJpxKuYsFTR-d6PyRGotACKgB/s1600/IMG_1883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HuORNqmf4GM/V1cRmcBlxCI/AAAAAAAAC8Y/XZbdfNoohL0OMJpxKuYsFTR-d6PyRGotACKgB/s320/IMG_1883.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Taking it easy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Which way is which?</td></tr>
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<div>
If you're feeling a bit peckish and tired after walking around Witley Court and all its garden trails, then head next door to the lovely little outdoor tearoom run by Great Witley Church . The pear flavoured popsicle is highly recommended (by me), just to let you know. And whilst you're there, why not check out the Church itself? I mean, who would have thought that a church with such a simple exterior could be so much more extravagant on the inside? See my pictures if you don't believe me.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving at Great Witley Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Church's baroque styled interior</td></tr>
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<div>
There are 48 ceremonial counties in England alone, and I have now officially visited 25 (= an average of around 6 new ones annually across the 4 years I've been here).</div>
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Bring on the next one :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXA2UYvKsSM/V1cRmhHuLgI/AAAAAAAAC8c/5InUms8rLO8n6rGG9kQh7IlNbiU9pI-FwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXA2UYvKsSM/V1cRmhHuLgI/AAAAAAAAC8c/5InUms8rLO8n6rGG9kQh7IlNbiU9pI-FwCKgB/s400/IMG_1881.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mondays could never have been this enjoyable</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-31051208917838069802016-06-02T02:00:00.000-07:002016-06-02T02:04:28.597-07:00Mid year review - 2016<h3>
And so the story goes...</h3>
<div>
In terms of blogging, this year's been a bit on and off for me (apologies for that). It is mostly because I've had a busy couple of months studying for my postgraduate degree (which I'm pleased to say is <i>almost</i> over). But it's also because I've been working on some other projects that I was fortunately selected for. So, here are the top 5 things that have happened this year:</div>
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<h3>
No. 1: British Council</h3>
<div>
Probably the most exciting project of this year for me. After winning a short writing contest, I became one of the lucky few that were selected to write for the world renowned British Council for 2016. I've written 4 articles for it about my experience as a student in the UK, specifically topics such as the student lifestyle, financing, and travelling on a budget. Two have been published presently, so feel free to read them: </div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>1) http://www.educationuk.org/global/articles/frequently-unanswered-questions-of-international-students/</li>
<li>2) https://digital.britishcouncil.org/blog/how-we-use-digital-platforms-attract-students-uk</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1j8WKLGX-w/V0w0cp8hnCI/AAAAAAAAC7A/IHdiBmrTKXQYTMZ9an3iIeMebrxlQ980QCLcB/s1600/IMG_7996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1j8WKLGX-w/V0w0cp8hnCI/AAAAAAAAC7A/IHdiBmrTKXQYTMZ9an3iIeMebrxlQ980QCLcB/s320/IMG_7996.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking to our induction!</td></tr>
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<div>
<h3>
No. 2: WBS</h3>
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<div>
My university invited me to do some filming to help market my course to future prospective students. The experience was definitely enjoyable, especially since we manage to do it outside near the lake on our campus seeing as it was really sunny! The video isn't out yet but when it does come out, I'll make sure I post a link on my blog for everyone to see it. So, watch this space ;)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5r_QVioel8/V0wzviRT4EI/AAAAAAAAC64/O8jy_e5Wd68ZJ32FSitRGKJBVKLfScGZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5r_QVioel8/V0wzviRT4EI/AAAAAAAAC64/O8jy_e5Wd68ZJ32FSitRGKJBVKLfScGZwCLcB/s400/IMG_0832.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunny day - heading to the filming location</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
No. 3: Bag design contest - winner!</h3>
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<div>
I don't normally like to share my drawings out publicly (it's my bit of privacy that I'd like to keep private!). However, seeing as it's my last couple of weeks in my student halls, I decided to enter its annual bag design contest just for a bit of fun (also because the prize was too good to miss). It worked out quite well in the end seeing as I won the grand prize. In other words, hard work <i>does </i>pay off.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AD_3-IH1P5o/V0wyzIEyBOI/AAAAAAAAC6o/3Wse-Nl7bak0lMF03jA7hHHsvUjYiWWCwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AD_3-IH1P5o/V0wyzIEyBOI/AAAAAAAAC6o/3Wse-Nl7bak0lMF03jA7hHHsvUjYiWWCwCLcB/s320/IMG_1357.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final design</td></tr>
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<div>
<h3>
No. 4: Enactus</h3>
</div>
<div>
For those of you that don't know, Enactus is a student-run global initiative aimed at use entrepreneurial skills to solve social issues and help vulnerable groups. I was lucky enough to get involved in one of its more creative projects, and therefore had the opportunity to teach a group of homeless beneficiaries how to draw. I taught them how to sketch a cartoon version of themselves. Here's mine if you're interested:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GmTsCHoj7xA/V0wzUa9U_QI/AAAAAAAAC6w/yXTkPLfiB9Ylkm8nSoEuqkEiHvBzHvALQCLcB/s1600/ProfilePic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GmTsCHoj7xA/V0wzUa9U_QI/AAAAAAAAC6w/yXTkPLfiB9Ylkm8nSoEuqkEiHvBzHvALQCLcB/s320/ProfilePic.jpg" width="205" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final look!</td></tr>
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<h3>
No. 5: Travelling </h3>
</div>
<div>
Needless to say, with 6 months into 2016 already, I did manage to squeeze in some time for travelling. And I know haven't posted much about my trip to Wiltshire and the others places I've been to in the UK yet, but fret not. My reviews will come soon. So for those of you that are already enthused by them, here's a sneak peek of where I went:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pcVJuskIwqo/V0w1Iuc8TdI/AAAAAAAAC7Y/b82zoaGe_g4jCzDoVEgPHIjhxeCPP11hgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pcVJuskIwqo/V0w1Iuc8TdI/AAAAAAAAC7Y/b82zoaGe_g4jCzDoVEgPHIjhxeCPP11hgCLcB/s320/IMG_1513.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day out with friends in Leicester</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r4rYLBtRV28/V0w09LVNMTI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/k7YVMFM56QQCKxzEpXDVpcrk3PodJW1qgCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8490_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r4rYLBtRV28/V0w09LVNMTI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/k7YVMFM56QQCKxzEpXDVpcrk3PodJW1qgCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8490_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photographing in Petersborough</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oY2yDrxAq90/V0w0-fQJimI/AAAAAAAAC7U/c6DmZqHbh-Q-2wbN8smyD45Y8FU9Zp0mwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_8698_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oY2yDrxAq90/V0w0-fQJimI/AAAAAAAAC7U/c6DmZqHbh-Q-2wbN8smyD45Y8FU9Zp0mwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_8698_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strolling in Castle Combe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1XHWbG_diug/V0w1yhsrNbI/AAAAAAAAC7g/-swxBqDitkw5Aja6aOkrBU1DnFQT4WQMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1XHWbG_diug/V0w1yhsrNbI/AAAAAAAAC7g/-swxBqDitkw5Aja6aOkrBU1DnFQT4WQMQCLcB/s320/IMG_1217.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping in Leamington Spa</td></tr>
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<div>
Of course, not everyday was sunshine and rainbows. Many of the days I had this year were rather dismal and grey. But, if you look at the cup from a different angle, it seems that my 2016 so far was more half full than half empty. And I'm sure there'll be many more great adventures to come (just you wait). </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-35360195050024237462016-05-28T03:11:00.000-07:002016-05-28T03:11:19.144-07:00London, Hampstead Heath & St Dunstans<h3>
Post-exam adventure: days 5 & 6 (the final chapter)</h3>
<div>
Like Bath, London is not an unfamiliar town to me. I've lost track of how many times I've ventured here, but there's always something new about the city so it is worth coming back to quite often. For the last couple of days, I've undergone an intense period of solo travelling. It was therefore why I decided to switch it up a bit and visit some friends during my first day in the country's capital.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FGhcRM65ztw/V0lp8YkI6hI/AAAAAAAAC4w/KjFmtiB3XkcwW0UAxwIfqCTicWo3Om0bACLcB/s1600/IMG_0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FGhcRM65ztw/V0lp8YkI6hI/AAAAAAAAC4w/KjFmtiB3XkcwW0UAxwIfqCTicWo3Om0bACLcB/s320/IMG_0055.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hampstead Heath</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfI-inE0HSY/V0lqWrttOJI/AAAAAAAAC40/X-s-8QalQJMgzZEbfNZVuYBScbb-26zpACLcB/s1600/IMG_0678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfI-inE0HSY/V0lqWrttOJI/AAAAAAAAC40/X-s-8QalQJMgzZEbfNZVuYBScbb-26zpACLcB/s320/IMG_0678.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious cakes from BB Bakery</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UV_g84Zppc8/V0lrVg4Zs7I/AAAAAAAAC5w/FNr6GoZB0BglsP_wqspxIYc2XoZhfSX-ACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0682_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UV_g84Zppc8/V0lrVg4Zs7I/AAAAAAAAC5w/FNr6GoZB0BglsP_wqspxIYc2XoZhfSX-ACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0682_1024.jpg" width="274" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frisbee fun</td></tr>
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<div>
Travelling alone is fun, but it's equally nice to have some company at times (in my opinion anyway).</div>
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<div>
I don't know if you've paid attention to the UK weather forecast recently but the weather was definitely a bit on and off on Friday. From sun to snow then to rain and back, it honestly felt like we were experiencing all four seasons in one day. Luckily for me, when I did need to head out, the sun was also out. It was therefore why I managed to enjoy a long and peaceful walk with company around the entire Hampstead Heath. I consequently rewarded myself with a filling dinner and a long-awaited chat with a different friend in the evening after all that exercise.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiMMY0UDHlQ/V0lp8XoGqaI/AAAAAAAAC4s/r6IB8ZCSfmU6qpU2etx9g4D6QVzfw92DACLcB/s1600/IMG_0066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiMMY0UDHlQ/V0lp8XoGqaI/AAAAAAAAC4s/r6IB8ZCSfmU6qpU2etx9g4D6QVzfw92DACLcB/s320/IMG_0066.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main motivation behind the park stroll</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qf3LApHtumQ/V0luKwoBilI/AAAAAAAAC6I/eB9sSFMw-hkY0gtn5KY1Al4kHz3B4BEGQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0696_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qf3LApHtumQ/V0luKwoBilI/AAAAAAAAC6I/eB9sSFMw-hkY0gtn5KY1Al4kHz3B4BEGQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0696_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner with the friend</td></tr>
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<div>
I forgot to mention that we had some cakes before we headed onto the heath. If you're ever in Covent Garden, you should definitely head to BB Bakery in Chandos place. It serves the most beautiful and scrumptious cakes, biscuits and other desserts I've ever had. I think that they also serve afternoon tea on a special double decker bus and Thames Riverside boat -- totally worth trying out if you're lucky enough to secure a spot!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8rRd88Yasqs/V0lqlaYrUPI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/eMZJdIK1B3kChSIcHDdoi1xUAnC4Q0nDACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0715_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8rRd88Yasqs/V0lqlaYrUPI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/eMZJdIK1B3kChSIcHDdoi1xUAnC4Q0nDACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0715_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from London Bridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8H8IeXDnP4/V0lqlWtGJEI/AAAAAAAAC5g/J0fywVqF81oLMPVqCfn5jwbEgAqq7Np2gCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0720_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8H8IeXDnP4/V0lqlWtGJEI/AAAAAAAAC5g/J0fywVqF81oLMPVqCfn5jwbEgAqq7Np2gCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0720_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin ravioli at Strada</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ye_zWPbWL0I/V0lqlNM8ZRI/AAAAAAAAC5c/zIQ2gu2IuXcE-dbqkYbnW-82INXBZEOuwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0714_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ye_zWPbWL0I/V0lqlNM8ZRI/AAAAAAAAC5c/zIQ2gu2IuXcE-dbqkYbnW-82INXBZEOuwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0714_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">London Bridge</td></tr>
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<div>
After being accompanied for the entire day on Friday, Saturday was my day to roam around freely by myself. It began with a long stroll around Monument towards St Dunstans (a very nice little park that is worth a visit if you're ever in need of killing time on a sunny day), which then progressed across London Bridge towards Waterloo for a lovely lunch at Strada. Thereafter it was off to shopping around Kensington before 4pm suddenly crept up and I had to leave. It was back up to my uni accommodation shortly after that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2uQJVsJR8U/V0lqkx6j8RI/AAAAAAAAC5M/Lnc3Tx3wX_oRD5aY3qxwG2tRMoHKlk6eACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0709_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2uQJVsJR8U/V0lqkx6j8RI/AAAAAAAAC5M/Lnc3Tx3wX_oRD5aY3qxwG2tRMoHKlk6eACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0709_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've been welcomed </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rc5szOn-Mok/V0lqlLtUWCI/AAAAAAAAC5U/v78NQZQ5GYMpQK4Mi1jBON92at5CtZr4wCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0711_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rc5szOn-Mok/V0lqlLtUWCI/AAAAAAAAC5U/v78NQZQ5GYMpQK4Mi1jBON92at5CtZr4wCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0711_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going around St Dunstans</td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tkY3jbjy7cs/V0lqlOyf-sI/AAAAAAAAC5Q/OGJdR_t4zokLNQXVp2T3vh6tf79A4Xg4wCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0710_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tkY3jbjy7cs/V0lqlOyf-sI/AAAAAAAAC5Q/OGJdR_t4zokLNQXVp2T3vh6tf79A4Xg4wCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0710_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Oh boo hoo, this completes the final leg of my grand 6 day getaway.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XWKiefTX7oA/V0lqk6K8AgI/AAAAAAAAC5I/QeEXlZ8H8B8nCxFb5BzslsjWSWQ8Ol_MgCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0707_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="91" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XWKiefTX7oA/V0lqk6K8AgI/AAAAAAAAC5I/QeEXlZ8H8B8nCxFb5BzslsjWSWQ8Ol_MgCLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_0707_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St Dunstans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MuHIDc19A9c/V0lqk5TkjsI/AAAAAAAAC5A/3-VJbEVY3bMhAwzdk6baGWCb_HGk3JNfQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0700_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MuHIDc19A9c/V0lqk5TkjsI/AAAAAAAAC5A/3-VJbEVY3bMhAwzdk6baGWCb_HGk3JNfQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0700_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monument</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q-y39fjN3ww/V0lnMJyWL8I/AAAAAAAAC4Y/rh5lB3ejDK4sXdh8JVNoMGb1eipIiN1rACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9107_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q-y39fjN3ww/V0lnMJyWL8I/AAAAAAAAC4Y/rh5lB3ejDK4sXdh8JVNoMGb1eipIiN1rACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9107_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The Shard from St Dunstans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap9P0GaOlXg/V0lq6gWDiII/AAAAAAAAC5o/9HnjQdWiJR4KLGjcb57cYNvuHFGDszNDACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0704_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="85" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap9P0GaOlXg/V0lq6gWDiII/AAAAAAAAC5o/9HnjQdWiJR4KLGjcb57cYNvuHFGDszNDACLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_0704_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St Dunstans</td></tr>
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It's sad when things come to an end but, as the saying goes, with every ending comes a brand new beginning - let the travels for 2016 by The Amateur Anthropologist FINALLY begin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-39mViQOgtD4/V0lnMCxtE0I/AAAAAAAAC4c/JY4WP_pbvWg6HgdySKR0mXN0RuTI0im_ACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9095_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-39mViQOgtD4/V0lnMCxtE0I/AAAAAAAAC4c/JY4WP_pbvWg6HgdySKR0mXN0RuTI0im_ACLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_9095_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The floral wheelbarrow</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-69772099815424392932016-05-04T12:14:00.000-07:002016-05-04T12:14:09.549-07:00Bath, Prior Park & Wells<h3>
Post-exam adventure: days 3 & 4</h3>
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In this episode of my grand 6 day post-exam adventure, we'll be focusing on Somerset (a south western English county which is home to the famous UNESCO historical spa town Bath). If I could have my pick of living anywhere in the UK, Bath will win hands down. I've been here a fair few times already, to the extent that I know the majority of the main roads and how to get from A to B by heart. However, the feeling of awe towards the elegant Georgian architecture in the town centre has still yet to falter.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Royal Crescent</td></tr>
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The above photo clearly explains this feeling.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zU3eIUiDaIA/VypFdM0y88I/AAAAAAAAC1g/q4uGmE1zsMoebn8acPa9bKQOcUn2cYagwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0500_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zU3eIUiDaIA/VypFdM0y88I/AAAAAAAAC1g/q4uGmE1zsMoebn8acPa9bKQOcUn2cYagwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0500_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMbKPkeYQ24/VypFd5aQqKI/AAAAAAAAC18/oU18gHh0wL8ibxui-dceN9vwbDcHqwdkQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0526_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMbKPkeYQ24/VypFd5aQqKI/AAAAAAAAC18/oU18gHh0wL8ibxui-dceN9vwbDcHqwdkQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0526_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sells the BEST biscuits ever</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Totally worth applying for :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uber in Bath</td></tr>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK8Gsz1cGj4/VypFdvtnkBI/AAAAAAAAC14/mbebLEMpQAUKel0BzCzsajAcOS8bu_lcgCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0525_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK8Gsz1cGj4/VypFdvtnkBI/AAAAAAAAC14/mbebLEMpQAUKel0BzCzsajAcOS8bu_lcgCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0525_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Having been to Bath on several occasions, there wasn't much need for myself to go down the stereotypical touristy route of visiting the Roman Baths, Sally Lunn's and the Jane Austen centre (although they are highly recommended if it is your first ever trip). I did stop by several places that I had been to before this current visit, mainly my most favourite shops. Seriously, if you consider shopping to be a therapeutic cure to stress then Bath should be your number 1 stop. I guarantee that you'll definitely find the perfect independent retailer for any need that you may have.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v_PEa3BybaU/VypHWx1u61I/AAAAAAAAC3U/D2ds7x0rGg0EY_scB3j1BTooW-bBx2ppwCLcB/s1600/13062266_628887457275648_7241479458281619784_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v_PEa3BybaU/VypHWx1u61I/AAAAAAAAC3U/D2ds7x0rGg0EY_scB3j1BTooW-bBx2ppwCLcB/s320/13062266_628887457275648_7241479458281619784_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henrietta Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkAABLIk8o8/VypFee50rwI/AAAAAAAAC2U/ik1msCEBKkgMU5dvnauvHh21Q4AcR0K9ACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9003_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkAABLIk8o8/VypFee50rwI/AAAAAAAAC2U/ik1msCEBKkgMU5dvnauvHh21Q4AcR0K9ACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9003_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sydney Gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYczLJbzN6A/VypHSFWFbuI/AAAAAAAAC3M/q_9-oYvVY3YkwkcGJwXDGgU6NJmCsp7dgCLcB/s1600/13082679_628943807270013_4120535296447128915_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYczLJbzN6A/VypHSFWFbuI/AAAAAAAAC3M/q_9-oYvVY3YkwkcGJwXDGgU6NJmCsp7dgCLcB/s320/13082679_628943807270013_4120535296447128915_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunny day in Sydney Gardens</td></tr>
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However, the highlight of my vacation was clearly my exploration out into the wild unknowns (i.e. I went to a bunch of new attractions that I hadn't had the chance to go to during the previous couple of times I'd voyaged to Bath). Personally, I find fun out of simplicity. And that's precisely why my journey led me to three of the most beautiful parks/gardens in the city. Thanks to the consistently crystal clear blue sky, I managed to take quite a few decent photos in Henrietta Park and Sydney Gardens - don't you think? My favourite park would undeniably have to be Prior Park. It's a bit of a trek to get there (seeing as it's up on a huge and steep hill), but it's totally worth it seeing as you get to see and go through its magnificent Palladium-styled bridge (one of only four left in the entire world).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QOs0Kuga-8/VypFeE8b6BI/AAAAAAAAC2E/nNTdDfTWdN8dCbk-r0D63_rp7O8YmeoPQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0601_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QOs0Kuga-8/VypFeE8b6BI/AAAAAAAAC2E/nNTdDfTWdN8dCbk-r0D63_rp7O8YmeoPQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0601_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lone swing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bi3wumHR_3E/VypFeiJEA4I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/BYoUkh4YjJc2IAfHKyTBsYCuTk0zgcQsACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9020_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bi3wumHR_3E/VypFeiJEA4I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/BYoUkh4YjJc2IAfHKyTBsYCuTk0zgcQsACLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_9020_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bath from Prior Park</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdSUsviwoq8/VypFe69T91I/AAAAAAAAC2g/YdXKSEBQTnc-jdwFs77bUhrPb56KwMigwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9038_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdSUsviwoq8/VypFe69T91I/AAAAAAAAC2g/YdXKSEBQTnc-jdwFs77bUhrPb56KwMigwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9038_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YrjvAoJzX3U/VypHTwyB7KI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/49kYEnIzrkwTfPzXVkKoABD9JhfMcdMJwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0607_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YrjvAoJzX3U/VypHTwyB7KI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/49kYEnIzrkwTfPzXVkKoABD9JhfMcdMJwCLcB/s400/thumb_IMG_0607_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Palladium Bridge</td></tr>
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Call me old fashioned but I go with whatever floats my boat (i.e. sightseeing in parks).<br />
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I'd planned to have a pause in between my park visit and my next destination, but fate had a contrasting idea in mind. So, after walking back down the hill towards Bath's town centre, I immediately boarded the bus to head to Wells. Famed as the smallest town in England, Wells offered me two spectacular attractions to explore. The first was its cathedral which, not only looked architecturally spectacular on the outside, was equally amazing on the inside. I was most intrigued by its unique scissor curve-shaped arches standing just behind the altar - well worth seeing if you're ever in town. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VK61APVV7gg/VypFeI9hxnI/AAAAAAAAC2I/7DIr-1STyFoSdqyExN2XzllqL-Yx3d0PwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0633_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VK61APVV7gg/VypFeI9hxnI/AAAAAAAAC2I/7DIr-1STyFoSdqyExN2XzllqL-Yx3d0PwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0633_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OlhQa5xbQbI/VypFe1vfkKI/AAAAAAAAC2k/VcEOtU8dvlo4Moq7R3xafnGQPccQi-0jQCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9048_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OlhQa5xbQbI/VypFe1vfkKI/AAAAAAAAC2k/VcEOtU8dvlo4Moq7R3xafnGQPccQi-0jQCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9048_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wells Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n82lgTq6SLc/VypFe7E_hFI/AAAAAAAAC2o/NZPRP-CzM-c5SSHhmpWSaUNHIY9ZQ3G_ACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9053_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n82lgTq6SLc/VypFe7E_hFI/AAAAAAAAC2o/NZPRP-CzM-c5SSHhmpWSaUNHIY9ZQ3G_ACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9053_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The scissor arch</td></tr>
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The second was the Bishop's Palace and Chapel, which was located just next to the main cathedral (convenient right?). If the weather hadn't been so sporadic (i.e. sun then snow then rain then sun and again), I would have definitely stayed longer in its 14 acre garden in order to explore every nook and cranny. Apparently you can see Glastonbury Tor from a certain point within the garden - wasn't lucky on that particular occasion but I will make sure I head back so that I can see it next time!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n7oR-JlDWSo/VypFfZ9QzPI/AAAAAAAAC24/fRo7AyR1jzo5eJDyCdO8af4wI2z2vrg4wCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9084_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n7oR-JlDWSo/VypFfZ9QzPI/AAAAAAAAC24/fRo7AyR1jzo5eJDyCdO8af4wI2z2vrg4wCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9084_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PcNdUGTs2MI/VypFfJWWBjI/AAAAAAAAC2w/9rlrBUlmKkAOFSKHDh_c6mz5Cs89hD9PwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9067_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PcNdUGTs2MI/VypFfJWWBjI/AAAAAAAAC2w/9rlrBUlmKkAOFSKHDh_c6mz5Cs89hD9PwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9067_1024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chocolate jug</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITBaC74TLYM/VypFfNo2pKI/AAAAAAAAC20/WCL7Ylp7f3wvOMa6VFsqjTdx1s4A_tTBwCLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_9076_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITBaC74TLYM/VypFfNo2pKI/AAAAAAAAC20/WCL7Ylp7f3wvOMa6VFsqjTdx1s4A_tTBwCLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_9076_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Needless to say, all that walking made it a very tiring couple of days. It was therefore enough justification for me to devour an entire pizza plus snacks for dinner on the very last night.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1o-9Y7l_rA/VypFeI49bNI/AAAAAAAAC2M/xFxK7iaJT3ouD8enSnfo40sgrYsl6obnACLcB/s1600/thumb_IMG_0650_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1o-9Y7l_rA/VypFeI49bNI/AAAAAAAAC2M/xFxK7iaJT3ouD8enSnfo40sgrYsl6obnACLcB/s320/thumb_IMG_0650_1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And what about days 5 and 6? You'll just have to wait till tomorrow to see ;)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-11432623797937853292016-05-01T02:05:00.002-07:002016-05-01T02:06:46.962-07:00Oxford & Blenheim Palace<h3>
Post-exam adventure: days 1 & 2</h3>
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At the end of every period of stress, people often require a long duration of relaxation before beginning to work again. The majority will generally pursue this through an extended sleep. However for me, I prefer to de-stress through a slightly more active and fun way. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Radcliffe Camera, Oxford</td></tr>
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Yes that's right. Traveling is my cure.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Window shopping in Oxford</td></tr>
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For the first part of my grand 6 day adventure, I decided to travel down to the charming and lively town of Oxford. I'm sure that most of you will have heard about its splendour and spectacles, so I won't go into many details about what I did there (the photos should explain this thoroughly). I did think about going to Bicester Village to shop, but there was more than enough independent retailers for me to buy from in Oxford itself. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blenheim Palace (interiors)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The Temple of Diana</td></tr>
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In comparison to day 1, the second day matched my passion for exploration much better. Fate led me to the magnificent Blenheim Palace in the historic market town of Woodstock (no relation to Snoopy I believe). Whether you're interested in history or architecture, this palace has it all. As a quick overview of its timeline, the building was originally the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Visiting enables you to learn more about his life and relation to the palace. For example, he proposed to his to-be-wife, Clementine, at the "Temple of Diana" in his garden (and yes I did manage to snap a photo of this fantastic piece of architecture). The interiors of the palace itself can also be explored. I particularly liked The Long Library which houses one of the largest organs in Europe. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Absolutely aMAZE-ing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The organ in The Long Library</td></tr>
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Of course no adventure is complete without a bit of outdoorsy fun. For any nature lover, Blenheim Palace's exteriors will completely spoil you. There are acres pure grassland to promenade on, interesting monuments like the Column of Victory, and also the one of the largest hedge mazes in the world to get lost in. You can literally spend a good couple of hours just walking around and breathing in the fresh air (given that the weather is sunny). And if visiting Blenheim Palace is not enough to satisfy your globetrotter spirit, pop down the road to Woodstock village once you're done. There's a variety of quirky shops and cafes to marvel at and photograph. It's a great activity for anyone, especially whilst you wait for the bus to get back to Oxford. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Heading to the Column of Victory</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Formal Gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roaming around Woodstock</td></tr>
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That's it for Oxfordshire. Come back tomorrow to find out where I headed next on my 6 day post-exam adventure (dun dun dun).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Blenheim Palace (the magnificent exterior)</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-35346254031157219852015-12-31T18:43:00.001-08:002016-01-02T05:58:11.987-08:00Gloucester - Cathedral and Beatrix Potter Museum<h3>
One last trip for 2015</h3>
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It's hard to say goodbye to anything, especially since this year has been so wonderful in so many different ways. To begin, I graduated (finally!), I undertook two amazing internships that have given me lots of new skills and insight into the careers I can see myself pursuing in the near future, and of course I spent lots of time with friends and family. The most exciting part, without a doubt however, was definitely having the opportunity to travel to so many new places. Aside from exploring the UK, I also wandered through the streets of Japan and Singapore, plus the trade show grounds of Hannover - I am more than satisfied with my travels for this year.</div>
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So, for the first travel post for my blog for 2016 (happy new year to everyone btw!), I thought I'd tell you all about my trip to Gloucester (which happened to have been my final UK adventure for 2015).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First look at the amazing Gloucester Cathedral</td></tr>
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Beatrix Potter Museum</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving at the museum</td></tr>
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My main aim was to visit Gloucester Cathedral (which I did in the end - this'll come later in this post!), but I ended up making a quick but worthwhile detour at this lovely little museum. It hadn't been planned - in fact I was quite surprised when I saw it. Aside from selling the usual Beatrix Potter world's merch (e.g. cups, keychains, toys etc.), there were two parts of the store that were museum-themed. I particularly liked the basement area's display, which boasted the scenery seen in Potter's "The Tailor of Gloucester" book (which is precisely why the museum is in Gloucester and is subtitled "The House of the Tailor of Gloucester") as well as a little TV showing the book in cartoon form. The second floor was equally as interesting. It continued to illustrate the Tailor of Gloucester through words, portraits and plush toys. </div>
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Of course, a trip to any Beatrix Potter attraction is not complete without stopping to say hi to Peter Rabbit. Managed to find him in the end (thankfully) -- the best way to end a wonderful pitstop at a quaint and well-designed museum.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter says hi</td></tr>
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Gloucester Cathedral</h3>
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There's no surprise that I chose to visit Gloucester Cathedral for a reason. The original goal had been to admire/photograph/view its stunning historic cloisters (which were used in the 1st, 2nd and 6th Harry Potter films). However, when I arrived at the Romanesque and Gothic construction, I was greeted by two additional activities that were equally fun to attend.<br />
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The first was the Christmas market, of which was taking place in the historic cloisters - I thereby saw it as Christmas at Hogwarts (with lots of decent and quirky bargains for any shopaholic -- I'm definitely one!). Although the cloisters were packed, that didn't stop me taking as many photos as possible (after I got paid for a license to do so legally of course - you can get one at the cathedral shop btw).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purchases from the Christmas Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NgPf7JK72zc/VoXiUFZt4EI/AAAAAAAACvo/a7X4Ssy1Efk/s1600/IMG_7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NgPf7JK72zc/VoXiUFZt4EI/AAAAAAAACvo/a7X4Ssy1Efk/s400/IMG_7305.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pano of the Christmas Market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f60HC9kDCV8/VoXby6ZMs9I/AAAAAAAACuM/G5hdv5RuXxw/s1600/IMG_8351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f60HC9kDCV8/VoXby6ZMs9I/AAAAAAAACuM/G5hdv5RuXxw/s320/IMG_8351.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Browsing the many MANY stalls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lXR1qK_XUQ4/VoXmSrTCq5I/AAAAAAAACwA/5U1Tviw5lUI/s1600/IMG_8357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lXR1qK_XUQ4/VoXmSrTCq5I/AAAAAAAACwA/5U1Tviw5lUI/s320/IMG_8357.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I have to say, I think they're quite decent - don't you?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO7BUrdEB_Y/VoXWfqUQFZI/AAAAAAAACsc/7j5SQDAFua4/s1600/IMG_7302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO7BUrdEB_Y/VoXWfqUQFZI/AAAAAAAACsc/7j5SQDAFua4/s320/IMG_7302.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K1LNbClUUaI/VoXdb92kV9I/AAAAAAAACvY/CZ_hL6ocJ0o/s1600/IMG_8399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K1LNbClUUaI/VoXdb92kV9I/AAAAAAAACvY/CZ_hL6ocJ0o/s320/IMG_8399.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ceiling - simply breathtaking (cloisters)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SPvlNqH_EVA/VoXdWSNwrLI/AAAAAAAACvI/A1t26kZbGiY/s1600/IMG_8402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SPvlNqH_EVA/VoXdWSNwrLI/AAAAAAAACvI/A1t26kZbGiY/s320/IMG_8402.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUWre_LbD5I/VoXYBkOo8pI/AAAAAAAACtc/PbA7-IC_kec/s1600/IMG_8376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUWre_LbD5I/VoXYBkOo8pI/AAAAAAAACtc/PbA7-IC_kec/s320/IMG_8376.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The second was the Christmas concert - now that was fun! We sang a bunch of my favourite songs (e.g. Silent Night) and it was nice talking to the people next to me that had also attended the event. I think that kind of became the highlight of my trip - who knew singing could bring so much joy?<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2GWktQC2Cv4/VoXcQImLIxI/AAAAAAAACuY/OzhbaU2J1r8/s1600/IMG_8363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2GWktQC2Cv4/VoXcQImLIxI/AAAAAAAACuY/OzhbaU2J1r8/s320/IMG_8363.jpg" width="233" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shh!! The concert has started</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
And after all that singing and shopping, it was finally time to do some surveying (i.e. touring the cathedral). With every corner I turned and every step I took, the true beauty of the cathedral became even more prominent. I spent the majority of my trip simply gawking at the different types of tapestry and ceiling designs present. It is, without a doubt, an architectural masterpiece. Imagine all those hours that had been spent in drawing and later building the cathedral - absolutely incredible.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NZVhQHYW3Xs/VoXcr-0kLQI/AAAAAAAACuw/p1jMdr933jE/s1600/IMG_8385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NZVhQHYW3Xs/VoXcr-0kLQI/AAAAAAAACuw/p1jMdr933jE/s320/IMG_8385.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another ceiling - even more amazing (east end)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-262t8Ey6tIY/VoXc5FSEQmI/AAAAAAAACvA/40obHtUUF2M/s1600/IMG_8374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-262t8Ey6tIY/VoXc5FSEQmI/AAAAAAAACvA/40obHtUUF2M/s320/IMG_8374.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vxk7hK0pYFA/VoXmS4UFbqI/AAAAAAAACwE/53uCEPzRSOs/s1600/IMG_8367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vxk7hK0pYFA/VoXmS4UFbqI/AAAAAAAACwE/53uCEPzRSOs/s320/IMG_8367.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stunning stained glass window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<h3>
New year = new (travel, foodie & fashion) adventures</h3>
<div>
The above pretty much summarises my trip to Gloucester - it was short but definitely sweet. I have many memories of it that will undoubtedly last for a lifetime. So I'm gonna let you all go now - enjoy the new year and its respective celebrations.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JmRqNpMG958/VoXbya-WDyI/AAAAAAAACuI/fegtl3hak4M/s1600/IMG_8347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JmRqNpMG958/VoXbya-WDyI/AAAAAAAACuI/fegtl3hak4M/s320/IMG_8347.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A must visit for any architecture fanatic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a1Inl4ugivU/VoXbs1FgXdI/AAAAAAAACuA/yfTaPTfc624/s1600/IMG_8344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a1Inl4ugivU/VoXbs1FgXdI/AAAAAAAACuA/yfTaPTfc624/s400/IMG_8344.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cathedral's exterior - just as breathtaking as the interior</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UGwB6f_SOmw/VoXczOZQ5EI/AAAAAAAACu4/ljoZ1vQ7t0w/s1600/IMG_8396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UGwB6f_SOmw/VoXczOZQ5EI/AAAAAAAACu4/ljoZ1vQ7t0w/s320/IMG_8396.jpg" width="221" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And what about me you might ask? That's for the next blog post.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-23894321389581204562015-12-30T07:30:00.003-08:002015-12-30T07:30:50.627-08:00Christmas Presents 2015 - BlogMas Day 4<h3>
First ever haul</h3>
<div>
I've always enjoyed the various haul-based videos that are scattered throughout YouTube. There are so many to choose from -- you've got your clothing haul, makeup haul, paint supply haul etc. My favorite definitely has to be the ones that pop up during Christmas (I.e. The "what I got for Christmas" videos). So in spirit of that, and because I've opened them up already, I thought I'd try to produce my own version of a Christmas presents haul (only through writing and photos rather than through film). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As they say, "sharing is caring", so feel free to comment below on what you got for Christmas too. Hopefully this can give us some inspiration for Christmas gift shopping when it comes around next year (what can I say? I like to keep on top of schedule - always). And hopefully this will be the first of many hauls to come!</div>
<h3>
Boxes of joy</h3>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--DGQVRG_vGs/VoPu7na-YhI/AAAAAAAACn0/TriLtUTdT18/s1600/IMG_7715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--DGQVRG_vGs/VoPu7na-YhI/AAAAAAAACn0/TriLtUTdT18/s320/IMG_7715.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvjR_K320B4/VoPvUMoMsXI/AAAAAAAACoY/HeBO7uciJD4/s1600/IMG_7725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvjR_K320B4/VoPvUMoMsXI/AAAAAAAACoY/HeBO7uciJD4/s320/IMG_7725.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
1) Benefit Party Popper (makeup and beauty advent calendar)</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>This was such a cool and nifty gift. There are 12 different products (for "12 days of [being] gorgeous") mainly for the skin, lips and eyes. I particularly liked the Total Moisture Facial Cream that was included. Oh and did I mention that the box sings to you when it opens? Totally fabulous.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJu-HB4DS4Q/VoPu7OLGE6I/AAAAAAAACnw/vjpE395oBU0/s1600/IMG_7721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJu-HB4DS4Q/VoPu7OLGE6I/AAAAAAAACnw/vjpE395oBU0/s320/IMG_7721.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2) MINISO Inductive Wireless Speaker</div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>The name "speaks" for itself (pun intended)! I've never gotten a portable speaker for my iPhone so this is definitely going to come in handy. Plus it's in the shape of a Lego brick - what could be better?</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-misqg4qJeSE/VoPvR5VbJqI/AAAAAAAACoI/dwbthqIVkMk/s1600/IMG_7723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-misqg4qJeSE/VoPvR5VbJqI/AAAAAAAACoI/dwbthqIVkMk/s320/IMG_7723.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3) Sweet treats</div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Chocolates are nice but waffles (pink box) and assorted biscuits (brown box) are even yummier! No doubt these'll satisfy my late night cravings for a long time (well...maybe for this month at least!).</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LwWyq5Zm5ko/VoPu8velMrI/AAAAAAAACn8/NG_QOUSbMmA/s1600/IMG_7719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LwWyq5Zm5ko/VoPu8velMrI/AAAAAAAACn8/NG_QOUSbMmA/s320/IMG_7719.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
4) AwaTaccino 3D Latte Maker</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>One word: AWESOME! Apparently you can make a snowman, bunny, dogs and even a seal. Hopefully I'll get the hang of how this works soon -- will make sure I post again once I have so you can see what I've been able to craft.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58V6ikev0QY/VoPvSiQAfuI/AAAAAAAACoM/iIKmnX2zzi8/s1600/IMG_7724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58V6ikev0QY/VoPvSiQAfuI/AAAAAAAACoM/iIKmnX2zzi8/s320/IMG_7724.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
5) Fluffy Christmas blanket</div>
<ul>
<li>A wonderful and warm alternative to fluffy socks. This kept me nice a cosy when I was in bed with the flu last week.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Before I end this post, I'd just like to say a huge thank you to everyone who got me the above gifts this year (and for the ones I didn't mention in this blog post as well). They will definitely be used well by me! However, what I will treasure the most is your support to me and our friendship - these cannot be bought by money and I feel grateful that they've been sustained for so many years already (and for many more years to come!).</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Stay tuned for the last (extremely belated) BlogMas post which will be released tomorrow (aka. The last day of 2015!!!).</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-10117308174001589842015-12-29T00:04:00.001-08:002015-12-29T00:27:42.309-08:00Building the Gingerbread House - BlogMas Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Iwc5407IHc/VoJD7Jz3bjI/AAAAAAAAClk/yZXjFEsGfI0/s1600/Gingerbread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Iwc5407IHc/VoJD7Jz3bjI/AAAAAAAAClk/yZXjFEsGfI0/s400/Gingerbread.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
Getting started</h3>
<div>
I don't usually start a blog post off with an apology but I will today. I apologise that BlogMas sorted came to a halt last week on December 23rd. That was partially because my flu was getting the better of me but mainly because of the task I had set myself and my cousins to completing (or rather constructing). We try to host a family Christmas party each year and I'm always in charge of baking something yummy. This year, I decided to turn it up a notch and do something completely different (but definitely Christmassy).<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWKEMk9Trkg/VoI6rg91ykI/AAAAAAAACkA/s8wweaGrrT8/s1600/IMG_7540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWKEMk9Trkg/VoI6rg91ykI/AAAAAAAACkA/s8wweaGrrT8/s320/IMG_7540.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening the box of goodies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlnElbPoIyA/VoI6r_SS1wI/AAAAAAAACkE/RLM7Dn_GnOY/s1600/IMG_7544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlnElbPoIyA/VoI6r_SS1wI/AAAAAAAACkE/RLM7Dn_GnOY/s320/IMG_7544.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prepping the icing bag (and the house!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
Ladies and gentlemen - it was finally time for The Amateur Anthropologist to <strike>make</strike> decorate a gingerbread house.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd found a box (by Wilton) that offered all the necessary tools and sweets needed for gingerbread house decorating just the other day in the local shopping mall - there was definitely no stopping me now!<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2rS4bDT4-a4/VoI6rb1DrDI/AAAAAAAACj8/t7740sDemDA/s1600/IMG_7546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2rS4bDT4-a4/VoI6rb1DrDI/AAAAAAAACj8/t7740sDemDA/s320/IMG_7546.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steady there...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
Like all good cooks/amateur bakers, I made sure I read the recipe (in this case, instructions manual). This involved prepping the piping bag with a generous amount of thick white icing to begin with, and then gluing the walls of the house before waiting for an hour for them to dry off. A tip for anyone that wants to attempt at decorating a gingerbread house in 2016 (my countdown for next year's Christmas has already begun) is to pipe a decent dose of icing on the bottom of the walls before positioning them on your base (I used a silver piece of cardboard made especially for baked goods) - this ensures that your walls are sturdy enough to stand by themselves and to later hold the roof of the house up (there have been quite a few gingerbread house fails on YouTube - probably because they didn't follow my tip!)<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EkiQTIWOQoM/VoI7TLkfG9I/AAAAAAAACks/nm1Y7QIEDyk/s1600/IMG_7566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EkiQTIWOQoM/VoI7TLkfG9I/AAAAAAAACks/nm1Y7QIEDyk/s320/IMG_7566.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for it to dry...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<h3>
Lunch break</h3>
<div>
Making the gingerbread house required a lot of patience (because it took several hours to dry each piece). So during that time, I decided to head out to do some last minute grocery shopping for our family Christmas party. I also picked up some lunch which was awesome.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k5o5gQmV1RQ/VoI7HNCMrEI/AAAAAAAACkc/qz-rg4RlJBY/s1600/IMG_7554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k5o5gQmV1RQ/VoI7HNCMrEI/AAAAAAAACkc/qz-rg4RlJBY/s320/IMG_7554.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini bus-ing it to the shops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WG-VspnZgBg/VoI7DlRQv3I/AAAAAAAACkU/HaeBNGfoCFk/s1600/IMG_7558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WG-VspnZgBg/VoI7DlRQv3I/AAAAAAAACkU/HaeBNGfoCFk/s320/IMG_7558.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purchases for the party</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-huzDA6ml8/VoI7Hh5otII/AAAAAAAACkg/TWE32KwesWY/s1600/IMG_7562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-huzDA6ml8/VoI7Hh5otII/AAAAAAAACkg/TWE32KwesWY/s320/IMG_7562.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A (somewhat) healthy lunch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
And isn't the Christmas tree in the shopping mall near my house simply stunning? They always ensure that a new design is used each year, so it's always exciting to see what they have install for us by the time December arrives.</div>
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<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ygxxi0LM4_w/VoI7vJWji-I/AAAAAAAAClU/5JBXtEeseYc/s1600/IMG_7491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ygxxi0LM4_w/VoI7vJWji-I/AAAAAAAAClU/5JBXtEeseYc/s400/IMG_7491.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several levels tall and colour changing - best tree ever!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Decorating delicately</h3>
<div>
Decorating the gingerbread house did require a lot of delicate movements -- push too hard on any of the pieces and the whole building (well house) could easily collapse. We decided not to go with a design that the box had suggested us to go with. Instead, we improvised along the way. I think it worked out quite well in the end don't you?<br />
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<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8JSHd2eXniM/VoI7b1P3xoI/AAAAAAAACk8/1qxP0kPFsxU/s1600/IMG_7587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8JSHd2eXniM/VoI7b1P3xoI/AAAAAAAACk8/1qxP0kPFsxU/s320/IMG_7587.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Sweet) decorations for the house</td></tr>
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<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jZthedCSldk/VoI7YIwkUTI/AAAAAAAACk0/Q8bkhYrDxH4/s1600/IMG_7588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jZthedCSldk/VoI7YIwkUTI/AAAAAAAACk0/Q8bkhYrDxH4/s320/IMG_7588.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beginning with the front door</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
We also used some sweets (M&M chocolates) that I had bought during my lunchtime shopping excursion, and some leftover cake decorations that had been lying around in my house - I think adding them made the gingerbread house even more special.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CVXE0VJsQ8E/VoI7pAmDKYI/AAAAAAAAClM/Vp_et8GKvYw/s1600/IMG_7592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CVXE0VJsQ8E/VoI7pAmDKYI/AAAAAAAAClM/Vp_et8GKvYw/s320/IMG_7592.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div>
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That's it for this post - be sure to look out for the next two BlogMas posts (which I promise will be up before this year ends which is in like what...? 2 days?!?!?!)<br />
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<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7-nersl0a8/VoI7ki4tw4I/AAAAAAAAClE/yA7Upu00bvY/s1600/IMG_7694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7-nersl0a8/VoI7ki4tw4I/AAAAAAAAClE/yA7Upu00bvY/s400/IMG_7694.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very Merry Christmas indeed! :D</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-60635421233568021452015-12-23T06:05:00.001-08:002015-12-23T06:08:43.720-08:00Theatre Review - BlogMas Day 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3B-arLzGUoI/VnqpTzX5JlI/AAAAAAAACjY/KtYfvl2T4mw/s1600/IMG_7537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3B-arLzGUoI/VnqpTzX5JlI/AAAAAAAACjY/KtYfvl2T4mw/s400/IMG_7537.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Sunday afternoon treat</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Generally on the weekends, I like to take time off to spend with family at home. This usually involves at least 3-4 hours of TV, then a homemade meal before either some more TV or blogging. However, as a special pre-Christmas treat for this year, we decided to watch a local play just last Sunday. The show had received positive ratings and almost had a full-house (in terms of audience numbers) when we got there. And seeing as it was only in town for 3 days, it was definitely something we ought not to miss!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So for day 2 of BlogMas, here's my review of <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white; color: #141823;">折翼天使 (aka. Angels Pslam):</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">Flawlessly spectacular</span></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">The plot itself was simple but filled with strong messages about the unexpected challenges in life and how to deal with them positively. It circulated around the true story of a 23-year-old woman who had lost her legs, along with her 10 month old baby girl and mother-in-law, during the tragic Sichuan 7.9MW earthquake in 2008. What made matters worse was that the main character was originally a dance instructor for children. Without the key physical feature needed for dance, the protagonist was unable to make a living initially and had to rely on her parents. To top it off, her husband broke off with her as her injury reminded him too much of his mother and daughter's deaths.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">Devastatingly horrifying basically summarises the first part of the play.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">However, the situation starts to get better as the second act progresses. The protagonist first meets a group of missionaries from abroad, whom had come to help hospital patients that had suffered the physically from the earthquake. Through one of them, she managed to get in touch with a foreign prosthetist of prosthetic legs. Although slightly reluctant to try them at first, the main character eventually gathered enough courage to do so. She mentioned on countless occasions that they weren't at all comfy, and it took a long time for her to get used to them. However, with lots of practice and support from her family and friends, she eventually managed to walk and even dance confidently in them. Having mastered these skills, she later decided to volunteer in another earthquake-hit town, called Ya'an, not too far from her own in 2013. Today, the protagonist continues to dance and travel to different parts of the world to share her story and the lessons she learnt through her journey.</span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">From a critic's POV, the play's story was portrayed perfectly by each and every actor and actress that stepped foot on the stage. The emotion they manage to convey through their actions and speeches was unbelievably powerful. Whether the scene was about laughter, joy or sadness, all were easily portrayed by the performers and felt accordingly by the audience. A big thumbs up to all the children that performed, their singing was particularly wonderful, and to those that had created the amazing backdrop.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"></span></span> </div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">Would a different crew have been better? Absolutely not. The entire drama was flawlessly spectacular just the way it was already.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823;"></span><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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fERQOW-SQ4/VnqpfLn75HI/AAAAAAAACjg/XmD1sWuq1GI/s1600/IMG_7496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fERQOW-SQ4/VnqpfLn75HI/AAAAAAAACjg/XmD1sWuq1GI/s400/IMG_7496.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angels Pslam autograph board</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
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<h3>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">Lessons learnt</span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">As mentioned, the play was meaningful as well as memorable. I think the clearest message presented was definitely that about persistence and optimism. In short, no matter what life throws at you, even if it is an extreme tragedy, always remember that there are more solutions to them than the problems themselves. We must always hope for a brighter future, and believe that one does exist as well. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"></span></span> </div>
<div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">As for the optimism part of the play's core message, that simply involves smiling (lots of it). Smiling through the toughest of times definitely helps you feel better (trust me, I've tried it before). In addition, always look at both sides of the coin. Although it may feel as though there is nothing positive about the situation on hand, if you look just a bit more closely and patiently, you may just find several bits of happiness that can change the gray skyline a bit (even if it only lasts temporarily).</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"></span></span> </div>
<div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;">Persist in being and thinking positively, for the answer you're looking for may just be around the corner - that's my new year's resolution for 2016.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-33491840895573295382015-12-21T17:53:00.001-08:002015-12-21T17:53:13.902-08:00Birmingham Christmas Market 2015 - BlogMas Day 1<h3>
Let the festive season begin</h3>
Advent calendars are traditionally bought to help one remember how many days there are until Christmas (as well as for a special daily sweet treat!). For me though, the countdown doesn't begin until my work is complete. That joyful day happened to be yesterday. Aside from spending time with family and friends, I thought I'd take this opportunity to start my first ever BlogMas. I've seen YouTube video makers do something very similar with VlogMas (where they upload a new video every day starting from, for example, the 1st till the 25th December), so I thought it'd be fun to do something like that with my blog (through writing blog posts of course)<br />
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So, for the 1st Day of my Christmas countdown, we'll start with my absolute favourite hobby (ever): Travel!<br />
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<h3>
Birmingham Christmas Market 2015</h3>
I've been wanting to go to this event ever since I first came to England to study (2012 to be more precise). However, the train routes were never in favour of me going. So for the Christmas periods of 2012, -13, and-14, I had to visit the North Eastern Christmas markets instead (which were all very delightful). This year however, owing to a change in academic institution, Birmingham was only 30 minutes away from me by train.<br />
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Clearly, nothing could stop me from attending the metropolitan city's Christmas market and enjoying its other festivities this year.<br />
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<h3>
Top highlights</h3>
It's a bit difficult to summarise how I felt about the event in just 1 blog post (simply because there was SO MUCH to do, see, and of course, eat). So, just for a change (because it is almost Christmas), I'm simply going to describe my top favorite moments:<br />
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<strong>Number 1</strong>: Arriving at Birmingham Christmas Market (was greeted by bubbles instead of snow!)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuw1UvhOhkY/VnigGhjSfmI/AAAAAAAACi0/60XxVgyD8-A/s1600/IMG_7254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuw1UvhOhkY/VnigGhjSfmI/AAAAAAAACi0/60XxVgyD8-A/s1600/IMG_7254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuw1UvhOhkY/VnigGhjSfmI/AAAAAAAACi0/60XxVgyD8-A/s400/IMG_7254.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Number </strong>2: Shopping, shopping and (even more) shopping! Definitely worth buying the following:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-771lTGF1ll8/Vnietsz54WI/AAAAAAAACh0/RvxbGpd4H8c/s1600/IMG_7203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-771lTGF1ll8/Vnietsz54WI/AAAAAAAACh0/RvxbGpd4H8c/s320/IMG_7203.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjCSsknlIxI/VnieKM7vZSI/AAAAAAAAChM/0iP-OlEqogw/s1600/IMG_7199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjCSsknlIxI/VnieKM7vZSI/AAAAAAAAChM/0iP-OlEqogw/s320/IMG_7199.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-771lTGF1ll8/Vnietsz54WI/AAAAAAAACh0/RvxbGpd4H8c/s1600/IMG_7203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<strong>Number 3</strong>:<strong> </strong>Food Glorious Food (esp. frankfurters and chocolate)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_fyY_6wdRU/Vnif5fpJoeI/AAAAAAAACis/sgtqr4WMq-8/s1600/IMG_7246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_fyY_6wdRU/Vnif5fpJoeI/AAAAAAAACis/sgtqr4WMq-8/s400/IMG_7246.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QBmciP1G_lM/VniertKFiII/AAAAAAAAChk/s_XNb9okjvY/s1600/IMG_7210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QBmciP1G_lM/VniertKFiII/AAAAAAAAChk/s_XNb9okjvY/s400/IMG_7210.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2ZirnFnS8g/VnifMBDunpI/AAAAAAAACiE/QeVleHByVPo/s1600/IMG_7223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2ZirnFnS8g/VnifMBDunpI/AAAAAAAACiE/QeVleHByVPo/s400/IMG_7223.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Number 4</strong>: Unexpected festive surprises<br />
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<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKGoPqOy73w/VnifZGj_hcI/AAAAAAAACiM/rxCKMu7Tefs/s1600/IMG_7212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKGoPqOy73w/VnifZGj_hcI/AAAAAAAACiM/rxCKMu7Tefs/s320/IMG_7212.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ostrich eggs or reindeer meat anyone?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WK5BXf7CX1Y/VniePNG08oI/AAAAAAAAChc/IplvNd1aIPg/s1600/IMG_7193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WK5BXf7CX1Y/VniePNG08oI/AAAAAAAAChc/IplvNd1aIPg/s320/IMG_7193.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect Christmas prezzies for all dog lovers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Number 5</strong>: The Christmassy scenery (plus the awesome Ferris Wheel!)<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fBUAAQxsws8/VnifHUizRJI/AAAAAAAACh8/vGOGK9FVNhU/s1600/IMG_7217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fBUAAQxsws8/VnifHUizRJI/AAAAAAAACh8/vGOGK9FVNhU/s320/IMG_7217.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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</h3>
<h3 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tomorrow's nighttime treat</h3>
So hopefully today's blog post has brought you joy, laughter and, undoubtedly, travel inspiration. Join me again tomorrow at 8PM UTC (Hong Kong time) for another Christmas countdown blog post -> this time, a theatre review!<br />
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<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yIFBRvGcomo/Vniesvu13HI/AAAAAAAACho/Gj2FQfQIG2M/s1600/IMG_7208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yIFBRvGcomo/Vniesvu13HI/AAAAAAAACho/Gj2FQfQIG2M/s400/IMG_7208.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa Claus has landed in Birmingham</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-72534969958402557222015-12-09T12:55:00.001-08:002015-12-09T12:55:47.397-08:00Review: Learning Architecture at CSM<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The amateur <strike>anthropologist</strike> architect</span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Palcjdp65Fs/VmiUR9i0J8I/AAAAAAAACeY/xSCblfcYpQw/s1600/architecture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Palcjdp65Fs/VmiUR9i0J8I/AAAAAAAACeY/xSCblfcYpQw/s400/architecture.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Usually on my weekends, travelling
to a museum or hidden highlight are inevitable. I just love the idea of being
able to experience new situations, and simultaneously learn more about life and
history. However, as pointed out by the renowned psychologist Vygotsky, one can
only learn so much through trial and error. In order to reach our potential,
teachers or role models are what we require to become academically adept. And
although the traditional note-taking and lecturing techniques may seem rather
tedious especially on a weekend, I felt no regrets in enrolling myself into a
2-day architectural drawing course at Central Saint Martins (CSM); for those of
you that don’t know, it’s famed for developing the star-studded fashion figures
like A McQueen and S McCartney.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Why? Simply for the love of learning
and sketching.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For such a course, you’d expect
there to be some sort of practical element. You guessed correctly. Underneath
the baking hot sun that shone through the dusted glass windows, I was able to
perch myself on comfy wooden furniture whilst crafting my (very amateur)
masterpieces (which were based on the interiors and structures of the
captivating building which CSM was in). I was undoubtedly grateful for the guidance
and support the course tutor showed me; although we do cover households as a
topic in anthropology, we consider it through a more abstract and philosophical
angle, rather than an artistic one. Through being taught about the importance
of measurements and various viewing perspectives, I was able to progress
steadily during the course. Fascination and enthusiasm quickly kicked in,
despite the weather beckoning me to go out (it was apparently one of the
hottest weekends in London during my time at CSM).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And since it was my first attempt at
architectural sketching, I have to say, I think I did alright; don’t you?</span></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PZ97ltCxEtg/VmiUSJUNZ6I/AAAAAAAACec/1Vkv7UFqZB8/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PZ97ltCxEtg/VmiUSJUNZ6I/AAAAAAAACec/1Vkv7UFqZB8/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-74035061298186900902015-11-30T13:15:00.002-08:002015-11-30T13:15:49.996-08:00Chester<h3>
<span>The unwanted
misfortunes of life</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ll admit
that the title for this blog post isn’t particularly positive. It is however a
pretty decent reflection of my mood and situation at the moment. Pinpointing
down exactly what is causing me such misery would be difficult, mainly because
there are so many things. In brief though, it’s not at all pleasant, and as
much as I wish I could push it away, the problems are here to stay (until luck comes
knocking at my door again). </span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YAl5TOfQLrQ/Vly4qBEQv4I/AAAAAAAACaM/iu6cIzX2BBI/s1600/IMG_3522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YAl5TOfQLrQ/Vly4qBEQv4I/AAAAAAAACaM/iu6cIzX2BBI/s320/IMG_3522.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6z0EQrCQV20/Vly4qHJngBI/AAAAAAAACaI/_r_U8moZaWw/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6z0EQrCQV20/Vly4qHJngBI/AAAAAAAACaI/_r_U8moZaWw/s320/IMG_3521.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XDOlT_lrVIc/Vly4otIqEtI/AAAAAAAACZ4/t9dQrwxXdO4/s1600/IMG_3512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XDOlT_lrVIc/Vly4otIqEtI/AAAAAAAACZ4/t9dQrwxXdO4/s320/IMG_3512.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g7G1zfj6z7U/Vly4r8dW8UI/AAAAAAAACag/9uP62MYoHuY/s1600/IMG_3539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">By now you’re
probably wondering what my rant has anything to do with my visit to Chester.
The link’s indirect, but understandable. Travelling, as you know, is something
I use as an instant mood booster. The idea of going somewhere new and
fascinating is truly therapeutic to me. But when travelling just isn’t an
option (like the current situation), the best thing to do is to simply recount about
the adventures that had turned out well from the past. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> <span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BccYXSgdP5c/Vly4ubem1kI/AAAAAAAACbM/_4zBwtZo89k/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BccYXSgdP5c/Vly4ubem1kI/AAAAAAAACbM/_4zBwtZo89k/s320/IMG_3562.JPG" width="248" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T7pGjLLnRyk/Vly4o8Hre_I/AAAAAAAACZ8/jzaMivY5xlo/s1600/IMG_3514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, in
order to “turn my frown upside down”, today’s travel tale is about my trip to
Chester, which occurred several months ago.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fhwL1manbtc/Vly4omeTYsI/AAAAAAAACaA/e2gXN5J2rb8/s1600/IMG_3516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fhwL1manbtc/Vly4omeTYsI/AAAAAAAACaA/e2gXN5J2rb8/s320/IMG_3516.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QJo_WlDt6MI/Vly4p2M2q6I/AAAAAAAACaQ/Km_VWVxqLSI/s1600/IMG_3518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QJo_WlDt6MI/Vly4p2M2q6I/AAAAAAAACaQ/Km_VWVxqLSI/s320/IMG_3518.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Entering
the walled city</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Known for
its well-preserved medieval covered walkways that date back to the 13<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
century, it’s no wonder that an architecture fanatic like myself was more than
eager to explore the distinctive two-tiered medieval galleries in Chester’s town
centre. Of course, there were other more popular attractions outside of Chester
to see; a lot of people recommended that I pay a visit to its zoo but, having
studied and lived in Australia for 3 years, I think I can safely say that I’ve
seen enough exotic animals to las myself for a while (at least for this trip
anyway). It’s no surprise that I ended up spending most of my trip simply
photographing every store, window, door and sign I could find.</span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Sl5PS5dJFM/Vly4vBPypeI/AAAAAAAACbU/aLJzV4RGuXA/s1600/IMG_3569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Sl5PS5dJFM/Vly4vBPypeI/AAAAAAAACbU/aLJzV4RGuXA/s320/IMG_3569.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EdnExNdP5kA/Vly4vvdlrbI/AAAAAAAACbc/53NWsg5ACcw/s1600/IMG_3571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EdnExNdP5kA/Vly4vvdlrbI/AAAAAAAACbc/53NWsg5ACcw/s320/IMG_3571.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVln7mmjnZ8/Vly4vVbtEsI/AAAAAAAACbY/iPcVSlU8hlM/s320/IMG_3570.JPG" width="240" /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Note to
future Chester wanderers, bring a camera (my iPhone was definitely NOT enough)</span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g7G1zfj6z7U/Vly4r8dW8UI/AAAAAAAACag/9uP62MYoHuY/s1600/IMG_3539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g7G1zfj6z7U/Vly4r8dW8UI/AAAAAAAACag/9uP62MYoHuY/s320/IMG_3539.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chester
Rows are filled with amazing shops of all kinds. Whether you want confectionery,
clothes, cards or anything else, the items on offer can practically meet anyone’s
shopping list. You could literally spend the entire day shopping, or window
shopping if you’re on a student budget like I am! Would I be able to pick a
favorite shop? Absolutely not with such a huge range available. I couldn’t have
been happier just simply walking up and down the streets of Chester (especially
since it was super sunny on the day that I went). </span></span></div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpA_WR-LCS4/Vly4sJ6gmwI/AAAAAAAACak/0epLLfQ0o90/s1600/IMG_3546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpA_WR-LCS4/Vly4sJ6gmwI/AAAAAAAACak/0epLLfQ0o90/s320/IMG_3546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4D2bal8_VtI/Vly4zEH6SlI/AAAAAAAACcI/-q1Jokk5jCQ/s1600/IMG_3602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4D2bal8_VtI/Vly4zEH6SlI/AAAAAAAACcI/-q1Jokk5jCQ/s320/IMG_3602.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8NTNZvV0yXc/Vly4sz6BBcI/AAAAAAAACa0/GRjEuBwCBc8/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8NTNZvV0yXc/Vly4sz6BBcI/AAAAAAAACa0/GRjEuBwCBc8/s320/IMG_3554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With an
hour and a bit left before my train was due, I decided to pop in to Chester Cathedral
for a quick peek. Being a bit of a history geek, I was sure that the Grade 1
listed building would definitely fit my criteria. I didn’t get time to take the
Tower Tour (and for those that do have time, I strongly recommend that you do
go; you get discover 900 years of history in just 30 minutes or 1 hour
depending on which tour you book!), but I did have an enjoyable time simply
wandering through each part of the cathedral. There was also an interesting
Alice in Wonderland display on, which was rather cute in my opinion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fIuNOaZOBmE/Vly4x-gIsBI/AAAAAAAACb0/1nlx5_vWxZc/s1600/IMG_3582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fIuNOaZOBmE/Vly4x-gIsBI/AAAAAAAACb0/1nlx5_vWxZc/s320/IMG_3582.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKcF_JX_Lek/Vly4xHWZX6I/AAAAAAAACbo/g0WKhKASao8/s1600/IMG_3581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKcF_JX_Lek/Vly4xHWZX6I/AAAAAAAACbo/g0WKhKASao8/s400/IMG_3581.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Chester Cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MED7PcWyRjU/Vly4yenWzuI/AAAAAAAACcA/Bwm2cqzN8Js/s1600/IMG_3586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MED7PcWyRjU/Vly4yenWzuI/AAAAAAAACcA/Bwm2cqzN8Js/s320/IMG_3586.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There were
a couple of other things I didn’t have time to visit, like Chester Castle and
the Grosvenor Musuem. And unfortunately, the famed Eastgate Clock was under
renovation when I arrived, so I wasn’t able to take a photo of it. All this
means that I’ll have to go back to Chester again sometime in the future (for
sure)!</span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ws9zecWompY/Vly4y1yDFCI/AAAAAAAACcE/5ufj89q5s_M/s1600/IMG_3593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ws9zecWompY/Vly4y1yDFCI/AAAAAAAACcE/5ufj89q5s_M/s320/IMG_3593.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Feeling revitalized
and ready for action</span> </h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Obviously
the above wasn’t exactly how I felt after my trip to Chester had ended (I made
sure I had a good night’s sleep to make up for all that walking!). However, the
title does appropriate reflect my current mood. In just 600+ words, I have gone
back to being my cheery old self, and am more than prepared to take on whatever
life has install for me, be it good or bad.</span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x69GZMNLWaY/Vly4rwzyCEI/AAAAAAAACac/G7ZhBYUqn6s/s1600/IMG_3532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x69GZMNLWaY/Vly4rwzyCEI/AAAAAAAACac/G7ZhBYUqn6s/s320/IMG_3532.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span> <span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P86t5CG2BKk/Vly4w0T5IpI/AAAAAAAACbg/_YascUY6QIc/s1600/IMG_3572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P86t5CG2BKk/Vly4w0T5IpI/AAAAAAAACbg/_YascUY6QIc/s320/IMG_3572.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The little
things that blogging can do to one’s life </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> positivity regained through
pursuing one’s passion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-0eqeWMt_g/Vly4tUE6mLI/AAAAAAAACa8/FAifl4y1A8Q/s1600/IMG_3559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-0eqeWMt_g/Vly4tUE6mLI/AAAAAAAACa8/FAifl4y1A8Q/s400/IMG_3559.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful day out</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-79955170427757217622015-11-16T02:38:00.001-08:002015-11-16T02:38:20.648-08:00Travel bucket list (guest post by Random Musings)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SvYiiLXLak/Vkj1yBqzeUI/AAAAAAAACYM/ey6N60trg_s/s1600/Guest%2BPost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SvYiiLXLak/Vkj1yBqzeUI/AAAAAAAACYM/ey6N60trg_s/s400/Guest%2BPost.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Something new and different </h3>
I'm sure you're probably all bored of listening to me ramble on about my own life and adventures (seriously, I get fed up with myself at times as well). So, just for a change (or for this blog post to be more precise), here's a guest post by the lovely Debbie from Random Musings (check out her blog and other social media accounts in the links list below her "Travel Bucket List")<br />
<br />
Enjoy! :)<br />
<br />
<h3>
Travel Bucket List </h3>
I love travelling, although I would have to admit that I am more of a tourist. I <br />
don’t want to miss out on some wonderful sights and things to do by spending <br />
the time trying to pretend I’m above all of that, and only going to the obscure <br />
places. There is a reason those places are popular! That being said, I would like <br />
to think I am a respectful person. Whilst in someone else’s country, I think it’s <br />
just common courtesy to follow local custom and laws.<br />
<br />
There are some places I have been that I could happily go back to year after <br />
year, one or two I could even see myself enjoying living in, but there are still so <br />
many places I haven’t been to yet, so much I still want to see.<br />
<br />
Here are my top five places I would love to visit:<br />
<br />
1. New York, USA. I love all things American. What says America better than <br />
New York? I would love to be in Times Square for New Year’s Eve, to <br />
wander the Upper East Side and to visit Brooklyn Bridge.<br />
2. Marrakech, Morocco. I imagine Marrakech to be somewhere in the middle <br />
of a tourist place and a place where local people go about their everyday <br />
lives. I think it would be a good insight into the lives of Moroccan people. <br />
It seems such a lively, vibrant place in the bust squares, yet so tranquil <br />
and laid back in the little winding streets.<br />
3. Croatia. Croatia is such a beautiful country but I think it massively <br />
overlooked as a potential holiday destination. I imagine miles of unspoiled <br />
beaches, and beautiful architecture.<br />
4. Crete, Greece. I love the laid back pace of life in Greece, and it looks like <br />
such a pretty place. Also, if I’m being totally honest, I quite fancy a <br />
5. Paris, France. Specifically The Louvre. While I’m not a massive fan of art <br />
galleries, something about this one really caught my attention and really <br />
makes me want to go visit.<br />
<br />
So there you have it, five places I would love to visit. I realise they are not the <br />
most cultural places, but they are places I have wanted to go to for a while not, <br />
places I think would be a lot of fun. <br />
<br />
Where would you go if you could go anywhere in the world?<br />
<br />
<h3>
A bit more about the author</h3>
Born in 1982 in North East England, I knew from an early age I wanted to be a <br />
writer. Life got in the way, and the dream was put on the back burner, although <br />
never forgotten. I now write my own blog, My Random Musings, write guest <br />
posts for other blogs and am planning on completing my first novel by the end of this year!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Visit Random Musings at...</h3>
Blog link: <a href="http://www.myrandommusings.co.uk/">www.myrandommusings.co.uk</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/randommusings29">www.twitter.com/randommusings29</a><br />
Pinterest: <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/randommusings29">www.pinterest.com/randommusings29</a><br />
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Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/debrandommusingsblog29/">www.instagram.com/debrandommusingsblog29/</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-69501825636927203002015-11-09T05:45:00.000-08:002015-11-09T05:45:19.282-08:00Funfetti cupcakes<h2>
Playing with your food</h2>
I know they say that the above should be avoided, but I think we can make it an exception when sprinkles (hundreds and thousands) are involved. In my opinion, funfetti cupcakes are perfect whenever you need a little bit of colour to brighten up a grey and miserable day (these come quite often when you've got a busy and stressful work schedule). Baking them is the best way to de-stress and forget about one's hectic life for a bit (around 1 hour to be precise).<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5benMeT_NaM/VkCiBgly0kI/AAAAAAAACVM/ghTL36pPQx8/s1600/IMG_5166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5benMeT_NaM/VkCiBgly0kI/AAAAAAAACVM/ghTL36pPQx8/s320/IMG_5166.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
You can buy a pack of pre-made funfetti cake mix if you wish. However, I like to challenge myself to learn something new, so I selected an easy white cake recipe and simply added the sprinkles to it. Both ways are equally as good.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9UGBCw_Vo7E/VkCiAkgIFsI/AAAAAAAACU4/65SJHGwkJUs/s1600/FullSizeRender3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9UGBCw_Vo7E/VkCiAkgIFsI/AAAAAAAACU4/65SJHGwkJUs/s320/FullSizeRender3.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Into the oven they go</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jQy47pxwyjQ/VkCh_mYfNtI/AAAAAAAACUo/0zAA-fnb4Ew/s1600/FullSizeRender2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jQy47pxwyjQ/VkCh_mYfNtI/AAAAAAAACUo/0zAA-fnb4Ew/s320/FullSizeRender2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sprinkles!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-epdDC7aSEn4/VkCh_utKRyI/AAAAAAAACUk/fOniSalH-Tc/s1600/FullSizeRender1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-epdDC7aSEn4/VkCh_utKRyI/AAAAAAAACUk/fOniSalH-Tc/s320/FullSizeRender1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-decorating mode</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Of course good food deserves to be shared, so make sure you bake a decent amount (a dozen worked perfectly for me and my family)<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGAe2eTfS5E/VkCh_eO97SI/AAAAAAAACUg/NG8H3AmauF0/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGAe2eTfS5E/VkCh_eO97SI/AAAAAAAACUg/NG8H3AmauF0/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0cTAVxAPVhk/VkCiArQA_QI/AAAAAAAACU8/XYiEwHrYpj8/s1600/FullSizeRender_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0cTAVxAPVhk/VkCiArQA_QI/AAAAAAAACU8/XYiEwHrYpj8/s320/FullSizeRender_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
And in case you're looking for a good birthday cake option, these delicious and light funfetti cupcakes are definitely worth going for.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bpwGCMZuUxM/VkCiAsiYTkI/AAAAAAAACU0/arxANIwE-cw/s1600/FullSizeRender_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bpwGCMZuUxM/VkCiAsiYTkI/AAAAAAAACU0/arxANIwE-cw/s320/FullSizeRender_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-59636450047128824362015-10-12T00:35:00.001-07:002015-10-12T00:35:15.419-07:00Kenilworth Castle<h3>
Wonderstruck by Warwickshire</h3>
It's not often that a travel post appears on my blog at this time of the year. As you've probably realized, I am an incredibly busy person. And although I love to pursue my passions, they're sometimes put on hold as a result of an increasing workload (aka. the life of a uni student). Well, that part of my life is over, now it's time to begin a new and even busier chapter. Despite not being able to guarantee that I'll still be able to blog consistently to infinity and beyond, I promise I'll try to squeeze blogging into my weekly schedule somehow...<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8z9bieO0CM/VhrLW8MZNII/AAAAAAAACRc/RCcdgQ3n6IA/s1600/IMG_8161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8z9bieO0CM/VhrLW8MZNII/AAAAAAAACRc/RCcdgQ3n6IA/s320/IMG_8161.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lone chair in Abbey Fields</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hy_-eezIad4/VhrLhJg3KnI/AAAAAAAACS4/9ifFZrwgG8o/s1600/IMG_8288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hy_-eezIad4/VhrLhJg3KnI/AAAAAAAACS4/9ifFZrwgG8o/s320/IMG_8288.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birds in the sky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NdsORsqgWpI/VhrLZN0j2lI/AAAAAAAACRo/U9rR3Lgw1GY/s1600/IMG_8170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NdsORsqgWpI/VhrLZN0j2lI/AAAAAAAACRo/U9rR3Lgw1GY/s320/IMG_8170.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Claredon Arms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hence why I'm here to tell you all today about my recent visit to Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Time for Tea tea rooms</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UsxHy-jAbdk/VhrSRI25lbI/AAAAAAAACTc/5ySCPrY2pOo/s1600/IMG_8167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UsxHy-jAbdk/VhrSRI25lbI/AAAAAAAACTc/5ySCPrY2pOo/s320/IMG_8167.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before entering</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With any castle hunting trip, it's always important to begin with a healthy and filling meal (be it breakfast, lunch or dinner). Upon reaching the castle's vicinity, I made a quick stop at a lovely little local tearoom. Being only seconds away from the historical site, it made perfect sense to grab a bite at Time for Tea.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1Gk0geG54U/VhrLaPyzq2I/AAAAAAAACR8/1EknblhTgT0/s1600/IMG_8171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1Gk0geG54U/VhrLaPyzq2I/AAAAAAAACR8/1EknblhTgT0/s320/IMG_8171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XL4JnwCp7Oc/VhrLbDr2-SI/AAAAAAAACSI/4r-qnhVqBZ8/s1600/IMG_8178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XL4JnwCp7Oc/VhrLbDr2-SI/AAAAAAAACSI/4r-qnhVqBZ8/s320/IMG_8178.JPG" width="204" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quirky add-ons in Time for Tea</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-15WHO3tNwjA/VhrLaPQYOjI/AAAAAAAACR4/TaCWFkaXyGQ/s1600/IMG_8174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-15WHO3tNwjA/VhrLaPQYOjI/AAAAAAAACR4/TaCWFkaXyGQ/s320/IMG_8174.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And, as the photo shows, I clearly had an absolutely delicious meal (plus good service that came with a smile). Feeling utterly satisfied all over, I hopped over to the castle with bursting excitement.<br />
<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PWU4HgO_TQ/VhrLUHzNMjI/AAAAAAAACRM/IshMXdHM_54/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PWU4HgO_TQ/VhrLUHzNMjI/AAAAAAAACRM/IshMXdHM_54/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Delicious Salmon and Dill fishcakes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Kenilworth Castle</h3>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3SNZAv8EK4/VhrLc2c2b4I/AAAAAAAACSU/lN_ly3xNqRY/s1600/IMG_8185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3SNZAv8EK4/VhrLc2c2b4I/AAAAAAAACSU/lN_ly3xNqRY/s320/IMG_8185.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving at Kenilworth Castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I'm usually quite good at determining how much time I'll need to explore any historical monument (especially castles). However, Kenilworth Castle completely surpassed my expectations in the best way ever. From its magnificent Elizabethan Garden to the stunning Leicester Gatehouse (both inside and out), my visit lasted for a total of 3 hours (totally well spent). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm a huge fan of history and exercise, and Kenilworth Castle managed to cater for both of these preferences.</div>
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<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4kNwcUcg9ig/VhrLVNfkzkI/AAAAAAAACRU/KiMnrFbXJDs/s1600/IMG_6325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4kNwcUcg9ig/VhrLVNfkzkI/AAAAAAAACRU/KiMnrFbXJDs/s320/IMG_6325.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leicester's Gatehouse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SWHQG8Ah43o/VhrLgBi87VI/AAAAAAAACSs/mK3ni26Uvss/s1600/IMG_8223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SWHQG8Ah43o/VhrLgBi87VI/AAAAAAAACSs/mK3ni26Uvss/s320/IMG_8223.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The marble fountain, Elizabethan Garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOWjwSWlYTc/VhrLd2z1ZRI/AAAAAAAACSY/3Z8510spiSw/s1600/IMG_8214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOWjwSWlYTc/VhrLd2z1ZRI/AAAAAAAACSY/3Z8510spiSw/s320/IMG_8214.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stables Tearoom (serves the BEST cherry shortbread)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Aside from admiring the incredible views from all of the castle towers, I had a fantastic time chatting to other history and nature enthusiasts. It's always great to see others wanting to understand more about life outside one's bedroom window.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iyg_VJeEdqE/VhrLg2nETBI/AAAAAAAACS0/e2Cq7odrFwI/s1600/IMG_8264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iyg_VJeEdqE/VhrLg2nETBI/AAAAAAAACS0/e2Cq7odrFwI/s320/IMG_8264.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSA5WalUYSk/VhrLhuUWjwI/AAAAAAAACTA/hFUKkKgk4Fc/s1600/IMG_8292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSA5WalUYSk/VhrLhuUWjwI/AAAAAAAACTA/hFUKkKgk4Fc/s320/IMG_8292.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0cB_io7QmsI/VhrLgo75sEI/AAAAAAAACSw/ggjMc2JcVGs/s1600/IMG_8259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0cB_io7QmsI/VhrLgo75sEI/AAAAAAAACSw/ggjMc2JcVGs/s320/IMG_8259.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SPRoWHVCtVc/VhrLehofUvI/AAAAAAAACSg/FYyVxZGG64k/s1600/IMG_8248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SPRoWHVCtVc/VhrLehofUvI/AAAAAAAACSg/FYyVxZGG64k/s320/IMG_8248.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
So, a quick message for all those that say that there's never enough time in a day to do everything. Time hasn't changed, it's the activities we choose to commit to that have. Choose and plan wisely and the sweeter aspects of life can definitely be experienced.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gi11whlMt0k/VhrLZ69xf7I/AAAAAAAACR0/I_aBKF139Rc/s1600/IMG_6326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="85" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gi11whlMt0k/VhrLZ69xf7I/AAAAAAAACR0/I_aBKF139Rc/s400/IMG_6326.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A panoramic view of Kenilworth Castle and Warwickshire's countryside</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Hence why even a busy schedule won't stop me from travel blogging ;)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-41851222989074342472015-10-05T00:31:00.001-07:002015-10-05T00:31:57.129-07:00Lady Betty afternoon tea (York)<h3>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xEj1KbbxHDY/VhIi7oNqGKI/AAAAAAAACQw/oXX7TQAxuAU/s1600/IMG_2126.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xEj1KbbxHDY/VhIi7oNqGKI/AAAAAAAACQw/oXX7TQAxuAU/s320/IMG_2126.JPG" width="240" /></a></span> </span></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Whenever I
head to York, I always manage to squeeze in some time for a quick stop at
Bettys, the famed tea room. It’s generally for the same reason (i.e. buying a
delicious Fat Rascal which, truth be told, is always on my “favorite things”
list). However, two months ago, I went to the elegant café located at St
Helen’s Square with a much more celebratory purpose. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="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 style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g-DXPwJlOlM/VhIi65Kr1GI/AAAAAAAACQs/JLx_euOfMfE/s320/IMG_2125.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fat rascals, fondant fancies and other yummy treats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I mean,
honestly. Celebrating the end to three long years at university HAD to include
cake and tea in my opinion.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<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 style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yU5Sbf4SDvY/VhIi6cTmeII/AAAAAAAACQc/dtJdV-vfILI/s320/IMG_2123.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer pastels and chocolate ladybirds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GU-Y6h8vCjs/VhIi6aOZ9zI/AAAAAAAACQg/8TdbCvXoveo/s1600/IMG_2124.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GU-Y6h8vCjs/VhIi6aOZ9zI/AAAAAAAACQg/8TdbCvXoveo/s320/IMG_2124.JPG" width="240" /></a></span> </span></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">And since
it was such a momentous occasion, we decided to go for the extra special and
irresistible Lady Betty Afternoon Tea set. Packed with savory and sweet treats,
this newly crafted menu offered a truly delicious and eclectic selection. A
dish that my entire family and I definitely all enjoyed was the prawn cocktail.
Pairing this with a Marie Rose sauce on top of a creamy and fresh avocado purée
made the little appetizer absolutely heavenly (and obviously scrumptious). And
for those that are unable to eat seafood for dietary reasons, fret not. A
vegetarian option, made with dainty tomato cubes, can be ordered instead.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfxS9dAp2PE/VhIhsXL5XAI/AAAAAAAACP0/ka_DC9nJMTI/s1600/IMG_2095.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfxS9dAp2PE/VhIhsXL5XAI/AAAAAAAACP0/ka_DC9nJMTI/s320/IMG_2095.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">And of
course, the other savory starters were also winners.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m2oNei4FH-8/VhIhsbpZcRI/AAAAAAAACPw/nusSaMeY1H8/s1600/IMG_2096.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m2oNei4FH-8/VhIhsbpZcRI/AAAAAAAACPw/nusSaMeY1H8/s320/IMG_2096.JPG" width="240" /></a> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I enjoyed
having the traditional tea, scone and sandwich setup; I think it’s an absolute
delight to have a classical touch to any sort of afternoon tea. However, our
meal was not without a couple of elegant surprises. From lavender infused
scones to a delicate Chine Rose Petal tea, our culinary experience could not
have been any more sumptuous.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-syavU1Y41qo/VhIhtcsAEWI/AAAAAAAACQE/a9HtRvGfo1g/s1600/IMG_2108.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-syavU1Y41qo/VhIhtcsAEWI/AAAAAAAACQE/a9HtRvGfo1g/s320/IMG_2108.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tiI5ng0B3gM/VhIi5rQyFfI/AAAAAAAACQU/twfku74MnjY/s1600/IMG_2119.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tiI5ng0B3gM/VhIi5rQyFfI/AAAAAAAACQU/twfku74MnjY/s320/IMG_2119.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Well, that’s
what I thought until I saw the miniature cakes - truly exquisite and,
obviously, delicious.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RhyGhREB4M4/VhIhtC37iPI/AAAAAAAACQA/06Oy1Ix5GBY/s1600/IMG_2100.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RhyGhREB4M4/VhIhtC37iPI/AAAAAAAACQA/06Oy1Ix5GBY/s320/IMG_2100.JPG" width="240" /></a> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I think it’s
hard to pick a favorite from the sweet treats that graced our table. However,
if I really had to choose, it’d definitely have to be the pink macaron. I know
they say that it’s not good to judge a book by its cover, but honestly, this
macaron was undeniably just as good on the inside as it was on the outside,
both in taste and looks. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">With friendly
service and so much delicious food, it’s no wonder that my trip to Bettys ultimately
inspired myself to draw a quick fashion illustration on my laptop as seen below
(hope you guys like it!).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rdTuN2yaVbI/VhIhr8lTI1I/AAAAAAAACPs/hq_tc25zlis/s1600/Bettys%2Bdrawing.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rdTuN2yaVbI/VhIhr8lTI1I/AAAAAAAACPs/hq_tc25zlis/s400/Bettys%2Bdrawing.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspired by Lady Betty, drawn by me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">If it’s a 5
star afternoon tea in an elegant, luxurious and friendly evnrionment you’re
looking for, you’ll definitely feel satisfied with the Lady Betty menu.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-52614654800891366602015-09-25T03:35:00.000-07:002015-09-25T03:39:40.302-07:00Singapore<h3>
Weekend getaway</h3>
The title normally means castle hunting or museum visiting when I'm in England. However, when in Asia, it's translated to having fun in a foreign land that's not too far away from home. And given the limited timeframe (i.e. Saturday and half of Sunday only) for travelling, Singapore appeared to fit the bill (and around my work schedule) perfectly.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vKfvu6g2vC0/VgUAj6tHXnI/AAAAAAAACGs/bHcJB0earJs/s1600/IMG_5638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vKfvu6g2vC0/VgUAj6tHXnI/AAAAAAAACGs/bHcJB0earJs/s320/IMG_5638.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0GQLgjG58Y/VgUAmo4VujI/AAAAAAAACG0/CbyBvi399R0/s1600/IMG_5639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0GQLgjG58Y/VgUAmo4VujI/AAAAAAAACG0/CbyBvi399R0/s320/IMG_5639.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It wasn't long after the screening of "Inside Out" that our plane descended gracefully onto the little metropolis's runway.<br />
<br />
<h3>
(Memorable) surpirses through spontaneity</h3>
Planning what to do during a trip is an absolute must for me. It honestly makes life easier and less hectic. On this occasion though, this action seemed completely inappropriate. Instead, I decided to go with my gut feeling for once (or rather with the results of a quick "eeny, meeny, miny, mo" on the tourist guide from the hotel's concierge) when choosing my first destination. That initially landed me at Marina Bay Sands, where cash splurging comes in two unique forms (i.e. shopping or playing at the casino). The shops weren't that spectacular to me (only because we have the same brands at home), but the interior definitely was.<br />
<br />
Honeslty, just LOOK at my photos if you don't believe me.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk9Ll2kL4qA/VgUF6-ZveyI/AAAAAAAACJ4/NQmzb5qplXQ/s1600/IMG_7724.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk9Ll2kL4qA/VgUF6-ZveyI/AAAAAAAACJ4/NQmzb5qplXQ/s320/IMG_7724.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yEwGpAqS7Og/VgUCt1jPwRI/AAAAAAAACHg/4rydbPrmtYs/s1600/IMG_5738.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yEwGpAqS7Og/VgUCt1jPwRI/AAAAAAAACHg/4rydbPrmtYs/s400/IMG_5738.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OUQHetLYEdM/VgUC0rgJ4LI/AAAAAAAACHo/3DlAdqkAv5I/s1600/IMG_5742.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OUQHetLYEdM/VgUC0rgJ4LI/AAAAAAAACHo/3DlAdqkAv5I/s320/IMG_5742.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<br />
One place I did enjoy was the Superheroes cafe (especially their rainbow cake --> truly a winner). I like the idea of combining fiction with food, as you get a story to go with your meal. It's absolutely worth the very, VERY long wait in queue!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9No6vRNJ1rQ/VgUAsl9g10I/AAAAAAAACG8/3VsLtBOSHnA/s1600/IMG_5666.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9No6vRNJ1rQ/VgUAsl9g10I/AAAAAAAACG8/3VsLtBOSHnA/s320/IMG_5666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaKUWetXS0I/VgUHjd9HgyI/AAAAAAAACKE/KaOndjMAXxY/s1600/IMG_7741.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaKUWetXS0I/VgUHjd9HgyI/AAAAAAAACKE/KaOndjMAXxY/s320/IMG_7741.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PreCakfWDJA/VgUIB5APDBI/AAAAAAAACKM/bErAUuTqrE0/s1600/IMG_7734.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PreCakfWDJA/VgUIB5APDBI/AAAAAAAACKM/bErAUuTqrE0/s320/IMG_7734.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Thank you spontaneity for bringing me to Marina Bay Sands - 'twas a perfect way to start my Singaporean adventure.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Animation: East & West</h3>
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No trip is ever complete without a museum visit. The ArtScience museum (aka. the large lotus flower building) was the first one I headed to. There I guided myself through an inspiring movie exhibition by Dreamworks Animation. The models and art created for films like Shrek & Kung Fu Panda were all captivating, but what I became wonderstruck by was the amount of pictures the creators had to draw in order to produce just a single minute of an animation. The phrase "hardwork pays off" is definitely appropriate here in my opinion.<br />
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Another form of animation I enjoy is Japanese anime. I wouldn't call myself an overly obsessed fan, but I have been interested in anime ever since my younger years. It's no wonder I sub-consciously found myself headed towards the annual Toy, Game and Comic Convention. If I had to describe the main features of the showcase through a list, I would say that there was cosplay, manga, Sailor Moon figurines, cosplay, plush toys from Japan, fan art, cosplay, guest speakers, card trading and did I mention, COSPLAY?<br />
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The anime convention wasn't on my original itinerary, but it was surely a good choice! I then spent the evening wandering down Orchard Road, feeling content with my day and bedazzled by all the glittering lights.<br />
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Lucky last</h3>
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It's hard saving the best till last at times, mainly because it's so unbelievably tempting to have immediately. However, if you can wait, it does make things seem much more memorable. And that's what happened with my day at Universal Studios. Despite the sweltering heat, I managed to go on a couple of rides and take lots of photos.<br />
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Here they are, FYI:<br />
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Clearly, I have an obsession with movie merch:<br />
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And obviously, I HAD to take a picture of the Fluffy Unicorn from Despicable Me (it was indeed incredibly "fluffy").<br />
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Oh yes and I had food, lots of it. Apologies for the lack of foodie pics (hunger made me forget to take my camera out).<br />
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I also captured many quirky sights on my Canon camera. Examples include...<br />
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This little fella here was particularly cute:</div>
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<h3>
Last thoughts</h3>
Clearly I haven't even scraped the surface of Singapore's touristy sites (there's many more amazing highlights to see, believe me). Just walking around Sentosa was already enough fun for a day. But my weekend getaway is definitely something I will cherish for a very long time...<br />
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Well, long enough until I decide to head back for even grander adventures.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OFowpKCiyuY/VgUDNu5twuI/AAAAAAAACII/IL6flI43Kj4/s1600/IMG_5762.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OFowpKCiyuY/VgUDNu5twuI/AAAAAAAACII/IL6flI43Kj4/s320/IMG_5762.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like taking a spontaneous trip to Singapore :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-22257843953724949342015-09-04T18:03:00.000-07:002015-09-04T18:03:00.231-07:00Hong Kong (Public Holiday special)<h3>
Venture through my day</h3>
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UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">To me, every day is special. Even if
it happens to involve the most mundane of all tasks, it all ends up being a
moment in the past. And even if the same day does repeat itself, there’s often
a minor difference in the schedule somewhere. The place where I keep these
memories is obviously my blog, and although the majority of the posts I've written tend to be based on an overarching theme (i.e. travel, food & fashion), last Thursday proved to be interesting enough to be blogged about. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It all started with an extravagant dim sum breakfast...and two tickets to the C All Star concert later on the day.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aBjEDDjDfcU/VehaGFx4_1I/AAAAAAAACDs/gZc4Qm32Ti4/s1600/IMG_5389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aBjEDDjDfcU/VehaGFx4_1I/AAAAAAAACDs/gZc4Qm32Ti4/s320/IMG_5389.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Then it ws a nice leisurely stroll to the flower market. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFLMWGSkBj4/Vehak3IprBI/AAAAAAAACEM/yOKsP14VJik/s1600/IMG_5409.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFLMWGSkBj4/Vehak3IprBI/AAAAAAAACEM/yOKsP14VJik/s320/IMG_5409.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Clearly, I have a slight obsession with roses (especially colourful ones)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1IUmvWa6sE/VehaCtvaR7I/AAAAAAAACDk/kiiDNq2GDyQ/s1600/IMG_5392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1IUmvWa6sE/VehaCtvaR7I/AAAAAAAACDk/kiiDNq2GDyQ/s320/IMG_5392.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lFBy-GfMzB8/VehbZeMycLI/AAAAAAAACEU/4k9nIsocQKQ/s1600/IMG_5393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lFBy-GfMzB8/VehbZeMycLI/AAAAAAAACEU/4k9nIsocQKQ/s320/IMG_5393.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4z_t3SQvXMM/VehaNQMy6rI/AAAAAAAACD0/yVooBktZW44/s1600/IMG_5399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4z_t3SQvXMM/VehaNQMy6rI/AAAAAAAACD0/yVooBktZW44/s320/IMG_5399.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9mdSCGpFjM/VehaUkC7wNI/AAAAAAAACD8/2g6O6Mqv2Ow/s1600/IMG_5403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9mdSCGpFjM/VehaUkC7wNI/AAAAAAAACD8/2g6O6Mqv2Ow/s320/IMG_5403.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Lunch was at the delicious Spanish restaurant, Espumo.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nsNfWSxtfA0/Vehb9294dNI/AAAAAAAACE8/R1RXWZUjEMY/s1600/IMG_5416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nsNfWSxtfA0/Vehb9294dNI/AAAAAAAACE8/R1RXWZUjEMY/s320/IMG_5416.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch with a view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UrSadpyyDb8/VehbfCuDjJI/AAAAAAAACEc/BdlJ07ZST_w/s1600/IMG_5418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UrSadpyyDb8/VehbfCuDjJI/AAAAAAAACEc/BdlJ07ZST_w/s320/IMG_5418.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUzpcvtZkCI/VehbmmM3whI/AAAAAAAACEk/czoUC0g6Fzk/s1600/IMG_5420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUzpcvtZkCI/VehbmmM3whI/AAAAAAAACEk/czoUC0g6Fzk/s320/IMG_5420.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's a couple of pics of what we ate!<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3_iZEODhRBg/VehbseWfKHI/AAAAAAAACEs/SYjyP58lY3s/s1600/IMG_5421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3_iZEODhRBg/VehbseWfKHI/AAAAAAAACEs/SYjyP58lY3s/s320/IMG_5421.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamari</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2vEZyZrq_Oc/Vehb2VkY1PI/AAAAAAAACE0/tJ-bLQNHyGg/s1600/IMG_5424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2vEZyZrq_Oc/Vehb2VkY1PI/AAAAAAAACE0/tJ-bLQNHyGg/s320/IMG_5424.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tortilla espanola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uD-BiQDg6Eo/Vehb-ZnJTII/AAAAAAAACFA/Mp2yEer4Zfo/s1600/IMG_5427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uD-BiQDg6Eo/Vehb-ZnJTII/AAAAAAAACFA/Mp2yEer4Zfo/s320/IMG_5427.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Ok I know eggs benedict with avocado is not technically Spanish but it was too tempting to resist. Especially since the below photo shows that it's perfect for breadstick dipping.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2Jrl9-uKg4/VehcA7Y_CvI/AAAAAAAACFM/DDoQsJVokpE/s1600/IMG_5431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2Jrl9-uKg4/VehcA7Y_CvI/AAAAAAAACFM/DDoQsJVokpE/s320/IMG_5431.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's a couple of photos of the artistic motifs in the restaurant. Pretty cool huh?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_5F8aPYw3QI/VehcVbsy4vI/AAAAAAAACFU/VUbeIAqE4xk/s1600/IMG_5436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_5F8aPYw3QI/VehcVbsy4vI/AAAAAAAACFU/VUbeIAqE4xk/s320/IMG_5436.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Last but not least was the C All Star concert. I'll blog about this in more detail in a separate blog post but here's a quick taster for all those who are interested/ fans of this band.<br />
<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 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YNeljjQaWkw/VehciMgXGiI/AAAAAAAACFk/kBz-9OOK8IQ/s1600/IMG_5438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YNeljjQaWkw/VehciMgXGiI/AAAAAAAACFk/kBz-9OOK8IQ/s320/IMG_5438.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving at the concert arena</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-trXhvCm7Pyc/Vehck2wjHaI/AAAAAAAACFs/MJ6g-Zh-g4g/s1600/IMG_5441%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-trXhvCm7Pyc/Vehck2wjHaI/AAAAAAAACFs/MJ6g-Zh-g4g/s320/IMG_5441%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos with our dear friend/ singing sensation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mGdf0SblK8/Vehcn3oHaUI/AAAAAAAACF0/nYH-4ifSv2o/s1600/IMG_5450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mGdf0SblK8/Vehcn3oHaUI/AAAAAAAACF0/nYH-4ifSv2o/s320/IMG_5450.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready for the show</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Obviously not every Thursday is a public holiday like this one was, and clearly not every weekday can be packed with fun filled events. But I think it's fair to say that when they do occur, I tend to seize them enthusiastically and cherish every moment during the 24 hours of freedom.<br />
<br />
Stay active & positive - enjoy each day while it lasts.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-82565770939985537492015-08-21T22:46:00.001-07:002015-08-21T22:46:37.847-07:00Haworth<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Well “worth”
the wait</span></b></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xClqUKLE1Ow/VdgCUrfCM7I/AAAAAAAAB94/wpjB7MMjhIw/s1600/IMG_3682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xClqUKLE1Ow/VdgCUrfCM7I/AAAAAAAAB94/wpjB7MMjhIw/s400/IMG_3682.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Travelling
is clearly one of my passions, I’m sure you’ve all realized that. Nothing beats
being able to skim through the many virtual tourist pages of the internet to
cherry pick my target destinations beneath the evening moonlight. On the
majority of occasions, I’m able to select where I’d like to explore next and
carry that trip out the following day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vAxNU3VtZmQ/VdgCRatgnmI/AAAAAAAAB9s/rvn6O-cz2Y8/s1600/IMG_3688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vAxNU3VtZmQ/VdgCRatgnmI/AAAAAAAAB9s/rvn6O-cz2Y8/s400/IMG_3688.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Train times for today...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xB1pL1yp9Xg/VdgCUOo2_WI/AAAAAAAAB90/_FIPP1SWQPc/s1600/IMG_3685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xB1pL1yp9Xg/VdgCUOo2_WI/AAAAAAAAB90/_FIPP1SWQPc/s320/IMG_3685.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HC8PlWKyUig/VdgCmQeXfmI/AAAAAAAAB-M/DMFYQ-5Lwz4/s1600/IMG_3694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HC8PlWKyUig/VdgCmQeXfmI/AAAAAAAAB-M/DMFYQ-5Lwz4/s320/IMG_3694.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"> However, there have been a few times
where I haven’t been able to immediately meet my goal. One example was my trip
to Bamburgh (<b><a href="http://theamateuranthropologist.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/bamburgh-castle-and-berwick-upon-tweed.html" target="_blank">read here</a></b>) which occurred approximately three years after I’d
noted it down in my to-travel-to list. Haworth, the topic of today’s story, and
I encountered the similar issue. Try as I did during my free-time England, heading
to this little West Yorkshire village, which was famed for being the place where the
Brontë sisters lived, was just a bit difficult for someone residing much
further up north that had to rely on public transport. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BQliEFFb6GA/VdgEicLci6I/AAAAAAAACAM/R2swpMjU4hA/s1600/IMG_3887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BQliEFFb6GA/VdgEicLci6I/AAAAAAAACAM/R2swpMjU4hA/s400/IMG_3887.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cd3g5LSD0Mo/VdgEE_X4zPI/AAAAAAAAB_0/gMXpN7Rd1Ik/s1600/IMG_3857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cd3g5LSD0Mo/VdgEE_X4zPI/AAAAAAAAB_0/gMXpN7Rd1Ik/s320/IMG_3857.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeling tempted to head to Haworth already</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TCtROmX4gRU/VdgDtAGkf6I/AAAAAAAAB_U/TvNvgeMD9uU/s1600/IMG_3852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TCtROmX4gRU/VdgDtAGkf6I/AAAAAAAAB_U/TvNvgeMD9uU/s320/IMG_3852.JPG" width="302" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Yeah, it
was dreadfully frustrating. Especially since all the reviews and amazing photos
of Haworth’s shops, views, and the Bronte museum online looked incredibly
tempting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3OH_QVebM0/VdgCpqE9MtI/AAAAAAAAB-U/jtlWA_RkQ14/s1600/IMG_3695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3OH_QVebM0/VdgCpqE9MtI/AAAAAAAAB-U/jtlWA_RkQ14/s400/IMG_3695.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to board!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Being
unable to reach Haworth straightaway never tempered my dreams about it. So
finally, after three long years, fate turned around and gave me the thumbs up. I
soon found myself sitting on the train from Leeds to Haworth via Keighley with
perpetual excitement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MjogwVLOW3E/VdgELV1wtrI/AAAAAAAAB_8/ajVi2IM9mMA/s1600/IMG_3865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MjogwVLOW3E/VdgELV1wtrI/AAAAAAAAB_8/ajVi2IM9mMA/s320/IMG_3865.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Memories of Le Tour De France 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zdeb_852mlg/VdgEoIxZYmI/AAAAAAAACAU/EPn-p7qm9QM/s1600/IMG_3888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zdeb_852mlg/VdgEoIxZYmI/AAAAAAAACAU/EPn-p7qm9QM/s320/IMG_3888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7BiYpzQGYD0/VdgD0kT4QBI/AAAAAAAAB_k/sXNzXzJhtuQ/s1600/IMG_3850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7BiYpzQGYD0/VdgD0kT4QBI/AAAAAAAAB_k/sXNzXzJhtuQ/s320/IMG_3850.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span lang="EN-US">From electric
to steam</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IPsyD2cbSLM/VdgDtrL78jI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/9AZEV1cvADo/s1600/IMG_3829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IPsyD2cbSLM/VdgDtrL78jI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/9AZEV1cvADo/s400/IMG_3829.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">To get to
Haworth, the easiest way would be to drive. However, adventurers (or people
without a driver’s license) would be better off taking the steam train from
Keighley to Haworth.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Yes, you
heard me, steam. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Op6Id6LPW0/VdgGjSE1igI/AAAAAAAACCE/Slefhk3Fe58/s1600/IMG_3976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Op6Id6LPW0/VdgGjSE1igI/AAAAAAAACCE/Slefhk3Fe58/s320/IMG_3976.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0nGn0kbxmoU/VdgGltbhTnI/AAAAAAAACCM/KWspBR7xMOM/s1600/IMG_3986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0nGn0kbxmoU/VdgGltbhTnI/AAAAAAAACCM/KWspBR7xMOM/s320/IMG_3986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzUIwxavRGM/VdgDQy7T3gI/AAAAAAAAB_E/4Qw3mxUxHQs/s1600/IMG_3802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzUIwxavRGM/VdgDQy7T3gI/AAAAAAAAB_E/4Qw3mxUxHQs/s320/IMG_3802.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the train</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Trains and
I are accustomed to one another. But steam trains on the other hand, now that
was a whole new story. Watching the railway workers slowly steer the engine
from the back of one carriage to the front of a different one, I suddenly felt
as though I’d stepped back in time and visited the period in which <i>The</i> <i>Railway
Children</i> was set in. The feeling actually made sense once I’d stepped into
the train and was informed, by the sign on the table, that the <i>Keighley
& Worth Valley Railway</i> was actually where the famed movie had been
filmed. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m7tP9ar5CHo/VdgC6qa0sRI/AAAAAAAAB-k/cKw08Rb4-B0/s1600/IMG_3787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m7tP9ar5CHo/VdgC6qa0sRI/AAAAAAAAB-k/cKw08Rb4-B0/s320/IMG_3787.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5QW9TtUSK0/VdgC99jDUZI/AAAAAAAAB-s/rul2rG7W15g/s1600/IMG_3780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5QW9TtUSK0/VdgC99jDUZI/AAAAAAAAB-s/rul2rG7W15g/s320/IMG_3780.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why hello there...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JEfkPRijXD8/VdgC2NFABkI/AAAAAAAAB-c/s4rdDjckzvQ/s1600/IMG_3748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JEfkPRijXD8/VdgC2NFABkI/AAAAAAAAB-c/s4rdDjckzvQ/s400/IMG_3748.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">I quickly sprang into action with my camera, snapping shots of burning
coal, the carriages’ interiors, and, would you believe it, dog water (it’s
important to cater for all members boarding the train you know!).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wi4A9hbt2t0/VdgDPucsD4I/AAAAAAAAB-8/e64pojDJ7Lo/s1600/IMG_3811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wi4A9hbt2t0/VdgDPucsD4I/AAAAAAAAB-8/e64pojDJ7Lo/s320/IMG_3811.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4SGg_Qt2nKE/VdgChnW70VI/AAAAAAAAB-E/CT8nJ17BIfw/s1600/IMG_3696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4SGg_Qt2nKE/VdgChnW70VI/AAAAAAAAB-E/CT8nJ17BIfw/s320/IMG_3696.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For thirsty furry friends only</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-puSQmerMUkQ/VdgC_M1v9GI/AAAAAAAAB-0/ghEZSzRKNEQ/s1600/IMG_3808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-puSQmerMUkQ/VdgC_M1v9GI/AAAAAAAAB-0/ghEZSzRKNEQ/s320/IMG_3808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dwSSU3eTCt8/VdgDRjSkMZI/AAAAAAAAB_I/mweAPdXWPl4/s1600/IMG_3824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dwSSU3eTCt8/VdgDRjSkMZI/AAAAAAAAB_I/mweAPdXWPl4/s320/IMG_3824.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<h3 style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span lang="EN-US">The Bronte
parsonage </span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-beZIb9p3FPs/VdgFMsMA3yI/AAAAAAAACA0/qTW5d0dG2FM/s1600/IMG_3899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-beZIb9p3FPs/VdgFMsMA3yI/AAAAAAAACA0/qTW5d0dG2FM/s320/IMG_3899.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">They say
it’s wise to save the best till last, but in this case, heading to the Brontë
parsonage museum first was definitely a smart choice. Why? Because there was SO
much to see (well, read to be more precise). Unfortunately, photography was a
big no no inside the house of the Brontë’s where the museum was based. However,
from a scale of 1 to 5, I’d definitely give it 5 stars. Apart from being able
to see the original manuscripts and items that belonged to the family, it was
truly interesting being able to wander through each room that the famed sisters
had once resided in. Will definitely head back again to visit (especially since
the ticket you purchase is valid for an entire year).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWHzLDykFYA/VdgFFsM1xII/AAAAAAAACAs/sdo_732ih4Q/s1600/IMG_3905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWHzLDykFYA/VdgFFsM1xII/AAAAAAAACAs/sdo_732ih4Q/s400/IMG_3905.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bronte Parsonage Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Oh and I
totally recommend buying a Brontë novel from the shop – you can ask for a free
stamp saying that you’d purchased it from the museum itself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hG2GK3fskLM/VdgFbk3O5hI/AAAAAAAACA8/IF-cSbFto5k/s1600/IMG_3907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hG2GK3fskLM/VdgFbk3O5hI/AAAAAAAACA8/IF-cSbFto5k/s320/IMG_3907.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bronte sisters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US">Also,
there is a vintage bus that takes you up to the museum but I’d definitely suggest
getting there by foot. Good exercise AND you get to have a good look around all
of Haworth’s shops! Don’t forget to take photos of all the quirky little
building decorations too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<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;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1c3h0qDjic/VdgFebdV5mI/AAAAAAAACBI/BToTtysXuyo/s1600/IMG_3909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1c3h0qDjic/VdgFebdV5mI/AAAAAAAACBI/BToTtysXuyo/s400/IMG_3909.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bronte bears and more</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbZv6kWkzyk/VdgD3oNFTkI/AAAAAAAAB_w/pE3yxFl5S4M/s1600/IMG_3862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbZv6kWkzyk/VdgD3oNFTkI/AAAAAAAAB_w/pE3yxFl5S4M/s320/IMG_3862.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 style="tab-stops: 273.15pt; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Eat,
Shop, & Walk</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iYtryHAsxVc/VdgFz_AvmEI/AAAAAAAACBU/znBkeDQFnG0/s1600/IMG_3921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iYtryHAsxVc/VdgFz_AvmEI/AAAAAAAACBU/znBkeDQFnG0/s320/IMG_3921.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYqNDmA39tY/VdgETxqXb1I/AAAAAAAACAE/J0HXz367zZo/s1600/IMG_3881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYqNDmA39tY/VdgETxqXb1I/AAAAAAAACAE/J0HXz367zZo/s400/IMG_3881.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minions, plush toys and home-ware</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US">I think
anyone that visits Haworth would find it excruciatingly difficult to avoid
spending a couple of pounds or so on souvenirs. With so many locally-made
products and gifts, it’s honestly the perfect village for a Sunday boutique
shopping spree. It’s particularly suited for vintage lovers comme moi – think 40s-60s
clothes, shoes, hats and more!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TdtxrSdhkw0/VdgGFKplVBI/AAAAAAAACBk/YCr3P0ZYpvo/s1600/IMG_3937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TdtxrSdhkw0/VdgGFKplVBI/AAAAAAAACBk/YCr3P0ZYpvo/s320/IMG_3937.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So much choice!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n33g5S806kc/VdgGMgxY8XI/AAAAAAAACBw/5nGy5wHZIR4/s1600/IMG_3942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n33g5S806kc/VdgGMgxY8XI/AAAAAAAACBw/5nGy5wHZIR4/s400/IMG_3942.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A colourful and tasty lunch</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US">And after
all that walking and shopping, I’m sure you’re bound to be hungry and thirsty.
Food and drinks are plentiful in Haworth, given the many teashops and pubs
plotted up and down the main street. My choice during my day there was Cobbles
and Clay, a colorful café where you can paint while you eat (just pick a piece
of pottery and some art equipment to get started). The veggie sandwich I had
there was honestly scrumptious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheep and hedgehogs</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US">Hanging
out in Haworth and exploring every nook and cranny of it was definitely a
Sunday well spent. But like with all stories, an ending must follow. So at
approximately 4:30pm, I found myself waving a tearful goodbye to the beautiful
little village that I had befriended during my one-day trip. I therefore sought
comfort in my new copy of <i>Wuthering Heights</i> as the steam train slowly
swept us away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tOuNuDXh-1Y/VdgGdjOxkyI/AAAAAAAACB8/buACt1mAJDI/s1600/IMG_3989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tOuNuDXh-1Y/VdgGdjOxkyI/AAAAAAAACB8/buACt1mAJDI/s400/IMG_3989.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beginning a new chapter</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US">My final
verdict? Definitely “worth” the wait.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7832872585972845406.post-62404990569888662362015-08-21T08:57:00.002-07:002015-08-21T08:57:54.958-07:00Matcha (green tea) cupcakes<h3>
Inspired by travel</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green tea buttercream frosting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the things that definitely struck me as memorable during my short trip to Japan (Tokyo) several weeks back was the food. Whether it was from a local noodle shop or a tiny street stall, everything I managed to devour was absolutely SCRUMPTIOUS. Seriously, I'd find it immensely difficult if I had to state what my most favourite dish was - I can't even list out every item we tried because there were too many! Think udon, curry and of course, sushi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BD-W3k8EA_Q/VddA2gad4KI/AAAAAAAAB84/IKWsYmSUIHc/s1600/IMG_7577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BD-W3k8EA_Q/VddA2gad4KI/AAAAAAAAB84/IKWsYmSUIHc/s320/IMG_7577.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piping perfection</td></tr>
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For any amateur cook (comme moi), there's no doubt that all of the above ingredients can easily become inspiration for exotic, fusion dishes. However, rather than going down the savoury route, I decided to travel on the sweet path and selected matcha as my special add-on. Also known as green tea, matcha produces a sort of bitter taste. However, when combined with a bit of sugar and baking-magic, it presents itself as the perfect ingredient for cupcakes (and simultaneously transforms them into a beautiful shade of bright green). Not overly sweet in any way, my suggestion for all you keen bakers out there is to challenge yourself to create a green tea buttercream frosting to go with your light and spongy cupcakes. Sure the cakes look great by themselves, but topping them with a swirl of frosting honestly increases their elegance (and also boosts your cake crafting status!).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6_H4PrPnVP0/VddAiOLcHcI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/Dw4pAhcwic8/s1600/IMG_7464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6_H4PrPnVP0/VddAiOLcHcI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/Dw4pAhcwic8/s320/IMG_7464.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-opIlPlUtUew/VddAuoJdVVI/AAAAAAAAB8o/e1TzHOqSYr8/s1600/IMG_7507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-opIlPlUtUew/VddAuoJdVVI/AAAAAAAAB8o/e1TzHOqSYr8/s400/IMG_7507.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The (standard) steps of baking (cake mix --> oven --> done)</td></tr>
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Oh, and did I mention the cupcakes went down a storm/ very quickly into everyone's tummies? You definitely can't say no to giving matcha cupcakes a go.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0NF8fOIhFk/VddBJD2EY-I/AAAAAAAAB9I/lEWxxaiOctc/s1600/IMG_7607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0NF8fOIhFk/VddBJD2EY-I/AAAAAAAAB9I/lEWxxaiOctc/s320/IMG_7607.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finishing touch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a55hgE6CaJ0/VddAW2TBjdI/AAAAAAAAB8I/9KHA0Y0Ky1o/s1600/IMG_4978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a55hgE6CaJ0/VddAW2TBjdI/AAAAAAAAB8I/9KHA0Y0Ky1o/s320/IMG_4978.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">A photo of a photo</td></tr>
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And although many of my culinary adventures have occurred through the lone wolf route, I always think it's fun to bake with other keen cake makers every so often (especially since we managed to make so many different treats within the short space of 3 hours!).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mRBLsykJVPQ/VddBQfeQ58I/AAAAAAAAB9Y/KHAvJoYpVKk/s1600/Image%2Bagain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mRBLsykJVPQ/VddBQfeQ58I/AAAAAAAAB9Y/KHAvJoYpVKk/s400/Image%2Bagain.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decadent, dainty, & (very) delicious</td></tr>
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Share the fun and cake - try baking with others for a change.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L9sYMVagFaU/VddBMKMsetI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/VETRtO-WTLA/s1600/IMG_7664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L9sYMVagFaU/VddBMKMsetI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/VETRtO-WTLA/s320/IMG_7664.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the tastiest lunches I've ever had! </td></tr>
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Matcha cupcake recipe: <a href="http://www.teaglad.com/blogs/matcha-green-tea-recipes/13493829-matcha-green-tea-cupcakes-recipe" target="_blank">http://www.teaglad.com/blogs/matcha-green-tea-recipes/13493829-matcha-green-tea-cupcakes-recipe </a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvV30Yi0iiM/VddAVD9PnTI/AAAAAAAAB8A/bDZ9h4e0QUQ/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvV30Yi0iiM/VddAVD9PnTI/AAAAAAAAB8A/bDZ9h4e0QUQ/s400/FullSizeRender%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matcha Cupcakes and Character Cakes</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01002827664034867020noreply@blogger.com0