An interesting discussion led to me writing this post. As part of a strategic thinking workshop, we have been tasked with thinking about the future from a medium to long-term view focusing on the future of air travel. Working in the aviation industry and pretty decided on an aviation related career for life, this obviously is an interesting discussion.
The academic view and a SWOT analysis reflects the threat of technology. With video conferencing getting wider popularity and technology generally becoming more accessible and affordable, would businesses reduce business travel?
On the other hand, travel is becoming cheaper so would a larger population now travel compared to earlier? Would the existing one travel more than often?
Would the rich become richer and poor become poorer, directly leading to an interesting situation. The rich may own their own jets. The poor couldn't afford the cheapest ticket.
There is radicalization involved also. Tele-porting, "Beam me up Scottie!" are all possible. After all, so many things from Star Trek, have conceptualized and as a society we have proven that if we can think it, we can pretty much do it. How does the equation change with all of this?
This is at the moment, a continuous discussion, I intend to be part of as a discussion group, think-tank. I welcome views from my readers here also.
What do you think will shape the future of air travel? How?
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Beirut - Paris of the Middle East
Now almost at the end of the project, I reached Beirut, Lebanon this December. With Germany, Egypt, Jordan, Korea, Morocco, Tunisia, UAE, Pakistan & Russia implemented, it is already quite an impressive resume. Isn't it, head-hunters?
Beirut also known as the Paris of the middle east and it did not disappoint at all. Though much of it was destroyed in the local tensions, they have done a great job in reviving it in the recent years. Great weather, we saw the sun, some heavy rain and while we were leaving it, snow on the mountains as well.
I think that's the biggest attraction for tourists. In about a 90 minute drive you could go from the beach against the Mediterranean Sea to the Ski Slopes on the mountains. Just an amazing work of creation by The Greatest Creator.
We went to the Harriri Mosque which was sponsored by the recently assassinated good guy president. Beautifully constructed and wonderfully hand-painted ceiling inside. Harriri's burial ground along with his companions was next to the mosque where we paid homage also.
Next trip was to the mountains to Moussa Palace which is more of a Museum. They had preserved the life in this region many years ago in form of Wax sculptures. Quite interesting. They had also preserved some guns from the very old war times. Very informative and interesting how artillery has developed over period of time.
After that we went to the President's Summer Palace which is also depicted mainly as a museum as well. The President comes and stays there in the summers. Also a huge ground exists where all the great concerts happen with celebrities coming from around the world. Again a beautiful place holding history from hundreds of years. It was amazing to see royalty exist through the saunas and the other grandeur of construction. The saunas had huge platforms with sunlight poring through the ceiling. With taps and baths built where possibly the masseurs of the time took care of the kings and rulers.
Next place to visit was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. Jeita Girotto. Nominated as one of the seven wonders of the world, didn't make it. I keep wondering why. These are caverns with thousands of years of ice and snow frozen to create an amazing display of the beauty of Nature. The Lebanese Government had done a good job preserving this as well. There were no flash photography allowed inside. But, I was told that sometimes they get orchestras in and conduct concerts. I could only imagine what a wonderful experience that would be. Sounds of music echoing the caverns. There were 2 levels. One was on the upper level where it was a view walking on foot. Then on the lower level there was icy cold water on which boats moved. We were inside a huge mountain made hollow with caverns and icicles frozen through time.
Next place was Byblos. Ancient ruins from the Ottoman empire and the amazing view of creativity and how they managed their defence. It was actually a fort by the sea connected to the fort on land. It was quite interesting to understand life so many years ago. There was a great display of fossils found in the region as well as in the mountains. Its the latter that impressed me in particular. Seeing sea-life fossils found in the mountains indicates how high the water level was and how the truth of the whole world flooding in some time in the past holds good.
Lebanese food was an experience every time we were taken out by one of our colleagues. They order a whole list of appetizers of Hommos, Fatoush, Tabouleh, Vine Leaves, etc.You enjoy that and you feel you are done, you couldn't have more. But then you realize that was just the appetizer. The main course contains bar-be-cued stuff. The thing I observed was on none of the meals, you finish stuff. It was kinda customary to leave something on every dish. It was wasted which I didn't like but had to go with the flow. It was kinda bad hosting by the host if something got finished it seems. They order at least 3 times more than what would be eaten.
Tried Sheesha for the very first time. I think it would be the very last time also. Injurious to health and anyway, I didn't understand the charm of mindless smoke swallowing and blowing.
It was an eventful trip, probably the most where we got out and looked around compared to the other places. This of course thanks to our colleagues who didn't let us spend time stuck in the hotel.
Beirut also known as the Paris of the middle east and it did not disappoint at all. Though much of it was destroyed in the local tensions, they have done a great job in reviving it in the recent years. Great weather, we saw the sun, some heavy rain and while we were leaving it, snow on the mountains as well.
I think that's the biggest attraction for tourists. In about a 90 minute drive you could go from the beach against the Mediterranean Sea to the Ski Slopes on the mountains. Just an amazing work of creation by The Greatest Creator.
We went to the Harriri Mosque which was sponsored by the recently assassinated good guy president. Beautifully constructed and wonderfully hand-painted ceiling inside. Harriri's burial ground along with his companions was next to the mosque where we paid homage also.
Next trip was to the mountains to Moussa Palace which is more of a Museum. They had preserved the life in this region many years ago in form of Wax sculptures. Quite interesting. They had also preserved some guns from the very old war times. Very informative and interesting how artillery has developed over period of time.
After that we went to the President's Summer Palace which is also depicted mainly as a museum as well. The President comes and stays there in the summers. Also a huge ground exists where all the great concerts happen with celebrities coming from around the world. Again a beautiful place holding history from hundreds of years. It was amazing to see royalty exist through the saunas and the other grandeur of construction. The saunas had huge platforms with sunlight poring through the ceiling. With taps and baths built where possibly the masseurs of the time took care of the kings and rulers.
Next place to visit was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. Jeita Girotto. Nominated as one of the seven wonders of the world, didn't make it. I keep wondering why. These are caverns with thousands of years of ice and snow frozen to create an amazing display of the beauty of Nature. The Lebanese Government had done a good job preserving this as well. There were no flash photography allowed inside. But, I was told that sometimes they get orchestras in and conduct concerts. I could only imagine what a wonderful experience that would be. Sounds of music echoing the caverns. There were 2 levels. One was on the upper level where it was a view walking on foot. Then on the lower level there was icy cold water on which boats moved. We were inside a huge mountain made hollow with caverns and icicles frozen through time.
Next place was Byblos. Ancient ruins from the Ottoman empire and the amazing view of creativity and how they managed their defence. It was actually a fort by the sea connected to the fort on land. It was quite interesting to understand life so many years ago. There was a great display of fossils found in the region as well as in the mountains. Its the latter that impressed me in particular. Seeing sea-life fossils found in the mountains indicates how high the water level was and how the truth of the whole world flooding in some time in the past holds good.
Lebanese food was an experience every time we were taken out by one of our colleagues. They order a whole list of appetizers of Hommos, Fatoush, Tabouleh, Vine Leaves, etc.You enjoy that and you feel you are done, you couldn't have more. But then you realize that was just the appetizer. The main course contains bar-be-cued stuff. The thing I observed was on none of the meals, you finish stuff. It was kinda customary to leave something on every dish. It was wasted which I didn't like but had to go with the flow. It was kinda bad hosting by the host if something got finished it seems. They order at least 3 times more than what would be eaten.
Tried Sheesha for the very first time. I think it would be the very last time also. Injurious to health and anyway, I didn't understand the charm of mindless smoke swallowing and blowing.
It was an eventful trip, probably the most where we got out and looked around compared to the other places. This of course thanks to our colleagues who didn't let us spend time stuck in the hotel.
Russia - Spacibo!!!
The project travel started in winter, Feb'10 when I went to Germany. Since, with the year going on seasons changing, the weather turned hotter from Egypt to Jordan and then to Korea, Morocco & Tunisia. UAE & Pakistan were towards end of the summer in October and we are pretty much done the round circle with Russia in November.
Russia was minus 4 degrees when I landed in Moscow and it was snowing. Pretty extreme change from UAE anyway which I left at around 40 degrees. With around 18 days ahead of me, it was expected to be challenging. Russia did not disappoint on the UTP challenge-o-meter. I would rate it close to right up there with the complex ones.
Lots of interesting specifics about the country with its local regulations, statutory requirements and holding onto the identity as a superpower it once was and is on route to becoming again pretty soon. It is already part of the fastest growing BRIC economies as coined by Goldman Sachs and it was reflective of that with Moscow. Extreme weather and traffic was probably the only thing against them otherwise, great transport system involving, metro, underground trains and trams within the city. The economy booming, people educated and doing well.
Russia may seem like alien land for a lot of countries around the world but the smart investors have already reached there setting up their oil & gas explorations, textiles, food service, retails businesses etc. Not to be underestimated at all.
They have some political issues but in these times which country doesn't. at the end of the day, its the people who take the economy forward and the mission showed in almost every person I met or saw regardless of which level they were working at. There was a sense of purpose in the public eye.
Language was an issue as most people speak Russian and only Russian. Luckily our colleagues were not so bad and they understood English. They took us around on the few free days we had during the stay there.
We went to Kremlin, Red Square and it was a great place to see. Historical in its own presence and beautiful buildings as well. See this one as an example.
Walked around the city on the day and quite tiring every day. The hotel was close to the office at a 10 minute walk and it was a good activity to do considering the extra fat I have put on somehow recently.
On another day, our host, the finance manager took us around the old city of Moscow on foot and was quite interesting to see some old buildings still be preserved by the government.
On route, I noticed an odd sculpture of someone who gave the first impression of some old muslim scholar or something. Going close, I found out he was Ali-Shir Nava'i. A mystic who might have travelled in the region of Uzbekistan and left such an impression that they had a sculpture of his. Found this quite interesting.
She also took us down into the underground and the stations were a work of a art. The 2 or 3 stations we stopped to look around were a story in themselves. One station was decorated and designed as an emblem of Ukraine reflecting various elements of their history. Another one was fully dedicated to the struggle of the past and the value of each profession in the society. A pianist, a field worker, an artist all painted on the pillars.
One of the stations had a strange sculpture of a guard representing the soldiers on the Russian border along with a dog. Strangely the whole sculpture was in black other than the Dog's nose which was shining in Gold. I was told to observe for a while and soon enough I realize that Russians share the element of superstition. I noticed almost 1 of 10 people coming out from the train, rubbing their hand on the Dog's nose apparently for good luck. One of the by-passers even spoke to the dog and another sent out a prayer as well for him. That dog protects them from the evil it seems. Quite interesting.
Went searching for some souvenirs and bought a matryoshka doll for my kids. A nice shawl for my wife, lovely material and some nice Russian chocolates. They make some good ones. I also couldn't help but buy myself a small soldier from the times of the revolution. It was one thing I wanted to take back for myself. It stands on my office desk as a symbol of my personal struggle and the soldier guarding the walls of my home. I'll probably take a picture and add to this post some day.
The implementation went smooth which was an icing on the cake. Despite the language barrier, there was a breakthrough and we actually had a nice casual chitchat feedback session on the last day with the whole team. It was an amazing personal achievement considering I had come pretty nervous to Russia.
The way back was quite interesting as well some intellectual religious/ political discussion with a passenger travelling together with me.
Learnt a bit of Russian as well and used wisely where required. Spacibo means Thank You. That's where Russia was Russia... Spacibo!!!
Russia was minus 4 degrees when I landed in Moscow and it was snowing. Pretty extreme change from UAE anyway which I left at around 40 degrees. With around 18 days ahead of me, it was expected to be challenging. Russia did not disappoint on the UTP challenge-o-meter. I would rate it close to right up there with the complex ones.
Lots of interesting specifics about the country with its local regulations, statutory requirements and holding onto the identity as a superpower it once was and is on route to becoming again pretty soon. It is already part of the fastest growing BRIC economies as coined by Goldman Sachs and it was reflective of that with Moscow. Extreme weather and traffic was probably the only thing against them otherwise, great transport system involving, metro, underground trains and trams within the city. The economy booming, people educated and doing well.
Russia may seem like alien land for a lot of countries around the world but the smart investors have already reached there setting up their oil & gas explorations, textiles, food service, retails businesses etc. Not to be underestimated at all.
They have some political issues but in these times which country doesn't. at the end of the day, its the people who take the economy forward and the mission showed in almost every person I met or saw regardless of which level they were working at. There was a sense of purpose in the public eye.
Language was an issue as most people speak Russian and only Russian. Luckily our colleagues were not so bad and they understood English. They took us around on the few free days we had during the stay there.
We went to Kremlin, Red Square and it was a great place to see. Historical in its own presence and beautiful buildings as well. See this one as an example.
Walked around the city on the day and quite tiring every day. The hotel was close to the office at a 10 minute walk and it was a good activity to do considering the extra fat I have put on somehow recently.
On another day, our host, the finance manager took us around the old city of Moscow on foot and was quite interesting to see some old buildings still be preserved by the government.
On route, I noticed an odd sculpture of someone who gave the first impression of some old muslim scholar or something. Going close, I found out he was Ali-Shir Nava'i. A mystic who might have travelled in the region of Uzbekistan and left such an impression that they had a sculpture of his. Found this quite interesting.
She also took us down into the underground and the stations were a work of a art. The 2 or 3 stations we stopped to look around were a story in themselves. One station was decorated and designed as an emblem of Ukraine reflecting various elements of their history. Another one was fully dedicated to the struggle of the past and the value of each profession in the society. A pianist, a field worker, an artist all painted on the pillars.
One of the stations had a strange sculpture of a guard representing the soldiers on the Russian border along with a dog. Strangely the whole sculpture was in black other than the Dog's nose which was shining in Gold. I was told to observe for a while and soon enough I realize that Russians share the element of superstition. I noticed almost 1 of 10 people coming out from the train, rubbing their hand on the Dog's nose apparently for good luck. One of the by-passers even spoke to the dog and another sent out a prayer as well for him. That dog protects them from the evil it seems. Quite interesting.
Went searching for some souvenirs and bought a matryoshka doll for my kids. A nice shawl for my wife, lovely material and some nice Russian chocolates. They make some good ones. I also couldn't help but buy myself a small soldier from the times of the revolution. It was one thing I wanted to take back for myself. It stands on my office desk as a symbol of my personal struggle and the soldier guarding the walls of my home. I'll probably take a picture and add to this post some day.
The implementation went smooth which was an icing on the cake. Despite the language barrier, there was a breakthrough and we actually had a nice casual chitchat feedback session on the last day with the whole team. It was an amazing personal achievement considering I had come pretty nervous to Russia.
The way back was quite interesting as well some intellectual religious/ political discussion with a passenger travelling together with me.
Learnt a bit of Russian as well and used wisely where required. Spacibo means Thank You. That's where Russia was Russia... Spacibo!!!
UAE or Pakistan - Home or Home?
With the project taking me into UAE for October, it became quite interesting.
After travelling to Germany, Egypt, Jordan, Korea, Morocco & Tunisia, UAE was a good time to be close the family as well as get the work done.
There was travel involved but only just like it everyday. Travelling from my Sharjah home to Sheikh Zayed Road. That's right. There was no air-travel involved in October. Somebody had to implement UAE also right, so I was the chosen one.
However, it was not boring at all. Implementing the hub of the organization was the biggest challenge to date. There was extreme pressure of enormous volumes of transactions, multiple office locations, sales locations etc. Needless to say, it was majorly tiring mentally trying to manage expectations of some really senior people in the organization.
This month was also the implementation for Pakistan for which another team was chosen. I had been slightly surprised why I wasn't chosen for that as I was the only Pakistani in the team but obviously that could have been one of the reasons.
Anyway, things dont always go as planned. One of the team members going to Pakistan had visa issues and an ad-hoc decision was taken for me to move out from UAE implementation and go to Pakistan. I didn't mind that at all. 2 big stations in one month, just the challenge I needed. First 10 days of UAE implementation and then a switch to do last ten days in Pakistan.
My family accompanied me for a short vacation home while I maintained my project mode. But it was good as I got to meet family and relatives in Karachi while getting the opportunity to go to Lahore & Islamabad as well to train some staff there.
A very eventful month to say the least where it really stretched me. We had a workshop in UAE as well which required some time dedication for a few days. Tight schedule, on-time delivery expectations has defined this project from day 1. This has however also given opportunity to explore and prove some time management skills.
The good thing about this month was, even with the ad-hoc change in plan, it was still home both ways for me. Pakistan which is home and UAE, home away from home.
After travelling to Germany, Egypt, Jordan, Korea, Morocco & Tunisia, UAE was a good time to be close the family as well as get the work done.
There was travel involved but only just like it everyday. Travelling from my Sharjah home to Sheikh Zayed Road. That's right. There was no air-travel involved in October. Somebody had to implement UAE also right, so I was the chosen one.
However, it was not boring at all. Implementing the hub of the organization was the biggest challenge to date. There was extreme pressure of enormous volumes of transactions, multiple office locations, sales locations etc. Needless to say, it was majorly tiring mentally trying to manage expectations of some really senior people in the organization.
This month was also the implementation for Pakistan for which another team was chosen. I had been slightly surprised why I wasn't chosen for that as I was the only Pakistani in the team but obviously that could have been one of the reasons.
Anyway, things dont always go as planned. One of the team members going to Pakistan had visa issues and an ad-hoc decision was taken for me to move out from UAE implementation and go to Pakistan. I didn't mind that at all. 2 big stations in one month, just the challenge I needed. First 10 days of UAE implementation and then a switch to do last ten days in Pakistan.
My family accompanied me for a short vacation home while I maintained my project mode. But it was good as I got to meet family and relatives in Karachi while getting the opportunity to go to Lahore & Islamabad as well to train some staff there.
A very eventful month to say the least where it really stretched me. We had a workshop in UAE as well which required some time dedication for a few days. Tight schedule, on-time delivery expectations has defined this project from day 1. This has however also given opportunity to explore and prove some time management skills.
The good thing about this month was, even with the ad-hoc change in plan, it was still home both ways for me. Pakistan which is home and UAE, home away from home.
Tunisia - Europe or Africa?
The project took me to Tunisia in September. Its been the most challenging place work-wise compared to Germany, Egypt, Jordan, Korea or Morocco. However, that's what makes this whole year interesting. I had entered into my comfort zone, not for long. Tunis reminded me that its not over until its over.
As for the city, well, it is nice and peaceful. Not a lot of high-rise buildings even though are now building some. I think we didnt see anything higher than 3 floors on the average. It is a Muslim country and it was Ramadan but only by the name. I could see people not fasting and not really praying. In fact, they didn't even go for Friday prayers. I might be generalizing it but I am speaking for all the Muslims in office at least.
Anyway, the culture was missing. I couldn't find much unique about the culture. The people gave the impression of Europeans with their way of dressing and looking and spoke Arabic. Some people spoke French as well.
This country links to Italy after the Mediterranean but its influences are from the French colony it was. There are also some ruins from the time the Romans ruled which they have made into nice tourist sites. It was a mixed ambiance with a bit of Italy, France and a bit of Middle East as well. However, I couldn't really label it an African country even though it is geographically.
On one of the days we went to Hammamet, a city at around 50 min drive from Tunis. This city seemed like the fun-land outside the city. Tunis is very different from this one. This one had casinos, markets, joy rides and well basically a happening place. The tourists were enjoying here getting alcohol openly and there was also a dock where there were some expensive boats. A local told us that lots of Europeans settle for their retirement life here. Buy a yacht, keep going across the Mediterranean whenever required. That kinda life.
But it was still an OK place to visit. Nice people, friendly. Its a booming economy with industry coming into the picture. Exporting some fruits and minerals and they have found reserves of Oil and Gas as well. The UAE giants are investing in the real estate as I could see some famous names on mammoth projects over many acres. Sports city, health city, that kinda thing. It would be different in a few years.
The best thing I liked about the country was the their focus on education. It is mandatory for everybody to get educated until the age of 16. Government supported good public schools, that is something that builds nations. I think Tunisia is in the right direction just considering that.
It was not the most ideal planned way back. The flight got cancelled cos of a part malfunction and we had to wait for another 12 hours flying early next morning. The airline took good care of us, got us transferred to a hotel and nice dinner to go with that. Enjoyed some Tunisian cuisine, which by the way was delicious. I don't know the name of dishes but it was a nice mix of vegetable and meaty dishes. Good lamb & veal and good peas and potatoes. Nice fruit juice to go with that.
I would probably go there again to visit the historic places which I couldn't really find time to go and see because of this being a work trip but I put my marker on the stuff so its easy to find next time.
As for the city, well, it is nice and peaceful. Not a lot of high-rise buildings even though are now building some. I think we didnt see anything higher than 3 floors on the average. It is a Muslim country and it was Ramadan but only by the name. I could see people not fasting and not really praying. In fact, they didn't even go for Friday prayers. I might be generalizing it but I am speaking for all the Muslims in office at least.
Anyway, the culture was missing. I couldn't find much unique about the culture. The people gave the impression of Europeans with their way of dressing and looking and spoke Arabic. Some people spoke French as well.
This country links to Italy after the Mediterranean but its influences are from the French colony it was. There are also some ruins from the time the Romans ruled which they have made into nice tourist sites. It was a mixed ambiance with a bit of Italy, France and a bit of Middle East as well. However, I couldn't really label it an African country even though it is geographically.
On one of the days we went to Hammamet, a city at around 50 min drive from Tunis. This city seemed like the fun-land outside the city. Tunis is very different from this one. This one had casinos, markets, joy rides and well basically a happening place. The tourists were enjoying here getting alcohol openly and there was also a dock where there were some expensive boats. A local told us that lots of Europeans settle for their retirement life here. Buy a yacht, keep going across the Mediterranean whenever required. That kinda life.
But it was still an OK place to visit. Nice people, friendly. Its a booming economy with industry coming into the picture. Exporting some fruits and minerals and they have found reserves of Oil and Gas as well. The UAE giants are investing in the real estate as I could see some famous names on mammoth projects over many acres. Sports city, health city, that kinda thing. It would be different in a few years.
The best thing I liked about the country was the their focus on education. It is mandatory for everybody to get educated until the age of 16. Government supported good public schools, that is something that builds nations. I think Tunisia is in the right direction just considering that.
It was not the most ideal planned way back. The flight got cancelled cos of a part malfunction and we had to wait for another 12 hours flying early next morning. The airline took good care of us, got us transferred to a hotel and nice dinner to go with that. Enjoyed some Tunisian cuisine, which by the way was delicious. I don't know the name of dishes but it was a nice mix of vegetable and meaty dishes. Good lamb & veal and good peas and potatoes. Nice fruit juice to go with that.
I would probably go there again to visit the historic places which I couldn't really find time to go and see because of this being a work trip but I put my marker on the stuff so its easy to find next time.
Morocco - Girls, Girls, Girls & ...Phosphate
As I travel, my world travels with me. Absolutely, mindless quote with no philosophy behind it. If you want, I can create some logic or thought behind that. Okay, lets leave it there.
Morocco, is where the project took me next after Korea. From +5 hours from home to now, -3 hours. Quite a time zone switch. Already been here in Casablanca for a week and its the best weather I have seen as yet compared to Germany, Egypt, Jordan or Korea. Warm and cosy but not sweaty. Good breeze. Good beach-type weather. No rain, but nicely balanced cloud cover. Pretty good.
However, when I asked somebody, "What is famous about Morocco?", I got the reply, "Girls." A little surprised, I mean OK fine, there are girls in other countries also. So I ask, "Whats the best export you guys have here?" You won't believe it folks, I got the same reply, "Girls." I got what he was trying to say.
Morocco is the centre-point of girls/women being smuggled to Europe for all the wrong reasons. Its the hub for all Middle Eastern men who want to do what they can't do in Middle East. Hence, it is a centre of attractive and cheap womenfolk available to please men in whatever way required.
I stepped out of my hotel and a taxi driver offered to take us around the city some day probably on the weekend. I asked, "Where will you take us?" He winked. I said, "Whaa..?" He said, "I'll take you to the *wink* right places." I was actually disappointed in how the local folk are selling their country.
Lots of old cars were seen. Mercedes, Renault and Peugeot are common. The taxi works by the meter but sharing taxies is common also. It almost works like public buses. The taxi will stop if his car has space and the passenger can climb in if he is going in the same direction as the people already sitting. The new passenger pays and we pay as well by the meter. Strange but good for the taxi guy.
I sat with one of my colleagues on the first day and asked him similar questions as above. He said well basically its a tourist site. I asked whats to see here, like museums, history etc. I got the same redundant reply, "Girls." I said "Come on man, there has to be something more that runs the economy here. What do they export from here...?". Here's a new flavour to the conversation. "Well you mean other than Girls? They won't accept but there is lots of drugs trading as well..." I am thinking, I have entered Mafia town or something. He goes on like he remembered something, "Oh yeah, they have good phosphate here. That is one of the exports." I said thank God, something legitimate came up.
So it took a lot of conversation to know that Phosphate is one of the good exports otherwise the strategy is quite clear. Girls/Women/Drugs. Supply the world what they want most and get it the hardest. Make it easy for them to get what they want.
Morocco is the gateway to Europe from Africa with connections and lots of history with French, Spanish and Italian People as well. It shows and reflects in the languages spoken here. French and Arabic are the most popular but as we go northwards, Spanish and Italian is common also. The mix of culture reflects clearly as one can see different shades of skin and facial features. I wouldn't be surprised if it is because of the Girls :P.
Discos are popular here and even though it is a Muslim Country, alcohol is available quite openly. We visited the 3rd biggest mosque in the world and attended Maghrib prayers there. They have made it a tourist site and people were visiting it like a park. Maghrib was at 9pm. Only saw that timing for Maghrib when I had been to UK 2 years back. The sun just doesn't set it seems :).
Not too much of an eventful trip travel-wise as yet. It reflects as an old city with old buildings and lot of people. It is a poor country with a high percentage below poverty level. We'll probably go to the beach tomorrow but otherwise it is an OK place, probably not to be visited again.
Morocco, is where the project took me next after Korea. From +5 hours from home to now, -3 hours. Quite a time zone switch. Already been here in Casablanca for a week and its the best weather I have seen as yet compared to Germany, Egypt, Jordan or Korea. Warm and cosy but not sweaty. Good breeze. Good beach-type weather. No rain, but nicely balanced cloud cover. Pretty good.
However, when I asked somebody, "What is famous about Morocco?", I got the reply, "Girls." A little surprised, I mean OK fine, there are girls in other countries also. So I ask, "Whats the best export you guys have here?" You won't believe it folks, I got the same reply, "Girls." I got what he was trying to say.
Morocco is the centre-point of girls/women being smuggled to Europe for all the wrong reasons. Its the hub for all Middle Eastern men who want to do what they can't do in Middle East. Hence, it is a centre of attractive and cheap womenfolk available to please men in whatever way required.
I stepped out of my hotel and a taxi driver offered to take us around the city some day probably on the weekend. I asked, "Where will you take us?" He winked. I said, "Whaa..?" He said, "I'll take you to the *wink* right places." I was actually disappointed in how the local folk are selling their country.
Lots of old cars were seen. Mercedes, Renault and Peugeot are common. The taxi works by the meter but sharing taxies is common also. It almost works like public buses. The taxi will stop if his car has space and the passenger can climb in if he is going in the same direction as the people already sitting. The new passenger pays and we pay as well by the meter. Strange but good for the taxi guy.
I sat with one of my colleagues on the first day and asked him similar questions as above. He said well basically its a tourist site. I asked whats to see here, like museums, history etc. I got the same redundant reply, "Girls." I said "Come on man, there has to be something more that runs the economy here. What do they export from here...?". Here's a new flavour to the conversation. "Well you mean other than Girls? They won't accept but there is lots of drugs trading as well..." I am thinking, I have entered Mafia town or something. He goes on like he remembered something, "Oh yeah, they have good phosphate here. That is one of the exports." I said thank God, something legitimate came up.
So it took a lot of conversation to know that Phosphate is one of the good exports otherwise the strategy is quite clear. Girls/Women/Drugs. Supply the world what they want most and get it the hardest. Make it easy for them to get what they want.
Morocco is the gateway to Europe from Africa with connections and lots of history with French, Spanish and Italian People as well. It shows and reflects in the languages spoken here. French and Arabic are the most popular but as we go northwards, Spanish and Italian is common also. The mix of culture reflects clearly as one can see different shades of skin and facial features. I wouldn't be surprised if it is because of the Girls :P.
Discos are popular here and even though it is a Muslim Country, alcohol is available quite openly. We visited the 3rd biggest mosque in the world and attended Maghrib prayers there. They have made it a tourist site and people were visiting it like a park. Maghrib was at 9pm. Only saw that timing for Maghrib when I had been to UK 2 years back. The sun just doesn't set it seems :).
Not too much of an eventful trip travel-wise as yet. It reflects as an old city with old buildings and lot of people. It is a poor country with a high percentage below poverty level. We'll probably go to the beach tomorrow but otherwise it is an OK place, probably not to be visited again.
Cookin' Nanta!!!
Okay I saved this post right till the my last day in Korea. Now publishing this from the airport on my way back. As I had promised in my last post on my trip to Korea that I am going to dedicate a separate post on Nanta, well folks here it is. Cookin' Nanta was probably one of my best experiences ever.
Nanta stands for making sounds with kitchen utensils. Cookin' Nanta is probably one of the best selling shows in the world and it apparently originated from Korea. So when I was coming here for, I read on multiple websites that even if you don't get to see anything else, I should see this at least.
With a personal recommendation from my wife, I had to make it a point to watch it no matter what. Where I got to enjoy other stuff as well but this was the best. Its a combination of Comedy, Vegetables flying around, Dancing, Music, Kung Fu and yes sounds from kitchen utensils like pots and pans and knifes chopping etc. Very funny. I don't think I have laughed this much in ages. I almost fell over the seat in the middle. It was simply hilarious. Head aching laughing, with no stopping.
They usually make different stories out of it to make it interesting every next time. The one we watched was where the head chef and his 2 assistants had to prepare a meal for a wedding in about 90 minutes. The manager's nephew joins in who has no idea about cooking or anything. So it becomes interesting as they teach him and prepare the stuff at the same time.
I would have been very content just watching the show but as luck would have it, I got involved on the act itself. They had a session in the middle where they had a game where 4 audience members made cakes and rolled them down to stack 'em while the rest of the audience counts how many done. Red team of 2 people vs Blue team of 2 people. I was red team.
So, I don't know what it was that the actors wanted me on stage along with 3 people. It was probably because I was laughing so loud, much louder than the others. 2 Korean girls and 1 boy from the probably the subcontinent as well made the 4-member audience participating people.
So we made music, made cakes, and we made the crowd clapping and counting. What an experience? With the cooking chef hat on my head. I felt sheepishly embarrassed at the beginning. I mean come on. Different country, nobody knows me. But amazingly, the music and the fun of it got me in it and I forgot where I was in a little while. I enjoyed and didn't want to stop at the end.
This is one of the best shows that you could see. Its now going around the world, very popular all around. I am sure you can find it in a city near you. It is a must see at least once before you die.
Sharing a video above and one below. You can probably search more on YouTube as well. But you wont enjoy like I did cos when its live, its happening in front of you. They will crack you up and then you can't stop.
Nanta stands for making sounds with kitchen utensils. Cookin' Nanta is probably one of the best selling shows in the world and it apparently originated from Korea. So when I was coming here for, I read on multiple websites that even if you don't get to see anything else, I should see this at least.
With a personal recommendation from my wife, I had to make it a point to watch it no matter what. Where I got to enjoy other stuff as well but this was the best. Its a combination of Comedy, Vegetables flying around, Dancing, Music, Kung Fu and yes sounds from kitchen utensils like pots and pans and knifes chopping etc. Very funny. I don't think I have laughed this much in ages. I almost fell over the seat in the middle. It was simply hilarious. Head aching laughing, with no stopping.
They usually make different stories out of it to make it interesting every next time. The one we watched was where the head chef and his 2 assistants had to prepare a meal for a wedding in about 90 minutes. The manager's nephew joins in who has no idea about cooking or anything. So it becomes interesting as they teach him and prepare the stuff at the same time.
I would have been very content just watching the show but as luck would have it, I got involved on the act itself. They had a session in the middle where they had a game where 4 audience members made cakes and rolled them down to stack 'em while the rest of the audience counts how many done. Red team of 2 people vs Blue team of 2 people. I was red team.
So, I don't know what it was that the actors wanted me on stage along with 3 people. It was probably because I was laughing so loud, much louder than the others. 2 Korean girls and 1 boy from the probably the subcontinent as well made the 4-member audience participating people.
So we made music, made cakes, and we made the crowd clapping and counting. What an experience? With the cooking chef hat on my head. I felt sheepishly embarrassed at the beginning. I mean come on. Different country, nobody knows me. But amazingly, the music and the fun of it got me in it and I forgot where I was in a little while. I enjoyed and didn't want to stop at the end.
The best thing was there were no language barriers. They didn't need to speak. The whole act was based on just actions, expressions and the common language of comedy which everybody understands. I think that is the success factor of this show.
This is one of the best shows that you could see. Its now going around the world, very popular all around. I am sure you can find it in a city near you. It is a must see at least once before you die.
Sharing a video above and one below. You can probably search more on YouTube as well. But you wont enjoy like I did cos when its live, its happening in front of you. They will crack you up and then you can't stop.
Korea - Work Hard, Party Hard
Leading from the series of Travel posts that I have been doing every month and plan to do them until January cos that's how the project is making me travel. This month, is the month for Korea. Yes, readers, UTP has contaminated the streets of Seoul, South Korea this month.
Seoul is probably the best of the lot that I have visited to date. Its a huge city, big buildings all around, lot of industry and home for technology giants such as Samsung & LG and not to mention Car Makers Hyundai & KIA who by the way are one of the main sponsors for the FIFA World Cup this year as well. Just amazing.
Both North Korea and South Korea qualified for the world cup this year and hence this sponsorship makes a lot of sense. Koreans make good cars and they have a big General Motors Unit here as well by the name of GM Daewoo. You must have heard that name before as well.
People are more crazy about Baseball here than Football (Soccer) though but I was told that when South Korea played a football world cup game, there were 8 lane roads (highways) that were blocked for traffic cos people stepped out and watched the game on huge Screens on buildings while hanging around on the streets. The number of people touched a million when South Korea played the last game. That's amazing isn't it? Imagine the site of so many people on the roads and screaming with oohs and aahs. I would have loved to be part of that, only arrived 2 days late.
Koreans won the Olympic Gold in baseball last Olympics and since then their league has got stronger and much more interest from people as well.
The Korean food is well, different to define it nicely. Lots of seafood and beef around and they use a lot of Garlic in their foods. They eat less but eat healthy with vegetables coming into the diet more and more. I had a problem with halal food so stuck to the breads, veggies and doughnuts around. However, I did have Korean food which was quite interesting. KimChi and Jin Seng are two things that you will hear from Korea. Both are excellent for vitality as I heard from many people and with winks from the old ladies. Indicating, that stuff helps increasing the population of the world.
I wouldn't say its a cosmopolitan city but it has got its western influence in terms of fashion, culture which is nothing different from other countries. However, it is good to know from people that the younger generation is close to its roots and lives up to cultural traditions. Most of the population here is Christian and the next big chunk follow Buddhism with the other being minorities.
Its a city filled with gadgets and technology. Every car has a GPS system and quite an advanced one which tells potential traffic jams and the best route to take etc. I was particularly impressed with the number of power sockets I saw in taxis. GPS, cell phones, satellite trackers, I don't know what not. Quite interesting.
People travel by subway or public buses cos taxis aren't that cheap. Ipods, iphones and a lot of Korean technology products around. Why not? You got 2 world leading brands living here.
Korea is known for its cotton and specially night wear such as pyjamas both ladies and men and more popular for the babies. I'll see if I can get some for my kiddies.
Koreans speak Korean which is completely different from Japanese or Chinese. I had to write this specifically out for my intelligent sister.
Probably the only problem I had was with the language and the food. Otherwise, it is right up there with the big and successful cities of the world. It was amazing to see everything so well managed and organized in such a big city.
Koreans work hard which I could see in front of me but they dont work a minute later than the official timings. Then they party hard all the way into the night and specially on the weekends. Good quality of living defined.
Been here a week, got another to go. Lets see what else I see in the upcoming week. There is NANTA on the cards which deserves a dedicated post. Coming up right after this.
Seoul is probably the best of the lot that I have visited to date. Its a huge city, big buildings all around, lot of industry and home for technology giants such as Samsung & LG and not to mention Car Makers Hyundai & KIA who by the way are one of the main sponsors for the FIFA World Cup this year as well. Just amazing.
Both North Korea and South Korea qualified for the world cup this year and hence this sponsorship makes a lot of sense. Koreans make good cars and they have a big General Motors Unit here as well by the name of GM Daewoo. You must have heard that name before as well.
People are more crazy about Baseball here than Football (Soccer) though but I was told that when South Korea played a football world cup game, there were 8 lane roads (highways) that were blocked for traffic cos people stepped out and watched the game on huge Screens on buildings while hanging around on the streets. The number of people touched a million when South Korea played the last game. That's amazing isn't it? Imagine the site of so many people on the roads and screaming with oohs and aahs. I would have loved to be part of that, only arrived 2 days late.
Koreans won the Olympic Gold in baseball last Olympics and since then their league has got stronger and much more interest from people as well.
The Korean food is well, different to define it nicely. Lots of seafood and beef around and they use a lot of Garlic in their foods. They eat less but eat healthy with vegetables coming into the diet more and more. I had a problem with halal food so stuck to the breads, veggies and doughnuts around. However, I did have Korean food which was quite interesting. KimChi and Jin Seng are two things that you will hear from Korea. Both are excellent for vitality as I heard from many people and with winks from the old ladies. Indicating, that stuff helps increasing the population of the world.
I wouldn't say its a cosmopolitan city but it has got its western influence in terms of fashion, culture which is nothing different from other countries. However, it is good to know from people that the younger generation is close to its roots and lives up to cultural traditions. Most of the population here is Christian and the next big chunk follow Buddhism with the other being minorities.
Its a city filled with gadgets and technology. Every car has a GPS system and quite an advanced one which tells potential traffic jams and the best route to take etc. I was particularly impressed with the number of power sockets I saw in taxis. GPS, cell phones, satellite trackers, I don't know what not. Quite interesting.
People travel by subway or public buses cos taxis aren't that cheap. Ipods, iphones and a lot of Korean technology products around. Why not? You got 2 world leading brands living here.
Korea is known for its cotton and specially night wear such as pyjamas both ladies and men and more popular for the babies. I'll see if I can get some for my kiddies.
Koreans speak Korean which is completely different from Japanese or Chinese. I had to write this specifically out for my intelligent sister.
Probably the only problem I had was with the language and the food. Otherwise, it is right up there with the big and successful cities of the world. It was amazing to see everything so well managed and organized in such a big city.
Koreans work hard which I could see in front of me but they dont work a minute later than the official timings. Then they party hard all the way into the night and specially on the weekends. Good quality of living defined.
Been here a week, got another to go. Lets see what else I see in the upcoming week. There is NANTA on the cards which deserves a dedicated post. Coming up right after this.
As Dead as the Dead Sea
As part of the project I am on, I have been lucky to scream "Frankfurt Helau!!!" and been to the "Land of the Pharoah". Last month I visited Amman, Jordan, the land of Petra and the Dead Sea and not to mention the Baptism Site and the bother with Jerusalem.
Interesting place but quite boring to be honest for me. The project implementation went smooth but I am not going to talk about that. Lets talk about the only place I could go which was the Dead Sea.
The Dead Sea is a site where one should visit once in his life. I am not saying at least once cos that's your choice but visit once. It is a sight. They say its the lowest place on earth and the water is as dead as can be. No waves, lots of salt and full with minerals.
That's what people come here for. Seeing is believing.
This is what you can do in the Dead Sea. Just hang around. Float around. Amazing isn't it. It is so salty that you don't sink you just keep floating.
I didn't go into the water and do that but I saw others. Its true. Lots of women were putting on mud from the dead sea on their skins and faces and legs and it was like quite crazy but apparently that is what is famous for. I brought some of the mud back home, imagine.
The funny thing I noticed was the greetings. Men kiss men and ladies shake hands. Isn't that strange, well that's what middle east is all about. I saw men kissing cheeks and rubbing noses. In other part of the world you would need a parade to support that.
All in all its a hilly city, all built on a slope and roundabouts. The feedback from people was that people somehow live like millionaires with nothing in their pockets. It was quite strange to know that most people are living on credit card debts and living their lives around it. A strange way to live which certainly I can't live like.
Another tick on the passport. Nice calm, cosy place.
Interesting place but quite boring to be honest for me. The project implementation went smooth but I am not going to talk about that. Lets talk about the only place I could go which was the Dead Sea.
The Dead Sea is a site where one should visit once in his life. I am not saying at least once cos that's your choice but visit once. It is a sight. They say its the lowest place on earth and the water is as dead as can be. No waves, lots of salt and full with minerals.
That's what people come here for. Seeing is believing.
This is what you can do in the Dead Sea. Just hang around. Float around. Amazing isn't it. It is so salty that you don't sink you just keep floating.
I didn't go into the water and do that but I saw others. Its true. Lots of women were putting on mud from the dead sea on their skins and faces and legs and it was like quite crazy but apparently that is what is famous for. I brought some of the mud back home, imagine.
The funny thing I noticed was the greetings. Men kiss men and ladies shake hands. Isn't that strange, well that's what middle east is all about. I saw men kissing cheeks and rubbing noses. In other part of the world you would need a parade to support that.
All in all its a hilly city, all built on a slope and roundabouts. The feedback from people was that people somehow live like millionaires with nothing in their pockets. It was quite strange to know that most people are living on credit card debts and living their lives around it. A strange way to live which certainly I can't live like.
Another tick on the passport. Nice calm, cosy place.
From the Land of the Pharoah
The ongoing project which took me to Frankfurt in February, took me to the land of the Pharaoh this time. Yes readers, it is true. UTP was in Cairo, Egypt these past few weeks and boy it was a trip.
Cairo known for history older than 4000 years and maybe more, owning the wonders of the world in the Great Pyramids of Giza and the River Nile, I was looking forward to this one. While work was the same, hectic and pretty much busy for the whole day, it didn't stop me from roaming around a bit.
On the first outlook, it looks nothing different from Karachi only worse when it comes to traffic. It was an eye-opener cos I couldnt imagine any place with worse traffic than Karachi. I was proven wrong. Cairo has a major infrastructure problem with 2 or 3-lane roads and many more cars compared to that with the increasing population. Wages are low and tipping very common on the streets for pretty much anything you want to get done.
However, that was the only bad thing I could find in Cairo. Its a great city with the atmosphere of history lurking nearby. About an hour from the office, we were standing next to the pyramids. I couldn't fulfill my wish of actually stepping into a pyramid but a little appetizer was the laser show which was based in the vicinity. The story of how the pharaoh wanted immortality and how the pyramids were built etc. Good stuff. However, as I said this was an appetizer. I'll be going back to finish the meal in the future whenever possible.
The other places to go was the Cairo Museum which was also a good idea as we went through the history and how Egypt had evolved over the years. One could see from the monuments kept how ancient civilization matured into sophistication at the time. It was also interesting to see how being ruled by different societies, Greeks, Romans, Muslims etc left a great mixture of culture while holding their history intact.
Our hotel was right next to the Nile which was a treat. Every morning, one could just step out of the balcony and see the great wonder that God had created. The never-ending Nile is a great source of pride for the Egyptians and why not. In the morning it shines the sunlight crossing through the country and in the night with the lights and cruises on it, it holds it peace still swaying with the wind.
We were lucky to be taken on a Nile Cruise by a colleague and it was a treat. Great food and good performances by a Belly Dancer and this crazy Sufi guy who was just turning circles in meditation and performing jugglery at the same time for around 15-20 minutes non-stop. Crazy but unique stuff.
Overall it was a successful trip work-wise so have memories to cherish both work and pleasure-wise. But its a destination I am certainly not done with. Need to go again, this time with no work, only explore and understand their history. Lets see when that happens.
Cairo known for history older than 4000 years and maybe more, owning the wonders of the world in the Great Pyramids of Giza and the River Nile, I was looking forward to this one. While work was the same, hectic and pretty much busy for the whole day, it didn't stop me from roaming around a bit.
On the first outlook, it looks nothing different from Karachi only worse when it comes to traffic. It was an eye-opener cos I couldnt imagine any place with worse traffic than Karachi. I was proven wrong. Cairo has a major infrastructure problem with 2 or 3-lane roads and many more cars compared to that with the increasing population. Wages are low and tipping very common on the streets for pretty much anything you want to get done.
However, that was the only bad thing I could find in Cairo. Its a great city with the atmosphere of history lurking nearby. About an hour from the office, we were standing next to the pyramids. I couldn't fulfill my wish of actually stepping into a pyramid but a little appetizer was the laser show which was based in the vicinity. The story of how the pharaoh wanted immortality and how the pyramids were built etc. Good stuff. However, as I said this was an appetizer. I'll be going back to finish the meal in the future whenever possible.
The other places to go was the Cairo Museum which was also a good idea as we went through the history and how Egypt had evolved over the years. One could see from the monuments kept how ancient civilization matured into sophistication at the time. It was also interesting to see how being ruled by different societies, Greeks, Romans, Muslims etc left a great mixture of culture while holding their history intact.
Our hotel was right next to the Nile which was a treat. Every morning, one could just step out of the balcony and see the great wonder that God had created. The never-ending Nile is a great source of pride for the Egyptians and why not. In the morning it shines the sunlight crossing through the country and in the night with the lights and cruises on it, it holds it peace still swaying with the wind.
We were lucky to be taken on a Nile Cruise by a colleague and it was a treat. Great food and good performances by a Belly Dancer and this crazy Sufi guy who was just turning circles in meditation and performing jugglery at the same time for around 15-20 minutes non-stop. Crazy but unique stuff.
Overall it was a successful trip work-wise so have memories to cherish both work and pleasure-wise. But its a destination I am certainly not done with. Need to go again, this time with no work, only explore and understand their history. Lets see when that happens.
Frankfurt...Helau!!!
Yes I have been in Frankfurt, Germany since 8th Feb. Considering its 21st today its been quite a long trip. It was a work related trip but I wouldn't say I didn't get time to look around.
It was hectic and tense in the early few days due to the project implementation but as days went by we sort of settled into it all. Leaving tomorrow to go back home and I feel much more relaxed.
It was a good time of the year to visit as we got to see the German winters. Snowfall and close to minus 5 degrees, we don't exactly get that in UAE or in Karachi. This was the first time I saw snowfall so another check mark on the UTP list called "Things to see/do before I die".
We went out on the 2 weekends. The first one, we went for a City Tour. It was cold and dull but we later realized it was the perfect day to go out cos it was the Carnival. Everybody was out on the streets and dancing in open air. First there was a wannabe funny city guide speaking his German-English who took us through the city tour and then we got off in the middle of the city. It was an experience seeing the carnival with bands marching and throwing away sweets to the people on the sides. We turned kids that day and collected lots of sweets.
This weekend it was even better. We planned a trip to the the opera on the Saturday evening. I had always wanted to see an opera. We went to a show which was an Italian Tragedy. I speak with confidence now as I write but only I know how confusing it was on the day. We laughed for the first hour or so as we didn't get a word of the screaming/crying like singing. Of course it was muffled but there was a moment where we were bursting with laughter with people on our sides giving us the looks. I don't blame them cos there was nothing funny at all. People dying and lovers breaking up, it was that kind of an opera. But it was an experience to have for sure. After the first break, we found an American lady who helped us get the story a bit as she understood German as well. It made a lot of sense in the next 2 hours and I would say it met my expectations of what I had in mind for an opera.
Then today we took a full day pass which could be used on trams/trains/buses. That was a good idea and the cheapest to travel around on a Sunday. We went around changing trams and trains and buses and roamed around the small city. Had some coffee and bread wherever possible. They make some good bread here. We have had many days with no lunch and only some bread. Good variety as well.
It all ended with a nice show of Irish Riverdance. It was a treat to say the least. This was yet another thing that I had wished to watch and I got the opportunity. They had brought good variety of Russian, American and Spanish dance fusion with Irish Riverdance. Pretty interesting.
So a good thing to wrap it all off. Good work put in all through and a nice treat to close out the trip.
Head back home tomorrow, to my family which I am missing for quite a few days now. The calendar year has a lot of travel involved so plan to write a post for each trip.
It was hectic and tense in the early few days due to the project implementation but as days went by we sort of settled into it all. Leaving tomorrow to go back home and I feel much more relaxed.
It was a good time of the year to visit as we got to see the German winters. Snowfall and close to minus 5 degrees, we don't exactly get that in UAE or in Karachi. This was the first time I saw snowfall so another check mark on the UTP list called "Things to see/do before I die".
We went out on the 2 weekends. The first one, we went for a City Tour. It was cold and dull but we later realized it was the perfect day to go out cos it was the Carnival. Everybody was out on the streets and dancing in open air. First there was a wannabe funny city guide speaking his German-English who took us through the city tour and then we got off in the middle of the city. It was an experience seeing the carnival with bands marching and throwing away sweets to the people on the sides. We turned kids that day and collected lots of sweets.
This weekend it was even better. We planned a trip to the the opera on the Saturday evening. I had always wanted to see an opera. We went to a show which was an Italian Tragedy. I speak with confidence now as I write but only I know how confusing it was on the day. We laughed for the first hour or so as we didn't get a word of the screaming/crying like singing. Of course it was muffled but there was a moment where we were bursting with laughter with people on our sides giving us the looks. I don't blame them cos there was nothing funny at all. People dying and lovers breaking up, it was that kind of an opera. But it was an experience to have for sure. After the first break, we found an American lady who helped us get the story a bit as she understood German as well. It made a lot of sense in the next 2 hours and I would say it met my expectations of what I had in mind for an opera.
Then today we took a full day pass which could be used on trams/trains/buses. That was a good idea and the cheapest to travel around on a Sunday. We went around changing trams and trains and buses and roamed around the small city. Had some coffee and bread wherever possible. They make some good bread here. We have had many days with no lunch and only some bread. Good variety as well.
It all ended with a nice show of Irish Riverdance. It was a treat to say the least. This was yet another thing that I had wished to watch and I got the opportunity. They had brought good variety of Russian, American and Spanish dance fusion with Irish Riverdance. Pretty interesting.
So a good thing to wrap it all off. Good work put in all through and a nice treat to close out the trip.
Head back home tomorrow, to my family which I am missing for quite a few days now. The calendar year has a lot of travel involved so plan to write a post for each trip.
Pohchee Vyo!
"Pohchee Vyo..." is the way to say "I have reached..." in the Memon language.
I have got a Memon mother and a Sindhi father so if somebody says I have a Memon element in me, he won't be wrong. I don't think I am a miser at heart even though I have had that feedback from my wife on multiple times. I like to call that more of a smart spender.
Just to add, I have nothing against Memons. How could I? I am one of them, partially. On the contrary I am a big fan of them as they are natural born entrepreneurs and spend money very wisely. The world needs to take more lessons from them especially in the current financial crisis and the causes behind it.
Anyway, this is a little story that I heard from someone I met only for the second time. The story is a short funny one and also amazes one on the thought process a miser's mind takes.
About 2o years ago, telecommunication was not as cheap as it is today and it used to something really expensive to make a call from abroad. Now this Memon guy was travelling to America and on reaching he wanted to inform his family back home that he has reached.
In those days, there was this concept of a PP call or a Particular Person call where you can tell the name of person and the operator would dial the number and ensure that you get that person on the other side. You would only get charged if you get the person on the other side otherwise there is no charge.
This person asks the operator, "Please dial this number and ask for Mr. Pohcheevyo..."
Operator - "Wha?"
Person - "Mr. Pohcheevyo..."
Operator - "How do you spell that?"
Person - "P-O-H-C-H-E-E... V-Y-O..."
Operator - "OK sir...Please hold..."
The operator dials the number and on the other side the wife of the person picks up. "Is Mr. Pohcheevyo home?"
Wife - "NO!! Sorry..." (smiling)
The operator lets the person know that Mr. Pohcheevyo is not home and the call ends, no charge. At home, however, the wife is already on her praying mat thanking Allah that her husband has reached safely or has "Pohcheevyo!!!"
Smart is the smartest word I can use for that person. Thats the kind of stuff we need today as well to save money and make it a brighter future for our children tomorrow.
Remember, every penny counts. Save now and there will be a time in the future where you can spend freely.
I have got a Memon mother and a Sindhi father so if somebody says I have a Memon element in me, he won't be wrong. I don't think I am a miser at heart even though I have had that feedback from my wife on multiple times. I like to call that more of a smart spender.
Just to add, I have nothing against Memons. How could I? I am one of them, partially. On the contrary I am a big fan of them as they are natural born entrepreneurs and spend money very wisely. The world needs to take more lessons from them especially in the current financial crisis and the causes behind it.
Anyway, this is a little story that I heard from someone I met only for the second time. The story is a short funny one and also amazes one on the thought process a miser's mind takes.
About 2o years ago, telecommunication was not as cheap as it is today and it used to something really expensive to make a call from abroad. Now this Memon guy was travelling to America and on reaching he wanted to inform his family back home that he has reached.
In those days, there was this concept of a PP call or a Particular Person call where you can tell the name of person and the operator would dial the number and ensure that you get that person on the other side. You would only get charged if you get the person on the other side otherwise there is no charge.
This person asks the operator, "Please dial this number and ask for Mr. Pohcheevyo..."
Operator - "Wha?"
Person - "Mr. Pohcheevyo..."
Operator - "How do you spell that?"
Person - "P-O-H-C-H-E-E... V-Y-O..."
Operator - "OK sir...Please hold..."
The operator dials the number and on the other side the wife of the person picks up. "Is Mr. Pohcheevyo home?"
Wife - "NO!! Sorry..." (smiling)
The operator lets the person know that Mr. Pohcheevyo is not home and the call ends, no charge. At home, however, the wife is already on her praying mat thanking Allah that her husband has reached safely or has "Pohcheevyo!!!"
Smart is the smartest word I can use for that person. Thats the kind of stuff we need today as well to save money and make it a brighter future for our children tomorrow.
Remember, every penny counts. Save now and there will be a time in the future where you can spend freely.
How my Coat got Lost...and Found!!!
Continuing from previous week...
Giving a giggle at my hard luck, I dialled the landline number, which went ringing and ringing and no one picks up. Probably an office number and it was pretty late in the night. Just counted the days I had on which I could make a call. I was going to be there 4 days out of which, one a national holiday and 2 weekend days. I couldn't believe how unlucky I was.
I kept trying the landline and hoping someone would pick up but no one did. I was sure this was a landline number and I had to do this on the only working day I had. I could try my luck on the mobile number though right? Just 10 calls at the max right?
One missing digit right? Ok but where did it miss. Was the missing digit the 1st one, the 2nd one...oh boy. Its not 10 calls. Its 10*10*10*10*10*10 and maybe one more 10. Probability has not been my favorite topic honestly. I just knew it was too many calls to make. (Note that disturbing people was not the concern, making calls was)
I think I ll just keep trying the landline number.
Its important to bring in how the woman's thought process works. First to mention, my wife.
My wife said, "What will you wear tomorrow at the wedding?" Ah, typical. I said, is that all you can think. Getting the coat back is more important than attending the marriage all shiny and dressed up. Just pull out any shalwar kameez and I'll be fine. Poor soul, got the rude tone from me at a wrong time.
Then came my mother. Don't call. He must be the head of some mafia gang. If he hasnt called, why are you calling? Mom, probably because he got away with a nice expensive coat and is happy with it. At the cost of what, a few cigarettes & split change? I am going to at least speak to him and find out.
Anyway, I eventually got in touch with someone on the number on the morning of the only working day. It was his son. Oh God, why couldn't it be him only? I was able to confirm the mobile number from him at least and I was thinking, my efforts are not in waste. I called the mobile number, no one picked up.
Kept trying and trying on the mobile number but to no avail. I was looking stupid to myself going crazy over a piece of cloth but it had dear value to me. The 2 Days passed too quickly and my mind still at how I will get my coat back.
It was then when I had given up. I was now travelling back from where I had come from. Still thinking of my beloved coat. I just gave it one more shot at the airport again. This time on my way back, waiting for my flight to board. I just thought, why not give it one more shot. One more try and there...the phone connected...
On the other side was the nicest person I could speak to. Of course that may be a biased opinion, considering I wanted my coat back. I spoke to him, explained to him what had happened (like he didn't know) and asked how we could exchange it back.
Took a time and place where it could be exchanged and asked my brother to get the exchange done. Sigh of relief, a brief one. I couldn't take a full one, until I got my coat back in my hand which I did a few days later and that is when, I was at ease. Me and my coat continue to live happily ever after. I am not going to give my coat away to the stewardess again.
Someone would say, what a loser? Made two blogposts out of it as well. It was a critical moment in my life. This loss could have been big mentally, I know. Am thinking of getting another suit made in order to share the love and hence share the risk of loss as well. I think that is a good idea, don't you?
Giving a giggle at my hard luck, I dialled the landline number, which went ringing and ringing and no one picks up. Probably an office number and it was pretty late in the night. Just counted the days I had on which I could make a call. I was going to be there 4 days out of which, one a national holiday and 2 weekend days. I couldn't believe how unlucky I was.
I kept trying the landline and hoping someone would pick up but no one did. I was sure this was a landline number and I had to do this on the only working day I had. I could try my luck on the mobile number though right? Just 10 calls at the max right?
One missing digit right? Ok but where did it miss. Was the missing digit the 1st one, the 2nd one...oh boy. Its not 10 calls. Its 10*10*10*10*10*10 and maybe one more 10. Probability has not been my favorite topic honestly. I just knew it was too many calls to make. (Note that disturbing people was not the concern, making calls was)
I think I ll just keep trying the landline number.
Its important to bring in how the woman's thought process works. First to mention, my wife.
My wife said, "What will you wear tomorrow at the wedding?" Ah, typical. I said, is that all you can think. Getting the coat back is more important than attending the marriage all shiny and dressed up. Just pull out any shalwar kameez and I'll be fine. Poor soul, got the rude tone from me at a wrong time.
Then came my mother. Don't call. He must be the head of some mafia gang. If he hasnt called, why are you calling? Mom, probably because he got away with a nice expensive coat and is happy with it. At the cost of what, a few cigarettes & split change? I am going to at least speak to him and find out.
Anyway, I eventually got in touch with someone on the number on the morning of the only working day. It was his son. Oh God, why couldn't it be him only? I was able to confirm the mobile number from him at least and I was thinking, my efforts are not in waste. I called the mobile number, no one picked up.
Kept trying and trying on the mobile number but to no avail. I was looking stupid to myself going crazy over a piece of cloth but it had dear value to me. The 2 Days passed too quickly and my mind still at how I will get my coat back.
It was then when I had given up. I was now travelling back from where I had come from. Still thinking of my beloved coat. I just gave it one more shot at the airport again. This time on my way back, waiting for my flight to board. I just thought, why not give it one more shot. One more try and there...the phone connected...
On the other side was the nicest person I could speak to. Of course that may be a biased opinion, considering I wanted my coat back. I spoke to him, explained to him what had happened (like he didn't know) and asked how we could exchange it back.
Took a time and place where it could be exchanged and asked my brother to get the exchange done. Sigh of relief, a brief one. I couldn't take a full one, until I got my coat back in my hand which I did a few days later and that is when, I was at ease. Me and my coat continue to live happily ever after. I am not going to give my coat away to the stewardess again.
Someone would say, what a loser? Made two blogposts out of it as well. It was a critical moment in my life. This loss could have been big mentally, I know. Am thinking of getting another suit made in order to share the love and hence share the risk of loss as well. I think that is a good idea, don't you?
How my Coat got Lost...
This last visit back home had its ironic side of it as well. Here is the story.
I have never really made myself a suit. Never got into wearing any expensive clothes you know. A grew up a typical guy who would just wear anything that covers the body. However, it was when I got married that I got my first suit made with all of my interest. It is black in colour with great material with a nice fall on it. I find it hard to say it in public but I really am in love with it :$
With just touching 4 years of marriage, this particular suit has stood the test of time with not much wear or tear. It remains my first choice for a job interview if you know what I mean. There is some luck on it as well. It has got me through from my last job interview as well and the record is really good if I put it in percentages.
So, I hope you realize the emotional element attached to it.
This last visit back home was to attend some marriage functions in the family and yet again, I had planned to wear my ever-faithful black suit. But there was unforeseen drama ahead, least that I knew.
After getting on the flight, I took off my coat to give it to the stewardess to hang it. I usually do that to sit in comfort while my precious coat hangs comfortable on a hangar as well. Its not something I did for the first time. However, when the flight landed and I asked for my coat back, I was brought somebody else's coat. I had still not lost my cool as I was expecting she'll go in and just get mine.
Not to be. Unfortunately, the coat had been exchanged. I had someone else's coat and he had mine. Man.
I was able to find his boarding pass in one of the pockets so didn't exactly lose hope. I ran to the baggage claim to try and find the person who has worn my coat and hasn't realized. Got an announcement done. No luck. Waited and waited. Sigh, feeling really bad. How can this be happening to me?
After feeling a little down, I took a look at the coat that I had. Didn't even match my pant. I checked the pockets found a little change, a packet of cigarettes and his boarding pass. I asked the airline staff if they could get me his number. They said that is against policy. I said well then its the airlines' responsibility to get me my coat. How about that?
After a little forcing and negotiating, he got me the person's number from the information on the boarding pass. There were two numbers that he gave me. One was a landline number, and one mobile number with MISSING a digit, oh the irony of it....
I have never really made myself a suit. Never got into wearing any expensive clothes you know. A grew up a typical guy who would just wear anything that covers the body. However, it was when I got married that I got my first suit made with all of my interest. It is black in colour with great material with a nice fall on it. I find it hard to say it in public but I really am in love with it :$
With just touching 4 years of marriage, this particular suit has stood the test of time with not much wear or tear. It remains my first choice for a job interview if you know what I mean. There is some luck on it as well. It has got me through from my last job interview as well and the record is really good if I put it in percentages.
So, I hope you realize the emotional element attached to it.
This last visit back home was to attend some marriage functions in the family and yet again, I had planned to wear my ever-faithful black suit. But there was unforeseen drama ahead, least that I knew.
After getting on the flight, I took off my coat to give it to the stewardess to hang it. I usually do that to sit in comfort while my precious coat hangs comfortable on a hangar as well. Its not something I did for the first time. However, when the flight landed and I asked for my coat back, I was brought somebody else's coat. I had still not lost my cool as I was expecting she'll go in and just get mine.
Not to be. Unfortunately, the coat had been exchanged. I had someone else's coat and he had mine. Man.
I was able to find his boarding pass in one of the pockets so didn't exactly lose hope. I ran to the baggage claim to try and find the person who has worn my coat and hasn't realized. Got an announcement done. No luck. Waited and waited. Sigh, feeling really bad. How can this be happening to me?
After feeling a little down, I took a look at the coat that I had. Didn't even match my pant. I checked the pockets found a little change, a packet of cigarettes and his boarding pass. I asked the airline staff if they could get me his number. They said that is against policy. I said well then its the airlines' responsibility to get me my coat. How about that?
After a little forcing and negotiating, he got me the person's number from the information on the boarding pass. There were two numbers that he gave me. One was a landline number, and one mobile number with MISSING a digit, oh the irony of it....
To be continued... next week...
BOEING 797? 1000 Passengers?
I found this excellent post by one of our friends at Pro Pakistani which talked about the expected new plane by Boeing. The 797 is what they expect it to be and aerodynamic designs and the modern structure just looks amazing. I dont know if its true or not but even if somebody has thought about the future and brought up with a place as effective as this, it deserves a mention.
The new Boeing 797 is quicker than the current top of the line Airbus 380 in terms of speed and capacity and with that brings much savings for any airline that owns it.
I still think its in theory but is this what we are going to travel on? Very near in the future? Should be something look forward to.
The new Boeing 797 is quicker than the current top of the line Airbus 380 in terms of speed and capacity and with that brings much savings for any airline that owns it.
I still think its in theory but is this what we are going to travel on? Very near in the future? Should be something look forward to.
Multi-Lingual in Sneeze Reply Language
I just couldn't find the right name for this post but anyway I have settled on the above. I was roaming around the blogosphere and came across this. What a beautifully compiled post. It contains what one should say when somebody sneezes in front of him, multi-lingually. The first thing that comes to mind is the Muslim way of Alhumdulillah or Gesundheit.
The mentioned post
The mentioned post
Reveal the Truth...
I was recently applying for a UK visa and after a long on-line application form which had already asked me about my involvement in terrorist activities....which I had of course answered No, the application asked me something that CRACKED me up. By the way, even if I would have, would I have said YES while trying to get a UK Visa?
Anyway, this is what cracked me up....
Q. Have you engaged in any other activities that might indicate that you may not be considered a person of good character?
Umm....I actually gave it a few seconds of thought heheh....means I should just open my life open and tell them everything....man...of course NO...now gimme the damn visa....heheh....
Anyway, this is what cracked me up....
Q. Have you engaged in any other activities that might indicate that you may not be considered a person of good character?
Umm....I actually gave it a few seconds of thought heheh....means I should just open my life open and tell them everything....man...of course NO...now gimme the damn visa....heheh....
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