#BEST BAR NEAR CENTRAL HONG KONG

[architectnews]

LWK + PARTNERS Architects, Hong Kong

LWK + PARTNERS Architects, Building, HK Design Studio Images, Architecture Office China

LWK + PARTNERS Hong Kong Architects

Contemporary HK Architect Practice – Chinese Design Studio Info + News

post updated 24 September 2021

LWK + PARTNERS Architects News

24 Sep 2021 Two LWK + PARTNERS projects earn esteemed recognitions at The Global RLI Awards 2021

LWK + PARTNERS is pleased to announce that two of the firm’s design projects in China won distinguished acclaims at world-renowned The Global RLI Awards 2021. The awards were announced in a hybrid presentation ceremony held in London on 23 September.

Zijing Paradise Walk, Hangzhou, China • RLI Most Innovative Retail & Entertainment Project (Highly Commended)

Designed with culture and wellness themes, this shopping mall freshens up the local retail scene with playful references to village life, Hui-style architecture and traditional Chinese gardens. Not only is the building aesthetically pleasing, but it also provides cool shades for passers-by with shifting and cantilevered forms.

image courtesy of architects Zijing Paradise Walk, Hangzhou

MixC Dongguan Songshan Lake District Mixed Use Development, Dongguan, China • RLI Future Project (Highly Commended)

The project is conceived as a catalyst of urban transformation turning a sub-urban industrial landscape to a robust lifestyle and cultural hub. Featuring diverse energising public spaces and multifarious greenery, the project also benefits the community with premium apartments and commercial facilities.

Ferdinand Cheung, Director of LWK + PARTNERS, joined the ceremony online and noted: “I would like to thank RLI and the jury for the recognition. Credits to the team for their continuous efforts through the challenges in both projects. We also look forward to the completion of the MixC project in Dongguan.”

The Global RLI Awards celebrates the most visionary and innovative retail and leisure concepts from across the globe. Since its inception 16 years ago, it has been regarded as one of the world’s most representative award programmes in the sector.

8 Sep 2021 LWK + PARTNERS Zero energy buildings design image courtesy of LWK + PARTNERS LWK + PARTNERS Zero energy buildings design Building construction and operations make up 38% of the world’s energy-related CO2 emissions, according to the 2020 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction published by UN Environment Programme. To significantly decarbonise our buildings, one of the key innovations being actively explored by architects is the idea of a ‘zero energy building’, which has attracted much discussion across the building industry and academia and is now increasingly seen as critical for the future sustainable smart cities.

8 July 2021 Green Shore Residence Phase II, tip of Luoxi Island in Panyu, Guangzhou, south eastern China image courtesy of architects office Green Shore Residence, Luoxi Island Cities, as they develop, are known to leave their mark on the skylines. Green Shore Residence Phase II, a top-end luxury residence in Guangzhou, China designed by LWK + PARTNERS, is an architectural response to the relationship between the island and city where it resides.

31 May 2021 Asia Pacific Property Awards 2021-2022 News

Five projects by LWK + PARTNERS have attained honourable titles, including three 5-Star and two Winner, at Asia Pacific Property Awards 2021-2022. One of the projects, Tsuen Wan Sports Centre, Hong Kong, China is also Nominee of Best Leisure Architecture Asia Pacific, competing with other top projects for the region’s best. The virtual ceremony was held on 28 May 2021.

Tsuen Wan Sports Centre, Hong Kong, China: image courtesy of architects

LWK + PARTNERS Asia Pacific Property Awards 2021

29 Oct 2020 Radisson Collection Resort, Nanjing, China Design: LWK + PARTNERS image courtesy of architects Radisson Collection Resort Nanjing The low-rise resort complex consists of 151 deluxe guest rooms and suites, accompanied by comprehensive amenities like a lobby bar, all-day dining restaurant, Chinese restaurant, executive lounge, function rooms, meeting rooms, a fitness centre, swimming pool and spa.

20 October 2020 Streets as the impetus of community life image courtesy of LWK + PARTNERS Streets as the impetus of community life LWK + PARTNERS Director HC Chan sees immense opportunities in excavating the power of street life to preserve cultural diversity and walkability. Fostering a liveable city requires the engagement of various stakeholders. Policy makes up one side of the story, but the participation of residents in placemaking is equally important for achieving urban spaces truly fulfilling for the local people.

4 August 2020 LWK + PARTNERS Lighting Design image courtesy of LWK + PARTNERS LWK + PARTNERS Lighting Design

6 July 2020 LWK + PARTNERS Saudi Arabia Office The new LWK + PARTNERS Riyadh studio will be led by Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director – MENA (right), and Usama Aziz, a new Director. LWK + PARTNERS Saudi Arabia Office

1 June 2020 Shijiazhuang Zhao Hua Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, North China image courtesy of architects Shijiazhuang Zhao Hua Hospital in China Our planet’s population is now going through the biggest shared experience in decades due to COVID-19, and the way people think about life and illness today is incomparable with any time in history.

Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre Temporary Quarantine Facilities photo : Paul Y. – iMax Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre Facilities

OCT Caoqiao Cultural Commercial Street, Hunan Province, China image courtesy of architects Hunan OCT Caoqiao Cultural Commercial Street

27 Apr 2020 Zhongshan OCT Harbour Development, Shenzhen area – west coast of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, China image courtesy of architects office Zhongshan OCT Harbour Development

31 Mar 2020 Hebei Grand Hotel, Anyue, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, North China image courtesy of architects office Hebei Grand Hotel, Anyue in Shijiazhuang, China When it comes to aesthetics and simple living, the past can be a rich source of inspiration. LWK + PARTNERS recently completed Hebei Grand Hotel, Anyue in a new Central Business District of Shijiazhuang; part of the fast-growing Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei metropolitan region.

23 Feb 2020 Xichen Paradise Walk, Chengdu, China image courtesy of architects practice Xichen Paradise Walk Retail Complex in Chengdu, China Retail spaces are evolving into lifestyle complexes that are inspiring, diversified and immersive to surround visitors with a curated experience to fulfil various lifestyle and social needs. Xichen Paradise Walk encourages social interaction and community life with high transparency and accessibility to bring together people, their neighbourhoods and nature.

25 Nov 2019 Kei Cuisine, Hong Kong, China photography : iMAGE28 Kei Cuisine Restaurant Hong Kong Successfully marriage of Japanese and Chinese cultures to create an elegant ambience for Kei Cuisine, a luxury Cantonese restaurant located in one of Hong Kong’s core retail areas. Out of client’s passion for Japanese culture, the team took inspiration from the Yoshida Fire Festival.

12 Nov 2019 TIANFU ONE Exhibition Gallery, Chengdu, China photograph : Guanhong Chen Tianfu One Exhibition Gallery Chengdu Building Comfortably perched at the eastern end of a green corridor in Chengdu’s Tianfu New District, TIANFU ONE Exhibition Gallery enjoys panoramic views of the Luxihe wetland park just across the road. The architecture firm leveraged its proximity to both urban life and natural greenery to craft an observation deck culminating at the end of the city’s main artery.

20 Oct 2019 The LOOP, Chongqing City, southwest China photo : WOHO The LOOP in Chongqing The LOOP is the sales gallery for Shun Shan Fu, a low-density residential development composed of various luxurious villas and houses.

16 Oct 2019 Vanke Forest Park Sales Gallery, Chongqing City, southwest China photo : Guanhong Chen Chongqing Vanke Forest Park Sales Gallery Scenery is beauty; nature is grandeur. Abandon screams and self-expression, and embrace silence and tranquillity… ‘Retreat’ is a design attitude.

13 Oct 2019 Spiritual Bay Pavilion, Qingdao, China photography : Xuesong Zhang & Guanhong Chenn Spiritual Bay Pavilion in Qingdao Spiritual Bay Pavilion in Qingdao recently opened. Just 120 metres off the Yellow Sea coast, the project is endowed with perks of nature at Guzhenkou’s Lingxi Bay near the intersection of Yingshanhong Road and Haijun Road, enjoying distant views of the Dazhushan Scenic Area.

14 Oct 2019 Legend Gallery, Chongqing City, southwest China photography : Guanhong CHEN, Lian HE Chongqing Jiangshan Yun Chu As a lifestyle gallery, Chongqing Jiangshan Yun Chu – Legend Gallery is a trial for and response to localised architecture. It explores the spatial interaction between nature and urban space on a site close to Chongqing’s Jialing River bank, where the waterscape forms a rare natural setting for the urban area.

26 Sep 2019

LWK + PARTNERS Architects – Key Projects

LWK + PARTNERS Recognised with Four Cityscape Awards for Emerging Markets 2019

26th September 2019 – Four projects by LWK + PARTNERS have been recognised in the Cityscape Awards for Emerging Markets 2019, at a presentation ceremony that took place in Dubai yesterday, an event attended by e-architect founder and co-Editor Adrian Welch.

Landmarks Riverside Park – Phase II Danzishi Old Street, Chongqing, China, by LWK + PARTNERS: images courtesy of architects office

Shijiazhuang’s Zhengding Li Mixed-use Development is Winner of the Retail Project Award (Future), Chongqing’s Landmark Riverside Park – Phase II: Danzishi Old Street was made Winner of the Retail Project Award (Built), while Hangzhou’s Gallium Valley Science Park and The Pavilia Bay in Hong Kong are Highly Commended respectively for the Commercial Project Award (Future) and Residential – Medium to High Rise Project Award (Built).

Gallium Valley Science Park, Hangzhou, China, by LWK + PARTNERS Hong Kong: image courtesy of architects

Zhengding Li Mixed-use Development is located in the new central business district adjacent to the historical city of Zhengding in Shijiazhuang of China’s Hebei province. This retail-led development comprises SOHO offices, serviced apartments as well as a resort hotel, all linked up by pedestrian-friendly retail streets. Such a model of mixed-use development will promote a sustainable and zero-carbon community which is a main theme for future living.

LWK + PARTNERS Architects, Hong Kong:

Landmarks Riverside Park – Phase II: Danzishi Old Street in Chongqing, China, sits on a rejuvenated riverside heritage site. A retail complex by nature, Danzishi Old Street now offers a comprehensive cultural commercial experience that bridges the old and new, the oriental and the western. While many traditional spots were preserved and historical buildings refurbished, new structures were built with a modern Chinese architectural style so the old and new assimilate impressively well.

Zhengding Li Mixed-use Development, Shijiazhuang, China:

Gallium Valley Science Park is at the heart of the Cloud Valley technology cluster in Hangzhou, China, aimed to promote the development of e-commerce and the artificial-intelligence sector. It is located to the south of the new Xihu University and adjacent to a river, encouraging synergy with the tertiary institution while enjoying scenic surroundings. The project advocates a new office-park typology that blends greenery and communal spaces in the work environment, encouraging work-life balance in a professional industry.

The Pavilia Bay, Hong Kong, China:

The Pavilia Bay is a seafront residential development in Hong Kong, China, facing the serene Rambler Channel and surrounded by dense greenery of a nearby park. Its architecture invokes the beautiful image of a yacht embarking its journey towards the waters, with this theme carried all the way from macro building form, elevation right through to the interiors.

The Pavilia Bay, Hong Kong, China:

To take full advantage of the site, residential towers are oriented to maximize sea views for each residential unit. Residents have access to a host of clubhouse amenities such as an infinite pool, gym, and children’s play area.

Landmarks Riverside Park Chongqing:

As Hong Kong-based architectural practice LWK + PARTNERS continues to expand in China, Asia and MENA, the Cityscape Awards for Emerging Markets are the latest testament of international recognition towards its diverse design expertise. In addition to the awards, LWK + PARTNERS takes part in the exhibition and conferences of Cityscape Global, which is an annual real estate investment and development event, to shed light on the latest developments of the industry. LWK + PARTNERS Directors Ivan Fu, Ferdinand Cheung and Corina Leung gave insightful presentations offering perspectives and knowledge illustrated by powerful built-environment solutions.

Gallium Valley Science Park buildings in Hangzhou, China: image courtesy of architects

The Cityscape Awards for Emerging Markets recognises and celebrates excellence across real estate developments and architecture. Covering a range of categories, the awards offer international architects and leading real estate developers a prestigious platform to collaborate and share their vision for the future, from culturally integrated city skylines to sustainable urban communities.

Zhengding Li Development, Shijiazhuang, China:

More projects by LWK + PARTNERS online soon

Address: LWK + PARTNERS (HK) Ltd, 6-8/F & 15/F, North Tower, World Finance Centre, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Phone: +852 2574 1633

Architects Practice Information

LWK + PARTNERS are a HK-based architectural design studio

Hong Kong Architects Offices – Architecture Firm Listings

LWK + PARTNERS is a leading design architecture practice rooted in Hong Kong. They are a platform with design specialists who deliver world-class solutions to the built environment.

Their 1,000+ creative minds collaborate across a network of 11 offices around the globe providing services including architecture, planning & urban design, interiors, heritage conservation, landscape, building information modelling (BIM), lifestyle and lighting design.

LWK + PARTNERS creates infinite possibilities.

Hong Kong Architects

Website: https://www.lwkp.com

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Comments / photos for the LWK + PARTNERS Architects – Chinese Architecture Practice page welcome

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[english-courses-hong-kong]

Why Learn English in Hong Kong?

Is it necessary to learn English in Hong Kong? Well, it depends who you talk to and who you are talking about. 

If you’re talking to a local Hong Kong person they’d probably tell you that it’s very important if not vital for them to learn English. 

If you’re suggesting to a foreigner that it is necessary to learn English in Hong Kong and that it is a great alternative location to further their English studies, they might raise a skeptical eyebrow. 

It just depends where in the world they are from and their knowledge of this great world city.

Should Locals Learn English In Hong Kong?

Firstly, English is one of Hong Kong's official languages, so for a local to not be able to speak English is at times frowned upon. 

Secondly, from a very young age Hong Kong children are strongly encouraged to work hard at their English studies with a view, for those who can afford it, to eventually studying at a Western university. 

Thirdly, the level at which you are able to communicate in English can have a significant impact on your job prospects. 

" Not Everyone In Hong Kong Speaks English"

It would be inaccurate to say that everyone in Hong Kong can speak English well. On the contrary, many do not - or at best, have very limited English communication skills. 

However, a lot do, and the vast majority strive to various degrees to improve their level of English throughout their lives, with good reason:

" Learning English in Hong Kong is a great career move!"

If you are a Hong Kong local and plan on having a future in any type of business, particularly if you want to do business which extends beyond Hong Kong and China, it is advisable to learn English and master it to a level where you can communicate your thoughts and ideas with ease. 

Likewise, if you aspire to a future within either the Government, or legal and medical professions - as many do - you'll find that the English language is as widely used in those circles as it in the business world.

Similarly, the Hong Kong tourism industry expects you to have a good command of English. 

Indeed, in 2010 Hong Kong received a record high of 36 million visitors from around the world. Perhaps you can imagine how many of those visitors were English speakers who rightly expect Hong Kong (which boasts of being a major world city) citizens to be able to communicate adequately in English? 

It's safe to say that learning English in Hong Kong is a good career move! You may also want to study English in Hong Kong if you, like numerous Hong Kongers, wish to study abroad in one of many renowned universities in either the UK, the USA, Canada or Australia. 

There is a lot of competition for university places these days and applicants are required to have a high standard of English as well as good grades in their chosen subjects.

Foreign Students Study English in Hong Kong

If you have ever had the inkling to study English elsewhere in the world, some place new and exciting where you can explore a radically different culture, then perhaps you should consider Hong Kong. 

If you hail from the Asia Pacific region, studying English in Hong Kong can be a great alternative to more obvious countries in which to study English such the UK, US, Australia or Canada.

Basing yourself in Hong Kong will make it easier and cheaper to visit home on a more regular basis, which can be good not only for you but for your family. A short break home can do wonders for the soul and those homesick blues so often experienced by students studying abroad; and let's face it, wherever in the world you are from your parents will always miss you and worry about you.

Flights to anywhere in the Asia Pacific region from Hong Kong are relatively short as well as inexpensive making short breaks home to keep you and your folks in touch is easy.

On the other hand,  if you are not from the Asia Pacific region, why on earth would you want to travel all the way to Hong Kong to study or to learn English, apart from the fact that you will be immersed into a completely new culture?

Excellent Hong Kong Language Schools

Well, first of all, you can be sure that you will find some very reputable international English schools. 

Similarly, there are many excellent Hong Kong Language Schools, which, by and large, employ well qualified, native-speaker teaching staff. 

English is one of the official languages of Hong Kong and, perhaps due to its colonial past, this great city has strong historic ties to the UK. 

This could have something to do with the popularity of educational establishments at which you can further your studies or even start to learn English.

Hong Kong Is Safe

What's more, unlike various other renowned places in the world, Hong Kong happens to be one of the safest cities on Earth, even at night, when people generally walk alone with confidence. 

Furthermore, it is very rare that Hong Kong visitors are scammed or harmed in any way by locals.

October 11th, 2019 update:

IS HONG KONG SAFE TO VISIT RIGHT NOW, AMIDST PROTESTS?

Protests and violence have caused much of the Central area of the city to shutter, including MTR, Starbucks and other common areas. Most protest violence is in Wan Chai and Causeway Bay and is expected to continue through the weekend.

Protestors are targeting any and all Chinese businesses and have set fire to metro stations. Be advised that leisure travel to Hong Kong in the near term is likely not a great idea, as unrest has spread to a tipping point where restaurants, bars and other tourist friendly businesses are closed.

Hong Kong is in the midst of change, as China seeks to gain a stronger political grip on the special administrative region, which puts the SAR in Hong Kong’s official title. Recent government proposals to extend Beijing’s power to Hong Kong have caused outrage amongst locals and outrage has lead to large scale protests around government buildings and an expanding range of the city, including the airport.

Naturally, all of the above has people wondering if it’s safe to visit Hong Kong right now.The short answer: mostly yes, but the situation is worsening and with new emergency powers in place, things could get worse as tensions rise.

If you’re coming for tourism or relaxation purposes, you may now want to reconsider travel if it involves the Central district. Many businesses are closed and all metro stations have also shuttered as violence and destruction are now more widespread.

So Is It Really Safe To Visit Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is one of the safer cities in the world, with low crime rates and excellent standards of medicine and healthcare, even with current unrest. With that said, this situation doesn’t seem as if it will come to a close anytime soon.  

Unless you’re planning to join the protests, Hong Kong should still be safe for visitors, although clearly much less enjoyable than usual. A Level 2 warning from the United States State Department means they equivocate all the action in Hong Kong to be of a similar level of caution as daily life in London, or Rome.  

Basically, be on alert, but no one is saying not to go. That’s up to you.

Source: https://www.godsavethepoints.com/is-it-safe-to-visit-hong-kong/

Cheap Accommodation in Hong Kong Is Possible

When it comes to the living arrangements, chances are that you will find some very reasonably priced accommodation that will leave you with more than enough money to go out and explore the marvels that Hong Kong has to offer when you are not studying English. The same cannot be said of many other cities around the world.

Most hotels are located close to the harbour in Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and North Point on Hong Kong Island and in Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), Tsim Sha Tsui East and Hung Hom in Kowloon, as well as the bustling areas of Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok.

" If you find the right Hong Kong language school they will have a student accommodation service where they will find you clean, safe and affordable accommodation whilst you are studying in Hong Kong.

If you find the right Hong Kong language school they will have a student accommodation service where they will find you clean, safe and affordable accommodation whilst you are studying in Hong Kong. (Some also offer a student visa service which you will likely need if you intend to stay there for any length of time. My understanding is that you need to study at least 15 hours a week to be able to apply for a Hong Kong study visa.)

" Hong Kong Island is relatively small, so students are never too far from shopping areas and major attractions. What's more, getting around is simple, with cheap public transport easily accessible wherever you stay."

Hong Kong Attractions & Public Transport

Hong Kong Island is relatively small, so students are never too far from shopping areas and major attractions.  What's more, getting around is simple, with cheap public transport easily accessible wherever you stay. There are trams, taxis and buses everywhere and very modern rail networks (known as the MTR and the KCR). Arriving at Hong Kong's international airport is also a delight. It's modern, very spacious and very efficient. Some Hong Kong language schools will even meet you at the airport.

[krinsbez]

GI Joe: Remixed, Grootslang

Grootslang (named after a monstrous serpent from South African folklore) is Cobra Commander’s elite personal goon squad. While technically members of the Crimson Guard, in reality. they answer only to CC and Croc Master (whom we have made CC’s chief of security, and one day I hope to do a post about him)

It comprises (note, everything that follows was created by Night_stalker, I am just porting it to tumblr)...

Name: Alexander Popov Codename: Apep DOB: August 12, 1987 Former Affiliation: Russian Spetsnaz, 45th Guards Independent Reconnaissance Battalion Specialty: Long Range Threat Neutralization Orientation: Hetero. Bio: Originally studying to be an art student, he joined the Army after times got rather tough, financially. Discovering a talent for sniping, he was slotted into Spetsnaz soon after joining. However, Popov was discharged after an op in Ukraine went South, involving considerable amounts of property damage and civilian casualties. More worrying for the Russians was the fact that apparently, some news crews caught the incident on TV, which is what really caused the tea cups to rattle in Moscow. As the highest ranked survivor of the incident, he was given a inquest, blamed, shown the door, and told to not come back. Intel suggests that the verdict was contested, heavily so, behind closed doors. Dissatisifed with the world, and lacking any family or friends, he wandered the globe, utilizing his sharpshooting skills to pay the bar tabs he racked up along the way. While passing through Eastern Europe, he was hired on for security at a party where The Baroness was attending. Apparently, she stormed off to one of the art galleries to distract herself, and they got to chatting about art. She offered him a spot in Cobra, and his skills, combined with her endorsement earned him a spot in the best of the best. Hobbies: Sharpshooting, Art collection/appreciation, Painting (Models and oil paintings).

Name: Carol Spencer Codename: Crotalus DOB: December 2, 1987 Former Affiliation: Central Intelligence Agency Special Activities Center, Special Operations Group Specialty: Counterintelligence Orientation: Bisexual Bio: Born as a Army brat bouncing around internationally, Carol picked up quite a few things. A knack for languages, a inability to take shit from anyone, friends all over the place, and most of all, a searing hatred for her abusive father. So naturally, on her 18th birthday, her idea of celebrating was a punch to his nose and a quick trip over to the Marine recruiter's office. Couple tours of duty later, Carol was all but ready to retire from being a jarhead, or at least ready to take some leave. Alas, a spook from the State Department disagreed, and naturally, pressed the matter. Shockingly, she fit right in there, a fact which shocked both her and her superiors. After awhile though, she started having ethical qualms about what they were doing. Too much red in her ledger, she felt. She wanted out, and was willing to go to the press over the matter. Alas, hindsight says you probably should sweep your house for bugs before making appointments with a reporter. She walked into that cafe a decorated hero, a scion of a long military family. She ran out of there a wanted criminal, with her former co-workers in hot pursuit. Shockingly, when you burn someone, they tend to want revenge. In this case, it meant Cobra. She'd only heard whispers about them, but that was reason enough for her to seek them out. Trading some of her evidence for a job, she parlayed her honed talents into a rapid ascension up the ranks. Hobbies: Learning new languages, Ham radio, Photography, Geocaching, and Acting.

Name: Eline Luiten Codename: Echinda DOB: January 14, 1983 Former Affiliation: Penose Specialty: Demolitions Orientation: Lesbian. Bio: Born into a family of criminals, Eline grew up not wishing to follow in her parents footsteps. Instead, she was interested in becoming a chemical engineer, and going straight. However, after she got her degree, the Recession happened, and being a recent hire, was let go. Desperate to pay off student loans, she went right back to her family, and was welcomed in with open arms. Turning her talents to more lucractive lines of work, she soon fell back into her old ways, manufacturing drugs and on occasion more exotic materials. Soon, her talents shifted from making ectasy and heroin into making RDX and other substances. This tied in nicely with her changing politics, leading her into more radical steps. This was a rather bad idea, as the Dutch police were closing in on her, and the family wasn't going to stick their necks out for a radical. So she was forced to flee, literally barely making it out the window of her workspace before a team of BSB operatives kicked down her front door. Now on the run with little to lose and a burning hatred of the government, she drifted, until Cobra gave her a chance at revenge. Hobbies: Political commentary, Urban Exploration, Parkour, and Debating.

Name: Lily Shen Codename: Lamia DOB: Redacted Former Affiliation: Section G, Division 4, Hong Kong Police Department Specialty: Close Protection Orientation: Hetero. Bio: Born to British ExPats in Hong Kong, Lily grew up in a orderly household. So naturally, she joined the police force as soon as she got old enough. There, she developed a hobby for martial arts, which suited her fiery temperament just fine, and helped earn her a transfer into the VIP Protection unit. People were whispering that she was on the fast track to being a captain, if not higher. However, those plans were derailed. A corruption scandal occurred, and some of her political opponents used it to force her out of the department. The fact that her attitude was rather fiery at best didn't help matters anyway. Left without a job, and feeling betrayed by the organization she'd worked at for years, she remembered a old contact she'd made over in Japan, and gave him a call. Storm Shadow was rather surprised to get a contact from Shen, but agreed to put her in contact with a recruiter, seeing the value in having a former police officer on the payroll. From there, she was rapidly promoted to the Crimson Guard, where she fit right on in. Hobbies: Meditation, Martial arts, Blackjack (Chinese and conventional), and Parkour.

Name: Filip Tadych Codename: Perun DOB: June 19th, 1983 Former Affiliation: JW GROM Specialty: General Combat Orientation: Het Bio: Filip was born back in the final days of the Polish People's Republic, which caused considerable gaps in his records to emerge. The first concrete records that Cobra has access to suggests he joined the Polish Army at the age of 18, and after a couple of years, was transferred into GROM where he excelled in the high stress environment. However, he soon wound up being shown the door, when some rather unsettling political ties were uncovered, mostly through friends and some distant family members. While he himself didn't actually express any of them, he was still asked to leave the army. Furious, he became a solider of fortune, wherein he made a few contacts, the most important of which was one Apep, who he wound up in a bar brawl with in Tunisa. Once the local police arrived though, they promptly joined up and proceeded to smack down the cops and flee. The resulting 9 hour drive to the border did actually make them fairly solid friends. Hobbies: Tennis, Baking, dart throwing, and rock stacking.

Name: Karena LesProux Codename: Orleans DOB: February 18th, 1979 Former Affiliation: 11th Parachute Brigade, French Army Specialty: Tactics Orientation: Formerly Het (Married, 2 children), currently Bi, dating Nina of Crimson Guard Bio: Karena had it all, a loving husband, a solid army career, and two wonderful children. However, that was all a sham, as her husband was an artist as he called himself, while Karena called him a drunken slob, as well as other, more insulting terms. This was usually about the time he attacked her, so as one can imagine, their relationship was not very solid. Karena endured it for two solid reasons. The first being that, as her drunken asshat of a husband was the son of a prominent politician, she would be subjected to quite a bit of harassment from him and his ilk. The second reason was her children, who she loved very much. So she endured the fists and occasional rolling pin thrown her way, bottling up her rage deep inside. One night, that all changed. Instead of going after her, he made a move towards the kids room, while still holding a rolling pin. According to her, she saw red, and next thing she knew, her husband was lying on the ground, dead, with a steak knife sticking out of his throat. While her first instinct was to call the police, something stopped her. Namely, that she was likely going to be convicted of murder, and sent away to prison, as well as separated from her beloved children. So instead, she made a call to a former coworker she had run into while serving in the French Army. Meanwhile, in a Terror-Dome near the Med, Turul's ringtone went off, as luck would have it, in the middle of a rather boring meeting. One rapid conversation later, he was booking a flight out to his homeland, and she was packing up the kids to go visit "Uncle Francois" in Nice for a few days. Surprisingly, she fit right in with Cobra, while her kids were off in a nice high quality daycare, she was in a environment she loved dearly. In fact, if anything, she loved it more, knowing she wasn't going to have to hold herself back in the field any more. Hobbies: Wine tasting, Clay Sculpting, The Werewolves of Millers Hollow, and Knitting.

(These were the first sets of OCs Night_stalker created for us, though the last two were edited in later, which is why they don’t quite fit and mention other OCs)

[thefanficmistress]

Because, I Love You: Requested ☆

Requested by @deepestfirefun - I love you soooooo damn much. My soul sister across the pond.  Requested: You have broken up with your fiancé because you found out he was a total womanizer and it was quite the nasty break up too. You left your apartment, only took what you needed without looking back. Richard, your good friend heard about it while he was filming the Ocean´s 8 and without a second thought took you under his wings. You were an utter mess emotionally but spending time with Richard started to heal your wounded heart although you didn´t feel like trusting men ever again, except for Richard. He was furious to your ex-fiancé when he learned what had happened, he had been always very caring and protective of you. And while Richard did everything to make you feel better, you started to wonder if it had been Richard all along who you should have started a relationship with.

Warnings: Fluff, Swearing, Smut Pairing: Richard Armitage x Reader, Richard Armitage x Female Character, Richard Armitage x OC Context © me _______________ TAG LIST: @deepestfirefun​ @shikin83​ @catthefearless​ @patanghill17​ @aelinninielelain​ @xxbyimm​ @nowiloveandwilllove​ @nellindreams​ @hails270105​ @armitages-gisborne​ @jassy2101​ @abiwim​ @anemiechen​ @nelswp​ @vaneaustation @fizzyxcustard @purplerain85 @armitageadoration @princecami @princess-of-erebor1992 @leah-halliwell92 @vaneaustin @nelswp @nellindreams @raindrops-on-roses142  Please let me know if you would like to be tagged. 

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Current Requests: JANUARY - Closed @purplerain85 ( A Kiss in the Wild ) - RA Request : Release 1/6/2019 @deepestfirefun ( Because I love you ) - RA Request - Release date : 1/13/2019 @nowiloveandwilllove ( My Friend, My Beloved ) - RA Request - Release date: 1/20/2019 @deepestfirefun  ( WORKING TITLE ) RA Request - Release Date :1/27/2019

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2/3/2019  - @purplerain85 (  WORKING TITLE ) - RA Request 2/10/2019 - @deepestfirefun  ( WORKING TITLE ) - RA Request 2/17/2019 - Open 2/24/2019 - Open

Message me if you would like a FanFic Sunday Request. ________________ “What did you just say?” You questioned, almost dropping your phone in your lap. “Move in with me. At least until you get back on your feet.” He proposed. “I can’t ask you to do that. Not for me!” You exclaimed. “Yes you can! I’m offering. Happily, might I add.” Richard cooed on the other side of the phone, with a hint of a smile in his tone.  Sitting in your car, with your hand on the steering wheel, you thumbed your thumb against the leather coating. You thought about his offer. He lived only a few minutes from your office, near central park, and the best thing was, he would be there. He was currently out of town but assured you that he would be back in a few days to continue filming Ocean’s 8 and he would make sure to take you out to get your mind off of things. After a break up, it’s best to be around family and friends. Richard was definitely a great friend to be around. He’s kind, and generous, a bit of goofball, but he always found a way to make things up to you or put a smile on your face.  “I haven’t seen you in months, and I hate to tell you this, but I’m not taking no for an answer.” He added. “Richard, I honestly can’t do this. I need to be by myself.” “I’m not going to let that happen. I’m rather vexed at the entire matter, and if he shows up, I will have him thrown out or arrested.” His voice went very deep. A side of him you hadn’t heard before. Was that protection and anger in his voice? He wasn’t lying. Since you started dating Ethan, Richard and you had a hard time seeing each other. He was always out of town or too busy to actually spend proper time; he did however meet you for those 1-2 hr lunches before leaving or sent presents to you loft to apologize for not being able to make it. Also, to make matters worse, despite the fact that Richard was always so kind, and polite to your fiancée, Ethan didn’t like Richard. It showed in how possessive he was, not allowing Richard to be alone with you, be next to you, or even on the phone with you for a long period of time. Maybe Ethan could sense that under your guise as a friend, you did have feelings for Richard. You at one point convinced yourself that you were in love with him, and you needed to tell him. But with his schedule, you saw how difficult it was, and then realized it’s you. Richard wouldn’t be into you when he had many women around him. You had to back off in order to try to make the new relationship work. So, you put a lid on your feelings and said nothing. You were friends. Just friends. Ethan on the other hand… “Where are you right now?” He asked. “Siting in my car outside of The Hyatt.” You replied looking around at your surroundings. The Hyatt was a stunningly. Beautiful hotel in New York, and you were outside at the valet parking deciding on if you should go in or not. The streets were still busy for 3am, but it was The Big Apple, and this place never sleeps. It had rained earlier, and the streets glistened with the glow and flickering of the traffic lights. Restaurants and bars still open along the strip, and people gathered hand in hand walking and laughing. You wish you could laugh, but Ethan stole that from you months ago, and now you sit here alone, in your car in your flat shoes, and night gown. You had to pack a bag with enough clothes to last you a few days. Ethan was leaving for Hong Kong for work, and that would be the best time to get your belongings, and never see him again.  “Please don’t sleep there, just go to my penthouse, we will figure out the rest.” He insisted. You knew that doing this, moving in with Richard, no matter how long you would be there, would piss Ethan off. And you honestly wanted to hurt him. Maybe not the same way he hurt you, but still hurt him nonetheless. “Are you sure about this?” “Very.” “Okay!” You conceded, “Thank you.” “Anything for you dove.” “Anything?” You sang sweetly, with hit of a smile on your face. “Absolutely anything.” He gushed over the phone.  You pulled at a piece of thread on your nightgown, and blushed hard. Even from thousands of miles away, he knew how to make you swoon with just his voice and words. If he was in front of you and said that, it would have taken the force of an army to hold you back from kissing him. The way those words came out of his mouth stirred something inside of you that hadn’t been touched in months, but you could focus on that right now. You needed to get out of this car.  “Head on over, I’ll call ahead, and make sure everything is taken care of.” “Thank you again, Richard.” “No need to thank me. I need you safe, and sound in our flat. I’ll see you in a few days, yeh?” He stated. “Yea ok. You said your goodbyes and headed over to his flat. After pulling into the Richards visitor spot under his flat building, you gather your things, and end upstairs to the 21st floor. Once you exit the elevator you are thrown off by the very large gift basket sitting in front of the door. You put your bag down and kneel to read the note left on top.  *** To: The most beautiful woman in the world. From: The luckiest man in the world to have you in his life <3 Get some rest and enjoy the basket. You deserve it, and if I have to, I will send you more to keep a smile on your face until I get there. Yours always, Richard *** You smiled so hard, and pulled the note to your chest for a moment, as if you wanted to absorb the words into your very heart. You see another little baggy with the keycode to get into his flat, and you make your way in taking the bag and basket inside. 

You flick on the light upon entering the foyer, a grand entertaining gallery opens into a living room and formal dining room with raised ceilings, accentuated by a dramatic glass skylight. You decided to look around the penthouse to get used to the surroundings. The room has been decorated to the highest standards with custom doors, wood-work cabinetry, and beveled glass to enhance the breathtaking views. A custom-carved stairway, wood-paneled elevator, beautifully-appointed powder room, and spacious closets are located just off the gallery. Adjacent to the formal dining room and located along Central Park is a tastefully designed eat-in kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances.

The 21st floor featured a luxurious master suite with a fireplace, terrace, and large sitting room. A magnificent master bathroom with bookmarked slabs of marble, two showers, two private water closets and two separate vanity sinks complete this space. The suite also included multiple fitted closets and a whimsical loggia with a wet bar along the terrace. Two additional south-facing bedrooms, two redesigned en-suite baths, an elegant study with terrace access and an automated Crestron system for lighting, shades and music. The 21st floor included a service entrance which you came in through seeing that Richard had the key to the main entrance elevator.  “No wonder he doesn’t go out. He has everything he needs here.” You said to yourself, as you made your way back to the door to gather your things. You walked into the master bedroom and placed the basket on the bed. You finally opened the clear wrapping and started to pull out each item. Bath bombs, candles, wine, scented lotions, and oils. There was a silken pink night gown, with matching sleeping mask. Then a box of assorted chocolates, and your favorite box of perfume.  A little while later, after a hot shower, and two glasses of wine, you climb into Richards bed, and cover yourself with the thick black blanket. Your phone buzzed, and you picked it up to see that Richard sent you a photo and text. he sent you a gif of his face smiling, and blowing you a kiss, then saying goodnight. You send him a text back saying goodnight and thanking him again before you placed it back on the nightstand. As you fell asleep your mind thought of pleasant things. Such as now being able to start your life over without Ethan. Perhaps with someone great. Someone like Richard.  “Why am I not with you?” Was the last words that slipped from your lips before passing out. _____ See, this wasn’t how it was supposed to happen. You were supposed to find a guy, fall in love, get married, have children and live out your lives together. Old, holding hands and maybe, just maybe dying together in your sleep. But your life didn’t work out so luck that way. Time after time you had to fight for what you wanted, and when you thought you had it, life kicked you down again. Here you sat on the cold tile floor in the bathroom, in the dark holding your fiancés phone.  The painful reality that he wasn’t who you thought. Your jaw clinched, the burning in your eyes began, and you turned the phone on. You had to know. You read every single one of the texts that he sent them. Every detail about what he wanted to do to them, and what he wanted them to do to him. How he couldn’t stop thinking of them, and how they were the only thing he ever wanted. He even said I love you to a few of them. They begged for him to dump you, and he said that he would, but he was waiting for the right time. He couldn’t even bother changing up his texts, they were the same lines, repeatedly. The same dick pics and fantasy. The only thing that seemed to change was the location to meet them for dinner, or the hotel room he would rent out for the day for his “Client Meetings”   You turned the phone off and gripped your chest, right at your heart. You dug your nails into your skin until it hurt, but it would never compare to the pain you felt that spread through your body like a raging fire. It scorched every nerve in your body, and you began to shake. Your eyes burned and when you could hold on no longer you let out a scream that could have cracked glass, and you threw his phone against the wall. It shattered.  Once that first tear broke free, the rest followed in an unbroken stream. You bent forward, pressed your palms to the floor, you began to cry with the force of a person vomiting on all fours.

You heard footsteps running up to the door.

“(y/n) are you ok? What was that noise?” A male voice said on the other side. “Just go away” you said, the words slipping from your lips so softly that only you could have heard it, but you secretly wish he did. You continued to cry, your fingers digging into the black cloth of the bathmat. You felt sick to your stomach. The ache in your heart was too much to bare. “(y/n) answer me!! What is going on? I am beginning to worry!” The voice said again, wiggling the door knob a few times. “Go the fuck away!” You managed to raise your head up and yelled. “Just leave, get out! I don’t want you here anymore!” You turned your body to the toilet now, lifting the lid, and prepared yourself for what was about to come up. “(y/n) What?! What are you talking about? “He yelled back, banging on the door.  “Open up! What happened?” he pressed again, his voice very concerned and urgently searching for a reason why you would react this way. “I hate you.” You said softly into the toilet. You shook your head because you knew you had to throw up, and the rage that was building in your gut was making its way to your chest. The kind of rage that was instant and all you needed was the final push. The door knob started to shake violently, and then the door started to bang as if something was being pushed against it. With a loud BANG the door was forcefully opened, and Ethan came stumbling in, the wall across from the door catching him. He looked around the bathroom and saw his phone on the ground, and then looked up at you. “What is going on? It’s 4 o’clock in the morning, and you’re screaming.” He said as he bent down and picked up his phone examining the broken pieces. “I had work and clients on here, and you break it?” “Right! Work and clients “You quoted with your fingers. “I am sure your clients needed a picture of your fucking dick for their legal troubles. I guess you’re a full-service kind of lawyer. “you proclaimed, as you rose to your feet. You took a few steps closer to him. His face went completely white and he swallowed hard. His eyes shifted over to the right of you unable to look in your eyes and there it was. The shame or was it guilt. Either way he knew that this was it for him. “(Y/N)” He started, but you cut him off. “Who is Emily?” You shoved him back “Rhonda?” You shoved him again. “Dianna?” You asked pushing him one last time, this time harder and he was backed into the corner and could see his jaw tighten. “Oh, and my favorite, your fucking secretary Bridgette.” You smiled and shook your head. “I knew it. I knew it.” You stressed, your voice starting to shake with the buildup of anger, and more tears. “They mean nothing to me. Not like you. “Ethan said calmly to you. His eye contact making his words seem sincere. Was he telling the truth?  Maybe, but it was too late. That trust had already been destroyed. “You’re a fucking liar.”  You walked out of the bathroom and into the bedroom you shared. You walked to the other side of the room to get away from him. It was too much. You always had a feeling that something was right about him, but you couldn’t put your finger on it. You grabbed your bag from the closet, and started throwing clothes in them, cussing and yelling as you stuffed many items in it. You weren’t even sure what it all was, but the more that you put in that bag was the more you were close to getting out of there. Ethan tried to grab you to talk things out. Grabbing your arm, you pulled it away, he grabbed both of your wrists to calm you and to pull you into his chest, but you pushed him away repeatedly You took a shirt and hit him with it and he held his hands up grabbing the fabric in the air, twisting it around his hand and yanked you close to him. “Please calm down, we can talk about this.” He held you firmly to him, looking at you dead in your eyes, not even blinking. Was he terrified of losing you? Was he scared of what his life would be like without you? You fought more against his grip. “Would you stop! He yelled, “and fucking listen to me! They mean nothing to me! I want to marry you and be with you!” You looked closer into his eyes and saw that they were glazing over. Was he about to cry? Was he actually upset that he hurt you? For a brief moment, you settled down, and lowered your guard for a moment.

“I love you.” He said, releasing the grip on your wrist since he must have felt your nerves calm. “There is nothing to freak out about. My heart belongs to only you.” He said, leaning in closer to your face. “I want to kiss only you…” Ba-dum

The sound of your heart echoed in your ears as he spoke those words… “ I want to marry only you..”

Ba -dum But it wasn’t the words you wanted to hear. It was the wrong words. “I am going to marry you (Y/N).” he whispered right before his lips touched yours. Those were the wrong words…. “The hell you are!” You yelled as you pushed him back, but he still held one of your wrists.  “What makes you think that I would even marry you?” You questioned as you finally yanked yourself free from his grasp. You turn and walk to the other side of the bed, snatching up your phone. Your fingers unlocked it and you started to search through it. You started muttering to yourself. “Great! I guess you’re going to call him now. Complain about me?” He gestured with his arms, shifting his weight from one leg to the other. “Call who?” You questioned, going through your contacts. Richards name slowly scrolled down, and your thumb landed on his name, but Ethan had caught your attention and you looked up from the phone. “Who do you think? Richard for fuck sake. You can’t seem to just let him the fuck go can you!” Ethan said, yanking up a shirt from the side chair, and putting it on, followed by a pair of mint green pants. You always hated those pants. “He has nothing to do with this. You did this! “You proclaimed. Snatching up your keys and walking over to the night stand to grab a few more things, shoving them into the bag. “Whatever you need to tell yourself (y/n) You’re probably acting like this because you slept with him, and now you are turning a tiny indiscretion of mine into this mountain of guilt.” He gestured with is hands and body movement. “Are you fucking kidding me right now?! Are you trying to turn this around on me? You gestured pointing to yourself.

“I’m just stating the facts. You couldn’t have him, so you had to get me. You were too weak to tell him how you felt, and he didn’t care enough about you to notice you. Why would he want you? He’s famous now and can have any woman he wants and you —“ SMASH! The vase you threw at his head shattered near him. He guarded his face and moved aside and looked at you. “WHAT THE FUCK!?!? Have you lost your mind?” He yelled as he moved around the broken pieces by his feet to a clearer spot. Then you looked down to continue to pack, grabbing everything that could fit into this large duffle bag. After stuffing what you could in it, you make your way to the door. “I had to settle for a piece of shit like you.” You added onto his statement, your voice was so calm, still, but the tears filled your eyes and burned as you looked at him without blinking. “I had to lower my standards to a pathetic man child who had to feed on someone else’s insecurities to make himself feel better.” “(Y/n) wait, I didn’t mean…” he said starting to walk towards you but when he saw that you straightened your back and took a more dominate stance, he paused. “You meant every word. And I shouldn’t have said yes to marrying you when in my heart I really didn’t want to. But my family, and your family pressured me. Especially when…” You paused for a moment and looked around the room and then back at him. “When I knew I would never love you the way I love him.” Those words flew from your mouth so fast. You never thought that you would think it, let alone say it out loud. You knew instantly from the look in his eyes that they’d hit their mark. In that instant your relationship shattered into glassy shards. Nothing would ever be the same again. “We’re over!” You completed as you walked out of the door. ______ The next day you remained in the protection of your dear friend penthouse. You closed the blinds, and the curtains. You brewed some coffee, with cream, and added some caramel into the mixture as you lazily walked back to his room. You hadn’t slept so well after dreaming about the fight you had with Ethan. It was so fresh in your heart and mind. You placed the mug on the night stand and crawled back into bed. Tucking yourself into the big red and white pillows and pulled the black duck down comforter over yourself. You leaned back against the pillowed backboard, reached for the remote, twitched on the TV and flipped through the channels until you landed on the TV show FRIENDS. Tossing the remote beside you, you tried to focus on the screen before you, but your phone went off again. You struggled with the decision to pick it up. Looking from the TV back to the phone, and then back to the TV again. Then back at the phone when it went off. You reached over and picked it up. You fingered through the unlock and brought up your phone log. 14 MISSED CALLS – Ethan Hawthorne Then you saw the notifications on your iMessages. You opened it. _______________________________ ETHAN {Please pick up the phone….. } ETHAN {We need to talk!!!} ETHAN {I’m not giving up on us! I don’t care how many times I have to call you or text you! } ETHAN {Why are you acting like this? Can we just please talk?! } ________________________________ You took a deep breath and hovered your finger over delete. For a moment you thought how freeing it would be to clear these, and never reply to him, but then again, what if you did reply. What if you told him to never call or message you again? Is saying nothing, really louder than saying anything at all? Without a second thought you deleted it. You closed your eyes, and put the phone on the nightstand, but before you could fully come to terms with what you just did, you heard a knock on the door. You were expecting anyone, but when you walked to the door, you looked through the hole, and saw a bouquet of flowers. You pulled back and took a step back from the door. Maybe you shouldn’t open it, maybe you should. Ethan was smart, sending you flowers so early. You bit your bottom lip, and then another knock came to the door.  “Who is it?” You shouted. “I have a delivery for a Miss (Y/N).” the man said. “Can you leave it by the door?” You asked, walking closer to the door, and placed your hands on the wood. “I was instructed to hand it directly to her. You know….my job.” He replied. “Ok.” You sigh and open the door. As you open it, the bouquet was in full bloom in front of you. Bright red roses petals, with lush green stems. It was so large it covered the delivery guys face.  “Do I need to sign for it or something?” you ask waiting with your arms crossed in front of you. “Not really, but if you would like to pay in the form of a hug. I wouldn’t object.” He said, as his American accent changed over to the floating melody of a British purr, and as the flowers came down, it revealed the most beautiful man you had ever seen. Richard stood before you with a big smile on his face. His eyes were sparkling, and his cheeks were flushed. He was so excited to see you. You weren’t sure what came over you when you lunged forward and flung your arms around his neck, pulling him into an embrace. He chuckled and leaned down to hug you back. He squeezed you and buried he face in your hair. You heard him take a deep breath, and you could have sworn you felt the thumping of his heart against your chest. It was racing. Or was it yours? At the moment you couldn’t tell, all you knew it he was here with you. You pulled back, but held onto his shirt, while he in return placed his hand on your cheek. You leaned into the warmth of his hand smiling. Your faith in men had left you, but you knew that Richard would heal it. Someone how. Starting by showing up earlier than he said, and now pulling this stun, in his own penthouse.  “I can’t tell you how happy I am that you are here.” You stated excitedly. “But where are my manners, please come in.” you walked back over the threshold, and moved a side so that he could come in.  “I can’t tell you how happy I am to see you, and in my penthouse no less.” He chimed back. Richard walked into the kitchen and placed the vase of roses on the counter top. He turned to look at you and removed his black coat and tossed it on the back of the counter. He looked around the room and shook his head. “What?” “Why is it so dark in here?” “I didn’t want any daylight in here.” “Why? A little daylight would be good for you (Y/N).” he stated as he walked across the room and to the window, he tossed the curtains opened, and the living room was flooded with golden light. He could have pushed the button that does it for him, but he was always the kind of guy to do things himself. You blocked your eyes for a moment, and then put your hands down to see Richard standing before the window with a halo of light around his head. The light caught in his beard, and he turned to look at you with glowing blue eyes. He wore a plaid shirt and dark blue jeans. A trimmed beard, and his hair combed over to one side. He looked good. Gorgeous. “Is that why you’re here? To open my blinds? You turn to Richard and hold up a cup. “Want some?” He walked over to the counter and sat down on the stool. He leaned forward and closed his hands together. 

“Are you going to tell me what happened, or am I going to have to guess?” he sounded irritated, so his voice became a bit deeper. “Richard….” you sighed as you put the first mug into place on the Keurig, you put the K-Cup in the machine, and pulled the lever down, and hit BREW. You turned, and leaned back on the counter, with your hands on both sides of you along the counter top. “Don’t make me.” “What do you want me to say? He cheated. Cheated, a lot, and I was the dumb one who fell for his shit.” You said. The buzzer went off and you turned to remove the first cup, put another in its place, and a new K-Cup, and hit BREW again. You gently placed the cup in front of Richard, and reached over to hand him sugar, and creamer. “You’re not dumb, don’t say that. He cheated, yes, but that isn’t your fault.” Richard said has he put both hands on the sides of the cup. “Not my fault!?” You chuckle just saying those words. But you always thought that it was. Maybe it was in a way. You never really fully expressed yourself or showed that you were completely into the planning of your wedding, or him even. You were just there, going through the motions, while he was there, with other women. To be honest, he wasn’t the one you wanted. You lowered your head and started to cry. You heard the stool shift across the floor and in an instant Richards hands were on you, turning you. He crouched a bit to look at you, and tilted your head up to look at him, and when you did, he straightened himself. “Open your eyes.” he said softly. His hands cupped both sides of your face, his thumbs wiping away the tears from your face. “Look at me (Y/N).” he kindly stressed.  So you did, and he was looking at you with such hope, and longing that it killed you. How can he be so calm at a time like this. How had you been so clam the past night? “I can’t do this anymore.” You weeped.  “Do what?” “Love anyone again. How an I supposed to trust someone after this?” You asked, gripping his shirt.  “It’s not going to be easy dove, but I’m here to show you that you can.”  You looked up at him, and then to his lips. You always wondered what it would be like to kiss him. You lean in close to him, and place your forehead to his chin. He lowers his head to place a kiss on it.    You didn’t want to bottle up your emotions. Sadness, obsessing, and full-blown crying fits was your way to deal with emotional upheaval, and pretending you were fine when you were not will have the same effect as a pressure cooker. So, you called out of work for the next few days, to let all your pent-up feelings loose, whether it was on your own with Celine Dion on full blast, with a box of tissues or with your best friend after two bottles of wine. And your best friend was here now, so here came the tears, and wine.

Sometime later, Richard gently rouses you from a deep slumber after you pasted out in his bed. Richard had to pick you up from the couch after the first bottle of wine. You drank the majority and like a gentlemen he let you. He tucked you in, and he settled in next to you, arm around you, and he just let you cry and cry. You complained about everything under the sun when it came to Ethan. The stupid pants he wore, to his cologne, how he said certain words, and how horrible he treated Richard.  He sat at the edge of the bed, gently stroking your hair, and shaking you awake. As you woke, it felt as though your spirit returned to your body, and you felt heavy again, but warm under the blankets. You opened your eyes to see Richard sitting there, smiling down at you. “Good morning.” He said softly, as to not shock you with his presence. “Richard?” You said, as you slowly moved the blanket from your face rubbing the sleep from your eyes. “Yes, It’s me, you’re not dreaming.” He joked, rubbing your arm. “You’re here!” you cooed sleepily. “Yes, I live here. Did you drink so much you forgot?”  “I know that.” Richard smiled and looked at you for a moment. His hand moved from your arm, to move a few strands of hair from your face. His index finger grazed your cheek, and you smiled. He tilted his head a bit and studied your face. “I jumped on the first flight I could.” You moved the blanket down, and stretched your arms wide, awaiting a hug you desperately needed. He smiled and leaned in to hug you. His arms slipped under you, and he pulled you into his arms. Practically pulling you up from the bed. You buried your face in his neck, and he squeezed you in return. You relaxed in his arms, and didn’t plan on letting him go, but you wanted to reveal in his warmth and scent. You take in a deep breath and then release it slowly. “I’m just happy you’re here.” “Of course, why wouldn’t I be?” He asked, as one of his hands stroked your back. “Because of your job.” “(Y/N)? Do you really think that would keep me away from you?” he asks, as he releases you and cups your face. “You know what I mean.” You say sweetly, placing your hands on his own. “Your friends break up doesn’t fall on the important spectrum when it comes to your career.” He chuckles and lets go of your face and stands up. “It’s not my career that makes all the decisions, but my heart. Time with you is all I always want, like air to a dying man.” He says, as he heads towards the bedroom door. “Which is to say that nothing would keep me from you. As selfish as that may sound.” “Richard…” you started, but he interrupts. “Now out of bed. You need to eat.” He walks out of the door. “I kind of like it here! Your bed is amazing!” You shout after him. “Then I guess I’ll bring your breakfast to you! He shouts back. You laugh to yourself and fall back into the large pillows. Your arms stretched out at your sides. The sound of breakfast for dinner sounded exciting to you. You remembered Richard’s cooking it for you whenever you both would get drunk, it was always delicious, and he always ate with you. You closed your eyes and several minutes later, you could smell the aroma coming from the kitchen. An hour later, Richard brought you the works. Freshly squeezed juice, toast with grape jam, eggs, bacon, and a bowl of grapes and honey dew. He placed it on his bed, with a giant tray, and there was enough for two people. You turned the TV on just for background noise while you both spoke, He told you the story about how after he got your call, he called his assistant and requested the next flight out of Los Angeles to New York that there was. He called ahead to the front desk and requested that you be let in, but it would have to be the servant’s entrance as he had locked the elevator to his floor. He called his other assistant in New York to find the best relaxation basket he could, and to make sure there was a sweet message from him for you. He wanted you to know that he would take care of you. When it was time for him to leave, he didn’t even pack any clothes. He grabbed his keys, phone, and wallet, and left. He didn’t have time to think, his instincts told him that you needed him, and you needed him now. On the plane he was anxious to see you, and he couldn’t wait to get out of the airport, and into the taxi to get home to you. “You didn’t have to do all of that. Did you even get any sleep?” You asked as you held the toast in your hand, looked at him.  He looked at you and reached over to wipe a piece of jam from your lips. “No. I’d been up for about 24 hrs, I believe? There was no time to think about myself. I was worried about you.” He said as he went back to eating. You sat there staring at him and you lowered the toast to your lap. Your eyes started to burn and glaze over. “Why would you do that for me? Why do anything of it?” Your voice started to shake, and you honestly tried to hold back the tears. You hated crying in front of him, and you didn’t want him to think you were a cry baby, but damn it. He was always so sweet and kind to you. Why couldn’t you be with someone like him? Why couldn’t you have been the one in this bed for years, waiting for him to come home to you. You knew that you loved him, but just the thought of him flying across country, not sleeping until you were taken care of, and happy before taking care of himself hit you hard. Richard put his food down, cleaned his mouth, and swallowed the remaining food. He looks down for a moment nodding slightly to himself, as if he was talking to himself. Like the moment you get when you are building yourself up to finally say something.  “Do you really have to ask?” He said, still looking down at nothing in particular.  “After all this.” He looks at you. “I did it because….I love you, (Y/N).” You new that it would take time, but with those words you felt the break in your heart start to heal.  END.

[bites-kms]

HK Bars: Re-loaded

It’s vox populi that Hong Kong nights are great. The city is alive between the tetris buildings, live music venues, the poured-to-perfection drinks and the incomparable chill and fun vibe people foster. This is a re-vamp of the previous bar-hopping post on Bars in HK. This time, I had the opportunity to explore further and different neighborhoods with friends and fun colleagues. 

Iron Fairies  LG, 1 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong.

With sister locations in Bangkok and Tokyo, this bar is undoubtedly great and one never gets tired of visiting either this or any of the other locations— and, in all cases, it’s quite unlike anywhere else in the city. Sutton’s establishments, one very well renown interior designer and bar entrepreneur, are known for mind-blowing, jaw-dropping, eclectic decor, and The Iron Fairies is no exception. Indeed, this is one bar you’ve got see in person to believe. In LifeStyle Asia Editor in Chief, Micheal Alan words’ the “metal-making tools line the walls, vials of ‘fairy dust’ hang from the ceiling in clusters and — most incredible of all — some 10,000 preserved butterflies dangle overhead, suspended on tiny metal rods (...) are incredible. Watching them sway back and forth is simply mesmerizing”. I guess I’ll have to go to the Tokyo one to make an Iron Fairies hat-trick!

Iron Fairy by LifeStyle Asia  The Woods  G, L, 17-19號 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong.

This was a great venue where I met my friend Sammie from Singapore. It’s an eclectic bar, around the main area of LKF, where a mirror door disguises it, and a museum-kind-of-display about different cocktail elements merged with design fashion runway aesthetics is part of the charm. Drinks were delicious and music was great. It’s a fantastic alternative to the mainstream happening in the neighborhood. I dared to have a different approach to an old fashion and it was delicious, with a little of spices and herbs. Great choice. Foxglove + Frank’s Library  18 Ice House St, Central, Hong Kong.

This is a great hidden speakeasy featured as a deluxe umbrella shop. Delightful venue, with even more striking and delicious drinks, with super charismatic bartenders made our stay a memorable one. There was this jazz band playing stellar music and then a Philippine guy took the mic and literally brought the house down with his songs (I mean, Frank Sinatra “Fly me to the Moon”, of coz!) and voice. It was so much fun!  There’s a little speakeasy within the speakeasy called “Frank’s Library” and it serves a smaller, more selected list of drinks, in a library setting that isolates the music from Foxglove, turning this little bar into a cozier, more familiar one.  The Old Man- Ernest Hemingway  Lower G/F, 37-39 Aberdeen Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

Photo Credits: The Old Man - Ernest Hemingway Website Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to this one. I did have nights to spare, but some of them I just strolled around, got lost and experience some great night walks and dinners, where I ended up with food-commas and completely exhausted. But I’m gonna write it down so I don’t forget to go next time I’ll visit the hood. It was honored as one of the World’s Top 50 Bars in 2018, so it’s a set date for sure. With unique decor, on its website one can read the true inspiration and homage this place gives to the author: “He was a sophisticated drinker, a lover of fine spirits, and a true connoisseur who sought out the best bars from Paris to Pamplona. The Old Man honors Hemingway by taking inspiration from his novels, history, and folklore, and by using novel ingredients and culinary accoutrements – thereby paying tribute to the spirits and cocktails he loved.” Damn... just realized I walked by its door so many times... I guess this time wasn’t meant to be! Piqniq R/F (Rooftop) HQueens, 80 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong.

This is a nice surprise in the middle of Central HK. After a beautiful Yayoi Kusama art piece and strong pink and red decor that highlights the instagrammable worth of this rooftop, one finds a breathtaking terrace in the middle of Hong Kong skyscrapers with an unforgettable view of the bay and the mountains. A solo glass of prosecco, in between dinners and another bar date closer to the hotel, was exactly what I needed to bond with Hong Kong. 

Sevva  10 Chater Rd, Central, Hong Kong.

This was a fantastic double recommendation from my friend Mau and my friend Angelica. I remember Angelica mentioned it the first time I went to HK but, as it was expected, I was on its door and didn’t manage to find it properly. But this time, I went and enjoyed one of the few last nights with my ex-boss. We managed to find it and dare to take the elevator to the beautiful heights of its bar. It had a great drink list which I decided to pass on and go with my default and solid choice of prosecco to quench my thirst on this warm and cloudy Hong Kong night. We toasted for the good times and for the success we had over these days regarding our pitch.  It was a great experience which definitely made me grow as a professional and as a leader, where I needed to juggle, define, forecast and ask for the resources I needed to make it happen, that included a physical trip to this city to lead in-house workshops. 

Skye  Hong Kong, Causeway Bay, Gloucester Rd, 310號27樓

Skye Bar, provided by Pullman Hotel in Trip Advisor. Promise, this would be my last cheat-recco since I didn’t make it to this one either - although I managed to go to the Ozone Bar at the Ritz Carlton. This bar is similar,  it’s part of the Pullman hotel chain, and the literal cherry on top it’s its funky rooftop bar. Looks fun and with a memorable view.  Ophelia Shop F39A & F41A, 1/F, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen's Rd E, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

What a bar! Also, quite hard to find in a small pedestrian street in Wan Chai, on a third or four floor, without a sign on it’s outside facade. It’s completely hidden to the naif eye. But this bar, on top of its completely outstanding fashion, hosted by a hot, tall, blond, thick-accented and not quite friendly Russian, is something to experience at least once or twice in a life time. They allowed us to seat on a reserved table since we arrived early and then, when prime time started, the weirdness also made their appearance. This bar has actual women laid down on it’s shelves and bars, with fans, burlesque and S&M outfits, as part of the kitsch decor. I didn’t know how to feel about that but certainly caught my attention and was something I’ve never seen before (and trust me, I’ve seen some weird s*it over the years and trips!)

Ping Pong 129 Second Street L/G Nam Cheong House, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong.

What a beautiful and great recco from my friend Pink. I wish we had made it together, but I saved the best for last. Hours before leaving to the airport and after a blogging session in a beautiful cafe near to my hotel (where I almost leave my credit card!) I went for a second-to-last drink to toast for this comeback to Asia and this amazing time in Hong Kong. Below a hidden normal door with no actual sign but an bull-eyed window that, after a closer look one realized is a ping pong paddle, there’s a long stairs that leads you to the best and probably only “Gintoneria” I’ve ever been to. People get crazy with Tequila or Wine bars, but man, this one, was finding Neverland for me. What a fantastic idea. More than Gintoneria, it was paradise. This beautiful neon means “Take care of your body. Seriously, can it get any better than this?? I ended up talking to a video designers and producers from China with rusty English but with tons of willingness to talk to me and make themselves understood from Shenzhen, and actually followed my company on Weibo and managed to connect to FB to follow and add me as a friend. What a great, great finding and an even more fantastic night, today’s font and dear memory! 

[olympusintelligence]

Part 1 Chapter 1

7 months ago 20/5/2018 21:30(Hong Kong Time

Outside the Theatre in the Western Kowloon District, Hong Kong

Flames were everywhere.

‘Let me go! She’s inside!’

Kyle cried out loud helplessly. Great fire had engulfed the entire theatre. His fiancee was being tortured in that purgatory. 

'Damn Kyle, it’s 1300 °C inside. No one can go inside! You’re just a man, not a superman. You won’t save anyone even if you’re in it!’ A firefighter and a few cops were barring the deranged Kyle from running towards the fire scene. He had once met this detective before.

It was sizzlingly hot. The fire at the theatre had further heated up the temperature. It had so much vigor that it seemed it would never stop burning. The firefighting squad had been trying their utmost to contain the flames. Three helicopters had been dispatched to drop fire retardant over them, and around a dozen of firefighting trucks had been spraying the firefighting foam. The ground near the theatre subsided soon after the explosion, so the firefighters could only plod on it.

Meanwhile a very nasty smell permeated in the air. Many people at the scene recognized it as the mixed smell of burnt bodies.

The analysis from the government’s fire and explosion experts indicated no one could stay alive inside. Actually all firefighters had been forbidden from getting inside to save anyone as the flames were too hot for their fireproof gear to withstand. 

‘Just leave me alone!’ Kyle was on the verge of mental collapse. He was like an injured beast trying to break away from its chains. Out of nowhere, a short, fat man punched him hard in the face. ‘Wake up!’

It was his boss Benny, a senior detective. The sweating man was wearing a casual tee and jeans. He had just hastily arrived. While gasping for air, he rebuked him,‘You bastard, just from your text I know you’ll get yourself into trouble!’ He was Kyle’s senior classmate in the university campus, and joined the police six years earlier than him. He had brought him to an alumni gathering, where he and Helen first met, but before he was transferred to Tsim Sha Tsui police station they had never been co-workers.

‘My fiancée’s inside. Just let me in!’

‘Even the firefighters don’t have the guts to walk inside! Don’t kill yourself for it!. You’re a detective!’

The phrase ‘detective' brought him back to his senses: Both his father and uncle were cops, and Benny encouraged him to join the Police Force when he had just graduated. After three years of hard work, he finally got in and had never planned any alternative careers. He had been quite submissive to what the fate had in store for him - Though there were strong sense of hierarchy, terrible scandals and complicated politics within the Force, he had never doubted this profession’s missions: maintaining law and order, detecting and crushing crimes, protecting lives and properties of the civilians…….All he wanted to do was to be a good cop, but he never imagined that one day it stood in his way of saving his lover.

Only an hour and a half ago, he just said goodbye to her, and they just shared a light kiss and nothing else. Though they had been engaged, they were too preoccupied with work for any intimacy.

She must have been burnt into ashes, like the fellow audience and theatre crew.

Why haven’t I hugged her at all?

His happiness had gone. Long distance love was grueling. She finally came to Hong Kong to get engaged with him, but only after enjoying a short time as the engaged couple, death separated them.

‘The seniors determined it as the first terrorist attack Hong Kong had ever had. We can only arrest those bastards responsible for the crime and bring them to court. That’s how you should avenge for Helen.’ Benny tried to calm him down. ‘You’re not in a good shape at all. We’ve still got a lot to do. You’re not in a good shape, so you’d better return home first. Report here at 6 tomorrow morning.’ Kyle was devastated. He had no mood to reply to him. He just kneeled on the ground and held his head. Benny then ordered two colleagues who had just arrived at the scene to bring him home. 

**

Kyle was off duty on that day. He had just been transferred to the Crime Investigation Department at Tsim Sha Tsui Police Station. 

He was celebrating his fourth year in the police with his fiancée Helen Lee. Before entering the police training camp he met Helen in alumni party, where she approached him first with a pick-up line ‘It’s been a long time.’ Kyle had no impression of her, but they soon fell in love. At that time he learnt she was a Hongkonger born in the States, and she had a nice Chinese name Lee Hoi Lun. As a buyer of a major international auction house, she mainly searched for artworks in every corner of the world, but he must be based in Hong Kong. Hence they only saw each other when they had long holidays or Helen happened to stop in Hong Kong for a while. Later Helen quitted the job, came to Hong Kong and joined a gallery in Central as its manager, as she hoped to meet Kyle’s parents and get engaged with him. Their relationship finally became more stable. 

Helen then took Kyle’s ride to the newly built theatre in West Kowloon after dinner. It would have an opening ceremony that evening. The construction progress of the West Kowloon Cultural District had been lagging behind for many years, so the theatre’s opening seemed to bring in some fresh air to the cultural institution. Its management invited the best theatre crew in Asia to perform The Lady of the Camellias . As it was during the Le French May, the annual arts festival organized by the Consulate General of France to promote French art and culture in Hong Kong, the ambitious institution arranged the Chinese-English-French trilingual interpretation service for the audience, and invited the French Minister of Culture and the French Consul-General to speak at the ceremony. Helen’s current boss was a renowned French painter, so he also received an invitation. Though she had zero interest in drama, she still had to attend the opening ceremony and enjoy the drama with him as his assistant and partner.

The traffic was smooth between Jordan and Tsim Sha Tsui. Helen made great use of her time to tidy her make-up during the ride. Her brown curly hair was a good fit for her oval pale face. Her pretty honey brown eyes naturally seemed to sparkle like stars, and with her gifted perfect facial features she only needed few cosmetics to make herself look stunning. Wearing elegant high-heels, she was in a short white dress and black suit jacket, which somehow made her look taller.

‘Kyle, how do I look now?’ After blushing her mouth with a pink lipstick, she asked her with a smile. Kyle had been very used to her beauty, so he only commented, ‘Pretty as ever.’ He still had to concentrate on driving his Honda.

‘So far you’ve only answered “Good.” “Pretty enough.” “Very pretty.”’ Helen could not help but remark with a bit sarcasm. ‘No wonder you had never dated a girl before.’ Kyle was never a ladies’ man. Though he had a quite clean-cut face, it was still not popular with women. And his rather straightforward character was not everyone’s favorite. An average young woman may find him to be a tough nut to crack. He was not attentive to his outlook - His daily outfit only consisted of casual tees, jeans and sneakers, and had a jarhead haircut. The outsiders usually only perceived him as an ordinary thirty-year-old Asian man.

‘That’s why you love me.’ Kyle was too familiar with her humor. He had learnt to flirt with her. ‘Actually, only engagement is not enough. Let’s get married, honey.’

‘Ha, I can’t believe a man proposes to a woman like that! Where’s the ring?’ Helen just laughed directly, without any attempt to hide it. She was only honest in front of this honest man. 

‘Wait, you’ve got the engagement ring. I think it counts.’ ‘Of course not, they are only silver rings. The wedding ring must be like the diamond ring worn by my classmates.’ They sparred with each other with witty words, and arrived at the theatre without sensing time had passed.

The theatre looked futuristic with its irregular round shaped silver building. As two high-ranking French officials were arriving soon, the police had tightened the security. Although Kyle was a detective, before he drove to the parking lot, he still had to stop his vehicle for his colleagues’ strict security check. After he parked his car, Helen kissed him lightly and whispered, ‘I’m anticipating your ring, my dear.’

‘I’ll be well-prepared next time.’ Kyle promised in earnest. Helen gave him a sweet smile in return, and got out of his car. ‘See you.’ Those were the last words she left behind.

Kyle watched his fiancée walking towards the theatre. He always sensed there was something enigmatic about her, but he could not figure out why.

**

When Helen saw Kyle had driven away, she continued to head towards the theatre, but her eyes grew cold.

Her boss had just arrived in front of Helen in haste, and he looked very tense.

‘Actually will it go wrong?’ He did not bother to greet her, but only expressed his worries in panic. Helen apparently scorned his cowardice. She just reminded him coldly, ‘You’re my boss now. Please act like one. Nothing else is your business.’

The painter knew that she still kept her cool 15 minutes before the operation began, so he became a bit calmer as well. He couldn’t help but imagine what exactly the young lady had been through before turning into such a cold, capricious beauty.

In the gallery, he was her nominal boss, but in that organization, she was the director, and he was just a small potato. 

**

Kyle was on his way home. He recalled he still had to prepare at home for a meeting with a prosecution attorney on a homicide report.

Right at the instant, he sensed the earth shaking. It was from the West Kowloon District. 

The news app on his iPhone reported the theatre there had exploded.

No…...You can’t die!

He immediately rerouted his car back to the theatre. When he finally reached the exit of the tunnel, he only saw the faraway theatre had been consumed by flames. All traffic was jammed. The alarming sirens of the firefighting trucks, ambulances and police cars had been relentlessly ringing. All off-duty members of the Tsim Sha Tsui police station had received the emergency return-to-duty order. He texted his boss, ‘I’ll save Helen.’ 

He could never turn back the clock. 

@requiemesque @whataremetaphor @ill-write-when-im-dead @pilipalea @adie-dee @things-waiting-to-be-written

[newstfionline]

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Americans warier of US government surveillance: AP-NORC poll (AP) As the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks approaches, Americans increasingly balk at intrusive government surveillance in the name of national security, and only about a third believe that the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were worth fighting, according to a new poll. More Americans also regard the threat from domestic extremism as more worrisome than that of extremism abroad, the poll found. The poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that support for surveillance tools aimed at monitoring conversations taking place outside the country, once seen as vital in the fight against attacks, has dipped in the last decade. In particular, 46% of Americans say they oppose the U.S. government responding to threats against the nation by reading emails sent between people outside of the U.S. without a warrant, as permitted under law for purposes of foreign intelligence collection. That’s compared to just 27% who are in favor. The poll found bipartisan concerns about the scope of surveillance and the expansive intelligence collection tools that U.S. authorities have at their disposal. The expansion in government eavesdropping powers over the last 20 years has coincided with a similar growth in surveillance technology across all corners of American society, including traffic cameras, smart TVs and other devices that contribute to a near-universal sense of being watched.

Young Sikhs still struggle with post-Sept. 11 discrimination (AP) Sikh entrepreneur Balbir Singh Sodhi was killed at his Arizona gas station four days after the Sept. 11 attacks by a man who declared he was “going to go out and shoot some towel-heads” and mistook him for an Arab Muslim. Young Sikh Americans still struggle a generation later with the discrimination that 9/11 unleashed against their elders and them, ranging from school bullying to racial profiling to hate crimes—especially against males, who typically wear beards and turbans to demonstrate their faith. Young Sikhs often face bullying by classmates who try to yank off their turbans or mock them as “Osama’s nephew” or “Saddam Hussein.” They often struggle with the Sikh philosophy of “chardi kala,” which calls for steadfast optimism in the face of oppression. Tejpaul Bainiwal, 25, a doctoral candidate at the University of California, Riverside, is studying the history of Sikhs who first began arriving in the U.S. in the late 1800s. “One hundred years ago we were labeled Hindus, then Saudi Arabians, and when Iran was in the American eye we were called ‘the ayotollah.’” Media images of turbaned and bearded Taliban leaders who recently regained control of Afghanistan with the withdrawal of U.S. troops have made Sikh Americans nervous again.

Silicon Valley finds remote work is easier to begin than end (AP) Technology companies that led the charge into remote work as the pandemic unfurled are confronting a new challenge: how, when and even whether they should bring long-isolated employees back to offices that have been designed for teamwork. “I thought this period of remote work would be the most challenging year-and-half of my career, but it’s not,” said Brent Hyder, the chief people officer for business software maker Salesforce and its roughly 65,000 employees worldwide. “Getting everything started back up the way it needs to be is proving to be even more difficult.” According to Laura Boudreau, a Columbia University assistant economics professor who studies workplace issues, “We have moved beyond the theme of remote work being a temporary thing.” The longer the pandemic has stretched on, she says, the harder it’s become to tell employees to come back to the office, particularly full time. Because they typically revolve around digital and online products, most tech jobs are tailor made for remote work. Yet most major tech companies insist that their employees should be ready to work in the office two or three days each week after the pandemic is over. The main reason: Tech companies have long believed that employees clustered together in a physical space will swap ideas and spawn innovations that probably wouldn’t have happened in isolation. That’s one reason tech titans have poured billions of dollars into corporate campuses interspersed with alluring common areas meant to lure employees out of their cubicles and into “casual collisions” that turn into brainstorming sessions.

16 die as floods swamp public hospital in central Mexico (AP) Torrential rains in central Mexico suddenly flooded a hospital early Tuesday, killing 16 patients, possibly due to the loss of oxygen equipment as the power went out, the national Social Security Institute said. A video posted on the agency’s social media feed said about 40 other patients survived as waters rose swiftly in downtown Tula, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of Mexico City, and flooded the public hospital around 6 a.m. Video recorded inside the hospital showed knee-deep water as staff frantically tried to move patients.

At Brazil rallies, Bolsonaro deepens rift with Supreme Court (AP) Tens of thousands of supporters of embattled right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro heeded his call and turned out at rallies Tuesday as he stepped up his attacks on Brazil’s Supreme Court and threatened to plunge the country into a constitutional crisis. Bolsonaro has been locked in a feud with the high court, in particular a justice who has jailed several of the president’s supporters for allegedly financing, organizing or inciting violence or anti-democratic acts, or disseminating false information. Bolsonaro got a rousing reception from demonstrators in the capital, Brasilia, and in Sao Paulo, as he lit into the Supreme Court and Justice Alexandre de Moraes for making what he characterized as political arrests. He declared he will no longer abide by rulings from de Moraes, who will assume the presidency of the nation’s electoral tribunal next year, when Bolsonaro will seek reelection. “Any decision from Mr. Alexandre de Moraes, this president will no longer comply with. The patience of our people has run out,” Bolsonaro said. “For us, he no longer exists.”

Bataclan trial begins (Le Monde) Beginning on Wednesday, the French will spend months reliving a night from hell: the attacks of November 13, 2015, which plunged Paris into the abyss of mass terrorism. Nine months of hearings are scheduled to take place before the Special Assize Court of Paris—a courtroom inside the Palais de Justice, the busiest appellate court in France located on the Parisian island of Ile de la Cité. Exceptional security measures will set the scene for a judicial event to match the barbarous night concerned. Twenty defendants, 13 of whom come from the jihadist cell responsible for the operation, will answer for attacks that killed 130 people and injured hundreds more during three brutal hours at the Stade de France stadium, the iconic Bataclan concert hall and at the patios of nearby bars and cafés.

Kremlin critic decries doppelgangers at St Petersburg election (Reuters) Boris Vishnevsky, a veteran opposition politician, was gearing up to run in elections this month when he learned that two of his opponents would not only have the same name and surname as him, but even the same facial hair in their official portraits. The 65-year-old seeking to renew his seat in St Petersburg’s Legislative Assembly accuses authorities of fielding “spoiler” candidates to confuse his voters and reduce his vote haul. He said the two other Boris Vishnevskys had changed their names and surnames, and even altered their appearances in their election photographs to look more like him. He posted a photograph of the three of them on Twitter. Central Election Commission chief Ella Pamfilova condemned the incident as an “embarrassment and an outrage” in comments to Kommersant FM radio. But she said they would still be able to take part in the vote because of the wording of the law.

Hong Kong police arrest organizers of Tiananmen vigil (Guardian) Hong Kong police arrest senior members of the group that organized the city’s annual Tiananmen Square massacre vigil, accusing them of foreign collusion. The arrests early Wednesday come amid an increasing crackdown on political, professional and civil society groups accused of unpatriotic conduct or national security offences.

Fire kills 41 inmates, 80 hurt at crowded Indonesian prison (AP) A massive fire raged through an overcrowded prison near Indonesia’s capital early Wednesday, killing at least 41 inmates, two of them foreigners serving drug sentences, and injuring 80 others. Most of the 41 killed were drug convicts, including two men from South Africa and Portugal, but a terrorism convict and a murderer were also killed, Indonesia’s Justice and Human Rights minister Yasona Laoly told reporters. He expressed his deep condolences for the family of the victims and pledged to provide the best treatment for injured victims.

Taliban form government of old guard members (AP) The Taliban on Tuesday announced an all-male interim government for Afghanistan stacked with veterans of their hard-line rule from the 1990s and the 20-year battle against the U.S.-led coalition, a move that seems unlikely to win the international support the new leaders desperately need to avoid an economic meltdown. Appointed to the key post of interior minister was Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is on the FBI’s most-wanted list with a $5 million bounty on his head and is believed to still be holding at least one American hostage. He headed the feared Haqqani network that is blamed for many deadly attacks and kidnappings. Drawn mostly from Afghanistan’s dominant Pashtun ethnic group, the Cabinet’s lack of representation from other ethnic groups also seems certain to hobble its support from abroad.

Cargo bikes (CityLab) Cargo bikes are in high demand the world over as more and more companies try to efficiently tackle the last mile of delivery. Vans are often stuck inefficiently circling a block for a convenient place to park and unload—one study found this accounts for up to 28 percent of a van driver’s day—where the more nimble cargo bikes can manage that easily. As a result, a London study found cargo bikes could deliver seven packages per hour compared to four for a van in a similar situation. About $900 million worth of cargo bikes will be sold this year—Europe, and especially Germany loves them—and all that’s needed for the U.S. to follow suit is, in many places like New York, legalization of the bikes.

[halsteadproperty]

Small Business Spotlight Series: Best Ice Cream Shops in the NY Metro Area

Sweltering temperatures, heat vapors rising from the black tar streets, wafts of cool air hitting you as you pass open storefronts; the summer heat in the city can wear you down. Yet, there is always one common treat that will serve as Ol Reliable – and that is the cool taste of ice cream. From gelato to sorbet, sundaes to Italian ice, our agents all around NY, NJ and CT have the best recommendations for your next summer treat.

The Lemon Ice King of Corona

52-02 108th St, Corona, NY 11368

When you want some fun, a change of scenery and the perfect cool treat on the dog days of summer, look no further than The Lemon Ice King of Corona, Queens! “This family owned business with a homemade, secret recipe offers 100 flavors of the best Italian ices in all of New York, dare I say the world!” says agent Maryann Johnson. “On a hot summer night, my girlfriends and I would get in the car and drive on the LIE to 108th Street Corona and order not one, but two or three of the most flavorful, homemade, fresh summer flavors, like lemon, coconut, watermelon, mango and so much more!” The Lemon Ice King has been a unique and colorful dessert destination for over 60 years. Stay and enjoy your ice while watching a traditional and competitive Bocce game in Spaghetti Park, or head over to Citi Field and cheer on the NY Mets.

(Recommended by Maryann Johnson of our Upper West Side office)

Milkcraft

1215 Post Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824

“New technology ice cream with lots of novelty makes Milkcraft a Connecticut staple,” says agent Sheila Higgins. The trendy creamery freezes every scoop to order with food grade Liquid Nitrogen, which creates smaller ice crystals when freezing, and results in the smoothest possible ice cream. Their caramelized Hong Kong style waffles are made from scratch to order and their hot Creamee buns are made fresh daily, along with artisan toppings.

(Recommended by Sheila Higgins of our Wilton office)

Emack and Bolio’s

389 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10026

Emack & Bolio’s is so good that The New York Times called it “an ice cream shop with more than a lick of promise” and Good Housekeeping labeled them as “the best ice cream purveyors in the country.” Talk about a seal of approval. According to agents Keith Marder and Olga Bidun of the OK Team, their best flavors include ice cream based Deep Purple Chip, S’Moreo, salted caramel chocolate pretzel, chunk of funk and grasshopper pie as well as “The Original Oreo.” They also have sorbet and low-fat options. “Most flavors have great texture with the addition of Oreos, chips, pretzels, etc. and for some added crunch you can get a gargantuan waffle cone dipped in things like Nutella, Cookie Krisp cereal, sprinkles and Capt’n Crunch,” says the team.

(Recommended by the Olga and Keith Team of our West Side office)

Sugar Hill Creamery

184 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10026

An indie ice cream shop in Harlem, this family-owned spot offers scoops (including non-dairy varieties) in both familiar and creative flavors.

“They use really high-end ingredients and have funky, savory flavors. In the summer they need to have an employee making ice cream all night long to keep up with summer demand.” – Jeffrey Green of our Harlem office

“Sugar Hill Creamery has an old-fashioned neighborhood feel with an artsy flair from the mural on the wall to the roasted corn and jalapeno flavors. The owners are there scooping and greeting folks at the door!” - Leanne Stella of our Harlem office

Saugatuck Sweets

575 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880

A unique spot located in the beautiful river-front inlet neighborhood of Saugatuck in Westport, Connecticut. Nothing like a moonlit night sky near the waterfront and an awesome ice cream cone creation of your own making,” says agent Sheila Gallo. Saugatuck Sweets is within walking distance from the train and serves as an easy night out of Manhattan.

(Recommended by Sheila Gallo of our Westport office)

Anopoli Ice Cream Parlor and Family Restaurant

6920 3rd Ave Brooklyn NY, 11209

In an age of trendy ice-cream shops dishing up exotic flavors, agent Shira Rosenhaft always loves to visit this tried and true time capsule of a diner and soda fountain that happens to make their own ice cream, too. It’s like stepping back in time - the Kelly-green booths are the perfect place to enjoy an old-fashioned sundae or a root beer float, and much of the place looks unchanged since the early 1900s. The ice-cream flavors are simple - chocolate, vanilla, pistachio - but delicious. And, its central location amongst the hustle and bustle of Third Avenue’s shops and restaurants in Bay Ridge makes it the perfect spot to stop and cool off. 

(Recommended by Shira Rosenhaft of our Global Services office) 

Ample Hills Creamery

623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Extraordinary ice cream is an understatement when it comes to Halstead favorite, Ample Hills Creamery. At one point in time cows grazed on Brooklyn's lush ample hills. Although the cows are gone, and the grassy hills have made way for rows of brownstones, the pastoral small-town spirit of old Brooklyn lives on at our neighborhood ice cream shops and in the playful, nostalgic flavors we create.

“What makes Ample Hills ice cream special is the mix-ins. My personal favorite is the Pistachio Brittle. They make pistachio brittle (think “peanut brittle”) and put large chunks of it in wonderfully flavored pistachio ice cream. The flavors are creative and unique with fun names and again, those mix-ins!” – Jenet Levy of our Park Avenue office

“The Ample Hills Creamery down on Union Street in Gowanus is a favorite stop.  Located at the corner of Union and Nevins, it stands out as an oasis in the post-industrial landscape. And of course, the Ice Cream is fantastic.” - Lisa Gaytan of our North Slope office

“Flavors change regularly, and they are currently offering Oooy Gooy Butter Cake and PB Wins the Cup among many others - plain and fancy!” - Perri Defino of our Bed-Stuy office

“Best ice cream by far is Ample Hills. Specifically, the vibe of the Vanderbilt Avenue location. Peppermint Patty with hot fudge is to die for. My boys always go for Chocolate Milk and Cookies and my husband is partial to Salted Crack Caramel. The staff is always full of energy, super nice and the cone size is enormous! Gets my vote for best ice cream in NYC!” - Karen Wolfe of our Park Slope office  

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory

1 Water Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 

What is better than waterfront ice cream with views of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge? “The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory is one of Brooklyn’s best ice cream shops,” agent Jared Goodloe says. Whether you are taking the ferry after a long day, walking your dog along the pier, or just out on the town Brookly Ice Cream Factory is the perfect stop. “Due to high demand, the line can be a little long but don’t let that stop you. The factory has a vast assortment of flavors and toppings to fit all your desires,” Goodloe says.

(Recommended by Jared Goodloe of our Park Slope office)

Gofer Ice Cream 

1020 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820

Gofer Ice Cream opened in 2004 in the heart of Darien on picturesque main street. People passing by can see families enjoying their unique products like Gofer Lite, Go-Yo, Milk Shakes, Razzles, Gofer Cakes and more. It is a favorite spot for locals to walk or bike into town for a summer treat. The shop features a few small tables inside, but most people prefer to sit out on the patio watching the buzz downtown. They have been so successful that agent Cheryl Williams placed them in a second location in Wilton, CT in 2014 near the Wilton High School, Wilton Deli and adjacent to the football field. You can hear kids across town asking their parents if they can "Go Fer" ice cream tonight!

(Recommended by Cheryl Williams of our Darien office)

UES

1707 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128

This ice cream shop is like no other (keep reading for the secret info!). The large neon cone awning strikes you from a distance along with the typical line of patrons eagerly awaiting entrance, but nothing is what is seems.  The vibrant and cozy bubble-gum pink shop offers a unique rotating menu of delicious flavors such as banana brownie, ginger and espresso cookie coupled with chocolate chip and M&M cones. Why is everyone dressed to impress for ice cream? Say the magic words and you are transformed to an elegant 1920s prohibition-style speakeasy behind the mystery door serving decadent cocktails at the large bar or tufted banquets outfitted with chandeliers, exposed brick and other classy homages to Upper East Side culture. Contact Rory for the secret password!

(Recommended by Rory S. Clark of our Village office and Elissa Drassinower of our West Side office)

Sundaes and Cones

95 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003

“On East 10th St. in the East Village is the best ice cream shop I have ever encountered,” agent Robert Brody says. Though located on a side street, it still attracts a big following. The scoops can be in a cup or cone. “Though a bit pricey, it is worth the extravagance,” explains Brody.

(Recommended by Robert A. Brody of our East Hampton office)

Fro-Yo

43 S Euclid Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

Katie Haggerty’s favorite spot on Euclid street in Montauk is Fro-Yo & Gelato. “It’s right next to the jitney spot and the minute you arrive to Montauk you are welcomed to the best little ice cream spot,” she explains. The days you leave Montauk you grab your treats at Fro-Yo and back to reality, leaving your happy place in Montauk.

(Recommended by Katie Haggerty of our East Hampton office)

Scoop Du Jour

35 Newtown Ln, East Hampton, NY 11937

Snuggled amidst all the beautiful high-end shops and restaurants is Scoop Du Jour, a tiny shop on Newtown Lane and one of Margaret Turner’s favorite ice cream spots. “When you walk in to the narrow shop you feel like you’re back in the 70's with the dim lighting, the old posters and pictures of earlier times in East Hampton and the old rod iron chairs with lumpy cushions. But you’ll delight on the yummy ice cream in over 15 flavors and tons of different toppings,” says Turner. If you don't feel like ice cream, you can order a good old grill cheese sandwich or burger.

(Recommended by Margaret Turner of our East Hampton office)

Brendan's 101

101 Rowayton Ave, Rowayton, CT 06853

Brendan's has continued its 133-year tradition as the centerpiece of village activity. “Whether a grocery store, library, arts center, lobster house, antique house or the gathering place for the "Rising Sons of Temperance" to keep liquor out of Rowayton, Brendan’s 101 has always been Rowayton's place to meet,” says agent Gwen Alexis.   Now open year-round and offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, it's signature all-natural ice cream remains it's heart and soul. Each year at the town's major fund raiser, the River Ramble, Brendan's donates the coveted "Golden Cone," giving the highest bidder an ice cream cone a day for life! To date there are 30 "Golden Cones" in existence.

(Recommended by Gwen Alexis of our Darien office)

Van Leeuwen

48 1/2 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003

The Classic Michel Cluizel chocolate ice cream is to die for! Homemade dark chocolate fudge and chunks of homemade gooey chocolate chip brownies is such a rich treat, no other chocolate ice cream compares!  The vegan ice cream in coffee flavor is a winner too! You will be in heaven on earth!” – Roni Pall of our Cobble Hill office

(Recommended by Fern Hammond of our Park Avenue office and Roni Pall of our Cobble Hill office) 

Brooklyn Farmacy and Soda Fountain

513 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

“They serve Adirondack Creamery ice cream which is the purest you can get. It was converted from an actual pharmacy and now is set as an old fashioned “soda shoppe.” They have live music and amazing food too.” – Anna Shagalov of our Village office

“This place looks like you walked back in time and the sundaes are unique.” – Marta Quinones

Bischoff's Confectionary

468 Cedar Ln, Teaneck, NJ 07666

The best ice cream in NJ, and in Sabina L. Feiler-Fluger’s opinion, the entire country, is at Bischoff's Confectionary in Teaneck, NJ. Going to Bischoff's was like winning the lottery when she was a kid. “We would select a flavor and sometimes sit at the bar, or at the booths in the back and the ice cream was always served in old school, metal dishes on top of a small white ceramic plate. They still do that today,” explains Sabina. This place is legendary and exactly what you would imagine a traditional ice cream parlor to look like. It opened in 1934, has been family run through generations. It still maintains relics of a 1950's style parlor with wood paneling, an antique mirror with the logo etched on it, two sides to the shop- one with ice cream in a multitude of flavors scooped out of antique metal freezers, and the other side sells candy- chocolates, hard candy, gummies, even toys. “They have the BEST coffee chip ice cream, and all sorts of flavors- basic and unique, even weekly specials,” says Sabina. They have been written up in many publications as one of the top places to go in NJ for ice cream.

(Recommended by Sabina L. Feiler-Fluger of our Hoboken office)

Serendipity 3

225 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022

Divinely decadent and devilishly delectable, Frozen Hot Chocolate is the signature item at Serendipity! In addition, you can find the most outrageous sundaes, milkshakes, cakes, pies, and cookies to satisfy any sweet tooth. “You can’t beat the drugstore sundae at serendipity,” says agent Zoraida Morales.

(Recommended by Zoraida Morales of our Park Avenue office)

Uncle Louie G

157 Prospect Park SW, Brooklyn, NY 11218

From stick ball on the street to sitting on the stoop, out of all the memories, the one treat that made summer what it was, in all its sweet goodness was Italian Ices. Uncle Louie G’s has been a staple in Brooklyn and continues to provide that old-fashioned feeling when you enter. It’s just a great spot on the stroll along the park in Brooklyn.

(Victoria Vinokur of our Park Avenue office)

Dolce Brooklyn

305 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Dolce Brooklyn gelato starts with all natural, award winning milk from the Hudson Valley and only the finest ingredients are added to create our gelato & sorbetto (vegan).  Each flavor is made on premise in small batches to ensure freshness. Chef Kristina sources many of the fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farmer's market and other top ingredients from specialty markets. Agent Gerard Splendore recommends the chocolate bourbon gelato!

(Recommended by Gerard Splendore of our Brooklyn Heights office)

L’Albero Dei Gelati

341 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

“They have some of the best gelato that I've eaten outside of Italy. In fact, I like the consistency of the gelato here just a little bit better because it doesn't melt quite as fast.” - Joanna Mayfield Marks

(Recommended by Joanna Mayfield Marks of our Cobble Hill office)

[moutoshidotcom]

Expert Choice: Top 10 Best Hotels in Abuja, Nigeria

Abuja is the capital of Nigeria. It is a surprisingly expensive city. The top 10 best hotels in Abuja, Nigeria hand-picked by our travel experts, including luxury 5-star, 4-star, ad 3-star hotels. Before going to Abuja you must have a look. It’ll be a great help for you.

We have created a list with the Top 10 best hotels in Abuja, Nigeria. Hope you enjoy it.

1. Summerset Continental Hotel

This stylish, upscale hotel is set on a tree-lined boulevard near embassy row and offers free Wi-Fi access. The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is 43 km away. There is an 8 km drive to Aso Rock and a 10 km drive to Millennium Park.

There are sleek rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and suite bathrooms. Four stylish elegant suites are available.

Parking and breakfast are complimentary. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, an airport shuttle, a sleek, elegant restaurant, room service, and a 24-hour bar. There is event space available.

2. TRANSCORP Hilton Abuja

The Abuja National Mosque is located 2 km away from this modern hotel in the city center, while the A234 is located 5 km away.

Our warmly furnished rooms feature free Wi-Fi, TVs, mini-fridges, and marble bathrooms. The upgraded rooms include a sitting area and access to a private lounge. Suites include dining areas and living rooms; some also have extra bedrooms, kitchenettes, and balconies. There is room service available.

Check out these other cool hotel lists for Mauritius: 10 Best 4-star Hotels in Mauritius

Parking is free. Seven dining options are available, including a poolside bar with a thatched roof, an Asian restaurant, and a stylish lounge with live piano music. There is also an outdoor pool, a gym, a playground, as well as basketball, tennis, and squash courts.

3. Fraser Suites Abuja

An upmarket hotel located in a business district is just off Route A234. It is 3 km away from Abuja Arts and Crafts Village.

Modern apartments include kitchenettes, Nespresso coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Upgraded apartments include full kitchens and dining areas.

Breakfast is available for a fee. The hotel also features a barbecue grill and a poolside restaurant serving pizza and barbecues. A gym is also available. Parking is available in a secure area.

4. Nordic Hotel, Abuja

This modern hotel is located in a low-rise complex 2 km from Jabi Lake, 7 km from the center of Abuja, 8 km from the Murtala Mohammed Expressway, and 10 km from Abuja National Mosque.

Featuring sleek, contemporary decor, flat-screen TVs, balconies, and rainfall showers, the rooms have free Wi-Fi in addition to flat-screen TVs. Suites feature living areas, additional TVs, and balconies.

In addition to an outdoor pool and fitness center, the hotel has a spa offering massages and beauty treatments.

5. Sheraton Abuja Hotel

This contemporary hotel is 1 km from Abuja National Mosque, 5 km from Millennium Park, and 40 km from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

The warm rooms feature free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and suite bathrooms; some have balconies. Upgraded rooms include minibars and access to a lounge. Suites include dining and living areas; some include kitchenettes. There is room service available.

You may also like these stories: Best Hotels and Resorts in Hong Kong

The hotel offers a free breakfast buffet. There are 4 restaurants, including a steakhouse grill and a BBQ restaurant on the poolside terrace. In addition, the hotel has a lobby bar, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center with a sauna and sports courts.

6. Chelsea Hotel, Abuja

The unassuming hotel is 5 km from Abuja International Conference Centre and 40 km from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

Warmly furnished and understated rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safes, minifridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Living rooms are added to suites.

There are 2 restaurants and a down-to-earth bar. There is a breakfast menu available.

7. The Wells Carlton Hotel & Apartments

In a residential area, this upmarket hotel is 7 km from the Abuja National Mosque and 9 km from IBB International Golf & Country Club. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is 47 km away.

Rooms feature flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, as well as minibars, safes, and tea and coffeemakers. The upgraded rooms have sitting areas. Apartments with 4 bedrooms include living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and washers and dryers. Room service is available 24 hours a day.

Breakfast is complimentary at the hotel. Additionally, there are four restaurants, two bars, a rooftop terrace, a spa, a gym, and indoor and outdoor pools. They offer meeting rooms, parking, and airport transfers.

8. Nicon Luxury Hotel Abuja

Hotel Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is 41 km away, and Abuja National Mosque and Abuja Zoo are 3 km away.

These unassuming rooms come with cable TV and fridges, safes, and tea and coffee-making facilities. All have balconies with views of the city and/or pool. Some suites include kitchenettes; others have living areas. Upgraded suites include complimentary fruit and wine.

Breakfast is complimentary. A restaurant serving local cuisine and a bar are also available. There is also a gym, a spa, an outdoor pool, and tennis courts. A meeting room and a business center are also available.

9. Corinthia Villa Hotel

A tranquil retreat in a leafy residential area, this hotel is 10 km from the National Arboretum and 5 km from the Abuja National Mosque. The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is 42 kilometers away.

Stylish rooms with wood accents feature desks, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, kettles, and safes. Suites have separate sitting areas.

The hotel has an outdoor pool and a spa, as well as a fitness center, a sauna, and a steam room. Additionally, there is a casual buffet restaurant and a bar, as well as a meeting and event space. There is parking available.

10. Reiz Continental Hotel

In the Central Business District, the hotel is 3 kilometers from the Abuja National Mosque and 4 kilometers from Millennium Park. 39 kilometers away is the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport.

Each casual room includes free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a refrigerator, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities. There is a separate living area with a sofa in upgraded rooms and suites. The hotel’s room service is available 24 hours a day.

Breakfast and parking are complimentary. There is also a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor pool, and a gym. In addition, there is a business center and meeting/event space. They offer car rental and laundry services.

Final Words

These are our expert choices for the Top 10 Best Hotels in Abuja, Nigeria. We hope you enjoyed this article. Please share your views through comments. We are wishing you all the best in spending your holidays in Abuja, Nigeria. Thanks for being with moutoshi.com.

[orbemnews]

8 hidden beaches in Hong Kong Editor’s Note — CNN Travel’s series often carries sponsorship originating from the countries and regions we profile. However, CNN retains full editorial control over all of its reports. Read the policy. (CNN) — Hong Kong is known to dazzle visitors with its neon skyline and urban canyons. But don’t let that glittery cosmopolitan facade fool you. The territory is home to more than 260 outlying islands, 100-plus beaches and endless miles of raw coastline. Sunseekers may already be familiar with popular sandy spots such as Repulse Bay, Stanley and Shek O. But it’s worth seeking out farther-flung crescents for cleaner sand and clearer water, too. Here are some of Hong Kong’s more hidden beaches, which you might even have all to yourself when you travel: Long Ke Wan Long Ke Wan Beach: Soft white sands. AFCD The sandy stretches of Sai Kung East Country Park could be straight out of the Philippines, especially the stunning soft white sands of Long Ke Wan. Backed by forested hillsides and overlooking clear water, this beach isn’t easy to reach but it’s well worth the journey. Hiking over the first hill from the nearby High Island Reservoir, travelers are rewarded with sweeping views of the South China Sea and a picture-perfect crescent sweep of sand, all surrounded by mountains. The remote location in Hong Kong’s northeastern corner protects the beach from overuse. Long Ke Wan is just the beginning of a string of beautiful beaches along Tai Long Wan bay. Getting there: From Diamond Hill MTR , a 30-minute taxi ride reaches the High Island Reservoir. From there it’s another 30-minutes on foot. Tung Ping Chau Tung Ping Chau is one of the best places to snorkel in Hong Kong. AFCD Located in the northeast corner of Mirs Bay — closer to Shenzhen, China, than to Hong Kong — Tung Ping Chau is the city’s most remote island. The sunny speck in the sea features curious rocks formations along the coastline, great snorkeling, clean water and soft, sandy beaches. To break up the day, follow the island’s three-hour-long walking trail through the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark to explore the many natural formations and rock pools. Hong Kong might not be your stereotypical beach town. But it’s home to some truly stunning stretches of sand. Video by Black Buddha Along the way, you can stop in Tai Tong Village for refreshments, though we’d recommend coming prepared with your own supplies. Getting there: Ferries to Tung Ping Chau depart from Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier, in northeastern Hong Kong, and take roughly 1.5 hours each way. As ferry services are limited, it’s wise to check times before the journey. Ham Tin Wan Ham Tin Wan: Clear water, rugged mountains. Chingleung/Creative Commons A discussion about Hong Kong’s most beautiful beaches never fails to include a mention of Tai Long Wan. The remote bay is home to four beaches — Sai Wan, Ham Tin Wan, Tai Wan and Tung Wan — each separated by hills. You’ll need to set aside an entire day to hike from beach to beach. But if you prefer to focus on just one of the four, we’d recommend Ham Tin Wan. Not only does the beach offer clear water and rugged mountain scenery, but there’s more infrastructure here — think a snack stall, bathrooms and water sport rentals. Along the trek from Sai Wan beach to Ham Tin, you’ll come across Sheung Luk Stream, which branches into the woods. Follow this stream for about 15 minutes until you reach tiered waterfalls and a series of rock pools. It’s the perfect place for a quick swim, picnic or bout of cliff jumping (at your own risk) before continuing on to Ham Tin. Getting there: Departing from Central, make your way to Sai Kung Village. From there, you can either take a kaito ferry or minibus No. 29R to the trailhead at Sai Wan Pavilion. If hiking, the journey takes about 40 minutes to reach Sai Wan. Lo So Shing Find yourself an empty plot on Lo So Shing beach. Leisure and Cultural Services Department On the western coast of Lamma Island, this quiet beach is oft overlooked in favor of the more popular Powerstation or Hung Shing Ye beaches. But after a short hike, you’ll be rewarded with exceptionally clean water and, quite possibly, a cove all to yourself. The facilities are pretty bare bones here — there’s a refreshment stand, some water sports vendors and bathrooms — but the powdery sand is hard to beat. After hitting the beach, visitors can wander up to Yung Shue Wan village for a leisurely lunch or sunset drinks. Getting there: From Central, take the ferry to Sok Kwu Wan fishing village and follow the Family Walk for roughly 20 minutes. When you reach the hilltop pavilion, turn left and walk downhill until you reach Lo So Shing. Turtle Cove It’s nearly impossible to find a quiet plot of sand on Hong Kong island, but Turtle Cove might be the rare outlier. This oft deserted beach sits on the southern side of the island, just south of Tai Tam Reservoir. You can’t see it from above, as it’s hidden at the bottom of 200-some stairs. Descending through the tree-fringed corridor, the beach finally comes into sight — nothing but golden sands and mountain scenery in sight. On site, there are a few government-run facilities, including lifeguards in season, barbecue pits, toilets and a refreshment kiosk. Getting there: From Sai Wan Ho MTR station, take Bus No. 15 to the Tai Tam Reservoir. Hoi Ha Wan Hoi Wa Wan beach is home to an abundance of marine life. AFCD On the northern coast of Sai Kung East Country Park, Hoi Ha Wan usually draws kayakers, snorkelers and nature lovers. Part of a protected marine park, the boulder-hugged beach is home to an abundance of colorful marine life, including more than 120 species of fish, 60 types of hard coral and labyrinthine mangrove forests. Back on land, there’s a scenic village that’s home to traditional temples and a few observation points. At the village, you can stock up on snacks, drinks and snorkeling gear before diving in. Getting there: From Sai Kung Village, take Minibus No. 7 to Hoi Ha Tsuen Village and make your way to the beach. Tong Fuk Beach A small strip of sand on Lantau Island’s southern coast, Tong Fuk Beach offers the best of both worlds. It’s within walking distance to more popular Cheung Sha beaches, where you’ll find popular beach bars such as Bathers … but just far enough that it’s nearly always deserted. Tong Fuk Beach doesn’t provide much more than a changing room and toilets; however, what it lacks in infrastructure, it makes up for with firm gray sand, clean water and spectacular sunsets. Getting there: Take the ferry from Central to Mui Wo, then catch Bus No. 1 to South Lantau and alight near the beach. Hap Mun Wan Sharp Island’s “Half Moon Bay.” Hong Kong Tourism Board Meaning “Half Moon Bay,” Hap Mun Wan is one of the most remote beaches in the territory. It’s no secret to Hong Kong residents, but few travelers make the hike. Located on Sharp Island off the coast of Sai Kung, in northeastern Hong Kong, the beach can only be accessed via a kaito (local ferry), which you can catch from the Sai Kung Town pier. Once you reach the beach, you’ll find a brilliant stretch of golden sand, Grade 1 water (the cleanest in Hong Kong) and leafy hills on either side. The government-run beach includes all the basic services, including snack kiosks, toilets and barbecue pits. But be sure to pack your own lunch — plus lots of sunscreen. Also on the island, adventurous travelers may want to tackle the one-hour trek northwest through Kiu Tsui Country Park. Part of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, the western coast is home to volcanic rock formations — dubbed “pineapple bun rocks” due to their resemblance to a namesake Hong Kong baked good — and a tombolo (natural sand levee) that connects to smaller Kiu Tau island. Getting there: At Sai Kung Village, hop on the next kaito at the pier. If you’re on a tight timeline, you can also hire a private boat. Source link Orbem News #beaches #hidden #Hong #Kong

[expatimes]

Hopes of divided US legislature drive stocks higher

A gauge of Asian shares rallied to nearly a three-year high while the dollar stayed sluggish and United States bond yields slipped on Friday as investors bet that a divided US legislature would limit major policy changes and keep the status quo on economic policies.

Investors expect Democrat Joe Biden to beat President Donald Trump and the Republicans to retain control of the Senate, allowing them to block the Democrats' agenda, such as corporate tax hikes and massive borrowing for large spending.

“Even if or when a Biden victory is confirmed, this amounts to a major upset to hopes of a Democrat sweep, and to hopes of substantial near term fiscal support,” analysts at Dutch bank ING said in a note sent to Al Jazeera.

“We suspect the bar is high to implement tax hikes with a republican senate, so is the risk is for a structurally wider fiscal deficit,” ING said.

Japan's Nikkei 225 share index rose 0.7 percent to almost its best level in 30 years while MSCI's broadest gauge of Asian Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.3 percent.

US S&P 500 index futures dropped 0.3 percent in early Asian trade, a day after the underlying stock index rose 1.95 percent.

[Bloomberg]

US Treasury bond yields drifted lower again as investors bet that a divided US government will cap debt-funded government spending and limit bond supply.

The 10-year Treasury yield edged lower to 0.773 percent, more than 150 basis points below the pre-US election level seen on Tuesday. It had struck a three-week low of 0.7180 percent on Thursday.

Bond yields tend to fall as investors move funds into the relative safety of highly rated securities such as US government debt due to expectations of mounting political or economic unpredictability.

“There will no longer be the massive largesse people were imagining. After all, when it comes to fiscal spending, the Senate really matters, ”said Kazushige Kaida, head of FX sales, at State Street Bank's Tokyo Branch.

US networks project almost no Democratic gains in the Senate, though vote-counting is ongoing.

Keeping it loose

The US Federal Reserve on Thursday kept its monetary policy loose and pledged to do whatever it takes to sustain an unsteady economic recovery.

With COVID-19 raging in the US and parts of Europe, many investors assume more monetary stimulus from the Fed and other central banks will be inevitable.

The Bank of England expanded its asset purchase scheme on Thursday while the European Central Bank is widely expected to announce more stimulus next month.

In Hong Kong, shares of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba were 3.6 percent lower after it reported a 63 percent drop in third-quarter net income, even as revenues surged with a rise in e-commerce spending in China.

Investors remain concerned about the fate of the initial public offering (IPO) of Alibaba's payment platform, Ant Group. China abruptly halted Ant's record-beating $ 37bn IPO on Tuesday.

Ant said its listing had been suspended by the Shanghai stock exchange following a meeting that its billionaire founder Jack Ma and top executives held with Chinese financial regulators. It also froze the Hong Kong leg of the dual listing.

Alibaba Chief Executive Daniel Zhang said during an earnings call that Alibaba is “actively evaluating” the effect of the Ant Group IPO's suspension on its business and will “take appropriate measures accordingly”.

In the currency market, lower yields undermined the dollar against many currencies.

The dollar index of the greenback against a basket of other major currencies touched a two-month low of 92.473 and last stood at 92.718.

A softer dollar supported the Japanese yen, which climbed to a near eight-month high of 103.43 yen against the dollar overnight. It was steady in early Asian trade at 103.52 yen.

The euro traded at $ 1.1810 while the offshore Chinese yuan hit a near 2-and-a-half-year high of 6.6000 to the dollar.

Gold, which is limited in supply and seen as a hedge against inflation in an era of ultra-loose monetary and fiscal policies, eased slightly to $ 1,942 per ounce after jumping more than 2 percent overnight.

Oil prices were sluggish after a bout of profit-taking in early trade. Brent crude was down 1.73 percent at $ 40.22 a barrel.

. #world Read full article: https://expatimes.com/?p=13459&feed_id=14744

[travelonlinetipsofficial]

Hong Kong Outdoor Activities: 10Best Outdoors Reviews

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Hong Kong Outdoor Activities: 10Best Outdoors Reviews

Hong Kong is a big city, for sure, but it’s got a great outdoors that would appeal to adults and children alike. Four-tenths of Hong Kong is officially designated country park, few parts of the city aren’t in sight of water, it’s dotted with parks large and small, and the outlying islands are a world away from the concrete jungle.

One of Hong Kong’s most famous attractions is the Star Ferry, which putters back and forth between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Besides being highly inexpensive, it’s also one of the world’d great sightseeing trips. Nothing says “outdoors” like one of Hong Kong’s street markets, such as Ladies Market. And then there’s Hong Kong’s brace of theme parks – Disney and Ocean Park. Of course, you don’t have to head to a “destination” – simply wandering the streets and alleyways is an entertainment in itself, and the city is very safe, with hardly any street crime.

One thing to note: Hong Kong gets hot in summer time – take adequate drinking water if you are venturing out to one of the more remote country parks, and don’t be shy about using an umbrella to ward off the sun. It’s what the locals do on a regular basis.

Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board

Stanley is possibly Hong Kong’s best-known market. And with good reason. It’s part of a community set by the sea, with plenty of restaurants and cafes so you can pause for refreshment. The goods on sale are fabulously varied, and the traders generally cheery and not averse to bargaining. There’s no charge for entry, of course, so visitors are free to wander about and enjoy the spectacle. There’s a beach nearby, and Murray House, a 19th-century building which was moved here lock, stock and barrel from Central, stands by the shore. One way or another, Stanley is a great day out.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: It’s by the seaside, in a picturesque village, and getting there and back on the top deck of a double-decker bus from Central is thrilling.

Ed’s expert tip: Pace yourself, there’s lot to explore here, so build lunch or supper into your itinerary.

Read more about Stanley Market →

Photo courtesy of The Peninsula

There are four main tours with Heliservices, the only flightseeing operation in Hong Kong. The first flies around Hong Kong Island, concentrating on Victoria Harbour. The flight lasts approximately 15 minutes. Slightly longer, the Hong Kong Island Experience takes in the whole of the Island, looping down over Stanley and Aberdeen and the beaches and bays on the south of the island. Longer still, the half-hour Kowloon and Hong Kong Island Experience heads north over the mountains that separate the city from the New Territories. Finally, the Geopark Experience, of a similar length, flies east to take in Sai Kung Country Park and the Hong Kong Geopark. The tours usually employ a seven-seater MD902 Explorer, and they’re piloted by expert crews. A full safety briefing is given beforehand, and safety equipment such as lifejackets are provided.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: No matter where your fly, or for how long, it’s a thrill a minute with Heliservices.

Ed’s expert tip: Place your camera as close as possible to window to avoid the reflection.

Read more about Heliservices →

Photo courtesy of Museum of Coastal Defence

This site dates back over a century, to when Lei Yue Mun Fort was a strategic part of Hong Kong’s defenses. It was the scene of fierce fighting during the Japanese invasion on 1941, and later became a regular barracks. So its current role as a military museum couldn’t be more apt. This is a magnificent setting, and the exhibits are both indoors and out, above ground and below. The best way to take it all in is to follow the historical trail which leads visitors around the entire museum. This is probably Hong Kong’s largest museum, so allow sufficient time for your visit.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: Most of the exhibits are outside, so this is quite an unusual museum.

Ed’s expert tip: Don’t think this museum is just for military buffs: it’s for anyone interested in Hong Kong.

Read more about Museum of Coastal Defence →

Photo courtesy of Wong Tai Sin Temple

This well-known attraction was built in 1973 and is still one of the most active Buddhist temples in the city. The lush gardens, with their waterfalls, ponds and pavilions, inspire numerous photographs. Be sure to wander through the arcade, where a palm reader will tell your fortune – some will even do it in English. Named for a shepherd boy who was said to have mystical healing powers, this temple still has a magical feeling. Wong Tai Sin is deluged at Lunar New Year, usually late January or early February, when large swathes of the population come to worship and pray.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: As well as the temple itself, there are ample grounds to wander around.

Ed’s expert tip: This is one of the easiest temples to visit as it’s right next to the MTR station.

Read more about Wong Tai Sin Temple →

Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board

Surrounded by high-rises, this downtown racecourse is one of the greatest stadiums on earth to enjoy a sweaty, noisy and adrenaline-pumping horse race at night. Dating back to 1844, the 55,000-seat racecourse is one of the earliest public facilities in colonial Hong Kong. Regular races take place every Wednesday and Saturday from September to June on the 30-meter-wide grass track. A 978-seat iPad-equipped betting hall is located on the second floor of platform one. Visitors can either pay HK$10 (US$1.3) to sit on the public spectator seats or HK$100-150 (US$13-19) to enter the member-only zone. There are a total of seven restaurants and bars in the complex from Cantonese dining to al fresco drinking. On the second floor of the Happy Valley Stand of the racecourse, there is a 670-square-meter museum, Hong Kong Racing Museum, tracing the past and present of the city’s enduring pastime.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: Race nights are like a circus with the whole crowd enthralled by the races and roaring their appreciation.

Ed’s expert tip: There’s a “beer garden” with racing commentary in English available at Happy Valley near the finish line.

Read more about Happy Valley Racecourse →

Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board

The New Territories, once home to nothing but pastoral meadowlands, are quickly becoming industrialized and commercialized. However, this park remains a bastion of natural beauty. This unspoiled seaside area of parkland features hiking trails dotted with informative visitor centers. See the area from a watery vantage point by renting a kaido (a small boat) in the town of Sai Kung, which is flanked by protected parks. Locals say eating seafood in this town is a must.The beaches at Tai Long Wan, on the eastern fringe of the park, are the most lovely in Hong Kong and well worth the hike out.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: This is perhaps the greatest of Hong Kong’s great outdoors: rolling hills, lovely beaches, even surf!

Ed’s expert tip: If you are hiking this park, take enough food and water and there are not many refreshment points.

Read more about Sai Kung Country Park →

Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Disneyland

Escape the city center for a family day trip to fantasy by the overly cute Disneyland Resort Line from Sunny Bay metro station. Currently the smallest of all Disneylands, the 240,000-square-meter park is compact and easily navigated (like everything else in Hong Kong). The wonderland consists of seven sections including two world exclusives: Mystic Point and Grizzly Gulch. The former is the latest addition to the park and features a haunted Victorian-style castle owned by fictional explorer Lord Henry Mystic as well as the most advance trackless ride Disneyland has built. The latter is another original story designed just for Hong Kong. Set in the American West, the sandy yellow section has a hair-raising gold mine roller coaster. The comprehensive resort also contains two large-scale hotels for ultimate Mickey fans: 600-room American-style Hollywood Hotel and 400-room Victorian-style Disneyland Hotel.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: This is Disney with Chinese characteristics, well away from the city, and a great chance to mingle with Mainland pleasure seekers.

Ed’s expert tip: Stay for the nightly “Disney in the Stars” fireworks show at 9pm. It’s truly unforgettable.

Read more about Hong Kong Disneyland →

Occupying three blocks of Tung Choi Street, this enclave of more than 100 stalls represents the epitome of Asia’s market culture: a bit crowded, a lot noisy but totally stimulating. Rather than what its name suggests, the 1,000-meter-long market sells a wide selection of clothes, shoes and travel souvenirs, from US$5 sandals to Chinese necklace pendants to the “I Love Hong Kong” T-shirts. Although it’s been running for about three decades, this government-licensed street market is still set up from scratch every day. Vendors build their stalls with canvas at noon and pull them down when the market closes around midnight. Best time to go is after 7pm when tourists and merchants are at their optimal size. Nearest metro station is Mongkok via exit E2.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: Of all Hong Kong’s outdoor markets, this is one of the liveliest.

Ed’s expert tip: Bargain hard or you’ll be a bargain. A good strategy is to halve the asking price, at least.

Read more about Ladies Market →

Photo courtesy of Ocean Park

This massive wonderland is a combination of amusement park, aquarium and zoo. It has enough activity to keep everyone in the family busy for an entire day. Built around several hills near the South China Sea, the 780,000-square-meter park is divided into two sections: The Headland and The Lowland. They are connected by a 1,400-meter-long cable car system. The Lowland houses two giant pandas, a variety of fun animal shows and Dolphin Encounter, 90 minutes of up-close-and-personal time in a pool with the friendly cetaceans. The Headland section is equipped with several thrilling ocean-side scream machines (roller coasters, water rides, etc), a vast aviary with more than 1,000 birds and Marine World, a massive aquarium with a fabulous jellyfish exhibit, a shark tunnel and a gigantic reef tank with some 2,000 fish.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: Spread over a large area with a cable car in between, Ocean Park’s rolling acres are sheer fun.

Ed’s expert tip: Dolphin Encounter participants must be at least eight years old.

Read more about Ocean Park →

Star Ferry is the loveliest attraction in Hong Kong. This 115-year-old service is one of these rare attractions that are hailed by both tourists and locals. Shuttling between Tsim Sha Tsui on Kowloon side, and Central and Wan Chai on Hong Kong island, these short boat rides represent a lifestyle of the past: slow, soothing and stress-free. That’s exactly where the excitement and enjoyment lies. It’s fascinating to see the hyper-busy city from these boats: century-old colonial buildings rub shoulders with glass-walled skyscrapers on the two jam-packed waterfronts. Even with the subway efficiently connecting Kowloon and Central, locals still choose to ride the Star Ferry now and then for that classic Hong Kong moment.

Recommended for Outdoor Activities because: The ferry’s upper deck grants marvelous city and marine views. And what a deal!

Ed’s expert tip: Time your star ferry ride with A Symphony of Lights to achieve an optimal Hong Kong moment.

Read more about Star Ferry →

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[kashmirspeaks]

Coronavirus: US bars foreigners who recently visited China.

The US has declared a public health emergency over the spread of the coronavirus and said it would deny entry to any foreign nationals who have visited China in the past two weeks.

US citizens returning from Hubei province, where the outbreak started, will be quarantined for 14 days.

More than 11,000 cases of the new virus have been confirmed, most of them in China, since it emerged in December.

More than 100 cases have been reported outside China, in 22 countries.

On Friday, Beijing said the death toll had risen by 46 to 259 - all of them in China and 249 in Hubei.

Earlier, it emerged that the number of new coronavirus cases worldwide had overtaken that of the Sars epidemic, which spread to more than two dozen countries in 2003.

There were around 8,100 cases of Sars - severe acute respiratory syndrome - during the eight-month outbreak. In total, 774 people were killed by Sars.

On Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health emergency over the new outbreak.

What has the US said?

In a public statement on Friday, US Health Secretary Alex Azar said US citizens returning from Hubei province would face 14 days of quarantine while those returning from other parts of China would be allowed to monitor their own condition for a similar period.

"Following the World Health Organization decision, I have today declared that the coronavirus represents a public health emergency in the United States," he told reporters.

Citing the need to relieve pressure on authorities, he said that foreign nationals who had travelled in China in the past 14 days would be denied entry to the US.

"The risk of infection for Americans remains low and with these, and our previous, actions we are working to keep the risk low," he added.

Can people recover from coronavirus? And other questions

How quarantine has fought disease through the ages

The lessons learned from the Sars outbreak

Another confirmed case in the US on Friday - in California - brought the number there to seven. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said 191 people were under observation for the disease.

What's happening elsewhere?

The US announcement came as other countries around the world scrambled to contain the spread of the new virus, 2019-nCov.

On Friday, the UK confirmed its first two cases.

Estimates by the University of Hong Kong suggest the true total number of cases could be far higher than official figures suggest. Based on mathematical models of the outbreak, experts there say more than 75,000 people may have been infected in the city of Wuhan alone, where the virus first emerged.

Most cases outside China involve people who have been to Wuhan. But Germany, Japan, Vietnam, the US, Thailand and South Korea have reported person-to-person cases - patients being infected by people who had travelled to China.

WHO spokesman Chris Lindmeier warned that closing borders could in fact accelerate its spread, with travellers entering countries unofficially.

"As we know from other scenarios, be it Ebola or other cases, whenever people want to travel, they will. And if the official paths are not opened, they will find unofficial paths," he said.

He said the best way to track the virus was at official border crossings.

Meanwhile in Wuhan, voluntary evacuations of hundreds of foreign nationals are under way.

The UK, Australia, South Korea, Singapore and New Zealand are expected to quarantine all evacuees for two weeks to monitor them for symptoms and avoid contagion.

Australia plans to quarantine its evacuees on Christmas Island, 2,000km (1,200 miles) from the mainland in a detention centre that has been used to house asylum seekers.

In other developments:

Sweden confirmed its first case - a woman in her 20s who arrived in the country on 24 January after visiting the Wuhan area

Russia said two Chinese citizens had been placed in isolation after they tested positive for the virus

Singapore closed its borders to all travellers from China

Germany confirmed its seventh case - a man from a company in Bavaria where five other workers have tested positive

Italy declared a six-month state of emergency after two Chinese tourists in Rome were diagnosed with the coronavirus

Thailand confirmed its first case of human-to-human transmission

Mongolia suspended all arrivals from China until 2 March. It also banned its citizens from travelling to the country

Russia decided to close its 4,300km (2,670-mile) far-eastern border with China

Japan raised its infectious disease advisory level for China

Some 250 French nationals were evacuated from Wuhan

India confirmed its first case of the virus - a student in the southern state of Kerala who was studying in Wuhan

Israel barred all flight connections with China

North Korea suspended all flights and trains to and from China, said the British ambassador to North Korea

Guatemala announced new travel restrictions, saying anyone who had been to China in the past 15 days would be prevented from reaching the country.

How is China handling this?

A confirmed case in Tibet means the virus has now reached every region in mainland China.

The central province of Hubei, with a population of nearly 60 million people and where nearly all deaths have occurred, is in a state of lockdown.

Diary of a life in locked-down Wuhan

Coronavirus: What it does to the body

Wuhan: The London-sized city where the virus began

Wuhan has effectively been sealed off and China has put numerous transport restrictions in place to curb the spread of the virus. People who have been in Hubei are also being told to work from home.

China has said it will send charter planes to bring back Hubei residents who are overseas "as soon as possible". A foreign ministry spokesman said this was because of the "practical difficulties" Chinese citizens had faced abroad.

Tianjin has also ordered all schools and non-essential companies to remain closed until further notice. The northern Chinese city, which is near Beijing, has a population of about 15 million and has had 32 confirmed cases of the coronavirus.

The virus is affecting China's economy, the world's second-largest, with a growing number of countries advising their citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the country.

#Courtesy #BBCNEWS

[onedraycott]

Orchard Road - A Location, Best for Buying a Home

Orchard Road- A Location, Best for Buying a Home

Singapore has turned out to be the best destination to search for high-end condos, apartments and other residential buildings. However, apart from the Singaporeans, the condo buyers in Singapore are also from Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, China, US and Europe. In the present years, Singapore has started showing advancement in different sectors, including medical section, financial industry and overall infrastructure. It is one of the major reasons behind investing in the apartments and condominiums for permanent residence. Now, the question is – Why should you look for the prime location to find the condominium for sale in Singapore?

Convenience and amenities, easily available to the apartment buyers–

These are major factors, contributing to the higher value of metropolitan areas of Singapore. The luxury apartments Singapore are very close to the business and commercial amenities. The Central Region presents you with different types of accommodations. This region connects you with the remaining part of the country very easily.

The most notable amenities that attract lots of condo buyers are- entertainment centers, public transport network and malls.

Prestige- Another factor affecting the decision of condo buyers–

The apartment and condo buyers always look for prestigious location of their accommodation. Mature neighborhood and world-class amenities enable the residents to enjoy an amazing lifestyle.

Advanced transportation facilities–

By the year 2030, Singapore will turn out to be easily accessible to everyone due to the introduction of new MRT lines. The Downtown Line and Thomson Line will take the public transport system to a different level. The residents, residing near those transport links will have no problem to move to any part of the country.

These are the potential reasons to look for the ‘prime location’ to invest in residential properties. However, while searching for this location, the name that easily comes to our mind is Orchard Road. Known as the best entertainment and retail hub, Orchard Road has become the most notable location, where you can your residence or condo.

Let us analyze the reasons behind the popularity of condos, near Orchard Road.

Presence of shopping malls–

ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City and Paragon have created a shopping belt in Orchard Road. From retail stores to designer boutiques, everything is there in Orchard Road. Metro, Robinson’s and Takashimaya are the best departmental stores to buy your essentials. What’s more, Great Singapore Sale starts every year on the month of June.

Tranquil settings for nature lovers

Although the shopping belt is a bustling site, Orchard Road has also a serene environment for you. While staying near Orchard Road, you can keep away from noise by having a visit to the sites, like-

Ardmore Park

Grange Road

Lenonie Hill Road

Cairn Hill

Hullet Road

Easy to access the restaurants for foods and drinks–

It is amazing to try out some local cuisines in some air-conditioned restaurant in Orchard Road. Basement Food Court and Tang Plaza and ION Orchard are the best sites to the foodies. Whether it is a special occasion or weekend trip, you can visit Wild Rocket, located at Mount Emily Park

The wine lovers may also hop into the decent bars, located near Emerald Hill Road. You can enjoy cocktails and ice cold beers with amazing live music.

Best for career development–

Lasalle College of the Arts and School of the Arts are the major attractions to the young residents. Moreover, Singapore Management University is also close to Orchard area and it is easily accessible for MRT Station.

Thus, Orchard Road has turned out to be heart of Singapore. For the above reasons, you can choose this site for buying home in Singapore. Although it is much crowded for tourists and locals, you will have the best from residing at this place.

[steve-explores]

Hong Kong Summer Foodie Adventure August 2019

After a two month absence, I am back in Hong Kong for another short foodie adventure located near to my home away from home, JW Marriott Hong Kong.

KOKOMI: Shop 002 LG Pacific Place, Admiralty

The Japanese causal dining restaurant was packed during lunch hour and I promptly queued like everyone else to try to find out what the fuss was all about. I was not disappointed as I indulged in a delicious bowl of Japanese rice topped with a generous serving of minced fatty tuna, ikura (salmon roe), and uni (sea urchin). Every mouthful is a savory piece of treasure from the sea, delivered in a neat little package for a relaxing lunch before returning back to the daily grind.

Sun’s Bazaar: Shop 112, 1/F, Pacific Place, 88, Queensway, Admiralty

After a couple of hours of emails, I found myself wandering to Sun’s Bazaar to enjoy its afternoon tea break delights. The menu offerings change daily to keep it fresh for diners and each tea break set can be customized with signature drinks from their bar. For my Tuesday tea break, I ordered the Taiwanese Braised Chicken Rice paired with a signature glass of Peach Oolong with Mini Taro Balls. The chicken rice was aromatic, spicy and perfectly charred for a satisfying meal while the Peach Oolong tea was refreshing, helping to doze the flames on my taste buds as I ventured back for more spicy goodness.

KYTALY: 5th Floor, Carfield Commercial Building, 77 Wyndham St, Central

Touted as serving the best pizza in the world, KYTALY has a lot of expectations to live up to and I guess it delivers most of the time.

MARGHERITA DOP: Tomato San Marzano DOP, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP, extra virgin olive oil. 

I rate this pizza as the best of the night as it is simple, delicious, and knocks it out of the park with its well-balanced flavors and crispy crust.

LA«PIZZA RITROVATA»MASTRO STEFANO: Tomato sauce, piennolo tomato, dried capers, black olives powder, deep fried basil, Cetara anchovies, extra virgin olive oil.

This unique pizza does not feature any cheese and delivers am unusual flavor profile that will make you either fall head over heels in love with it or run away like a bad Tinder date. For me, I love the spicy flavors and savory anchovies that reminds me of a well seasoned Sichuan dish. 

SCARPETTA:  Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP, cream of Grana Padano DOP 12 months aged cheese, 3 tomatoes compote, shavings of Grana Padano 24 months aged cheese, freeze dried pesto.

This pizza rates as the strongest flavored dish of the night, with the pizza being divided into 8 pieces instead of the usual 4 pieces to account for its heavy flavor profile. As always, I love the beautiful tomato compote that provided much needed acidity to cut through the strong cheesy flavors, with a refreshing touch brought by the freeze dried pesto.

For dessert, I would recommend the TIRAMISU “CLASSICO” consisting of sponge biscuits, cofee, eggs, mascarpone, and cacao. It is definitely one of the largest serving of tiramsu that I have ever seen, and the larger-than-life flavors definitely matches its stature and presence on the dining table.

Top Blade Steak Lab: G/F, 2-4 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay

Famous for its affordable top-grade steaks and free-flow french fries cut and fried to perfection, Top Blade Steak Lab is definitely a recommended must-visit for steak lovers in the city.

For tonight’s dinner, I had the honor of savoring its USA Prime 390 days grain feed flat iron cooked medium rare. The steak was well marbled, tender, and juicy without being overly bearing on your taste buds. It is definitely one of the most tender cuts of meat that I have ever experienced and I would be back for more in the future.

Elephant Grounds: 8 Wing Fung St, Wan Chai

Well known for its great selection of beans and roast, Elephant Grounds is a great cafe to chill and relax after a satisfying meal. For my visit, I ordered the unusual Bulletproof Coffee which is a blend of Americano, butter, and coconut oil. The concoction might seem strange but I assure you that it is a silky smooth cup of caffeine heaven unlike any that you have experienced. You just have to try it for yourself to know what I am talking about. 

Wagyu Vanne: 1F, Tower 535, 535 Jaffe Road, Causeway Bay

For my lunch on the last day of my visit, I decided to indulge in a mini celebration at Wagyu Vanne which is currently rated as one of the best places in town to savor wagyu beef. Although I visited the restaurant on a packed Friday lunch hour, the service staff kindly accommodated me when they heard that I had to catch a flight home in a couple of hours. To reciprocate their kind gesture, I decided to order the most expensive lunch set from their tasting menu and finish my meal as quickly as possible to allow more diners to enjoy this restaurant.

My tasting menu comprised of the world famous "HIYAMA" A5 Kuroge Wagyu Selection and Thick Cut Wagyu Tongue.

Starters began with Japanese F1 Wagyu “Tataki”, Crab Miso Soup, and Signature Tempura comprising of mushrooms, beef, and uni (Sea urchin) roll. Each starter is absolutely amazing and it helps me to forget all about the long 16-hour work days for the week, energizing my tired body in order to take on more challenges ahead.

Main stars of the tasting menu comprised of six slices of “HIYAMA" A5 Kuroge Wagyu from three different cuts and a thick slice of Wagyu Tongue. Words cannot describe the intense yet subtle flavors of each cut as I give thanks for every bite that I had, savoring the moment and remembering it with my senses.

My perfect lunch ended with a refreshing sorbet served beautifully as always, with a calming emerald green.

Halfway Coffee: 12 Tung St, Sheung Wan

With just a bit of time before takeoff, I had to enjoy a quick chat with my confidant at Halfway Coffee located within the alleys of Sheung Wan, filled with artistic vibes from inviting unique stores patronized by guests that simply want to enjoy a slower pace of life in this urban jungle.

Besides the usual blends, you have to try its signature offerings such as rose latte and longan honey latte. Each drink is served in a unique paper cup reminiscent of traditional Chinese ceramics.

And with that, I had to bid farewell again to the Pearl of the Orient.

However, I shall return again soon to the city that satisfied my belly and stole my heart. 

[bulbspoon9-blog]

New York Travel Guide: A Taste of Midtown

Planning a trip to New York City? Join me for our family’s picks on places to eat, sleep and visit while in Midtown New York in this New York Travel Guide. I am excited to share some hometown favorites with you AND collaborate with my very own brother, Andre Legaspi, who is a talented NYC-based street and lifestyle photographer. Photos by Andre Legaspi Photography.

Photo by Andre Legaspi Photography.

My New York Travel Guide is long overdue. I was born and raised in New York, and head back regularly to visit family and friends, and of course, for work. I try to keep a finger on the pulse of the city and check out what’s new (and what is still around), so it’s about time I shared some of my must-sees with you. As a New York native who now calls California home, I offer a perspective that comes from someone who loves and misses her hometown and feels like a tourist at the same time.

Let’s start with A Taste of Midtown, shall we? Midtown may not have the cool factor of lower Manhattan, but between you and me, it’s my favorite. The light is brighter, the streets make sense, there’s always a show to catch, and my offices used to be in midtown, so I feel like I know it best.

Stay

My favorite place to stay when visiting as a family of four is the Andaz 5th Avenue. Across the street from the New York Public Library, it’s away from the zoo that is Times Square, but within walking distance to so many locations, particularly Broadway theatres and Grand Central Station. The suites are roomy, with little kitchenettes, and the food and room service is superb.

The London NYC is another gem. This hotel used to be an apartment building, making its all-suite rooms spacious by NYC hotel standards.

Eat & Drink

Have ramen at Ippudo Westside. Don’t forget the pork buns!

The Oyster Bar at Grand Central Station has been serving up oysters and seafood since 1913.

Indian Accent serves up a taste of New Delhi inside the beautiful Le Parker Meridien.

For more casual Indian food, check out Bengal Tiger. This tiny gem used to be a favorite when I was working in the area.

If you won’t be going into Flushing, stop into Joe’s Shanghai for some slurp-worthy soup dumplings. The crab soup dumplings are the best.

Start your day with bagels and lox! If you’re on the west side, head to Best Bagel & Coffee (love their non-dairy schmears!). On the east side, go to Ess-a-Bagel. My husband loves to surprise us by bringing home a dozen when he goes back. They ship, too!

Grab pastrami on rye and a knish at the Carnegie Deli.

Tim Ho Wan is now in Midtown! No need to fly to Hong Kong for dim sum and barbecue pork buns, though you will definitely have to wait.

Serendipity 3 – if decadence is what you’re after, this is your place. Back in the day, my friends and I would stop in just for dessert and order the Outrageous Banana Split — it was HUGE, and this was before Instagrammable desserts were a thing.

Sarabeth’s has been a favorite for brunch for decades!

Magnolia Bakery has grown since they opened their first store in NYC, but if you’re craving something sweet, why not pop in for their famed banana pudding?

Bibble & Sip – craving cream puffs? Stop in for a sweet treat and a coffee, maybe before catching a show?

Check out Eclair Bakery for a taste of Paris in New York!

Danji for delicious Korean! Try the shrimp and scallion pancakes, beef sliders, pork belly sliders, egg over rice, and tofu ginger scallion dressing. Perfect place to grab dinner before watching a show!

Explore The Plaza Food Hall, downstairs in the Plaza Hotel — you can find everything from doughnuts to lobster, and everything in between. You can do a whole food crawl in this spot alone.

Whenever I’m in a rush, I look for a Halal Guys food truck (street food various locations). It’s a great way to get your gyro or falafel fix.

I’m guessing you’re looking for a slice of pizza while in Midtown…so stop in NY Pizza Suprema near Penn Station.

Need your bubble tea fix? Go to ViVi Bubble Tea on 7th, Gong Cha on E44th or Kung Fu Tea in Koreatown.

Looking for vegan food? We love P.S. Kitchen – perfectly located in the Theater District for dinner before a show, the food is absolutely delicious and all profits are donated to charity. Blossom in Chelsea has been a vegan standby, and there’s also a wonderful location on the Upper West Side. For fast vegan food, by CHLOE has several locations throughout Manhattan, including one in Rockefeller Center.

Craving fresh produce? Just around the corner from the United Nations Plaza, the Dag Hammarskjold Plaza Greenmarket is open every Wednesday and is host to farmers from the tri-state area.

Photo by Andre Legaspi Photography.

See & Do

Catch a Broadway show.

The New York Public Library is worth a peek, especially for book lovers.

Bryant Park is one of my favorite spots and is right behind the New York Public Library. If you’re in New York during the summer, stop by Bryant Park for their outdoor movie nights. Winter brings ice skating. I used to eat many picnic lunches here back in the day!

Top of the Rock for the views! And if it’s Christmas, take in the twinkling tree and go for a skate in Rockefeller Center.

Catch a performance at Radio City Music Hall. If it’s the holidays, you can see the Christmas Spectacular with the Radio City Rockettes!

Even if you’re not catching a train, stop into Grand Central Terminal. There are tons of eateries housed in the beautiful terminal.

Explore the exhibits at the Museum of Modern Art.

Go shopping! Flagship stores abound, from the three B’s (Bloomingdales, Barneys New York, Bergdorf Goodman) to Saks 5th Avenue. Plus, there are The Shops at Columbus Circle if you’re looking for a mall that happens to have high-end restaurants such as Masa and Per Se.

Sneak away from the urban jungle and stroll along the High Line. The High Line stretches down into Chelsea and Lower Manhattan, which is where we’ll pick up the guide again next time!

Photography by my very talented brother, Andre Legaspi. Follow Andre on Instagram and check out his work at andrelegaspi.com.

MORE FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDES

Paris Travel Guide: A Taste of The City of Lights A Taste of London: A Family Travel Guide A Taste of Hong Kong: A Family Travel Guide A Taste Of Cruising the Mexican Riviera: Travel with Princess Cruises A Taste of Deer Valley, Utah: A Family Ski Travel Guide

Source: https://kitchenconfidante.com/new-york-travel-guide-a-taste-of-midtown