#Travel tips for Hong Kong

[atlysvisaservice]

Explore the captivating sights of Hong Kong with our comprehensive infographic. Discover top attractions, hidden gems, and essential e-visa information for a seamless travel experience.

[nitsaholiday]

Visa-Free Travel for Indian Nationals in 2024: Your Passport to Adventure

The strength of the Indian passport continues to grow, providing access to many exciting destinations worldwide without the need for a visa. Whether you’re seeking tropical beaches, cultural immersion, or thrilling adventures, visa-free travel makes your journey smoother. In this guide, we reveal the top 10 countries that allow visa-free entry to Indian nationals in 2024, along with essential details to help you plan your travels.

1. Thailand

Thailand is a favorite destination for Indian travelers, offering vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and idyllic beaches. From Bangkok’s bustling streets to Krabi’s serene shores, Thailand provides diverse experiences.

Visa Details

Indian nationals enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand for 30 days until November 11, 2024.

Highlights

Bangkok: Explore the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.

Chiang Mai: Discover ancient temples and the Night Bazaar.

Phuket: Relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

2. Maldives

The Maldives is a dream destination for beach lovers and honeymooners, with its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and luxurious resorts offering a perfect escape.

Visa Details

Indian travelers receive a free visa on arrival for 30 days.

Highlights

Underwater Adventures: Snorkel and dive among vibrant marine life.

Luxury Resorts: Stay in overwater bungalows with world-class amenities.

Island Hopping: Explore various islands, each offering unique experiences.

3. Indonesia (Bali and More)

Indonesia, particularly Bali, is known for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and exciting activities. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Visa Details

Indian nationals can enjoy visa-free entry to Indonesia for up to 30 days.

Highlights

Bali: Visit Uluwatu Temple and surf world-class waves.

Yogyakarta: Discover the ancient Borobudur and Prambanan temples.

Komodo Island: See the unique Komodo dragons and explore marine parks.

4. Malaysia

Malaysia offers a rich blend of cultures, stunning natural beauty, and modern cities. From Kuala Lumpur’s skyscrapers to Langkawi’s beaches, Malaysia has something for everyone.

Visa Details

Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days from December 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024.

Highlights

Kuala Lumpur: Visit the Petronas Towers and explore the street food scene.

Penang: Discover George Town’s history and street art.

Langkawi: Relax on beaches, explore mangroves, and enjoy duty-free shopping.

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a bustling city known for its iconic skyline, vibrant shopping districts, and diverse culinary scene. It offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Visa Details

Indian passport holders are granted visa-free entry for up to 14 days.

Highlights

Victoria Peak: Panoramic views of the city and harbor.

Tsim Sha Tsui: Shopping, dining, and cultural attractions along the waterfront.

Lantau Island: Visit the Big Buddha, Ngong Ping 360, and hiking trails.

6. Bhutan

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, offers stunning Himalayan scenery and a unique cultural heritage. It’s a country where tradition is deeply rooted in everyday life.

Visa Details

Indian nationals can enjoy their stay in Bhutan without a visa for up to 14 days.

Highlights

Paro: Visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery on a cliffside.

Thimphu: Explore markets, museums, and Dzongs.

Punakha: See the majestic Punakha Dzong at the river confluence.

7. Nepal

Nepal is renowned for its breathtaking trekking routes, ancient temples, and serene landscapes. It’s a perfect destination for adventure seekers and those seeking spiritual solace.

Visa Details

Indian passport holders can stay indefinitely in Nepal without a visa.

Highlights

Kathmandu: Explore Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square.

Pokhara: Tranquil Phewa Lake and views of the Annapurna range.

Chitwan: Wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park.

8. Barbados

Barbados, a Caribbean gem, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing tropical getaway.

Visa Details

Holders of Indian passports can travel visa-free to Barbados for up to 90 days.

Highlights

Bridgetown: Historic capital with colonial architecture and markets.

Harrison’s Cave: Stunning underground cave system.

Beaches: Relax on Crane Beach and enjoy water sports at Carlisle Bay.

9. Mauritius

Mauritius, an Indian Ocean island nation, is famous for its turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Visa Details

Indian citizens enjoy visa-free tourism in Mauritius for up to 90 days.

Highlights

Grand Baie: Vibrant nightlife, shopping, and beaches.

Black River Gorges National Park: Hike scenic trails and discover waterfalls.

Ile aux Cerfs: Water sports and relaxation on a picturesque private island.

10. Fiji

Fiji is known for its warm hospitality, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Visa Details

Indian passport holders can stay in Fiji visa-free for up to 120 days.

Highlights

Suva: Markets, museums, and vibrant cultural scene.

Nadi: Garden of the Sleeping Giant and Sabeto Hot Springs.

Outer Islands: Island hopping, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

Final Tips for Visa-Free Travel

While visa-free travel offers significant convenience, it’s essential to be aware of each country’s specific entry requirements. Some countries might require proof of onward travel, sufficient funds, or a return ticket. Always verify the latest regulations with the respective country’s embassy or consulate before you travel.

With your Indian passport and a sense of adventure, the world is more accessible than ever. These are just a few of the many countries that welcome you with open arms. Happy travels!

[travelchoices]

Have you ever thought about going on a trip all by yourself, where you can explore at your own pace and discover new things?

Imagine walking through interesting streets and old places, using your phone to listen to cool stories. You will not just be a tourist – you're like an adventurer, finding hidden treasures.

Explore Hong Kong Top Attractions:

Bank Of China Tower

Hong Kong Park

St. John's Cathedral

Man Mo Temple

Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens Green House https://wegotrip.tp.st/U84oRs4F

[thatsonemorbidcorvid]

5 minute read

Women who are groped on trains in East Asia face the further threat of their assault being filmed and uploaded for sale online. In a year-long investigation, the BBC World Service's investigative unit, BBC Eye, has gone undercover to unmask the men cashing in on sexual violence.

It was the morning rush hour in Tokyo. The train was packed and rocky.

Takako (not her real name) was on her way to school. The 15-year-old tried to hold on to a grab bar.

Suddenly, she felt a hand pressing on her behind. She thought someone had accidentally bumped into her.

But the hand started to grope her.

"That's when I finally realised - it was molestation," Takako recalls.

The hand quickly disappeared in the crowd. "I couldn't do anything about it." She arrived at school in tears that day.

That was her first time being sexually assaulted on public transport, but Takako was molested almost daily for more than a year on her commute. On countless nights, she went to bed crying. "I felt like there was no hope in my life," she says.

Many women like Takako are targeted in public by sexual predators. In some cases, they face another violation - the attack is filmed and the videos are sold online.

Most videos follow the same pattern - a man secretly films a woman from behind and follows her on to a train. Seconds later, he sexually abuses her. The men act discreetly, and their victims can seem totally unaware. These graphic videos are then listed on the websites for sale.

In a year-long investigation, we traced the men behind three websites which sell and produce thousands of these sexual assault videos.

An epidemic in Japan

Encountering sexual abuse almost daily, Takako found herself unable to speak up during the act due to fear and shame. But every night, she covered her mouth with a towel and repeatedly practised in front of the mirror how to call out a harasser: "This person is a 'Chikan'!"

"Chikan" is a Japanese term describing sexual assault in public, especially groping on public transport. It also describes the offenders themselves.

Chikan perpetrators typically take advantage of crowds, and the victims' fear of causing a scene. In Japan, speaking too directly and openly may be seen as rude.

Thousands of arrests are made every year for Chikan offences, but many more go undetected and unpunished. Saito Akiyoshi, mental health professional and author of a book about Chikan, says that only about 10% of victims report the crime.

The Japanese police encourage victims and eyewitnesses to speak up, but the crime is far from being eradicated. The problem is so widespread that even the UK and Canadian governments warn travellers to Japan about it.

Chikan has been normalised by its prominence in Japan's adult entertainment industry. One of the most popular types of pornography in the country - the Chikan genre - has spread to other Asian countries.

Chikan websites

One Chinese-language website called DingBuZhu (which means "I can't hold it" in Chinese) immediately caught our attention.

It's a marketplace for Chikan videos, filmed secretly on mobile phones in crowded public places, such as trains and buses. They are shot across East Asia, including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China.

Some videos cost less than a dollar. The site even once allowed users to order tailor-made abuse videos.

We also found links on DingBuZhu to two other websites - Chihan and Jieshe - with the same type of content.

There is a Telegram group with 4,000 members who share tips on how to sexually abuse women.

One name kept coming up on the Chikan websites - "Uncle Qi".

He was hailed as the guru in this community. Dozens of abuse videos were labelled as his work. On Twitter, he put up teasers of the websites' videos to his 80,000 followers. But who was he?

The Telegram group we had been monitoring revealed a clue. One day, an admin claimed in a series of messages that he had abused a woman with Uncle Qi.

The messages were accompanied by photos of a woman standing on what appeared to be a metro platform.

Within hours, we found a match for the location - Ikebukuro station in Tokyo.

And there were more leads pointing us to Japan.

The websites listed a Paypal account receiving Japanese yen which was linked to a Gmail address. When we put the address through Google Contacts, the profile picture that came up was a young man with an elaborate hairstyle and theatrical makeup.

A reverse image search put a name to the face - Noctis Zang, a 30-year-old Chinese-born singer living in Tokyo. He was the frontman of a metal band called The Versus.

Noctis had a glamorous public image, but we soon found something hidden behind it.

In early 2022, The Versus' photographer had alleged on Chinese social media platform Weibo that Noctis built "porn websites" alongside another band member, Lupus Fu.

He had posted pictures of a notebook, which showed some accounting and video categories similar to those on the websites. The photographer had also posted a video which appeared to show Noctis's browsing history, with links to Chihan, Jieshe and the admin pages of DingBuZhu.

Could this rock singer be Uncle Qi?

Unmasking the admins

Posing as a music talent scout called Ian, our undercover journalist met Noctis at a fancy rooftop bar in Tokyo.

They first talked about music, but the chat soon moved on to the subject of sex. When Ian said his company used to make porn films, Noctis's eyes lit up.

The two met several more times, and they even celebrated Noctis's birthday together.

Noctis introduced Ian to his fellow band member Lupus Fu, whose name had been mentioned by The Versus' photographer. Lupus, also from China, was studying sociology in Japan.

Ian said his company planned to invest in porn sites and asked if they knew anything about this business.

Noctis confessed he had "some exposure" through a friend, "Maomi", who had created his own porn sites with "metro" content.

Ian then casually brought up DingBuZhu.

Lupus and Noctis both laughed: "That's Maomi's website!"

They revealed that the person behind the Chikan websites was a Chinese man in Tokyo nicknamed Maomi. They said Maomi was reclusive and paranoid.

Noctis and Lupus also admitted that they played admin roles for the websites.

They spelled out their business model.

"In China, sex is the most suppressed," Noctis said, "Some men are very perverted, they just want to see women getting…" Lupus finished the sentence: "screwed over."

Lupus said he was in charge of promoting abuse videos on Twitter. Noctis revealed that he had uploaded more than 5,000 videos on the websites, received payments for the business and taken 30% of revenue. The rest he had transferred to Maomi.

Lupus also said he could help connect Ian to Maomi.

The Chikan club

On a quiet back street in the red-light district of Yokohama, a storefront decorated like a metro station catches your eyes. A sign spells out its concept: "legal Chikan trains".

In this sex club, called Rush Hour, customers can pay to enjoy the Chikan experience legally.

Its manager Hasuda Shuhei welcomes us on board. "We let people do things that can't be done outside. That's why people come here."

Inside, a sickly-sweet smell of cleaning products permeates the air. Private rooms are decorated like train carriages and equipped with a sound system that plays train announcements. Even the club's membership cards look exactly like Japan's transportation cards.

"I think it's important for men to be able to pay to vent in place like this, so they don't commit rape and other forms of sexual assault," says Hasuda.

Mental health professional Saito says that the matter is not as straightforward as Hasuda claims. He says that most Chikan perpetrators are aroused by the idea of domination over and humiliation of their victims.

"They do not treat their victims as equals, but as objects."

It's an opinion that rings true with Takako.

After months of assaults, she fought back one day. As she felt a hand reach for her skirt in a packed train carriage, Takako shouted at the top of her lungs and grabbed the assaulter by his wrist.

Takako took the man to court, where he only got a suspended sentence, even though he had previously been caught for Chikan offences.

Disappointed by the outcome of her case, Takako went on to start an anti-Chikan campaign, producing colourful badges reading "Chikan is a crime!" People can wear them to show they will not keep silent.

"It's a deterrent for criminals," says Takako, who is now 24. There is now an annual anti-Chikan badge design contest among Japanese high school students.

The hamster

Maomi means "kitty cat" in Chinese. However, Lupus said his personality was more like a hamster. "He's harmless, but cautious of everything and he sometimes overreacts."

Lupus was right. Maomi repeatedly refused to meet Ian.

But on Chinese New Year's Eve, Ian's luck changed. Maomi agreed to a meeting at a karaoke bar.

The air was thick with cigarette smoke, the sound of clinking glasses and Chinese pop songs.

The person who turned up was not who we expected. A skinny young man wearing half-rim glasses and a dark trench coat, Maomi looked like he could be a college student. He said he was 27.

Showing an interest in investing in his business, Ian asked how much he made.

"Our daily turnover is around 5,000-10,000 Chinese Yuan (US$700-$1,400; £565-£1,130)," Maomi said proudly, showing the transactions on his phone. "Very stable income, right?"

Ian acted impressed, and mentioned the name Uncle Qi.

Maomi admitted: "I am Uncle Qi."

But to our surprise, he revealed Uncle Qi was not just one person.

He managed a team of 15 people, including 10 in China who made videos under the same name. Maomi received 30 to 100 videos from them each month.

The videos were then sold on the three websites which Maomi confirmed he owned. They had more than 10,000 paying members, mostly Chinese men.

"The key is to be authentic. It has to be real," Maomi said. He later told us his websites even sold videos of drug-facilitated rape.

Maomi talked about his business as though it were any other budding start-up. He described his team as "passionate" and "brave". He even casually mentioned he had been training others to carry out and film sexual assaults.

But there was one thing he never mentioned - the women in his videos. It was as if they didn't matter to him at all.

Maomi exposed

We wanted to know Maomi's real identity. At another meeting with Ian, he opened up about how he got into this business.

Like many boys, Maomi liked Superman, anime and video games growing up. But when he was 14, he started watching sexual assault videos like the ones he sold now.

He knew his business was not risk-free.

"I am so cautious," Maomi said. "Safety first." To avoid scrutiny from the Chinese authorities, he planned to naturalise as a Japanese citizen.

However, as careful as Maomi was, he made a mistake.

When Ian asked where to send the investment funds, Maomi pulled out his bank card and handed it to Ian.

The card revealed his real name - Tang Zhuoran.

Later, we confronted Maomi with our allegations.

As we approached, he tried to cover his face and walked away. And all of a sudden, he snapped, hitting out at our camera and crew.

The next day, by coincidence, we spotted Maomi at the airport. He was leaving Japan.

Uncle Qi's Twitter account, where he openly promotes the abuse videos, is still active.

Twitter did not respond to our request for comment. Instead, they sent us a poo emoji, which has been an automatic reply to any inquiry directed to their press email since March.

We also put our allegations to Noctis and Lupus. They did not respond. We have since learned they no longer work with Maomi.

On a spring day, we meet up with Takako to tell her about our investigation. Appalled, she says: "We women are just content in their videos. They see us as objects. They don't think we have a heart."

Takako advocates for tougher laws against these crimes.

Japan is set to reform its sexual assault laws. However, campaigners say these changes don't go far enough.

But Takako will not give up. "We will not cry ourselves to sleep."

Additional reporting by Chie Kobayashi, Ryuzo Tsutsui, Hanae Arrour Takahashi and Joel Gunter

[tengu-feathers]

welcome to my language studyblr :)

about me:

teng, 23, she/her

i'm from: toronto, canada 🇨🇦 | hong kong 🇭🇰

i'm fluent in english, can speak cantonese and mandarin/putonghua (badly...), learning french (conversational level), beginner in japanese

language learning motivation:

🇫🇷: official languages of canada are eng and français so i feel obliged to learn + it's a career advantage (lame ik)

🇭🇰: literally my mother tongue but i don't consume enough cantonese media so i have a definite accent :(

🇨🇳: i'm chinese so i like. i feel obliged to be able to speak/read/write it at native level

🇯🇵: i would like to travel to japan + there is so much amazing japanese media + learning it is a good break from french and chinese + i already know kanji so that's 1/3 of the work done (kind of lol)

language goals:

🇫🇷: Test de connaissance du français (TCF) - C1

🇭🇰: 漢語水平考試 (HSK/Chinese Proficiency Test) - Level 7-9

🇨🇳: 普通話水平測試 (Putonghua Proficiency Test) - 1B

🇯🇵: 日本語能力試験 (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) - N2

blog content:

progress entries about my learning

posts about french/japanese/chinese media i'm reading/watching

study tips

Let me know if you're also studying french/chinese/japanese! I'm looking for fellow language learning mutuals :)

[may--hawk]

road (ineffable remix)

XXI. Road - Nick Drake

You can take a road that takes you to the stars now / I can take a road that’ll see me through

Crowley and Aziraphale have walked the same road for so long. Traveling companions on Earth weaving through the history of humanity, at times weary and footsore, more often than not awestruck and marveling. Every time they meet sharing the tips of the road, the little things they’ve learned. Like when Crowley had showed Aziraphale hunger, and when Aziraphale had showed Crowley want. Aziraphale had learned music and Crowley weaving and sometimes Crowley brought back something from his travels - a rare manuscript, a bottle of wine - and sometimes Aziraphale brought back something from his own travels - a particularly lovely piece of silk, a folded scrap of paper teeming with tiny cactus seeds.

It had made things less lonely, having a traveling companion. He could always feel Aziraphale there, on Earth, and he imagined Aziraphale had been able to feel the same of him, excepting when either had been called to their respective headquarters. Inevitably, when the one who’d been gone returned back to Earth, they’d find each other, wherever they were, no matter how far apart they were. Hong Kong and Las Vegas, or Tahiti and Rome, or Mayfair and Soho, didn’t matter. Somehow there’d be a messenger sent off, or a phone call, or one of them would just show up where the other was. Oh, I was just in the area, they’d say, and then, how bout a drink? or, what would you say to some dinner? And finally, wherever they were, they’d feel - home.

It had been a home Crowley had never been able to leave. Not like he’d left Heaven, not like he’d left Hell, places that never really felt like a place to get to, only a place to get away from. Oh, he’d talked about it a few times - going off to the stars, going off to look down on it all, but it was only an escape plan, a chance to save the two of them. There was no point in leaving Earth. Not alone.

And now Aziraphale is going, trudging down a path Crowley cannot and will not follow, because he cannot go to Heaven and stay Crowley, cannot stay the self he has cobbled together from every mile, from every dusty footstep, from every stolen glimpse of human ruins or the expectant breath of the next wonder. For the first time in six thousand years - for the second time in their entire existence - Crowley’s and Aziraphale’s paths diverge. Crowley stands between them. He can’t go with Aziraphale and stay whole. But he can’t stay here, on Earth, and stay whole either. Not alone.

Also at:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/52878844/chapters/138629440

[slavic-roots-western-mind]

Get to know me!

✨Find me!✨

Youtube

Tumblr

Kofi

✨About me✨

I'm Maria

I'm 21

A business & language student

Fluent in English, Russian, German, with passable Ukrainian

Learning Chinese

✨Likes✨

Travelling, being out in nature, exploring places

Movies especially 50s-90s Chinese and Hong Kong martial arts movies, True Crime podcasts

Coffee & Tea

Literature, especially English, French and Japanese.

Reading, studying, playing Chess

Cats

✨ About this blog ✨

I don't stick strictly to just one theme, so here are some topics that I'll be posting about.

Literature: Book recommendations, reviews, fave and least fave works, quotes that I like

Aesthetics

Studyblr: Study guides, advice, maximizing productivity and efficiency

Chinese: My learning progress, study guides, advice & tips etc.

Recommendations: reading lists, top songs & movies of the month

There's definitely more that I'll be posting about, so stay tuned!

[maaarine]

Catching the men who sell subway groping videos (Zhaoyin Feng & Aliaume Leroy & Shanshan Chen, BBC News, June 08 2023)

"Most videos follow the same pattern - a man secretly films a woman from behind and follows her on to a train. Seconds later, he sexually abuses her.

The men act discreetly, and their victims can seem totally unaware. These graphic videos are then listed on the websites for sale.

In a year-long investigation, we traced the men behind three websites which sell and produce thousands of these sexual assault videos. (…)

The Japanese police encourage victims and eyewitnesses to speak up, but the crime is far from being eradicated.

The problem is so widespread that even the UK and Canadian governments warn travellers to Japan about it.

Chikan has been normalised by its prominence in Japan's adult entertainment industry.

One of the most popular types of pornography in the country - the Chikan genre - has spread to other Asian countries.

One Chinese-language website called DingBuZhu (which means "I can't hold it" in Chinese) immediately caught our attention.

It's a marketplace for Chikan videos, filmed secretly on mobile phones in crowded public places, such as trains and buses.

They are shot across East Asia, including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China.

Some videos cost less than a dollar. The site even once allowed users to order tailor-made abuse videos.

We also found links on DingBuZhu to two other websites - Chihan and Jieshe - with the same type of content.

There is a Telegram group with 4,000 members who share tips on how to sexually abuse women.

One name kept coming up on the Chikan websites - "Uncle Qi".

He was hailed as the guru in this community. Dozens of abuse videos were labelled as his work.

On Twitter, he put up teasers of the websites' videos to his 80,000 followers. But who was he? (…)

The person who turned up was not who we expected.

A skinny young man wearing half-rim glasses and a dark trench coat, Maomi looked like he could be a college student. He said he was 27.

Showing an interest in investing in his business, Ian asked how much he made.

"Our daily turnover is around 5,000-10,000 Chinese Yuan (US$700-$1,400; £565-£1,130)," Maomi said proudly, showing the transactions on his phone. "Very stable income, right?"

Ian acted impressed, and mentioned the name Uncle Qi.

Maomi admitted: "I am Uncle Qi."

But to our surprise, he revealed Uncle Qi was not just one person.

He managed a team of 15 people, including 10 in China who made videos under the same name. Maomi received 30 to 100 videos from them each month.

The videos were then sold on the three websites which Maomi confirmed he owned. They had more than 10,000 paying members, mostly Chinese men.

"The key is to be authentic. It has to be real," Maomi said. He later told us his websites even sold videos of drug-facilitated rape.

Maomi talked about his business as though it were any other budding start-up.

He described his team as "passionate" and "brave". He even casually mentioned he had been training others to carry out and film sexual assaults.

But there was one thing he never mentioned - the women in his videos. It was as if they didn't matter to him at all.

We wanted to know Maomi's real identity. At another meeting with Ian, he opened up about how he got into this business.

Like many boys, Maomi liked Superman, anime and video games growing up.

But when he was 14, he started watching sexual assault videos like the ones he sold now."

[beasiannow]

Want to visit other lands and experience different cultures, but you hate being the foreigner, the interloper?

Sure, you are sticking out, secretly unwelcomed, or not so secretly unwelcomed. The subject of sideways glances, perhaps laughter or hate in your wake?

Thanks to Hiroko Rokkaku and her beyond the cutting edge process (deep secret, don’t ask) that she calls Gaikoku Hito Rinjin (Foreigner Neighbor), that will no longer be a problem.

Just pay the price (lone officers are available) for a four-week stay in the country of your choice (at present, only Japan is available; however, soon Hong Kong, San Fransisco Chinatown, Korea, Manila, France, Mexico, Cuba, New Jersey, and Tanzania will be available) No one will be able to tell you from a native-born member of that nation.

Yes, there will be no danger of any foreigner faux pas taking place as you, on being transformed, will not only look and dress the part but be familiar with all local customs and etiquette and find you are 100% fluent in the language.  So perfect that if you try to speak your native language (sorry, mostly suppressed for the short month), you will even have a heavy local accent.  

Yes! For 28 days, mingle and be accepted as just another citizen.

For legal reasons, we have to point out that there is a rare chance (11.77%) that we will be unable to return you to your previous self. In this case, it will be our duty to see that complete paperwork is supplied to make you a full citizen of the country in question.

There is also a 23.555% chance that if this happens, you will find you are also radically changed regarding height, weight, age, and other factors; sorry, nothing we can do about that other than offer fashion tips.

Here we see Hirroko Rookaku and one of her very skeptical early customers.

What do you say now Rose West? Enjoy the next four weeks as Puritīrōzu Nishi.

The same for the Endacote sisters of Saskatoon.

We are told that after their 28 days as the Endomoto sisters they found they can’t bring themselves to give up the kimonos.

Here we have three swinging friends from London on their way to some fun in Tokyo.

Only to find that things work different there. Nothing like travel to expand the mind and change your views.

Here we see Shannon McBride of West Virginia, who was so tired of people focusing in on her fiery red hair that for a short while just being regular folk in a place she had never been was quite the experience. So different that before her 28 days were over she bought a red wig on Harajuku Street. 

And yes, we know you are thinking about the customers who can’t be changed back.

This happened to Birmingham, Alabama bank teller Willow Smith, but not to worry, as you can see we quickly got the new Yanagi Kenji a steady new job. And one where she meets so many of her fellow Japanese every day.

[bopinion]

2023 / 28

Aperçu of the Week:

"When the lion China awakes, the world will tremble."

(Napoleon Bonaparte)

Bad News of the Week:

For months, the actions of the "Last Generation" have polarized in Germany. Who use civil disobedience as a means, call for more (political) activity against climate change and are increasingly criminalized. In doing so, they are deliberately crossing borders; after all, they are interfering with public order in a disruptive way. For example, by sticking themselves to busy intersections in order to put a stop to the archenemy, the combustion engine. As a nation of drivers, the Germans don't like that at all.

It's just as typically German to fly on vacation - we're world champions at that. And flying, with its catastrophic environmental record, combined with continued state subsidies, is a prime example of climate policy failure. So it's not really surprising that the organization paralyzed two airports on the first day of summer vacation in their states. And the displeasure was not just in Hamburg and Düsseldorf. Politicians were also quick to offer sharp criticism. Robert Habeck of the Green Party, for example, said, "The activists who are now blocking people's vacation travel are doing massive damage to the cause of climate protection." Anyone who really wants to stand up for climate protection must also have social acceptance in mind.

With this the Green politician, who is not only the Minister of Economics but also the Minister of Climate Protection, inadvertently sums it up. Because this is also evident in view of the current booking figures for air tourism: broad society simply does not want to accept that more needs to be done. And fast. But no, everyone just sticks to their comfortable habits: flying on vacation, driving a fat car, not paying for climate-friendly heating, doing online shopping in China and a schnitzel on the plate every day.

That's why journalist Janko Tietz of Der Spiegel poses a justified rhetorical question: "Perhaps Habeck also has a tip up his sleeve about how exactly he envisions protest that is socially accepted, hurts no one - and still has an effect." Because if it really is the case that both the Green Party and the climate protection minister have been softened by the results of the polls, the only thing left to do in view of the undeniable necessity is to protest in a way that hurts. Until the last one finally understands what is necessary.

Good News of the Week:

In the coalition agreement, the current government already stipulated that it wanted to define a new China strategy. That was at the end of 2021, before the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine. In which China still refuses to show its colors and at the same time has significantly increased its aggressiveness toward Taiwan. And which, in its economic implications, has brought the issue of "dependence" into the mainstream consciousness.

This week, the announced paper was put on the table. 64 pages that give the impression that something has actually been learned from past experience. Sure, there is no denying that China is Germany's most important trading partner. As a sales market and as a production location. And it is admitted that in many international issues, such as the fight against climate change, it will not be possible without the Middle Kingdom. That is simply the reality.

But otherwise, there is a refreshing amount of plain speaking. In a thoroughly critical manner. A China that is taking a much more offensive stance in foreign policy is trying "in various ways to reshape the rules-based international order. This has implications for European and global security." it says already in the introduction. Likewise, the human rights violations against the Uyghurs, in Tibet and Hong Kong are clearly named.

In the economic context, too, one gets the impression that the same mistake as with the dependence on Russian gas should not happen again. There should be no decoupling from China, but the dependence on key technologies and important raw materials should be reduced. The opening of chip and battery factories at home fits in with this, even if it is more expensive. So there also seems to be a consensus within the economy itself. That's a good thing.

Personal happy moment of the week:

We had some storms last week. For example, heavy branches from the tree next door fell into the chicken enclosure of the neighboring farm. Probably with victims. I also had problems getting home from Baden-Württemberg on Thursday because of closed railroad lines - falling trees had cut power lines. Nevertheless, standing between far too many people on the train, I was dominated by confidence. I made it. Uncomfortably and with a lot of time. But still. And I will stick to taking the (ecologically better) train instead of the car. Even in difficult situations, it works, after all.

I couldn't care less...

...about the Swedish definition of freedom of expression. Following the public burning of a copy of the Koran two weeks ago, Stockholm police have authorized a demonstration to burn the holy scriptures of Jews and Christians. The choice of location alone - in front of the Israeli embassy - shows that this is a deliberate provocation that is politically motivated. Covering that with reference to the legitimate expression of personal opinion puts me in a dilemma of weighing different value-based rights against each other. Difficult.

As I write this...

...it is 33 degrees Celsius. Even I wear shorts, which my daughter finds laughable. And I drink Aperol Sprizz, which is often considered a typical women's drink. And listen to summer hits playlists that are close to the radio program, which is actually unpopular with me. Sometimes you just have to compromise.

Post Scriptum

Germany depends on immigration to maintain its prosperity. This is not just about the increasingly sought-after skilled workers in key technologies, but about additional hands and heads at all levels - from nurses to AI specialists. The bottom line is that around 500,000 are needed every year. That's according to the so-called "economic wise" who advise the federal government as an independent, non-partisan body of experts. Yet Germany is facing international competition in which it is finding it increasingly difficult to survive.

Complicated language, cumbersome bureaucracy and inadequate childcare are the classic aspects that deter potential immigrants. Added to this is the rise of right-wing populists, who are officially xenophobic. Economist Ulrike Malmendier does research at the University of California at Berkeley and sees parallels to Trumpism: "I've seen how quickly it can happen that you divide a society with simple slogans and prejudices."

Welcome culture is a beautiful word. It exists in the German dictionary, but not in reality. People not only have to come, they also have to stay - currently, one million people leave the country every year. In all society levels. Because if no one sits down next to you in the subway, it doesn't matter whether you're a refugee from Afghanistan or a neurosurgeon from Pakistan: the color of your skin is enough to make you feel exposed to resentment that has nothing to do with you personally - but shows a general latent xenophobia. To the detriment of all.

[studying-solo]

Where and How do I start learning Chinese?

Studying solo is stressful. I had no idea where and how to start learning Chinese. After months of research and procrastination, these are my tips to start learning Chinese.

Tip #1 - Bopomofo (注音符號) or Pinyin (拼音)

Choose one phonetic system and stick with it.

For those who do not know, “Bopomofo”（ㄅㄆㄇㄈ）is like the "ABCs" to English speakers, it is a way of writing, learning, and speaking Chinese. I like to think it is similar to how hiragana is used in Japan. You can have the hiragana form "たべもの" or one with kanji"食べ物". "Bopomofo" is used in Taiwan to teach Chinese.

Pinyin represents the same sounds but uses the Latin Alphabet instead. However, some sounds do not represent the way it is written. For example, "cān 餐" is not pronounced "can" like a "can of coke" but "tsan".

Currently, I am learning Chinese through pinyin. This is because I am familiar with the Latin Alphabet so it would be easier for me to type or read Chinese rather than learn a new writing system.

However, I cannot say which form is better. That is for you to decide.

Tip #2 - Traditional or Simplified Chinese?

Where do you want to travel to? Are you planning on writing Chinese? How good are you at memorising? Do you have any interest in linguistics?

These questions can help you determine if you would focus on traditional or simplified Chinese. At the beginning of your studies, it would be difficult to recognise the characters but as time goes by and your fluency increases it would get easier and no matter what you learn - traditional or simplified - you should be able to read both. But at the start of your studies, you may not be able to recognise some characters. For example, “个” “個” is the same character but one is simplified and the other is traditional. Can you guess which is which?

Where do you want to travel to? Taiwan and Hong Kong use traditional Chinese and mainland China, Singapore, and Malaysia uses simplified Chinese. If you are at the start of your Chinese learning journey and plan to visit the above countries, start learning whichever Chinese they use as it would make it easier for you to read the signs.

Are you planning on writing Chinese? How good are you at memorising? If you plan on handwriting Chinese then maybe simplified is the better option as there are less strokes to remember. However, if you plan on doing calligraphy, traditional might be for you.

Do you have any interest in linguistics? I ask this because I have a big interest in learning how the character came to be. There are so many stories behind the characters and it is so fun to read! However, you can only see these stories in Traditional characters.

For example, love"愛" and "爱". The difference between the two characters is 心, which means heart. In traditional Chinese, you can see love needs to have a heart 心 but in the simplified version, there is no more 心.

At the end of the day, once you become fluent enough, you can read both so choose one that you like the most.

"To have another language is to possess a second soul.." – Charlemagne

Tip #3 - Learn the phonetic system

After choosing Bopomofo (注音符號) or Pinyin (拼音), learn how to pronounce the sounds.

Just the sounds. No tones.

This will help you to read Bopomofo (注音符號) or Pinyin (拼音) quickly and without mistakes.

I use the Interactive Pinyin Chart to listen to the sounds. As I get more confident with the sounds, I can work on my tones.

Tip #4 - Tones, tones, tones

The hardest part about Chinese is probably the tone. Especially for an English speaker, you may find you will be using vocal cords that you can never use before. It is like a workout for your throat.

Find a simple song and practice, practice practice. I like this song as it is just the tones and nothing else.

Tip #5 - Motivation

Lastly, you will find that sometimes you do not have any motivation to continue. If you can join a Chinese class either in person or online. I use Amazing Talker for one-on-one lessons to help keep me motivated while I overcome the beginning stages. Find some friends that can speak Chinese and if possible, visit a Chinese-speaking country to feel the culture and use your new language skills.

There are also online communities that you can join to interact with Chinese speakers or Chinese learners as well.

Don’t forget you are doing amazing just by learning a new language

Happy Learning!

再見

[shiva1906]

A Complete Guide to Securing Your Hong Kong Tourist Visa

Hong Kong, a city known for its stunning skyline, rich cultural heritage, and world-class shopping, is a must-visit destination for tourists from all over the globe. If you’re planning a trip to this bustling metropolis, obtaining a Hong Kong tourist visa is the first step toward making your travel dreams a reality. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the Hong Kong tourist visa, including who needs one, the application process, and essential tips for a smooth visa approval.

Who Needs a Hong Kong Tourist Visa?

Before you dive into the application process, it's essential to know whether you actually need a Hong Kong tourist visa. Citizens of many countries can enjoy visa-free access to Hong Kong for short visits, usually ranging from 7 to 180 days, depending on their nationality. However, travelers from certain countries are required to apply for a visa in advance to enter Hong Kong.

Make sure to check the visa requirements based on your nationality, which can be easily found on the official Hong Kong Immigration Department website or by consulting a visa service provider.

Types of Hong Kong Tourist Visas

For those who need a visa, Hong Kong offers two main types of tourist visas:

Single-entry Visa: This visa allows one-time entry to Hong Kong, and it's valid for up to 90 days.

Multiple-entry Visa: If you plan to enter Hong Kong multiple times within a given period, a multiple-entry visa is the way to go. It’s valid for 6 months or even up to 3 years, depending on your travel needs.

How to Apply for a Hong Kong Tourist Visa

The process of applying for a Hong Kong tourist visa is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Gather Necessary Documents: To apply for a tourist visa, you will need the following documents:

A completed visa application form (ID 1003A)

A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining

Recent passport-sized photographs

A copy of your round-trip flight ticket and hotel reservation

Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Hong Kong

Submit Your Application: You can submit your application either through the Hong Kong Immigration Department, a Chinese embassy or consulate in your country, or a visa agency. Make sure to check the processing times, as they can vary depending on the method you choose.

Wait for Processing: Visa processing typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks, but it can be expedited in certain cases. Ensure that you apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays in your travel plans.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Approval

To increase your chances of getting your Hong Kong tourist visa approved, follow these helpful tips:

Accurate Documentation: Double-check that all your documents are accurate and complete. Any missing information or errors could delay the processing time or result in rejection.

Clear Purpose of Visit: Be clear about your travel purpose. If it’s for tourism, avoid mentioning any business-related activities, as this may complicate the application process.

Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for your visa. The earlier you apply, the more time you’ll have to address any issues that may arise during the process.

Explore Hong Kong’s Must-See Attractions

Once your Hong Kong tourist visa is approved, it’s time to plan your itinerary! Hong Kong offers a perfect blend of modern city life and traditional Chinese culture. Here are a few attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Victoria Peak: Take in breathtaking views of Hong Kong’s skyline and Victoria Harbour from the highest point in the city.

Star Ferry: Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the iconic Victoria Harbour and soak in the beauty of Hong Kong's skyline.

Hong Kong Disneyland: Ideal for families, Hong Kong Disneyland offers endless entertainment and fun for all ages.

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha): Visit this massive bronze statue, a spiritual and architectural marvel nestled on Lantau Island.

Conclusion: Visit Hong Kong and Start Your Adventure!

Applying for a Hong Kong tourist visa is the first step toward discovering the incredible experiences this dynamic city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city's skyscrapers, indulging in its world-renowned cuisine, or delving into its rich history, Hong Kong has something for everyone. Don’t wait—start your visa application process today, and visit Hong Kong to embark on a journey filled with unforgettable moments!

[kezonthego]

About Me

Hi Y’all! Welcome to my travel blog where I document my travels!

My name is Karee or Kez:) I’m originally from Hong Kong, but I’ve lived in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Nepal and now Australia! 

I’ve been to 49 countries so far, but I would love to visit South America, Africa, Antartica and South Asia. 

I think growing up in such a diverse community sprung my desire to travel the world from a young age. Moreover, I love to learn more about the world through experiencing different cultures whether that would be understanding the local politics, visiting museums, sampling local food or learning the language. 

 ‘We travel to bring what little we can, in our ignorance and knowledge, to those parts of the globe whose riches are differently dispersed.’- Pico Lyer. I agree with this statement as we travel to want to explore different cultures besides the ones we are familiar with. 

I went to an international boarding school during my high school years. Every year we would celebrate international day, where every student would showcase their own culture through music, games, decor and food. I believe it was the appeal of Pão de queijo, Carnival, and the Amazon rainforest that arouse my interest of wanting to travel to Brazil. Hence, this blog will take you along with me to explore Brazil and Brazilian Culture! (I also have a couple of Brazilian friends, so hopefully I’ll get some insider tips.)

[movingfromhongkong]

BRINGING PETS FROM HONG KONG TO THE UNITED STATES: THE COMPLETE GUIDE FOR MOVERS

The process of moving to a new country can be at the same time exciting and challenging, more so with pets. In case you have intentions to migrate from Hong Kong to the United States, then you ought to learn about the process involved in moving your precious pets to the country. This article will try to explain what should be done and outline how professional movers assist in the smooth relocation of your pets.

Understanding the Requirements

In the process of planning pet transport from Hong Kong to the United States, certain regulations and requirements need to be adhered to in order to ensure that your pet, upon entry, has no issues at all. According to the U.S. Department of State, the following steps must be taken with the same importance as the others:

1. Health Certificate: You will need to obtain an animal health certificate from a registered veterinary practitioner in Hong Kong. It should be recorded in the health certificate that your pet shows no signs of disease and is free from contagious diseases. It must be issued within 10 days of travel.

2. Rabies Vaccination: The pet animal must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination certificate should indicate that the vaccination was administered at least 30 days before entry and is still valid on the date of arrival in the U.S.

3. Microchip: While not mandatory for entry into the U.S., microchipping your pet for identification purposes is highly recommended.

4. USDA Endorsement: The health certificate should be endorsed by the USDA APHIS. The endorsement shows that the certificate is admissible on entry into the United States.

5. Import Permit: This may be required, based on the state you are relocating to for your pet. Check with the destination state in which you wish to move about any requirements.

Choosing the Right Movers

This can become easier if one hires professional movers with experience in pet moving. Movers who have experience with international relocation involving pets will know exactly what documentation needs to be taken care of and what processes need to be followed so that the whole movement of the pet goes on smoothly. Here's how the right movers can help in this process:

- Veterinary Coordination: The movers can coordinate with local veterinarians in Hong Kong to obtain the necessary health certificates and vaccinations.

- Document Preparation: Professional movers will take care of the paperwork, including securing a USDA-endorsed health certificate for your pet, properly preparing all documents, and sending them.

- Travel Arrangements: They book flights and make travel arrangements according to the airline and U.S. entry regulations so that your beloved pet is moved in comfort and safety.

Preparing for the Move

Now that you have chosen a good moving company, the next step will be to prepare your pet for the journey:

- Visits to Veterinarians: Take your pet to your vet in Hong Kong to acquire the health certificate and also ensure all vaccinations are current.

- Travel Crate: Get a high-quality travel crate that will pass airline requirements. Get your pet accustomed to the crate well in advance of travel to minimize any kind of travel stress.

- Microchip: Unless already done, microchip your pet for identification.

The Journey

Comfort and access to water should not be denied to the pet during travel. Professional movers can help advise on ways to make the journey less stressful. Here are some tips:

- Feeding: Do not feed a large meal shortly before traveling to prevent discomfort.

- Comfort Items: Place some familiar comfort items, such as a favorite toy or blanket, inside the travel crate.

- Calm Environment: No commotion or last-minute rush should occur.

Arrival in the United States

Do the following to get your pet through all the formalities at U.S. entry:

- Customs Clearance: Show health and other vaccination record documents to customs officials.

- Quarantine: There is no national quarantine requirement in the U.S. for pets, although some states may have specific requirements. Be sure to inform your movers of any state-specific requirements.

 Settling In

Once your pet has successfully arrived in the U.S., get him/her to settle into the new environment:

- Local Veterinarian: Take your pet to the local vet to ensure he gets all the inoculations as required and gets registered.

- Routine and Comfort: Put your pet on a regimen to feel more comfortable and settle in, then gradually explore the new surroundings.

Conclusion

Bringing along your pet from Hong Kong to the United States requires some planning and adhering to regulations. You can ensure that your pet is relocated without hassle if you tie up with experienced movers. They organize all the documentation, travel arrangements, and customs clearance, leaving you free to focus on your new home. For more detailed information, you can refer to the official guidelines on the U.S. Department of State website here.

[visacollect]

Budget-Friendly Tips for Backpackers in Thailand: Ideas for Itineraries and Accommodations for People with Thailand Tourist Visa

Want to save money on your camping trip to Thailand? Whether you have travelled before or this is your first time, Thailand has a lot of cheap thrills waiting for you. This guide has information on cheap places to stay, ideas for things to do, and important tips for people with a Thailand vacation visa.

Before You Go

Thailand Tourist Visa

Before you travel, be sure you know everything you have to do to acquire a Thailand tourist visa. See the official website or phone the Thai office closest by you for the most current information.

Travel insurance and vaccinations

Get your vaccines minimum four weeks ahead of your travel. One travel insurance provider able to cover any unanticipated events is World Nomads.

What You Need to Pack

Clothing that is light and airy

Swimwear

Sunblock and bug spray

A simple first-aid kit

Locks for your bag and lockers at the hostel

Multi-way connections for travel

Finding Cheap Places to Stay

Bangkok:

NapPark Hostel is close to Khao San Road and has clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

The Lub d Bangkok Siam is close to the BTS Skytrain, which makes it easy to get around the city.

In Chiang Mai:

Green Tiger House is known for having a friendly environment and being in the middle of everything.

The group-friendly hostel Deejai Backpackers features a pool where you could run across other guests.

Phuket:

The Baan Kamala Backpacker Hostel is cheap and close to the beach.

Lub d Phuket Patong has great services and a lively atmosphere.

How to Look for the Best Discounts

Booking.com: Look at pricing and read Booking.com reviews to uncover the greatest offers.

Try to negotiate a better price or bargain: Pparticularly in case you intend to remain longer or bring a group with you.

Show up without a reservation: Occasionally, especially in less crowded areas, this will result in lower charges. 

Itinerary Tips

Bangkok (3 Days)

Day 1:Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho on the first day. At night, walk around Khao San Road.

Day 2: Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market and take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River.

Day 3: Visit Wat Arun and Wat Saket, and then take it easy at Lumpini Park.

Hong Kong (4 Days)

Day 4. Go to the Old City and see Wat Chedi Luang and other sites.

Day 5: Visit Doi Suthep and the Hmong town nearby for the day.

Day 6: Check out Elephant Nature Park.

On Day 7, take it easy and shop at the Sunday Walking Street Market.

Phuket (3 Days)

Day 8: Go to Patong Beach for the day and enjoy the nightlife.

Day 9: Go to Phi Phi Islands by boat.

Day 10: Walk around Old Town and see Big Buddha.

How to Travel

Making a Budget: Find out how much people usually spend each day in each place.

Don't be rigid: Make any necessary changes to your plans and budget.

Modes of Transportation: For extended journeys, go for the bus or train to cut costs on transportation.Renting motorcycles, tuk-tuks, or songthaews are all good ways to move around.

Look after your belongings: Lock your valuables with padlocks.

In conclusion

Tourists on a tighter budget will love Thailand. Following these guidelines and planning ahead of time can allow you to have a fantastic vacation without breaking the bank.. Check the rules for getting a tourist visa for Thailand, pack smart and be open to changing your plans. Have fun on your trip!

VisaCollect can help you with your Thailand tourist visa! Get in touch with us right away!

[mygainyear2024]

Days 89-90 And that’s a wrap on the gap quarter…

as we head from Tangier to Madrid via Ryanair, spend a short night at a hotel (with the most comfy bed in a while) and start the long haul home via Hong Kong.

This was the longest holiday I’ve had, previously a couple of 8 week stints. And the longest solo travel at 9 weeks, previous one 8 weeks.

I was particularly pleased when Rose joined me, not only for the shared memories and experience but also I’m not sure I would have been as confident, or the experience as enjoyable, in Morocco on my own.

In the future I definitely want more of staying in the one place for longer and feeling less rushed, and less time wasted and less stress of packing and repacking. I’m up for more car hire to provide flexibility and keep those neurons firing.

In the future I definitely want less baggage 🥴

I’m not much of a blogger or writer and I started doing Tumblr blogs on my first solo trip to Europe. It helps me stay present; and maybe one day my future grandkids might read it and be inspired to travel too.

I do appreciate those who patiently listened to my pre-planning that went on for months, maybe over a year, as I kept changing my mind 🥴 and for all of you who checked in on me and read my ramblings, and for your encouraging comments along the way. Not everyday was emotionally easy, but I didn’t want to bore you with my inner demons!

For those wondering, I did finish the book, "Mrs Winterbottom takes a Gap Year", way back. It was a very easy read and there was nothing too profound to be honest. Bec Wilson (Prime Time podcaster) recommended I read it before I travelled, I'm not sure why. Spoiler alert, Mrs Winterbottom and her husband retired from their general practice and struggled to find their new norm. She wanted an overseas adventure, he wanted to build a huge veggie garden and stay at home, having travelled in his youth. She went without him, on the advice of a friend who sadly passed. She took the ashes of her friend and headed to Greece. She had an emotional connection with a Greek sailor. Her husband and adult children surprised her by showing up. She reconciled things with her husband, they travelled around in the boat they bought off said Greek sailor and her insight from the Greek experience was that volunteering / mentoring younger doctors could be fulfilling in retirement.

Now I met no Greek sailor, but someone better, Rosie from Halifax. We certainly have a connection and many shared experiences, including bursts of laughter over our incontinence and much more 😂 Thank you Rosie for making my gap quarter that much more exciting and pleasurable.

What's next for me...while I was away my job changed (I'm going back to Social Security & Welfare, this time a stint in contact centres). I'm not unhappy about this, although I will miss "my" peeps in Health. I will be living out of suitcases until late August as I rented out my room! I have a long weekend in Townsville for Keely's birthday, a long weekend in Cairns to catch up with my former EA, a plan to go to Vietnam after Christmas and hopefully meet up with Rosie and a plan to go to India with another friend in March. Pending finances and anything else that might pop up, I'd like to spend my next European vacation in the south of Italy, seeing Sicily, Palermo, Portofino, Puglia and surrounds. Any tips greatly appreciated XXX