Travel: Veselé Vánoce! (Christmas in Prague...)

.....you had me at hello!
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We were there in September! That was when the (in)famous kiss that would put to shame Gustav Klimt's version happened... right in the middle of Charles' Bridge! Can't help it...the City is simply enchanting... magical...

The KISS that puts to shame Klimt's version :)

Its no surprise, therefore, that we decided to spend Christmas in Prague and have a second, deeper appreciation of the city with hundred spires...(plus the fact that I do NOT wish to see another airport this year made the choice easier!:))

Christmas in Prague is a delightful experience both for the eyes and the palate. At Christmas, the whole city displays its usual grandeur enveloped with the holidays warmth (despite the cold). We loved taking a stroll in its archaic, cobbled streets and partaking of the culinary offerings of the Vanochni trh (Christmas markets) that are all over the city.

The markets flaunt a variety of local  knick knacks you'll love to bring home. But it was the display of Czech traditional gastronomic delights that made the experience more appealing. A cup of svařené víno or svařák (hot wine) to warm the body, unhealthy (but insanely delicious!) slices of the freshly-roasted old prague ham or peppered klobasa (sausages) to fill the stomach and a couple of freshly-prepared, cinammon-dashed, sugary Trdelnik for the sweet tooth - complete a meal.

And yes, what is Christmas without noche buena. While we miss nilaga, asado, kaldereta, kalamay and bibingka of home, we tried traditional Czech cuisine in our hotel's famous La Boca restaurant. The food was not exceptional but the ambiance was superb!

We had Boullabaise de La Boca and Plato Iberico - slices of Jamon Serrano, Queso Manchego (sheep cheese), chorizo de Bellota with olives, honey dew melon and tomato bruschetta - for starters. For the main meal, the hubby tried the fried Třeboň carp (we were told all Czechs have this fish in their Christmas eve dinner) and I had the roasted venison with Carlsbad dumplings and cranberry sauce. Franky, I did not enjoy my venison - I guess, its not palatable to have Rudolf for dinner especially during Christmas. :)

We truly enjoyed the Christmas experience in Prague but hey, we were still 'tourists' who needed to do some touring! And tour we did!!!

Our hotel was situated right smack the middle of Staré Město (old town) and Nové Město (you guessed it - new town). Most interesting sights are walking distances so the feet did the work (foot massages came after...)! :)

Prague is filled with interesting places that it would be difficult to show all and tell all in this blog. Nonetheless, I came up with a list of places to see and things to do - just in case you fancy a trip to Prague sometime: :)

 1. Step into history at the Old Town Square

Panoramic view of the Old Town Square

Stepping into the Old Town Square(Staroměstské náměstí) is like going back in time. The square is adorned with ancient buildings and magnificent churches each with their own stories, history and intrigues.

Astronomical Clock at the old town hall tower

The most fascinating sight for me was the Astronomical Clock situated at the southern wall of the Old Town tower. Built in 1410, the clock is the third oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still working. To this date, the clock continues to provide a full range of astronomical data. Below the clock are 12 medallions with the signs of the Zodiac.

At the strike of the hour, join the throng of people gathered in front of the tower to view the procession of the twelve apostles while the skeleton of Death tolls the bell. It is a full-minute of fascinating mechanical artistry.

The Old Town Hall tower that houses the clock was built in 1338 (completed in 1364) and is one of the most striking buildings in Prague. Severely damaged during the WW II, Gothic and Renaissance -style buildings now make up the expanded town hall.

Asymmetrical Tyn Church Spires

Another imposing structure in the square is the Gothic Church of Tyn, or The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. The grand spires of the church are like compasses directing you towards old town.

According to Prague experience website, "the Tyn Church (Týnský Chrám) was founded in 1385, a tumultuous period when the Hussites were being slaughtered by the ruling Roman Catholics. Indeed, in time Catholic Jesuits took over the church, recasting the bell and replacing the Hussites symbolic chalice with a large figure of Mary nailed between the towers.

Although the structure is not the same, legend has it that Tyn Church gave Walt Disney the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty Castle. True or not, it is certainly an awe-inspiring sight both during the day, and even more so at night brightly lit against a dark sky. And take a close look at the two spires on the church. They are not symmetrical. They represent the masculine and  feminine sides of the world."

2. Charles Bridge: its statues and rituals

Charles Bridge, Karlův most, is the famous historic bridge named after King Charles IV, lined with 30 statues on both sides.  The bridge offers a fantastic view of the river and the city but what made the walk here more interesting are the "rituals"  that transpire.  

St John of Nepomuk and the reliefs below the statue

Touch the reliefs below the bronze statue of St. John of Nepomuk, the oldest statue created in 1683 by Matthias Rauchmüller and Jan Brokoff. St. John of Nepomuk was a priest, who refused to betray a secret, confided to him by Queen Sophia, to the king Wenceslas IV. He was tortured on the king´s demand and then thrown to the river Vltava from the Charles Bridge in 1393.Purportedly, touching the relief depicting that of the saint being thrown off the bridge brings good luck (right most). There is another relief which shows a dog and a woman with no special meaning but which is just as shiny (from rubbing). Apparently, a lot of people (us included) does not know the legend and just 'rub' on both - just in case. :)  

Talented all!

Take delight in the free (well, almost) showcase of talent on the bridge. A stroll on the bridge would eventually bring you to the talented 'artists'  who display their 'wares' to the delight of (and a few euros from) the crowd. The showcase of talents will rival the best shows. In fact, we were so awed with a violinist that we parted with Euro 12 to buy his self-titled album.



Bring your own locks and remember to throw away the keys. Prague is definitely a romantic place. Thus, its no wonder that 'lovelocks' litter probably every available railing along the Charles' bridge and canals in the city.  The 'locking' rite obviously symbolizes eternal and faithful love. Once locked on fences, railings or bridges, lovers are supposed to throw away the key in a romantic gesture of their everlasting commitment to each other - 'locked together through time'. NO, we didn't do it - the hubby says its not necessary (this guy is a spoilsport sometimes). :) And anyways, I think the locks are being removed (of course!!)...compare the photo of the same lovelock location in September (lower left) and then again in December (lower right).

Lovelocks all over Prague - symbol of eternal love?

3. Pay tribute to freedom of expression on the Lennon Wall

The Lennon Wall used to be a platform where young Czechs, prior to 1989 when communism rules, express their grievances, paying tribute to John Lennon and his ideas of peace and freedom. It may not anymore reflect the idealism it used to represent (there are several touristy messages like "Jack was here...") and has definitely evolved over the years, but its still worth seeing and reflecting on the bits and pieces of literature written there. I particularly like this one..."Life is what happens to you when you are busy making other plans..."

Enjoy the 'writings on the wall!"

4. Visit Prague's churches and castles (and synagogues, too!)

Prague won't be known as the "City of a Hundred Spires" for nothing. Its skyline is literally dominated by spires from churches, castles and cathedrals.

Most notable structure which spires are seen across the city's landscape is that of the Hradcany Castle. The castle is formerly the residence of the kings of Bohemia and is now the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the Prague Castle is the largest coherent ancient castle complex in the world, with an area of almost 70,000 m².

The Palace Complex

More than the spires, the churches and cathedrals offer a deeper religious meaning. For a Roman Catholic such as myself, a visit to Prague is not complete without paying respects to the Infant Jesus of Prague at the Chuch of our Lady of Victorious. I offered a prayer for a loved one beseeching a blessing for her to the Santo Nino de Praga. The Loreta, located at the castle complex,  is an important Marian pilgrimage destination.

The Church of our Lady Victorious, the Infant Jesus of Pargue, the St. Nicholas Church and the Loreta.

One important structure in the Castle complex is the Gothic Masterpiece, St. Vitus Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. Aside from being the largest and most important spiritual cathedral in Prague, St Vitus had overseen the coronations of Czech kings and queens. The Royal Mausoleum, in front of the high altar, are the tombs of royalties and saints. One important feature of the Cathedral is the Chapel of St. Wenceslas.

The St. Vitus Cathedral

5. And lastly, stroll along the New Town

Don't be misled, the New Town is not exactly 'new' - it was founded by Charles IV in 1348 and its the  largest and the youngest of the five independent towns of Prague.

New Town boasts of intriguing history but has modern structures. Wenceslas Square is the bustling center teeming with grand hotels, commercial establishments and entertainment possibilities. The National Museum and the statue of Saint Wencelas are imposing structures that face the square.

Stroll along the New Town

Prague offers a symphony of history and elegance anywhere and everywhere you look. So, one important tip: DON'T RUSH! Enjoy the magnificence of the sights and sounds around you. Bask in the city's history, myths and legends!

There's truth to what Franz Kafka said  "Prague never lets you go... this dear little mother has sharp claws." And as I said "Prague had me at hello!" :)

By the way, the historic centre of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site...there you go! :)

12-12-12: A very special post....

....our wedding was 14 years ago but the celebration continues to this day.

I am writing this en route to Nha Trang City.  12 December 1998, exactly 14 years ago, we took the plunge, so to speak.  And what a plunge it has been since!!!
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12:00 am, 12 December 2012:  

Happy anniversary, loves! Thank you for 14 years!

For us, it was never a roller-coaster ride....it was more of a leisurely drive! Sure, there are the occasional bumps in the road but our marriage is more of a comfortable cruise along a newly-paved road. Thank you for this!


Thank you for loving me despite my imperfections! Thank you for saying that I am still the sexiest for you! Thank you for bearing with my nightly snores! Thank you for cleaning up my mess! Thank you for the everyday patience! Thank you for just listening to me when I rant! Thank you for giving me foot massages even if your hand hurts, thank you for the lovely flowers...

More than these, thank you for understanding - for saying that I am not less of a woman just because I did not bear us a child, for loving me in my weakest moment, for celebrating with me all my achievements, for holding my hand when I was sick and frail, for crying with me when I felt sad, thank you for being faithful and kind....

Thanking the Lord for another good year...

 12-12-12: the 12th day of the 12thmonth of the 12th year -  the last time, at least for another century, that the elements of the date are identical....for the Mayans, the end of times as we know it...

12-12-12: the 2nd cycle of our seven-year itch, our 14th wedding anniversary, the start of yet another blissful year...

Although, we won't be together (again!) on this day, I look forward to celebrating it "properly"  when I come home... :)

I love you! <3

 ********

And the passing years will show

that you will always grow ever more beautiful....

in my eyes....

Travel: Italian moments (over again!)

....as our UNIDO expert said "It's the Italian charm...".....
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Somehow I managed to convince the husband to join me in our UNIDO study visit to Italy. I have been away for several missions and thought this would be an opportunity for us both to be together and for him to have an insight on the rigorous requirements of my job considering it is just a study tour.

We visited the facilities of Ansaldo Caldaie (a boiler manufacturer) at Gioia del Colle, Centrale Enel Torrevaldaliga Nord power plant and CRA-ING biomass boiler research facility. Overall, it was an interesting and very educational visit in relation to the regional fossil fuel-fired utilities and industrial boiler project.

UNIDO study tour participants at the Ansaldo Caldaie facilities in Bari, Italy

A visit to Italy would not be complete without doing the usual rounds of its sights. So, when work ended, pleasure began.

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At the St Peter's Square...

Just a bit of Rome, this time.  While we have been in Rome before (thrice even), the rich heritage of the city never fails to amaze and impress every time. First thing on the list was a visit to the St. Peter's Basilica, touted to be one of the holiest Catholic sites situated in the 44-hectare sovereign territory of the Vatican. Contrary to popular belief, the basilica is not the mother church of Roman Catholicism but I can vouch that all Catholics have the pilgrimage to this place in their bucket list.

Colosseo and the Arco di Constantino

Now, on to another iconic symbol of Imperial Rome - the Colosseo. This Flavian amphitheatre had seen the goriest battles between men and beasts.Today, however, the only battle you will see is between the quasi-gladiators outside the Colosseum and the unknowing tourists who had to part with Euro20 after having a photo taken with them. Somehow, I wished Russel Crowe will make his appearance in his gladiator suit. :)

We went through the usual touristy things to see and do - Fontana de Trevi,  Fora Romana, Vitorrio Emanuele II monument , gelato, pizza, pasta...not with much zest and details as before, but still with a great deal of  fascination.

******

But what made this Italy visit a little more special, at least for me,  is a visit to two of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites outside of Rome.  I looovvvee Heritage Sites. As I've always mentioned, my dream is to see as many of these sites in my lifetime.

Drenched in Tivoli. With the study tour over, our Italian expert decided to bring the group to the nearest interesting place outside Rome - the town of Tivoli. Tivoli is home to two World Heritage Sites - Villa Adriana and Villa d' Este. 

Villa Adrian was created as a retreat by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD and is a massive complex of 30 buildings. The miniature model of the villa will tell you that one day is not enough to explore and commune with the place.

Unfortunately, the weather, was not so cooperative. While in Villa Adriana, a heavy downpour made it impossible to see the whole historical complex. I called it literally soaked in history. Braving the rains, we manage to see a few sites and take some souvenir shots.

With the heavy rains, Villa d'Este is out the question. Sigh! :(

We had another day to spare and were debating where to go - there's just too many interesting sights and too little time. From our wish list, our Italian experts and our 'almost' Italian cousins recommended the city of Siena - another heritage site!

A Taste of Tuscany.  Siena is a medieval city  in the Tuscan region of Italy. Tuscany is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and is famous for its wine. For me, it is a heritage site haven - six of them!!! The historic centre of Florence (check!), the square of the Cathedral of Pisa (check!), Val d' Orcia, historical centre of San Gimignano and the historical Center of Siena (now, check!!).

Perhaps the most famous of Siena's attraction is the Piazza del Campo, the town's main square where the infamous horse race, Palio, is held annually. The piazza  features the Palazzo Publicco (town hall) with the towering Torre del Mangia, from the top of which supposedly, a picturesque panorama of the Sienese countryside maybe viewed. I said supposedly because I refused to climb the 400-step to the top! My mantra these days - NO.MORE.CLIMBING!!!

Piazza del Campo, or 'il Campo, where Palio , the most infamous horse race in the world, is held

Another distinct attraction is the Cattedrale dell' Assunta (Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption) which rises majestic on the Duomo Square.

According to Wikipedia, the cathedral itself was originally designed and completed between 1215 and 1263 and has the form of a Latin cross with a slightly projecting transept, a dome and a bell tower. The exterior and interior are constructed of white and greenish-black marble in alternating stripes, with addition of red marble on the façade. Black and white are the symbolic colors of Siena, etiologically, inked to black and white horses of the legendary city's founders, Senius and Aschius.

There's so much to see inside and outside the Cathedral. The facade is one of the most impressive features in Sienna. It showcases impressive artistry in tiniest details. The first sight would leave you breathless. Like, wow!!!

I have seen several magnificent cathedrals, churches, abbeys and basilicas but what I've seen inside impressed me to the core. The altar, the nave, the pulpit , the dome - my limited vocabulary is not sufficient to do justice to my description of these. The visual impact is just too stunning!

The inlaid marble mosaic floor, depicting scenes from the Old Testament, allegories and virtues,  is one of the most ornate of its kind in Italy.

Adjoining the cathedral is the Piccolomini library, housing precious illuminated choir books and frescoes painted by the Umbrian Bernardino di Betto, called Pinturicchio. 

Amazing collection of wonders inside the Cathedral

What we failed to see (which I will forever regret) is the Basilica of San Domenico. Having been educated in a Dominican University, the University of Santo Tomas, this is a cardinal sin. It should have been on top of my list on this visit to Sienna. And yes, its "home"  to Saint Catherine of Siena - from whom my youngest sister was, obviously,  named after. It could have been the perfect place to beseech guidance and blessings for her.  Tssskkk!  I, however, take this as a reason to go back - soon! :)

Sights and delights of Siena

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Overall, this trip has been a respite to the body and  nourishment to both the mind and spirit. Although it was marred by another unpleasant experience, I believe that Italy has so much more to offer, so much more secrets waiting to be uncovered.... so as they say in the local parlance - Arrivederci, Italia!!!

Travel: Wow Wachau!!!

..... a day of wonders and blessings...
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We have a 4-day UN weekend and I am HOME! The possibility of both occurring at the same time is verrryy rare. We planned to go to Venice  but the husband complained of painful corns and calluses that impede walking long distances. While I was somehow disappointed, I also welcomed a 4-day break at home. 

Saturday came. It was raining, it was gloomy. We were totally bored!! So at 7 AM, I was frantically searching the web for a possible day trip outside Vienna. Thank you GOD for the internet and several travel blogs that led us to the towns of Melk and Duernstein in the Wachau Valley area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site a few miles from Vienna.

We were off on the 9:18 train from Westbanhof to Melk availing of the combination ticket as described in one blog.

First stop - MELK. Of course, Melk is made famous by its impressive Abbey.

Stift Melk in all its grandiose

Melk Abbey or Stift Melk was originally a castle owned by Leopold II, Margrave of Austria. The impressive Baroque Benedictine abbey founded in 1089 stands majestic on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube.

The abbey tour takes you to the Kaisergang (Imperial Corridor and Abbey Museum) and the library which boasts of around 100,000 volumes of medieval manuscripts.  The marble hall features an impressive ceiling fresco by Paul Troger.

The grand finale of the tour is the magnificent, gold-accented church of the Abbey. Simply awesome!

Golden magnificence of the Church of the Abbey

Frescoed ceiling of the church which includes a depiction of St. Benedict's triumphal ascent to heaven

After the Abbey tour, a little sightseeing of the town and lunch, we proceeded to the ship station for our next stop - DUERNSTEIN.

The short cruise from Melk to Duernstein is an absolute wonder!! I stood on the boat, chilled to the bone, absolutely awed with the passing scenes. Allow me to wax spiritual here...the experience was so surreal that I uttered a prayer of thanks to the Maker for creating this beauty, this work of art - thanking HIM more for this opportunity!

Autumn is displayed in all its grandeur along the Wachau Valley - a colorful blanket of yellow, red and brown hues shrouds the area.

Breathtaking autumn hues....

Schloss Schönbühel along the banks of Danube

My camera just kept on clicking the whole time we were cruising - every angle is worth each megabyte of digitized memory!

Now, Dürnstein.

A view of Duernstein midway to the castle ruins

Dürnstein is a quaint, romantic little  town whose claim to fame is its terraced vineyards, the Wachauer Laberl - a semmel-like bread made by Backerei Schimdl - and the ruins of the castle,  where Richard the Lion Heart (King of England from 1189 to 1199) was imprisoned in 1193 .

According to its website, the name "Dürnstein" - in earlier days "Tirnstein" - originates from the rocky area, "dem dürren Stein", where the settlement was founded. Dürnstein has kept its historic character and is regarded as the most romantic place in the Wachau.

After partaking of its famous bread, we 'foolishly' went for a trek to the castle ruins. Completely reminiscent of our Ancient Thira experience in Santorini, we climbed a seemingly endless, sometimes perilous stone path! I was breathing heavily and perspiring despite the 2 deg C chill, silently cursing the gods of heights (if ever there is one) for another one of these (mis)adventures. And yes, the sights along the way may make one say 'it is worth it!'... unfortunately, I was too busy trying to breathe and stay alive, to have a full appreciation of my surroundings. Again, I am exaggerating because it was, indeed, worth it! :)

 Maybe around 300 steps up, the hubby started complaining of pain on his foot (thank GOD for corns and calluses!) and we stopped about 100 steps more to the topmost part of the ruins. We may have missed the prize but sometimes a second place-finish is not that bad! :)

The the ruins of castle where Richard the Lionheart, King of England, was imprisoned

It was definitely a day of wonders, a day of discovering the gems of our surrogate home...another 'together-moment' to be cherished for a lifetime.... and yes, it is a day of praise and thanksgiving to the ALMIGHTY for the beauty of nature - a true attestation of HIS grace and blessings!!!

Standing in awe of the surrounding beauty....

We have a 4-day UN weekend and I am HOME!! Rare occurence both.  We planned to go to Venice but the husband complained of a painful corn and callus that impede walking long distances. While I was somehow disappointed, I also welcomed a 4-day break at home.

Saturday came. It was raining, it was gloomy. We were totally bored! So at 7 AM, I was frantically searching for a possible day trip outside Vienna. Thank you GOD for the internet and several blogs that led us to the towns of Melk and Durstein in the Wachau Valley area.

We were off on the 9:18 train from Westbanhof to Melk taking the combination ticket as described in one blog.

Of course, the town of Melk is made famous by its very impressive Abbey  or Stift Melk in German.

Date Night: Irodion

....a taste of Greek Cuisine.
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Maybe its a remnant of our Santorini experience or maybe its just the constant prodding of a colleague at work which made us go and check!

This time its Greek cuisine. I'm not really a fan but the Greek dishes we had in Santorini were delectable that I  had great expectations.

Irodion is touted to be one of the best Greek restaurant in Vienna and my colleague gushes excellent recommendations on its food and the ambiance. So, tempted was thou!!

Its good that she reminded us to book a table in advance (well, she did the reservations :)). The place was packed and there's a line for table at 6PM when we got there.

Here's what we had:

Fish plate called "Portal to Hades" with trout, shrimp and calamari

The fish plate is, well, a mix of seafoods - trout, shrimps and calamari. This was probably a bad choice. I was anticipating the fresh variety I had in Greece (silly!!). Being in Austria, fresh seafood is a luxury and of course, they served frozen ones. The name is probably apt - Portals to Hades (the lord of the dead) - the seafoods tastes really, er, dead.

Grilled plate "Chef's recommendation" with lamb chops, grilled pork, gyros, souvlaki, and soutzoukakia

The grilled meat plate is quite interesting with all the nice sounding meat dishes it features - gyros (sliced meat roasted on vertical rotisserie -like kebabs), souvlaki (skewered meat) and soutzoukakia (meatballs).

The verdict?

The food was ok - nothing to be really ecstatic about. The service and the ambiance, however, totally made up for it. The waiters were very friendly and the service was fast. The place is cozy and takes a romantic atmosphere.

But hey, even if the food tastes flat, I guess its the "together moments" that counts...

LIFE AT ITS BEST. <3

This blog is about love and loving...and its NOT mine. Yes,I have a guest blogger! :) My sister, Catherine, wrote this very honest, very raw Facebook note and I thought its too good (and too real) not to be shared.

So here goes .....
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I used to think that I can still do it -- wait patiently. During the tough-and-almost-wanted-to-give-up times, I kept on reminding my self, "You can do it. You've made it for so many years, why give up now?" I've held on to that thought for so long, and yes, for so long means for SEVEN long years. Almost all of my friends, the ones closest to me, my sisters, and every person who knows about our story, gave me the same piece of advice -- MOVE ON.

It has been a roller coaster ride for me. And yes, I survived every loop, all the ups and downs, the twists and turns, everything. I made it because of a single thing. HOPE.

Everytime I remember all the things I did, the ones I gave up, the unending support I've shown him, the encouraging words I've told him, the good night, good morning, hello, hi and you can do it texts I've sent him, the way my family had treated and welcomed him, the time my friends had spent just to be close to him, and each and every memory I've had with him...I feel thousands of emotions.

It took me seven years to realize that the "hope" I had in me, was, oh I mean, has always been a FALSE one. FALSE HOPE. FALSE HOPE. FALSE HOPE.

Actually, you can blame me. But not totally. Everything was my choice. I chose to be someone -- fool and crazy, just for a guy who might have or might not have even appreciated me. I made myself believe that the feeling is mutual. And I know that I was wrong, very wrong.

I thought that love can endure everything, that I can take all the pain, that I can accept everything even if it kills me slowly inside. Then something happened, I don't know why and how, but it just happened.

I met someone accidentally during our company outing. I really had no idea then that this guy would change my world. I will never forget the first few words I've told him. "20 ka palang talaga? Bakit mukha kang 24?" and the other one, "Di ka talaga lumalabas ng bahay? Bakit mukha kang basagulero?" Each time I reminisce, a huge smile follows.

I don't know but something inside of me was so eager to know more about him. He asked for my number and saved the name KAT. I told him it is CATH but he insisted.

The next day, upon reaching the shore where the cars are parked, we were so thirsty that I volunteered myself to buy drinks. After I collected the money, I saw him and it's as if he's going to buy some drinks too so I shouted his name and asked, "bibili ka ba? Teka, hintayin moko." Little did I know that it's a wish granted for him. Based on his story, he then said to himself, "chance ko na to." And that was it. Our very first date. Yes, he called that a DATE.

I felt like I was a teenager again. Getting "kilig" and all especially when he confessed that he likes me. I had no intention of entertaining anyone because until then, I kept on reminding my self, "konting tiis nalang, magboboard exam na siya sa September. What's 4 months compared to 7 years, right?" For the very first time, the trick didn't work. I don't know what exactly happened because something in me felt that this time I got it right.

Days had passed and I got to know him better. Most of his stories are unbelievable but they were all true. I met a bad-boy-turned-good-boy who captured not just my interest but also my heart. Right then I realized, he is the exact opposite of the person I've waited for all of my life.

Last May 29, he asked me if I can be his girlfriend. I told him no, not yet. I even told him to wait until December 9 since 9 was my favorite number. Hahaha. He then said, "bakit mo pa patatagalin kung dun rin naman ang punta nun. Anong MU MU, di na tayo high school no." And of course, without thinking twice, oh I mean without even thinking (haha), I aswered YES.

I thought that something will change since we're not in the courting stage anymore and I was partly wrong and partly right. Partly wrong because the way he treated me since day 1 is still the same until now. Partly right because every passing day becomes a challenge for us. Each day is a getting-to-know-more-of-each-other day. We discovered each other's good side and the bad as well. We fight over the smallest and nonsense things. But we had this one rule that makes everything fall into place again. We never let the day end without reconciling. We have to settle everything first before we part ways. And the good news is, it is still working until now.

They were right when they told me, "wala sa tagal ng pagkakakilala yan. Yung iba nga, 13 years magjow tapos naghiwalay din." And in my case, I agree. One of the sayings that I will never ever forget is, "the higher the risk, the higher the return." I grabbed the chance and took the risk. And what do I have now? SOMEONE WHO LOVES ME UNCONDITIONALLY.

I'm just so happy that everything is perfectly fine. I know that this will be a roller coster ride too. It will have its own ups and downs, twists and turns, numerous loops. But there lies one difference which will make this ride fun and worthwhile. I'll be riding with someone I love the most and who loves me more than anything else in the world. We're in this together, forever.

And by the way, here's a list of some of his sweetest words.
-Alam mo, kung yung dati e di ka binigyan ng halaga, para sa akin, ikaw lang ang pinakamahalaga.
-Di ko alam, pero totoo, mamatay man ako, di ko alam bakit gandang ganda ako sayo. (HAHAHA! Walang kokontra!)
-Susuko ako? Ano ka, sinuswerte? Daig ko pa ang tumama sa lotto no! Asa ka, di na kita pakakawalan pa no!
-Basta swerte ko kasi nasayo na lahat, maganda, mabait, matalino, sexy, ano pang hahanapin ko? (Wag kokontra sabi eh. Hahaha.)

Now, tell me, how can I ask for more? :)

Thank you for your super long patience and UNDERstanding, MAHAL. And just in case I haven't told you yet, YOU'RE THE BEST THING THAT EVER HAPPENED TO ME.

I love you since day 1 and all I wanna do is GROW OLD WITH YOU. 

******* 

Awww, what do you actually say to that...so to my little sis and her 'mahal', take care of each other...keep the love and the loving alive!!!

Just like riding a bike...

Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of riding a bike.  ~ John F. Kennedy
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It started with a day out at Venn Island, Sweden.  They thought I can't....

Last April, we visited some friends in Sweden and part of their programme for us was a visit to Venn Island. 

Rows of cottages at the Venn Island

Venn is a small island situated in the Oresund strait between Sweden and Denmark. The island itself is gorgeous (and historical) and deserves to be featured on its own. To fully explore its environs, the main mode of transport is - you guessed it - bicycles. There's a number of them you can rent for the whole day.

Me with the rented Venn bike...uphill now....:)

Initially, they were all (hubby included) apprehensive that I couldn't handle it. Before Venn, the last time I hopped on a bike is probably when I was in HS (yeah, a long time ago, Ok?!) . But riding a bike is, well, "just like riding a bike"....you never forget! Muscle memory at work there.

The Venn experience cost almost a thousand Euro back  in Vienna. New bike -check! ... Accessories -check!....biking outfits - check!... Motivation - ahh, hmmm... well....

Anyone who knows me well also knows that I hate physical activities (except... :)). I'd  much rather curl up with a nice book or watch tv the whole day. Therefore, taking up biking is a new thing for me. But again, the hubby just wouldn't let me out of this especially after buying all those nice biking outfits and accessories - the full biking regalia, as they say.
 
So, it began.....

Exploring Vienna's charms with a bike...

Biking in Vienna is a delight.  Dedicated lanes for bikers are everywhere and routes are especially made accessible for enthusiasts. Bike tours are being offered for tourists as an alternative to see the sights. Bike paths allow the rider an opportunity to appreciate the wonders and charms of Vienna and its sorrounding areas. There really is no reason NOT to bike in this city.

Finally, I found one physical activity I think I can handle. I love the feel of the sun on my skin, the cool breeze on my face, the artistry of the passing scenes while I bike. For a few minutes, it's between you and the pedal - your mind is at peace, your soul cleansed. Sorry for waxing poetic but if only life is "just like riding a bike" ..... *sigh* (Note: the promise of a nice meal after is a plus :))


And of course,  nothing beats having that someone special for company....

Biking made more special....(and bearable!)

Travel: Uniquely Santorini

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
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It was an unplanned vacation. We were doing our usual groceries one Saturday and there it was on the receipt - 50% off for a Santorini/Mykonos holidays for the first 50 callers.

See, I've always wanted to 'experience' Santorini after watching the movie The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants 2. If there was love at first sight with a place, this was it! I don't know, maybe it was the spectacular landscapes -deep blue sea, amazing sunset, breathtaking views-  featured in the film that caught my interest.

According to Wikipedia, Santorini, classically Thera, and officially Thira, is essentially what remains after an enormous volcanic explosion, which happened  some 3600 years ago, destroyed the earliest settlements (the Minoans) on a formerly single island, and created the current geological caldera.  Another popular theory holds that the Thera eruption is the source of the legend of Atlantis. So, stunning view with colorful history - what else would you want???


Needless to say, I called the Billa Reisen hotline and booked the tour.

Finally, the much awaited day came and off we went on a 05:15 chartered Austrian flight to the island. We were booked at the Hotel Zephyros, a nice 3-star hotel on the Kamari side of the island.

First impression? Well, I was not ecstatic or anything. My senses simply feasted on the uniqueness of the sights around me.

Then the VEE-CAY-SHON began....

Lazing around Kamari beach with Christian Grey....

Read a book at Black Beach. Our hotel was, like, 5-minute walk from the Black Beach of Kamari.  So, naturally, first on the agenda was a day at the beach. It was a relaxing day spent with Christian Grey. :)

Most of Santorini's beaches have black sand  because of the volcanic eruption and probably, a bit inconvenient because of the pebbles. However, the emerald blue, clear waters totally made up for this.

Interesting fact: the official name of Kamari is "Episkopi Gonia" and took its name from the fascinating church of Panaghia Episkopi which was built in 1100. Oh wow!!

Trying here to survive the 1.5 km trek to the top...

Volcano Tour - Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni.  If there is one tour you should not miss while in Santorini, it would be this one. The first stop is Nea Kameni in the center of the caldera. Here you have to walk (no, climb..) the 1.5 km distance on a gravel path to reach the 130m-high volcanic crater. My GOD!! It was soooo physically challenging - its hot, its rough and its far!! All three things I shun away from! Halfway up, I almost gave up. But as they say, no pain, no gain! So, after imploring the help of all the volcanic gods and goddesses,  I reached the top (with the hubby patiently prodding)!Was it worth it? Well, for me to know, you to find out...:)

The Saint Nikolas Cathedral serving its lone inhabitant

Next, is Palea Kameni, the "old burnt island" where visitors may swim in a hot spring. Of course, the brochure won't tell you that, to enjoy the hot spring, you have to jump off the boat and swim towards it and then swim back to the boat in, like, 10m deep waters. Now, for non-swimmers like me that poses a problem, don't you think? Nonetheless, the 30-minute stop was interesting as you get to see the abode of the lone inhabitant of the island. His goats might just make their appearance too.

Now off to Thirasia, an island in close proximity to Santorini with only about 150 inhabitants. We had the choice of swimming on the island's beach with its crystalline waters or going up the main village, Manolas, which maybe reached by a flight of 250 steps from the port or by riding on a donkey.After the harrowing Nea Kameni climb, the choice was clear. NO. MORE.CLIMBING..... and imagine the poor donkey with me as passenger. :)

Look at that winding path  from the port to the village of  Manolas

Sunset at Oia.  Not to be missed! The village itself is simply gorgeous - with the typical whitewashed houses and blue-domed cathedrals. But the sunset - the sunset is  absoultely breathtaking (and oh so romantic..)! My camera did not do justice to it. Just be prepared for the throng of people (and I mean, throng!!) wanting to share the experience!

Breathtaking Oia sunset...

 Ancient Thira. The next morning, all I wanted to do was to stay in bed and rest the weary me. But of course, the dear hubby was so restless 'oscillating' inside the room (this guy should know what 'relax' mean:!). Arrggghhh!!! Somebody suggested Ancient Thira - said its near, done in 1 hour, mini-bus takes you there...sounds like a good deal! So, off we went!

Next time I see that somebody, remind me to give him a good tongue-lashing!! Double arrrggghhh! It was not only thousand steps to the top from where the mini-bus takes you - some paths are so narrow and on your other side is the steep cliff, 396 m high from your possible demise. I'm exaggerating, of course!! I just did not expect this after the torment of Nea Kameni. Admittedly, the view is spectacular!! So there...

Agios Stefanos, Church of the Middle Byzantine Times

Again, two choices - go back down or struggle up! I asked somebody on his way down if its worth it! He replied "Depends!". What the &*^@ does that even mean??!!!!

So I continued...huff and puff...huff and puff...who was it who said "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one small step"? He was right!!! Finally, we arrived!! If you're a history buff, this place is for you...

Ancient Thira was named after the mythical ruler of the island, Theras, and was inhabited from the 9th century BC until 726 AD. According to literature, most of the ruins  of Thira date from the Hellenistic era, but there are also extensive Roman and Byzantine remains. The history of the site is actually very interesting.

By the way, the hubby fully compensated by giving me foot massages for the whole week! :)

The beach of Perissa, probably the best beach in Santorini

Take the boat from Kamari to Perissa.  Although it won't rival our beaches in the Philippines, Perissa is, probably, the best beach in Santorini. We did not go to the Red Beach so I can't compare.  There's a daily, 10 minutes,45-minute interval boat ride from Kamari to Perissa.

The whole day here was spent frolicking on the beach and lounging in one of the nipa shades drinking mojitos and yeah, sex on the beach (sadly, just the drink :)).

(Don't) Take the Southern Santorini tour.  The tour promises to take you to the Prophet Elias Monastery for the majestic view of the island then to Megalohori to admire the traditional architecture of the village and the unique craftmanship of the local masons and to Emborio for the traditional windmills. There's also wine-tasting included. But my friendly advice? Dont part with your Euro 29 for this tour.

Part of the ruins of the prehistoric town of Akrotiri

I don't know if it's just "tourist fatigue"  that hit me, but I found the view from the monastery unmajestic (quite ordinary actually), the architecture of the village practically the same as the others (therefore, boring), the windmills, well, they're windmills. AND I'm not fond of wine so...

In my opinion, the only saving grace of this tour is a visit to the archeological site of Akrotiri. The excavations feature a well-preserved prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. The first habitation at the site dates from the Late Neolithic times (at least the 4th millenium B.C.).The archeological find boasts of elaborate drainage system and sophisticated multi-storeyed buildings with magnificent wall-paintings, furnitures and vessels.

Fira: a must-see.... and a 'blessing'. Fira, the capital of the island, is perched on the edge of an impressive cliff 260m high and offers a great panorama over the submerged volcano.Typical Santorini's achitecture - white washed house, stepped streets and blue-domed churches - accentuates the beauty of the village.

The village of Fira perched on a cliff...

Our visit to Fira was made special as we happened to be 'lost' in the circuitous alleys of the village looking for the main street and found ourselves at the Saint John the Baptist Cathedral. It is a Catholic chuch amidst a sea of Orthodox churches, where the Sunday mass was about to be celebrated. The mass was in Italian, with the homily translated in English. The experience of attending the mass in Santorini was surreal -maybe serendipity or purely God's grace at work...

Guess what?! The 2nd reading from the Book of Ephesians - Husbands, love your wives as Christ loves the Chuch- cemented my belief that we were indeed blessed to have heard this particular mass.

The vacation had to end, of course, but the wonderful memories created by this trip will forever be treasured. Yes, we spent 8 days in paradise.... Santorini is all I dream about and more!!! The amazing scenery, the delectable cuisine, the oh-so-gorgeous men (yeah, ok...ladies too!) and best of all, I was with  the only person I  want to have more Santorinis with. :)

Truly memorable Santorini moments...