We've just returned from a four-day jaunt down to London. With this being Easter Week, there was a very noticeable presence of foreign tourists visiting Britain's capital city, many of whom were Americans. If we are currently in the midst of a world-wide economic recession, it wasn’t evident from the amount of business we witnessed being conducted in London’s pubs, restaurants, and other miscellaneous establishments. The weather really cooperated with us while we were there and I came away with a wide variety of photo images that shall be added to the stock library.
One area of the city which we did purposely avoid was Westminster. Tamil protestors from Sri Lanka, along with their supporters and other residual protestors still in town from the G20 Summit, staged a major multiple day demonstration around the Houses of Parliament. While I am an accredited member of the press, this was one photo op which we prudently avoided.
The visit to London was not all work and no play. The real purpose for Sarah and I being there was a reunion with my younger brother Sean and his wife Laura. Sean is a naval officer currently assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The ship paid a courtesy call to these British shores, on its homeward cruise following a seven-month deployment in the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. While we provided Sean and Laura plenty of room to get “reacquainted,” we thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with both of them.
Something else that Sarah and I thoroughly enjoyed while in London was a hamburger. Except for our return visit to L.A. in 2007, when we made a direct beeline from the airport to Bob’s Big Boy in Toluca Lake, I am very sorry to say that we have disappointedly not had a proper hamburger since relocating to the UK five years ago. That is, until this week.
Located on the very proper Kensington High Street, in the equally very proper London neighbourhood of Kensington, is a very proper diner called Byron Proper Hamburgers. As the name implies, the proprietors take great pride in serving proper hamburgers. After just one bite, I immediately knew why they were this year’s Best Cheap Eat winner in The Observer (newspaper) Food Monthly Awards. Consisting of aged Aberdeen Angus beef, Monterey Jack cheese, and the simple toppings of a sliced tomato, lettuce, and red onion, served on a perfectly proportioned freshly baked bun, this was a very delicious and very proper hamburger that was easy on the wallet to boot. On our next visit, I may just try one of their chocolate milkshakes, instead of the bottle of Sierra Nevada ale (imported directly from California) that I had. Please visit their very proper website at www.byronhamburgers.com to read more about their story.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Birdwatching in Britain
It’s been two weeks plus a couple of days since a major moment in history was made with Barack Obama being sworn in as the 44th president of the United States of America. From all of the reports that I have been receiving and reading on this side of the pond, President Obama is already on his way in accomplishing more within a fortnight than his predecessor did in eight years. His approval ratings here in the UK remain astronomically high, which is not only generally good in terms of foreign policy but even better for any American who currently calls Britain home.
Just like in Kermit the Frog’s song, It’s Not Easy Being Green, it has not been very easy for any of us expats for the past eight years, due in large part to the person and the policies of Number 43 (aka Dubya). With the promise of change that is coming out of the Obama White House, also comes the added bonus that many of us over here are becoming popular, or at the very least a bit more tolerated to the extent that a Brit can allow himself to be towards a Yank.
One of Sarah’s gifts to me which I received on Christmas morning was Parky, the autobiographical memoir of British broadcaster Michael Parkinson. In it, he recalls a conversation that he had with fellow journalist and broadcaster Alistair Cooke in 1972. When Cooke first arrived in America, he hated the place. ‘I suffered from the delusion, which is universal among the English, that Americans are Englishmen gone wrong.’ Sadly, this is a delusion which is still shared by many in 2009.
I may be in danger of ruffling a few feathers with the following observation, but I shall share it, just the same. In a country which counts birdwatching as one of its many popular pastimes, there is a particular species of British fowl that is quite prevalent throughout the countryside; a species which I have personally observed in great detail during the time that I’ve spent here. One of its characteristic traits is an obstinate avoidance of anything foreign, and most especially anything that is remotely American in origin. Fearful of illumination, these particular birds madly fly out of the way of new ideas and innovation as if they were the bright headlights of oncoming speeding traffic along the M25; content instead to remain roosting in a dark, yet very familiar nesting blind because that’s the way it’s always been done.
These same tendencies also find their way into the flock’s current popular culture. Rather than exposing themselves to anything created on a foreign shore, this species of fowl prefers to embrace and listen to domestically-produced mediocrity from untalented boybands and girlbands, while anointing semi-literate footballers (and their respective wives and girlfriends) to the deity status of cultural icons who grace the pages of the red-topped tabloids and OK magazine.
There are many species of living beings that inhabit and contribute to the overall beauty and magnificence of these British Isles which I continue to enjoy calling home; I have just briefly focused my attention upon just one of them because of that species’ singular impact upon the greater British ecosystem that the rest of us also live in.
Just like in Kermit the Frog’s song, It’s Not Easy Being Green, it has not been very easy for any of us expats for the past eight years, due in large part to the person and the policies of Number 43 (aka Dubya). With the promise of change that is coming out of the Obama White House, also comes the added bonus that many of us over here are becoming popular, or at the very least a bit more tolerated to the extent that a Brit can allow himself to be towards a Yank.
One of Sarah’s gifts to me which I received on Christmas morning was Parky, the autobiographical memoir of British broadcaster Michael Parkinson. In it, he recalls a conversation that he had with fellow journalist and broadcaster Alistair Cooke in 1972. When Cooke first arrived in America, he hated the place. ‘I suffered from the delusion, which is universal among the English, that Americans are Englishmen gone wrong.’ Sadly, this is a delusion which is still shared by many in 2009.
I may be in danger of ruffling a few feathers with the following observation, but I shall share it, just the same. In a country which counts birdwatching as one of its many popular pastimes, there is a particular species of British fowl that is quite prevalent throughout the countryside; a species which I have personally observed in great detail during the time that I’ve spent here. One of its characteristic traits is an obstinate avoidance of anything foreign, and most especially anything that is remotely American in origin. Fearful of illumination, these particular birds madly fly out of the way of new ideas and innovation as if they were the bright headlights of oncoming speeding traffic along the M25; content instead to remain roosting in a dark, yet very familiar nesting blind because that’s the way it’s always been done.
These same tendencies also find their way into the flock’s current popular culture. Rather than exposing themselves to anything created on a foreign shore, this species of fowl prefers to embrace and listen to domestically-produced mediocrity from untalented boybands and girlbands, while anointing semi-literate footballers (and their respective wives and girlfriends) to the deity status of cultural icons who grace the pages of the red-topped tabloids and OK magazine.
There are many species of living beings that inhabit and contribute to the overall beauty and magnificence of these British Isles which I continue to enjoy calling home; I have just briefly focused my attention upon just one of them because of that species’ singular impact upon the greater British ecosystem that the rest of us also live in.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Switzerland – An Overview
Sarah and I are now back in the UK, after returning here from Zürich on Friday evening. Our sincere thanks and gratitude is once again extended to Tom and Gillian for their generous hospitality, which was often punctuated with delightful and thought-provoking conversations across the dining table.
Snow had swept across much of Switzerland during the final three days of our visit, providing a very traditional wintery picture postcard look to the Swiss landscape and beaming smiles to anyone who may possess a pair of skis or a snowboard. While plenty was seen through the camera viewfinder and captured on memory cards, much more was observed by the naked eye and indelibly imprinted upon the grey matter resting within the recesses of my cranium.
Switzerland is a textbook study in contrasts; the very contrasts that truly make life interesting and made our 10-day working holiday all that more enlightening and enjoyable. Natural and architectural beauty abounded everywhere we looked, from the pristine snow-capped peaks of the Alps towering above the Bernese Oberland to the cathedrals and fresco-covered public buildings found in Bern, Luzern, Basel, and the many other towns that we visited. In a country that has long taken pride in order and cleanliness and invests a large percentage of its public tax monies towards that end, too many buildings were not adorned with ornate carvings and colourful storytelling facades, but defaced instead with graffiti left behind by self-proclaimed anarchists preaching a twisted homily advocating societal disorder. In one of the most highly educated and sophisticated countries in all of Europe, tobacco smoking is very prevalent regardless of age group and is permitted in restaurants and other public places; very reminiscent of how Paris and the rest of France used to be until just a couple of years ago, and with no indications of any changes occurring in the immediate future.
Street merchants sell their wares ranging from hats, scarves, and traditional folk art to paper bags filled with warm, sweet-tasting roasted chestnuts all along the same Bahnhofstrasse which also provides a home to Prada, Gucci, Cartier, Salvatore Ferragamo, and the offices of Zürich’s many private bankers. Standing alongside these temples of opulent consumption is a McDonalds where a Big Mac can be purchased for 12CHF (Swiss Franc), which is the equivalent of $10.15 (U.S. Dollar) or £6.80 (British Pound). The venerable banking institution Credit Suisse has not found itself immune to the current global financial crisis which does not recognise national borders, all while the fur coat-attired matronly women of Zürich’s cafe society promenade along the street below and meet for lunch in an oblivious existence reminiscent of the Phoney War period (called the Twilight War by Winston Churchill) during the opening months of World War II. Is this wrong? Am I making value judgements through my red, white, and blue-tinted glasses? Not necessarily. Call it Que Sera Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be), Life Goes On, or simply an attitude of Don’t Worry, Be Happy. Maybe the Swiss actually recognise and know something that the rest of us don’t (or refuse to).
Snow had swept across much of Switzerland during the final three days of our visit, providing a very traditional wintery picture postcard look to the Swiss landscape and beaming smiles to anyone who may possess a pair of skis or a snowboard. While plenty was seen through the camera viewfinder and captured on memory cards, much more was observed by the naked eye and indelibly imprinted upon the grey matter resting within the recesses of my cranium.
Switzerland is a textbook study in contrasts; the very contrasts that truly make life interesting and made our 10-day working holiday all that more enlightening and enjoyable. Natural and architectural beauty abounded everywhere we looked, from the pristine snow-capped peaks of the Alps towering above the Bernese Oberland to the cathedrals and fresco-covered public buildings found in Bern, Luzern, Basel, and the many other towns that we visited. In a country that has long taken pride in order and cleanliness and invests a large percentage of its public tax monies towards that end, too many buildings were not adorned with ornate carvings and colourful storytelling facades, but defaced instead with graffiti left behind by self-proclaimed anarchists preaching a twisted homily advocating societal disorder. In one of the most highly educated and sophisticated countries in all of Europe, tobacco smoking is very prevalent regardless of age group and is permitted in restaurants and other public places; very reminiscent of how Paris and the rest of France used to be until just a couple of years ago, and with no indications of any changes occurring in the immediate future.
Street merchants sell their wares ranging from hats, scarves, and traditional folk art to paper bags filled with warm, sweet-tasting roasted chestnuts all along the same Bahnhofstrasse which also provides a home to Prada, Gucci, Cartier, Salvatore Ferragamo, and the offices of Zürich’s many private bankers. Standing alongside these temples of opulent consumption is a McDonalds where a Big Mac can be purchased for 12CHF (Swiss Franc), which is the equivalent of $10.15 (U.S. Dollar) or £6.80 (British Pound). The venerable banking institution Credit Suisse has not found itself immune to the current global financial crisis which does not recognise national borders, all while the fur coat-attired matronly women of Zürich’s cafe society promenade along the street below and meet for lunch in an oblivious existence reminiscent of the Phoney War period (called the Twilight War by Winston Churchill) during the opening months of World War II. Is this wrong? Am I making value judgements through my red, white, and blue-tinted glasses? Not necessarily. Call it Que Sera Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be), Life Goes On, or simply an attitude of Don’t Worry, Be Happy. Maybe the Swiss actually recognise and know something that the rest of us don’t (or refuse to).
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
We Love British Telecom (Not!)
Due to technical difficulties with my BT Openzone account which normally allows me the convenience of logging in online from practically anywhere in the world to check email and post my daily blog journal entries, I've inconveniently been incommunicado for the past two days. We're now back in Zürich, and my dispatches from Monday and Tuesday (Rheinfall and Stein am Rhein plus Bernese Oberland) have now been filed.
Bernese Oberland
The town of Interlaken, lying between the Thunersee and Brienzersee lakes, seems to serve just a single purpose: being a way station or jumping off point with two separate train stations for the skiers, snowboarders, mountain hikers, and climbers heading into the nearby Swiss Alps that tower high above the Bernese Oberland region. There is even a Hooters restaurant here where we grabbed a hamburger and bottle of Heineken beer shortly after our arrival. Staying in a hotel that seemed to specialise in tour groups from the People’s Republic of China, it was here that Sarah and I based ourselves for two days.
On the north shore of the Thunersee and the River Aare is the town of Thun (pronounced toon, as in cartoon). While a very beautiful town with its very own castle (Schloss Thun), in many ways is was an exact carbon copy of the town of Luzern, which we had visited last week. The catchphrase that Sarah has come up with is “medieval buildings, big church, Christmas market, on the river. Check.” Though quite enjoyable, the true highlight in this leg of our Swiss adventure was our early morning excursion to the nearby mountain area of Jüngfraujoch.
One train ride, coupled with a rack railway and three separate cable gondolas, found us atop the mountain peak of Schilthorn (9,744 ft) affording us a panoramic view of most of Switzerland, stretching to Germany’s Black Forest and the adjacent Eiger (13,025 ft), Monch (13,448 ft), and Jungfrau (13,642 ft) peaks (L-R in photo). This particular trip was also a bit of a pilgrimage for us because the Schilthorn and its Piz Gloria restaurant was the location for much of the principle location filming for the James Bond motion picture On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The film’s signature song, We Have All The Time In The World (sung by Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong) was played at our marriage ceremony and has become “our song” ever since. Another Hollywood spy thriller, The Eiger Sanction (starring Clint Eastwood and George Kennedy) was shot in this area, as well.
On the gondola ride back down from Schilthorn to Mürren, we met two fellow journalists who were writing a piece about the James Bond connection to Schilthorn for a French-language newspaper in Lausanne. They were thrilled to meet someone who is a bit of a 007 aficionado and was able to discuss the film for their article.
Today we depart Interlaken for the northern Swiss town of Basel and back to Zürich later in the day. As I peer out of the window of our train, a very heavy blanket of snow is evident everywhere across the countryside; it has begun snowing outside our hotel around 10:00pm last night. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, this truly is a winter wonderland that we’re travelling across. What a way to get into the Christmas spirit.
On the north shore of the Thunersee and the River Aare is the town of Thun (pronounced toon, as in cartoon). While a very beautiful town with its very own castle (Schloss Thun), in many ways is was an exact carbon copy of the town of Luzern, which we had visited last week. The catchphrase that Sarah has come up with is “medieval buildings, big church, Christmas market, on the river. Check.” Though quite enjoyable, the true highlight in this leg of our Swiss adventure was our early morning excursion to the nearby mountain area of Jüngfraujoch.
One train ride, coupled with a rack railway and three separate cable gondolas, found us atop the mountain peak of Schilthorn (9,744 ft) affording us a panoramic view of most of Switzerland, stretching to Germany’s Black Forest and the adjacent Eiger (13,025 ft), Monch (13,448 ft), and Jungfrau (13,642 ft) peaks (L-R in photo). This particular trip was also a bit of a pilgrimage for us because the Schilthorn and its Piz Gloria restaurant was the location for much of the principle location filming for the James Bond motion picture On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The film’s signature song, We Have All The Time In The World (sung by Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong) was played at our marriage ceremony and has become “our song” ever since. Another Hollywood spy thriller, The Eiger Sanction (starring Clint Eastwood and George Kennedy) was shot in this area, as well.
On the gondola ride back down from Schilthorn to Mürren, we met two fellow journalists who were writing a piece about the James Bond connection to Schilthorn for a French-language newspaper in Lausanne. They were thrilled to meet someone who is a bit of a 007 aficionado and was able to discuss the film for their article.Today we depart Interlaken for the northern Swiss town of Basel and back to Zürich later in the day. As I peer out of the window of our train, a very heavy blanket of snow is evident everywhere across the countryside; it has begun snowing outside our hotel around 10:00pm last night. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, this truly is a winter wonderland that we’re travelling across. What a way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Rheinfall and Stein am Rhein
Accompanied today by Sarah’s cousin Gillian, we experienced a “two for one special” on Sunday by visiting one of Switzerland’s natural wonders plus a monastery town dating back to Roman times. Near where the Rhine River flows into the Bodensee (Lake Constance) forming an aqua border between Switzerland and the adjacent countries of Germany and Austria, lies the town of Schaffhausen and the majestic waterfalls known as the Rheinfall; the largest of its kind in Europe. While not of the size and magnitude of Niagara Falls, a constant damp mist still hung over us as we trekked to various vantage points to view and photograph the falls. Almost oblivious to the crashing waters just a few hundred yards away from them were two men in their respective small boats contently fishing away.
Boarding our second train of the morning, we continued up the rail line to the medieval town of Stein am Rhein, with its 16th century half-timbered buildings and houses painted with elaborate storytelling frescoes along the banks of the Rhine River. As with the many other cities and towns throughout the country, Stein am Rhein had a Christmas market taking place within its central square when we arrived. After feasting upon a lunch of calves liver and rosti (double-fried grated potato formed into a cake) washed down with a glass of the local Swiss beer, we began our exploration of the town that is overlooked by the former hilltop Benedictine monastery Kloster St Georgen. During the afternoon, a local brass band serenaded all within listening distance with a cheery blend of jazz standards and seasonal Christmas carols.I am composing this journal entry from the comfort of the Swiss inter-region train which is transporting Sarah and I from Zürich to the capital city of Bern. From there we will be boarding another train which will whisk us to our destination of Interlaken, where we will be spending the next two days in the Bernese Oberland region and under the shadow of the Eiger, Monch, and Jüngfrau peaks.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Bern
Sarah and I purposely took it easy yesterday, where the highlight of the day was our joining our hosts for an evening at Zurich's Opernhaus (Opera House) for a ballet performance of Peer Gynt. Afterwards, we treked across the street for a very tasty bratwurst, served to each of us wrapped in a paper napkin.
Today's adventure took the two of us to the capital city of Bern. With a picturesque setting on the River Aare and finely crafted buildings lining the cobbled streets of its medieval Old Town, this is one of the most stunning of Switzerland's many historic towns. Even though we were nearly soaked by a downpour of rain, Sarah and I still managed to stroll through the town's Christmas Market before eventually taking refuge within the modern art filled Kunstmuseum. Despite an overabundance of items of dubious artistic merit within its collection, we also had the opportunity to view works by Monet, Klee, Kandinsky, and Piccaso. Venturing back out into the market after the the rain had let up some, we had a lunch of very authentic Mexican soft tacos, served to us from a booth by two young women who actually moved to Switzerland from Mexico.
As we approached the Munster St Vinzenz (Cathedral of St Vincent), we happened upon Santa Claus accompanied by a very friendly little donkey named "Speedy." Going nose to snout with him, Doctor D (as Sarah often refers to me) exchanged pleasantries with the pint-sized equine that ended with a farewell nuzzle before we had to finally continue on our way.
Tomorrow we shall be traveling to Shaffhausen and Stein am Rhein to see the spectacular waterfalls of the Rheinfall, along with the Bodensee (Lake Constance) which provides a natural border between Switzerland and Germany.
Today's adventure took the two of us to the capital city of Bern. With a picturesque setting on the River Aare and finely crafted buildings lining the cobbled streets of its medieval Old Town, this is one of the most stunning of Switzerland's many historic towns. Even though we were nearly soaked by a downpour of rain, Sarah and I still managed to stroll through the town's Christmas Market before eventually taking refuge within the modern art filled Kunstmuseum. Despite an overabundance of items of dubious artistic merit within its collection, we also had the opportunity to view works by Monet, Klee, Kandinsky, and Piccaso. Venturing back out into the market after the the rain had let up some, we had a lunch of very authentic Mexican soft tacos, served to us from a booth by two young women who actually moved to Switzerland from Mexico.
As we approached the Munster St Vinzenz (Cathedral of St Vincent), we happened upon Santa Claus accompanied by a very friendly little donkey named "Speedy." Going nose to snout with him, Doctor D (as Sarah often refers to me) exchanged pleasantries with the pint-sized equine that ended with a farewell nuzzle before we had to finally continue on our way.Tomorrow we shall be traveling to Shaffhausen and Stein am Rhein to see the spectacular waterfalls of the Rheinfall, along with the Bodensee (Lake Constance) which provides a natural border between Switzerland and Germany.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Luzern
Yesterday found us taking a train journey lasting less than an hour to the city of Luzern (Lucerne). Both Britain and the U.S. could learn a thing or two from the Swiss in regards to a highly efficient and well thought out commuter rail system; this was one of the smoothest and most comfortable train rides that I have ever experienced, as well as convenient.
Originally built as a lakeside fortress, with a breathtaking view of the alpine Pilatus mountain peak, Luzern is now a medium-size city divided between the old and the new. After a quick stop at the tourism information office located adjacent to the vast train station, Sarah and I were on our way to visit and photograph the landmark Chapel Bridge and octagonal water tower. Within the roof line of the covered bridge are individual paintings illustrating Swiss and local history; many depicting battles and very graphic beheadings. The bridge's water tower has been used as an archive, treasury, and even a torture chamber. A few yards beyond the bridge is the Jesuit Church, with its Baroque architecture and very ornate pink marble interior.
While strolling about the town we happened upon a small outdoor service being conducted by one of the local Catholic priests. It was the opening day of the outdoor Christmas market, and a blessing of both the market and its Christmas Nativity manger was underway. After a performance of "White Christmas" by the musicians who were present for this event, we had a very cordial conversation with the priest, who in turn introduced us to the local transport minister and invited us to join the other guests for some complimentary white wine and finger sandwiches. Later, Sarah and I found a tea room where we had a warming lunch of sweet potato soup and a salami baguette.
Dusk was quickly falling upon us as we boarded our train for the journey back to Zurich. Upon our return, we joined our hosts for a traditional Swiss dinner of sliced cold meats and cheese fondue. A very pleasent way to end the day.
Originally built as a lakeside fortress, with a breathtaking view of the alpine Pilatus mountain peak, Luzern is now a medium-size city divided between the old and the new. After a quick stop at the tourism information office located adjacent to the vast train station, Sarah and I were on our way to visit and photograph the landmark Chapel Bridge and octagonal water tower. Within the roof line of the covered bridge are individual paintings illustrating Swiss and local history; many depicting battles and very graphic beheadings. The bridge's water tower has been used as an archive, treasury, and even a torture chamber. A few yards beyond the bridge is the Jesuit Church, with its Baroque architecture and very ornate pink marble interior.
While strolling about the town we happened upon a small outdoor service being conducted by one of the local Catholic priests. It was the opening day of the outdoor Christmas market, and a blessing of both the market and its Christmas Nativity manger was underway. After a performance of "White Christmas" by the musicians who were present for this event, we had a very cordial conversation with the priest, who in turn introduced us to the local transport minister and invited us to join the other guests for some complimentary white wine and finger sandwiches. Later, Sarah and I found a tea room where we had a warming lunch of sweet potato soup and a salami baguette.Dusk was quickly falling upon us as we boarded our train for the journey back to Zurich. Upon our return, we joined our hosts for a traditional Swiss dinner of sliced cold meats and cheese fondue. A very pleasent way to end the day.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Zürich
With our Swiss Pass in hand, which guarantees us unlimited access to all modes of public transport and entrance to over 450 museums and other attractions throughout Switzerland, Sarah and I began our first full day in Zürich by taking a reconnaissance tour in and around this beautiful Alpine city. With a populace that is very cosmopolitan in its attitudes and lifestyle, serviced by a public infrastructure system that is by all appearances second to none, Zürich is also in many ways a contradiction coexisting with well-maintained and inhabited buildings, churches, and other forms of architecture that are hundreds of years old.
Strolling along the Bahnhofstrasse, which stretches from Bahnhofplatz to the edge of the Zürichsee (Lake Zürich), we passed the headquarters of several major Swiss banks along with upmarket shops such as Prada, Hermes, and Salvatore Ferragamo. While many symbols of opulent excess do abound within this city, the cobbled side avenues often led us toward sights which were more stimulating in other ways. St Peters Kirche, with a clock face that is reputed to be the largest in all of Europe, the Christmas market at Haupbahnhof train station, and the stained glass windows designed by Russian Jewish artist Marc Chagall at the Fraumünster (Minster of Our Lady) church were just a few of our stops. We paused long enough to join many of the locals in the food emporium of the Globus department store for a cheap and cheerful (yet very tasty) warming lunch of Thai Rad Na fried noodles and shrimp.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Wilkommen to Switzerland
Leaving behind the near blizard conditions that most of Lancashire awoke to this morning, Sarah and I touched down at Zürich's Kloten Airport a few hours ago, beginning a working holiday amidst a gentle snowfall which will take us through many of Switzerland's many photogenic locales. Through the generous hospitality of a family member who maintains a home with a breathtaking view of the Zürichsee (Lake Zürich), this world-renown city of finance will be our base of operations for the next ten days as we explore the country for Christmas markets and other sights thoughout this Alpine winter wonderland. Immediately on our agenda are visits to Luzern, Interlaken, the Rheinfall near Lake Constance, plus anywhere else the Swiss rail system may take us.
A journal of our pre-Christmas winter adventure is also planned, so tune into this blogspot for your daily briefing.
A journal of our pre-Christmas winter adventure is also planned, so tune into this blogspot for your daily briefing.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
There's No One As Irish As Barack O'Bama
There’s a very talented trio of Irish minstrels who bill themselves as The Corrigan Brothers (formerly Hardy Drew and the Nancy Boys)that are currently making a name for themselves over here with their blend of traditional Irish folk music and tongue-in-cheek humour; so much so that they’ve got themselves invited to perform at one of the many parties taking place in Washington D.C. on the eve of the presidential inauguration of Barack O’Bama in January.Barack O’Bama? Yes, the President-Elect is an Irishman. Need proof? Just follow the link below and see the evidence of this amazing fact for yourself.
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=HplZ_taHXLM
Sunday, November 02, 2008
James Bond R.I.P.
We went to the cinema on Friday evening to view the newest James Bond 007 offering, Quantum of Solace.
Watching this film, I was somehow reminded of Senator Lloyd Bentsen’s classic retort to Senator Dan Quayle during their vice-presidential debate in 1988: "Senator, I served with Jack Kennedy. I knew Jack Kennedy. Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine. Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy.” While Quantum of Solace was an entertaining action film, even more entertaining in many ways than its predecessor Casino Royale, neither unfortunately was a James Bond film.
Turning their backs on the audience base that has generously sustained the James Bond motion picture franchise throughout the years, the current production team has elected to pander to the supposedly more lucrative 16-24 year-old X Box generation. The Cambridge-educated blue blood spy with a Belgravia address and a bespoke tailor on Savile Row has been replaced by an unsophisticated and humourless blue collar mercenary. The glamorous jet set lifestyle that we all were allowed to vicariously live, along with the witty dialogue laced with the well-placed double entendre, has made way for the violent gunfire, fisticuffs, and demolition car chases of a Grand Theft Auto video game. No big surprise then that many of the twenty-four advertisement trailers that were screened prior to the start of the film were for video games and other youth-targeted product.
The same blind pursuit for the 16-24 demographic audience has this week led to the resignation of one BBC Radio 2 personality and the three-month suspension of another. What some within the British media have dubbed a culture war between the generations, there has been a national debate this week over the differences in good and bad taste, and what is and is not acceptable to be broadcast across the airwaves by the license fee-supported BBC; a debate that has even included comment by the Prime Minister.
It wasn’t Auric Goldfinger’s laser or the many devices that were at the beck and call of Ernst Stavro Blofeld that brought an end to the James Bond that I knew. It was a far more sinister weapon: Blind greed.
Watching this film, I was somehow reminded of Senator Lloyd Bentsen’s classic retort to Senator Dan Quayle during their vice-presidential debate in 1988: "Senator, I served with Jack Kennedy. I knew Jack Kennedy. Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine. Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy.” While Quantum of Solace was an entertaining action film, even more entertaining in many ways than its predecessor Casino Royale, neither unfortunately was a James Bond film.
Turning their backs on the audience base that has generously sustained the James Bond motion picture franchise throughout the years, the current production team has elected to pander to the supposedly more lucrative 16-24 year-old X Box generation. The Cambridge-educated blue blood spy with a Belgravia address and a bespoke tailor on Savile Row has been replaced by an unsophisticated and humourless blue collar mercenary. The glamorous jet set lifestyle that we all were allowed to vicariously live, along with the witty dialogue laced with the well-placed double entendre, has made way for the violent gunfire, fisticuffs, and demolition car chases of a Grand Theft Auto video game. No big surprise then that many of the twenty-four advertisement trailers that were screened prior to the start of the film were for video games and other youth-targeted product.
The same blind pursuit for the 16-24 demographic audience has this week led to the resignation of one BBC Radio 2 personality and the three-month suspension of another. What some within the British media have dubbed a culture war between the generations, there has been a national debate this week over the differences in good and bad taste, and what is and is not acceptable to be broadcast across the airwaves by the license fee-supported BBC; a debate that has even included comment by the Prime Minister.
It wasn’t Auric Goldfinger’s laser or the many devices that were at the beck and call of Ernst Stavro Blofeld that brought an end to the James Bond that I knew. It was a far more sinister weapon: Blind greed.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Americans in Lancashire Back Obama
This morning's edition of the Lancashire Telegraph contained a double-page feature story on American ex-pats currently residing in Lancashire and their respective opinions on next Tuesday's U.S. presidential election, of which I was one of the contributing interviewees. There are 315 Americans who currently live in this region (according to the 2001 census), and based upon the article it would appear that Senators Obama and Biden have a very solid base of support here.
To read the story in its entirety, please follow this link: http://tinyurl.com/5f6kon
To read the story in its entirety, please follow this link: http://tinyurl.com/5f6kon
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
The Brett Meets Brett Show
The last telephone call came the day before Super Tuesday; I was invited back into the broadcast studios of BBC Radio Lancashire yesterday evening. It's now three weeks to go until Election Day in the United States and radio host Brett Davison convened another edition of what he is now calling The Brett Meets Brett Show.
Actually a 30 minute segment within his nightly drive-time radio programme, and following a segment devoted to the latest developments in the ongoing battle against male pattern baldness which left me subconciously running my fingers through my own still-thick locks, I provided Brett with the answers to his latest questions about the campaign of Obama versus McCain, plus threw in for good measure a simplified primer on the concept of the Electoral College. For one brief shining moment during the interview, I felt like the late great Tim Russert with his magic white board.
Once again I found this an enjoyable experience. I left the studio with the hint of at least one more possible return engagement between now and Election Night.
Actually a 30 minute segment within his nightly drive-time radio programme, and following a segment devoted to the latest developments in the ongoing battle against male pattern baldness which left me subconciously running my fingers through my own still-thick locks, I provided Brett with the answers to his latest questions about the campaign of Obama versus McCain, plus threw in for good measure a simplified primer on the concept of the Electoral College. For one brief shining moment during the interview, I felt like the late great Tim Russert with his magic white board.
Once again I found this an enjoyable experience. I left the studio with the hint of at least one more possible return engagement between now and Election Night.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
City Slickers
Do you remember the film City Slickers, which starred Billy Crystal? There is a poignant scene where Billy Crystal, aided by a bit of gruff encouragement provided from the late Jack Palance, delivers a calf whom he promptly names Norman.Being a bit of a city slicker myself, currently residing within the environs of the Lancashire countryside, I too have recently made the acquaintance of a recently born bovine whom Sarah and I have dubbed Norman. Many a morning, the two of us make the short trek to Norman's small patch of grass to check upon her growth and overall progress. Yes, Norman is a young cow and not a steer, but the name perfectly suits her just the same. Predominantly black in colour, with a few scattered patches of white, accompanied by big expressive eyes and a perpetually glossy nose, she is as Sarah likes to say, "Too much cuteness for just one cow." We are often greeted with a mini "muh" (instead of the more traditional "moo"), when we go around to see her and exchange pleasantries with Farmer Jack.
This morning, Norman seemed especially happy to see me and Sarah. She trotted up to the low stone wall seperating us and went eye-to-eye and nose-to-nose with me. While I do not recall spilling anything upon myself at the breakfast table, Norman gave both sleeves of my windbreaker a thorough, yet gentle tongue-wash; thus ensuring that I would be presentable to the world for the rest of the day. Too much cuteness for just one cow.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Durham
A total of three days was spent in the city of Durham and its surrounding areas, as we and fourteen other travel writers were conducted through a whistle stop tour by our tourism office hosts. With a very diverse itinerary that included Auckland Castle, the River Wear, visually spectacular Durham Cathedral, the haunted Crook Hall with its beautiful gardens, the vast indoor Durham Marketplace, plus a champaign reception at Newcastle's newest luxury aparthotel (apartment hotel) The Kennsington House, we experienced a bit of the best that Northumbria has to offer to all who visit this northeastern coastal region of England. Anglican bishops from around the world were very much in evidence touring around the cathedral, as they made their own sightseeing visit prior to heading south to London for the Church of England's Lambeth Conference.
While in Durham City, we also had the opporturnity to witness the pomp and glory of the Durham Miner's Gala. This annual parade through the winding streets of the city centre features colourful banners representing the coal miner assosciations of a now bygone era, plus other labour organisations that are still very active. Throw in a lively mix of brass bands and Scottish pipe and drum bands, and a spectacular event of historical proportions was enjoyed by the thousands of people who were on hand. As is always the case, this event and the entire weekend was dutifully documented by your photographer. Plenty of ideas for future travel-related stories were acquired, as well.
While in Durham City, we also had the opporturnity to witness the pomp and glory of the Durham Miner's Gala. This annual parade through the winding streets of the city centre features colourful banners representing the coal miner assosciations of a now bygone era, plus other labour organisations that are still very active. Throw in a lively mix of brass bands and Scottish pipe and drum bands, and a spectacular event of historical proportions was enjoyed by the thousands of people who were on hand. As is always the case, this event and the entire weekend was dutifully documented by your photographer. Plenty of ideas for future travel-related stories were acquired, as well.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Never An Idle Moment
It's been a very busy two months; hence the wide gap between journal entries.
In a dual role as both photographer and navigator, I recently took the "left seat" in a 1932 Austin 16 Berkeley during the 46th Annual Great Manchester to Blackpool Car Run. With Sarah providing encouragement from the backseat, and the classic automobile's owner steering to my directions, we wound our way through the beautiful Lancashire countryside on a very sunny Sunday afternoon. Spectators and curious onlookers alike cheered as we and the other vintage car rally participants crossed the finish line under the shadow of the beachside Blackpool Tower.
We're off in a few hours to attend a three-day press trip in the east coast town of Durham. Renown for its imposing cathedral and equally distinguished university, we will be joining other travel journalists in seeing the sights and being briefed by the local tourism promoters at this very photogenic corner of Northumbria. Afterwards, Sarah and I plan to also visit Robin Hood's Bay and the festival town of Scarborough before heading back to homebase.
Trip report to follow.
In a dual role as both photographer and navigator, I recently took the "left seat" in a 1932 Austin 16 Berkeley during the 46th Annual Great Manchester to Blackpool Car Run. With Sarah providing encouragement from the backseat, and the classic automobile's owner steering to my directions, we wound our way through the beautiful Lancashire countryside on a very sunny Sunday afternoon. Spectators and curious onlookers alike cheered as we and the other vintage car rally participants crossed the finish line under the shadow of the beachside Blackpool Tower.
We're off in a few hours to attend a three-day press trip in the east coast town of Durham. Renown for its imposing cathedral and equally distinguished university, we will be joining other travel journalists in seeing the sights and being briefed by the local tourism promoters at this very photogenic corner of Northumbria. Afterwards, Sarah and I plan to also visit Robin Hood's Bay and the festival town of Scarborough before heading back to homebase.
Trip report to follow.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Make 'Em Laugh
My editorial and photographic profile of actor David Ross, contained within the pages of the June 2008 edition of the nationally-distributed Lancashire Life magazine, hit the British news stands today.Originally entitled The Green Green Grass of the Ribble Valley (in reference to David's current BBC comedy television series, The Green Green Grass), Make 'Em Laugh profiles the life and career of the West End and television thespian who currently makes his home here in Lancashire's Ribble Valley.
American readers can purchase Lancashire Life at selected Barnes & Noble bookstores (including Burbank, California) and other news stands featuring international publications.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
The Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo - Update
Sarah and I have just returned to our home base with some excellent photographic images in hand from The Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo. The tattoo is a new addition to the programme of the venerable Royal Windsor Horse Show, which the organisers are hoping to repeat again next year.Unlike like the cooler (and wetter!) northern regions of Britain, the weather in Windsor was a very balmy 78 degrees. The audience of the evening spectacular were provided with an extra treat due to the surprise attendance by HM Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip, The Duke of Edinburgh, who made the short trek from the nearby castle in their Land Rover. The royal viewing box was just a few feet away from our assigned photographic position, and by all appearances the royal couple were thoroughly enjoying the show.
In addition to the Household Cavalry and the massed Scottish bagpipe bands, personnel of the British armed forces who have recently returned from tours of duty in Iraq and Afganistan were greeted by a standing ovation when they enterred the equestrian arena. This was definitely a memorable evening for all who were present.
Friday, May 09, 2008
The Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo
We'll be attending and photographing The Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo this weekend. With a format similar to the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo, bagpipe bands and other military musical units will be performing on the grounds of Windsor Castle. According to our press briefing, Princess Anne (The Princess Royal) and Prince Edward will be representing the Royal Family at this charity event which is benefitting the wonderful work and services conducted by the Royal British Legion. In addition to the pipe bands and fireworks, Sarah and I are also looking forward to spending the night in a bed & breakfast that has been converted from stables which were originally built and owned by Queen Victoria.
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