Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Homosexuality

I'm not experienced by any means, but I am confident that love is a beautiful form of emotion and feeling. If two people happened to fall in love then I believe that class, gender and race shouldn't matter. Yet, since many decades individuals around the world are still having conflict regarding the right of same-sex couples.


Many gay couples in too many cultures are still struggling to be accepted by the society. I felt so wrecked every time I think about how ugly our societies are. I mean, what if our roles were reversed? What if heterosexual marriage is illegal? What if people constantly humiliate you and the person that you love? What if you can't even hold hands in public? What if the society can't accept you for who you are? And yes, i know the whole "what if" speech is going to raise a mass theological debate but honestly though, try to imagine how you would feel if you're in their shoes. I personally don't think I can handle all the hatred. Human can only take criticism to certain extent. You don't choose who to fall in love with, it just happens. It's everyone's nature to behave and act certain way. I'm sure people don't choose the life of humiliation, bullying and discrimination. People don't choose who to love, we can't do so even if we wanted to, it's beyond anyone's ability to control how we feel towards someone. It's just so unfair that gay couples receive so much hate from the general public. In some part of the world, simply being gay is still illegal. Some declares that it's against faith and belief but seriously, you just can't use religion to create law. Law is created so that human can live in tranquillity according to set of rules, not forbid two persons to be happy. I strongly believe that everyone have the right to express themselves; how they feel and what they believe in. I mean, gay couples don't come out and start protesting when heterosexual couples get married, do they? Gay people don't care if straight couples start making out, held hands or simply being together, do they? Homosexual individuals don't dislike when a man and woman are in love, do they? So why do people have to care so much about what they do with their lives?


I think there is no such thing as homophobia, people aren't afraid of gay. I used to think that they're purely being stupid, pathetic and judgemental, but now I feel rather sorry for those who claim that they are one. It's so sad because they missed out so much and they don't even realise it. You will be surprise at how amazing it is to become more accepting, to be nice to others and receive their kindness in return. By being more open-minded will not only bring peace between both sides but you will definitely gain new knowledge from one another. It opens more doors for achievability and new episodes in life. I honestly think now is the time we have to wake up and realise that the world is moving. Things will change and it had changed, so you can either be mad about it and start crying or just accept and deal with it. 

People think certain way due to many reasons. It might be because the way we were raised, our culture background or just simply the society that we're exposed to. Therefore, everyone will always have different perspectives and various ways of looking into certain issue, hence some of you may disagree with me and probably think that i'm crazy. Nonetheless, I'm not asking you to like or agree with homosexual individuals, despite whatever you think about same sex couples, I think everyone should respect them for who they are, at least for the sake of humanity. If two people decided to spend time with each other or spend the rest of their lives together, then thats their decision to make, not anyone else's. Love is suppose to be about two people and I think everyone should be happy for any couple that are lucky enough to found one another.

Photo credit: Sarah Lee for Guardian and Marla Paul-Northwestern for Futurity 


Monday, June 24, 2013

Grandpa Bob and Grandma Mary

So while I was on a road trip to Évian les Bains, I stopped for a toilet break at a gas station and bumped into an adorable French couple. They were probably over 70 years old, but anyone that have eyeballs and a little bit of brain cells can see how much they are still in love. They were three of them; a guy that is probably on his early thirties, a grandpa and a grandma. Sadly I didn't get their names, so I'll call them Grandpa Bob, Grandma Mary and the younger guy, Nathan. Grandma Mary was on a wheel chair and Nathan pushed her to a picnic table for lunch. They bought tons of delicious looking foods and variety of juices. I wanted to approach them so badly (obviously not for their food) but like you know, it's rather weird and they'll probably think that I'm a little crazy. I guess Grandma Mary was slightly cold because soon after they settled down, Grandpa Bob went back to their car and bought her his jacket. He slowly put it on for her, it was exceptionally cute but thats not all though, he messaged her shoulders and smiled at her. The way they smiled at each other held so much meaning, it was to die for and I'm pretty sure I did died for a few second right there. I mean, everyone does it all the time but it's different when old couples are being all lovely to each other, because knowing the fact that they've been together for so long and still pretty much love each other like the day they first met just warmed me up inside.


And yes, I felt like a stalker because I literally starred at them for so long. So when Nathan went somewhere, leaving only Grandma Mary and Grandpa Bob at the table, the couple saw me and both of them smiled and waved at me. Those small gestures honestly brighten up my day and I'm not even being dramatic. I took a deep breath and gathered all of my courage and approached them. Yes, I did. Unfortunately, they don't speak English, but Grandpa Bob managed to asked me where I'm from and what I'm doing in the middle of nowhere. When Nathan came back, I found out that they were his girlfriend's parents and he quickly became our translator. Grandpa asked me how long I'll be staying France and we managed to have a fine conversation until I needed to go. 

So after I said my goodbye and wish them a safe journey, I was back in my car and realised that I forgot to tell them something I wanted them to know. I was too awestruck by how sweet they were and I rarely could form a word. It's so sad that I will never see them again but I genuinely want to tell that how lovely they are together, not just how right they looked next to one another but how happy they were simply by being there. I honestly think that Nathan is  extremely lucky to have such an amazing role models like his future parents in law and based on how I see it, Grandma Mary and Grandpa Bob are equally blessed to have Nathan as their soon-to-be son in law too. Nathan treated the couple like his own parents and although I don't even know them on a personal level nevertheless, all of them seem particularly sincere and wholehearted. This world is so ugly. People cheat all the time. People married because of status and money, so it's very refreshing to see when two people are truly in love.


You see, everywhere you go, every journey you take, you will continue to meet all kind of people and all of them will never ever fail to teach you something. Some will teach you bad lessons, but some will teach you a great one that you will never ever forget. I'm so glad that I took the courage and approached Grandpa and Grandma. I'm sure I'd have regret it if I didn't :3

 I hope that every one of you will eventually find love like this too :)

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Brussels, Belgium

For many foreigners, Brussels may seem like a dull place and some might even say the city sucked energy out of them. Even so, I personally have a fondness for this city. The architectures were extraordinary, yet still very different from its neighbour countries. While I was there I got a chance to visit a few famous attractions and even though there weren't much to see comparing to elsewhere in Europe, I can assure you that you won't be disappointed.
The first attraction I visited was The Atomium, a symbolic construction of Science in Brussels since 1958. It was 103m tall, which was much smaller than I expected. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to actually go inside the steel spheres, then again I honestly don't think its necessary, because the exterior was exceedingly sensational. It's not possible to go to The Atomium and not try their famous fries or "frites" at J.Vandervaeren, a snack bar by the end of the road. Although I'm not the biggest fan of fries, but their frites was very palatable nonetheless. They were not as oily like most places, they got the right amount of salt and very crunchy from the outside yet extremely soft on the inside, plus the staffs were particularly friendly. 
I then visited the Royal Palace, which was remarkable. Since it was situated in front of Brussels Park, in the middle of the city and the weather was chilly even in the summer, I was able to walk around and enjoy the scenery for hours.
Nevertheless, what really impressed me was the Grand Place, a central square that give an insight into the history of old Brussels. There were plenty of beautiful buildings and attractions including the Town Hall which have a beautiful Gothic architectural style. There were variety of restaurants and cafes around the edge for both locals and tourists to enjoy. Souvenir and small shops were just around the corner for tourists to purchase goodies back home.
While I was at the Royal Palace, there was this talented artist that sells his paintings of Brussels. He talked me through his art works which amazed every single cell in my body. He was indeed very skilful and gifted that I had to purchase one myself :)
Everyone that go to Brussels must visit The Manneken Pis, a peeing boy fountain statue. Although I am sure that many visitors might be disappointed regarding the size of this pee man, because he only stands 61cm tall, but there were many myths and stories about the Manneken Pis which were all beyond belief. Some say that back in the days when Brussels was deadly on fire, there was a boy that stopped the flames by peeing on it hence the Manneken Pis statue was created.
Food is very significant for everyone in Belgium and their culture. I tried waffles from The Waffle Factory and it was beyond delicious! The waffles were so soft, not very sweet, have variety of toppings and they were very rich in flavour and texture.
Of course, Belgium is famous for their flavoursome chocolate. Apparently, most store still made their chocolate by hand! It would definitely be amiss if anyone go to Belgium and not take a bite of this treat. I didn't really know which brand or store was well-known in the city therefore I just kinda tried out my luck and bought different type of chocolate from "Mary Chocolatier" and they were super delish. I highly highly recommend their dark chocolate, because it will melt into your mouth like a dream. Amazing.
Based on my observation, I think Belgians tend to gravitate toward darker colour clothing rather than brighter ones, hence maybe that is why tourists assumed Brussels as bland city. People were decently nice, although I havent really meet that many. Some may say the weather is gloomy but I lovvvve it! Despite whatever people think about Brussels, I absolutely love it and I can seriously imagine myself living there one day  



Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Cologne (Köln), Germany

At first I wondered why would someone come here, because I thought there weren't much to see really. However, once I got to really see the city, I realised that there are more than meets the eye.

There are few ways you can explore the city. I took the KD Deutsche Rheinschiffahrt AG, because it was convenient and the price was very reasonable (£9). It took me to the old town, the German Sport & Olympia Museum, the Chocolate Museum and the former fishermen's village.
I also visited Cologne Cathedral, it may not be the most "must-go" place in Germany (well, maybe it is), but its definitely is for Cologne. The architecture was beyond beautiful. The history itself is fascinating. The church took over 600 years to complete and finished in 1880. During the World War II, Cologne was heavily damaged by bombs, but the Cathedral was the only building that remained standing tall and not destroyed. 
Cologne is well-known for many delicious foods. I dine at P. JOSEF FRUH and had Schweinebraten (roasted pork in fruh bret sauce served with fried potato and cabbage salad). It was really great except for the sausage which was sadly disappointed. Nevertheless, I highly recommend sausages at "Bratwurst!", it was so good that i turned into an amazball! You cannot go to Germany without tasting their beer. I've always enjoy drinking beer, but knowing that I was actually there drinking it made the experience a thousand times better! I tried few different brands and all of them didnt fail me one bit. They were all very smooth, soft and super rich!
The hospitality was amazing especially at Kunibert der Fiese, where I stayed. It was not a luxurious hotel, but if for a sight-seeing-kinda-holiday then its perfect. The owner was super friendly and provided incredible service. The location was superior because there were many small shops around, great views and nice park for people to sit around and simply hangout (or do other things...).  The weather was not bad at all. It was abit too hot for my liking but a little bit of sun is always nice. As for the nightlife, Cologne is one of those city that you have to live there in order to know where to hit. It may seem like a peaceful city to many tourists, but if you're a local then you know its really not ;)
All in all, I really enjoyed my time there. It was something different, not too crazy or over the top. If you have a chance then definitely visit!

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Weird Day in Paris


So while I was on the plane from Bangkok to Paris, this guy that was probably old enough to be my dad sat behind me and he was hitting on me the whole damn time. I mean, seriously? don't you have eyeballs to see that I could be your daughter? So for 12 damn hours, I just sat there and pretend to be asleep because I didn't want to come across as being rude to an old man, you know. Why do I attract old man and not cute younger ones? oh, life. Then after we arrived, I was wondering down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées while waiting for my parents to do their shopping. This old lady came up to me and started screaming at me in French. I seriously had no idea what she was saying, but she was shivering like a beast while I was wearing a sundress and a blazer, so I reckon she probably yelled at me because how I dressed. Again, seriously? It's summer and it was not even that cold. I don't even give a damn about what you wear so why would you care so much about how I dress myself. But it was so funny though, I wanted to laugh so bad :3 How could people be so pathetic these days? I don't even know. Anyway, despite all the weirdness, the city was beautiful and food was yummo! It was short a day because my parents were super jet lag, so we went back to my aunt's place to crash. Her house was super cozy and cute :) and I got to see my cousin so that doubled up the awesomeness!


Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Summer Playlist

Hello,

Since I'll be traveling through Europe this summer, I decided to create a playlist to listen to while i'm on the plane, a road trip or simply sitting by the beach. Obviously these won't be the only songs I'll be listening to this holiday, but it will definitely be my go-to playlist this summer! I don't have the greatest taste in music but hey, i honestly think these songs are above and beyond awesomeness! Although some of these tracks may have heartbreaking lyrics, but all of them are extremely easy to listen to. Every song have uplifting melody, yet calming at the same time and some may even enlighten your soul ;) Put these songs on your iPod, grab a bottle of beer, find your favourite book and enjoy your summer!

Taylor Swift - Begin Again
Angus and Julia - Just a Boy
The Boy Who Trapped the Sun - Copper Down
Imagine Dragons - On Top of the World 
Dave Moisan - Mexico
Fourth & Coast - Hopeless Romantic  
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - Over the Rainbow 
Jim Sturgess - All my Loving
Joe Brooks - Five Days of Summer
Tiger Weather - Sunshine
Landon Austin - Where We Used to Run
McFly - Love is Easy 
Joe Brooks - Someday
The Paper Kites - Woodland
Passenger - Let Her Go 
Death Cab for Cutie - I Will Follow You into the Dark
Train - Marry Me

Taylor Swift, The Paper Kites, Angus and Julia, Joe Brooks





Monday, June 10, 2013

Welcome


Hello,

Since i like to write about how i feel about certain issue or someone on my journal, I figured why not post it somewhere on the internet where it won't get lost somewhere and i can always come back to it. I'm making this blog entirely dedicating it to myself, but feel free to check it out if you want. I will consistently post bits and pieces of my life. It will revolve around what i'm doing, what i love, places i visited, where i'd like to go, people i met that left a great impact on me, individuals that are important to me or profoundly inspired me. My dreams, feelings, problems and everything that related to my to "me" really. Ohh and expect lots and lots of photos! I'm sure no one will ever find this, but if you're reading this then obviously you found me so "HEY, its nice to meet you :)". My life may not be as awesome as yours and i know that i'm a very boring person, so its understandable if you don't want to visit my page ever again :3

Disclaimer: In the future, what i write may offend you but trust me, my intention is never to piss off anyone. So if i make you feel uncomfortable then I want to apologise in advance. Nonetheless, i'll continue to write about what I believe in so if you don't like it then you can simply stop coming back :)

Other than that, i hope you enjoy my blog and i'm very excited to start this journey and have you onboard with me, that is if you decided to stick around :)