Peregrinations

Can You Tell

2011-03-07T08:36:00.007-05:00

It is still winter in New York. I'm going through a closet cleanse, which feels great. Kinda like chopping off all your hair, and getting that light, free feeling, until the next day when you cry.

Topshop Parka, Frye Boots.

Soundtrack: Can You Tell, Ra Ra Riot

The Luckiest

2010-09-22T00:00:00.028-04:00

I became a Mrs.

Married my best friend, my crush, my first love; the funniest, sexiest, sweetest man I know, the only man I've ever wanted to become a family with. Today is Mid-Autumn Festival. I call it Chinese Thanksgiving because growing up, it was always spent gathering with family. What a most beautiful way to celebrate today, being in the new family that A and I have created.

We are both still buzzing from our wedding day. The amount of love and joy we experienced on that gorgeous, clear Friday in July left us speechless. A historic downtown church, a rooftop in Tribeca, a Soho loft; surrounded by beloved family, and cherished friends; it was our most perfect day. Everything went by so breathtakingly fast. Photos, recaps, and reviews to come.

May Showers, Flowers, and More...

2010-05-30T20:38:00.003-04:00

Hello there.

The bullet points :

Fiance and I returned from a stint in Singapore, spent a week living on the peaks of Hong Kong where we found our dream house, I've decided to leave my job, and we are getting ready for our big day, which is just one short month away.

I've never been a bridal shower kind of girl, but after some convincing by my BFF, I'm glad I did it. It was intimate, just the way I like, with lots of drinks flowing, and good food. Here is what I wore to the very girly occasion : UO Dress, Bloomingdales Gold Flats ( which I just realized are not visible in the picture ).

Fiance brought home these coral peonies to cheer me up during a week of 15 hour work days and endless wedding tasks :)

True Affection

2010-03-27T00:16:00.007-04:00

Fast approaching wedding, long work weeks, business trips... I need a vacation. I need some air.

Paper Plains' recent post made me crave mountains, open landscapes, and lush colors. Until I can get there again, some pictures from my most recent adventure, taken in Jiu Zhai Guo National Park, Sichuan, China.

Soundtrack : True Affection, the Blow

Too Young...

2010-01-31T20:10:00.002-05:00

Last day, of the first month, of the beginning, of a new decade. Lots to do, lots.

I don't just dislike winter in New York because of the cold, and sunlight deprivation. It is also dreaded because I'm never quite prepared for the holidays and the inevitable questions that follow : what have I done this year, what will I do next year, what am I doing with my life?

Sometimes, a buttery t-shirt, a cozy blazer, and a steaming, silky bowl of Ramen help get me though the toughest season in this city. Duck into a tiny space, away from 20 degree weather, and allow myself to take some deep breaths before heading back out again to face the questions of life. A little bit of Sake helps, too ;)

UO Tee, Madewell Wool Blazer, AA Winter Leggings :

Soundtrack : In the Morning ( Junior Boys )
Ramen : Menchanko-Tei ( 131 East 45th Street )

From 2010 365 Project

365 - Day 2

2010-01-02T13:11:00.003-05:00

Benches Under the FDR :

Views of the ocean always make me feel calmer, but on days when I'm stuck in the city, the East River or Hudson will have to do. Went for a post lunch walk with A under the FDR.

Follow my 365 project here :

http://picasaweb.google.com/peregrinationsfrom212/2010365Project#

365 Project - Day 1

2010-01-01T19:30:00.003-05:00

Fiance and I are each starting a 365 project : one photo a day, for a year.

I wanted to make more effort to document the little moments that make up life, and capture memories not just on special occasions, but everyday.

Day 1 : New Year's day, view from our living room window.

Daylight

2009-12-20T20:54:00.004-05:00

Had my wedding hair and makeup trial, so I wore a sweetheart neckline to get more of the effect without getting really dressed up. Since I didn't want fiance to see the trial results, these pictures were taken after everything was removed.

UO Cotton Bustier, UO BDG Skirt, AA Opaque tights. Current Soundtrack : Matt and Kim - Daylight.

Stretch

2009-12-06T08:26:00.005-05:00

Latest love : legging jeans. Snow is starting to fall in the city, paper thin leggings just don't cut it anymore. Soft, stretchy Jeans that fit like leggings? Genius.

Cold weather makes me want to wrap myself in cashmere and cotton and sleep all day. Year end makes me want to throw away all my clothes and start afresh. Here comes the long stretch of winter...

Madewell Legging Jeans, F21 Cutoff Sweatshirt, Corduroy Pumps

Work Wardrobe Chronicle : Summer Uniform

2009-08-19T20:40:00.009-04:00

For business casual, I pretty much wear variations of the same exact outfit everyday : pencil skirt, silk top, boredom...

Club Monaco Pencil Skirt, UO Silk Top, Top Shop Shoes, F21 Belt.

Changed into shorts for running around town after work.

I'm a Nomad

2009-08-01T15:57:00.004-04:00

Pictured : Double Layer Silk Wrap Skirt ( Worn as a Dress )

I'm a nomad, I think it's in my blood. I've moved at least twenty times to date, and have traveled to more than twenty countries. When I don't leave a place for more than two months it starts to make me feel ill. It's been one month since I left New York, and five months since I was on another continent. I so desperately want to wake up in a foreign land.

This getup is made of Indian Sari silk, and was purchased from a tiny Japanese store in Australia. Yet another little reminder that I need to be far, far away.

Bunch of Animals

2009-07-29T22:31:00.007-04:00

I work in an intense environment heavily dominated by males. In most meetings, I am not only the only female present but also one of the youngest. I'm very conservative and cautious about what I wear to work because I don't want people to focus on my outfit and would like to be taken seriously.

I wore this dress to work, because it's a great shape ( bloussant top, pleats... ), plus the length is about as short as I can go at the office. However, check the print on this dress, full of sizable bunnies, bears in tutus, mushrooms, ponies, and ducks wearing big hats. Mulled over this for half a second, and decided oh well, can't always take yourself too seriously. Plus, adding pearls to anything makes it classy, right?

Pinkyotto Satin Dress, Top Shop Peep Toes :

Petal Pusher

2009-07-26T18:33:00.011-04:00

What I wore for a Cuban brunch and afternoon cocktails. This is a wedding budget friendly outfit ( less than $50 ) : F21 Pleated Cotton Shorts, Tank, and Sandals.

Trunch Wear

2009-07-19T18:23:00.015-04:00

On rare weekends when we are blessed with beautiful weather and free time, A and I have Trunch ( Tri-Lunch ) : Saturdays and Sundays when we indeed eat three lunches per day. We spend hours walking around ( which we use as justification for our gluttony ), with the sole purpose of discovering new places to eat.

My requirement for outfits worn on such occasions are : cheap, comfortable, washable, and roomy enough to conceal an inevitable belly. Then I just hope to not run into anyone I know while working on my third meal before 3PM.

Wearing : Zara Plaid Blouse, Billabong Cutoff Shorts, Foley and Corinna Bag :

F21 Cotton Tank, Skirt and Cardigan, Foley and Corinna Bag :

Rundown of a recent Trunch where food was good, cheap, and plenty:

$12 Dim Sum ( Too hungry for pictures )

$4.75 Hand Pulled Beef Noodles at Super Taste ( 26 Eldridge Street )

$1 Pot Stickers at Prosperity Dumpling ( 46 Eldridge Street )

$1 Mini Cakes ( Cart on Corner of Grand & Bowery )

$2 Fresh Watermelon Juice ( Random Chinese Bakery )

All these eateries are tiny spaces where customers shout out their orders as they walk in the door. Hand pulled noodles are al dente, with a flavorful broth. Fresh, plump pot stickers, finished with fresh off the iron mini cakes :

Work Wardrobe Chronicle : the World Needs More Seersucker

2009-07-15T22:41:00.012-04:00

My memories of childhood summers always involve my grandmother wearing some form of seersucker. Even back then I was smitten with this magical fabric. It's made of cotton, it's textured, and I need more of it! I've had this seersucker blazer for so many years and have since been searching for another. I may resort to making my own.

Seersucker Blazer found overseas, Sisley Satin Pencil Skirt, Club Monaco Belt, Kenneth Cole Peep Toes.

Waiting...

2009-06-27T10:52:00.009-04:00

Waiting for a thunderstorm to pass before going out for dinner and drinks. Wearing F21 Cotton Skirt & Burnout Tank, AA Suspenders & Bandeau:

Philippines, Beach & Green Mango Shake

2009-06-24T19:54:00.012-04:00

Local green mango shakes are my favorite drinks in the Philippines. Made from unripe mangoes, these refreshing smoothies taste like sour green apples with a hint of fragrant mangoes.

Enjoying a tart, slightly sweet green mango shake at a beach side cafe in Punta Fuego. Wearing : UO Dress, Dior Shades.

Work Wardrobe Chronicle, the Shirt Dress

2009-06-17T20:54:00.007-04:00

A combination of work, chilly temperatures, and chronic rain has gotten me down. This usually translates to extra snoozes in the morning. When I'm running late to work, shirt dresses are always my first pick because they save me the trouble of having to put together an outfit.

I realize that my fashion posts have been lackluster and slightly infrequent. I've been wearing a ton of black due to aforementioned reasons, and in pictures they show up as inky blocks and all details are lost. Hope to be out of this funk soon!

Club Monaco Shirt Dress, Pinkyotto Belt, Bloomingdales Earings :

Petals & Tights

2009-06-13T09:06:00.007-04:00

Weather in NYC has been pure crap for over a week. I started a new job, which has kept me very busy. Went out for drinks for the fifth night in a row (I'm ready for a break). Here's what I wore : AA Tee, F21 Skirt, AA Tights. The skirt reminds of elementary school.

Philippines, Punta Fuego

2009-06-06T18:39:00.002-04:00

Three hours, and one buko ( coconut ) pie after leaving Manila, we arrive at Punta Fuego. This resort of private villas, guest houses, secluded beaches, and dramatic cliffs, is very reasonably priced by US standards. For a few hundred dollars per weekend, a huge, gorgeous Spanish style house with a small stretch of beach can be rented.

We stayed in a one bedroom casita ( equipped with a bathroom that had its own garden ) and made trips to hang out at the beautiful houses that F and P rented with their families. Our first glimpse of sunset at Punta Fuego :

Sparkles & Shimmer

2009-06-03T20:07:00.015-04:00

What I wore to have drinks with a friend at one of my favorite wine bars : Bar Veloce on Second Ave.

Topshop Jeweled Crop Tank, AA Shimmery Leggings, Enzo Angiolini Shoes, Lunessa Earrings:

Yellow

2009-05-31T19:02:00.016-04:00

This weekend was productive. We finally picked a wedding location and venue! As much as we wanted a tropical destination wedding, we decided to get married in New York City after all because we really want our family and close friends to be there. Looks like we will have to save the traveling for our honeymoon.

What I wore to go wedding venue shopping : UO Dress, UO Hat, Michael Kors Espadrilles.

Work Wardrobe Chronicle, Convertibles

2009-05-27T20:17:00.010-04:00

From work to play...

Dress code at the office from Memorial Day to Labor Day is business casual, which means no suits in summer and open toe shoes! This dress is safe for work when worn with a cardigan, but also good for an after work date with A. Plus there are pleats and pockets! Shoes were part of my first F21 shoe purchase, failed the walk-to-work test but I still likey though.

Club Monaco Dress, F21 Cardigan & Shoes, Pink Sapphire & White Quartz Necklaces ( by Vale Jewelry ) From the Young Designers Market on Mulberry.

Tonight...

2009-05-24T23:42:00.011-04:00

First night of summer 2009 was just lovely, with that fresh summer scent filling the evening air.

What I wore to P and F's casual chic banquet in the Hills : F21 Tunic/Dress, Bloomingdales Sandals, F21 Necklace.

Philippines, Stop & Smell the Coconut Pie

2009-05-20T21:01:00.023-04:00

Jeepney, a colorful & popular mode of local transportation.

Sugar cane being loaded onto trucks along the roadside.

I hate "coconut". By that I refer only to the fake-snow looking stuff which comes in a plastic bag, and all types of coconut flavoring. Usually anything coconut "flavored" makes me gag. Fresh coconuts however, are another story. During our drive to Punta Fuego, we passed by endless stands selling fresh coconut juice and homemade coconut pie.

We picked out some young coconuts at a roadside stall. This little lady took out a machete and swiftly cut straw openings in them so we can sip their juices. She surprised us by taking back the coconuts after we were done, then proceeded to chop off pieces of the shell to carve into rustic spoons so we could scoop out the soft, delicately flavored coconut flesh for our consumption. Man, is there anything she can't do? If I were stranded on an island I would want her on my team.

We also had to stop at a Colette's to buy their famous coconut pie. You can find Colettes all over this area. The pie was still warm when the shop keeper put it in our hands. It was not too sweet, fresh, and delicious. Tasted nothing like the fake coconut flavor that we usually encounter in New York. Fiance and I love the Philippines!

Pink

2009-05-17T02:25:00.010-04:00

Half of 2009 is in the past, and we still haven't had a single free weekend. I would love to have one day to just chillax.

What I wore to drinks n chair dancin, because I was too tired to dance standing up.

F21 Tank and Leggings, AA Bandeau Bra, F21 Necklace.

Philippines, Tagaytay

2009-05-12T22:11:00.012-04:00

On my second trip to the Philippines, I finally had a chance to get outside of Manila. Just 35 miles away from the capital city, Tagaytay offers beautiful views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. An active volcano nestled inside a serene lake is something I've never seen before. This alone was worth our trip.

There are countless restaurants and roadside food shops to stop in along the way, each with their own vantage point. This picture was taken next to a Starbucks parking lot, maybe if Starbucks in New York had views like this, I would actually go in despite of their bad coffee.

Make it a Destination?

2009-05-10T08:28:00.040-04:00

Being passionate travelers, A and I naturally expected to have a destination wedding. Even our engagement took place in Munich, followed by celebrations in Budapest and Prague. We would love to say "I Do" in a far away land by the ocean. However, we want everyone we love to be able to attend, and after all this wandering, maybe getting married in our home town is just what we need?

So we started looking at New York City wedding venues, but when temperatures in May hover around the 50's, we dream of getting away for a tropical wedding. Selecting a country to get married in, is the first and foremost decision we have to make before any other planning can begin. But how to decide?

A brought home these gorgeous roses Friday, after I've had an especially eventful week at work. I love my Fiance!

F21 Tank, AE BF Jeans, F21 Necklace Worn as a Bracelet, Old Tie Back Bandeau Bra, F21 Shoes.

My first shoe purchase from F21! I've been apprehensive about their shoe quality, but with a wedding to save for, I have to alter my spending habits very, very drastically. At less than 30 bucks, these were worth taking a chance with. Speaking of cost cutting, I literally took these jeans out of my donations pile, giving them a second try.

Ippudo, Ramen so Good It Makes U Cry

2009-05-05T22:33:00.007-04:00

Ippudo serves, among other things, Ramen ( not the kind you douse with hot water ). Silky, flavorful Tonkotsu broth and al dente noodles are their specialty. When I lived in Midtown, I had Ramen at unhealthy frequency because the only eateries near my apartment were Sushi shops, tourist traps, and Ramen houses. Eating Sushi everyday would have cost me my rent, and nobody in their right mind should eat at Friday's in New York City, so Ramen became my friend.

Ippudo's Tonkotsu Ramen is one of the best in the city, and in my opinion, even better than Momofuku's. Its tasty broth is the culmination of simmering pork bones for as long as 18 hours. Speaking of long periods of time, prepare your self for ridiculous waits during peak dining hours, quite ironic since Ramen is supposed to be a fast food. Ippudo is located on Fourth Avenue at Ninth Street.

Glow

2009-05-03T06:30:00.007-04:00

Bright color for a dreary day.

Fluorescent Tee( F21 ), Charcoal Leggings ( UO ), Cuff ( F21 ),

Manic Weekend

2009-04-26T22:58:00.013-04:00

Had one of those weekends : no sleep, had to be everywhere and do everything at once, exhausted. But we got through it together, and were blessed with glorious weather, so no complaints can be made. I am lucky to be in love with my best friend.

F21 Maxi Dress, Tiffany Earrings, Kenneth Cole Bag, Old Navy Flip Flops. Click on picture for detailed view.

Hong Kong, Cake

2009-04-22T22:00:00.022-04:00

In a little makeshift shack on the corner of Mosco and Mott, there once was a Hong Kong Cake Lady, known to everyone who frequented New York City's Chinatown. For close to two decades, Mrs. Tam worked under an awning that said only "Hong Kong Cake", making mini custard cakes to order for a dollar per bag. The cake batter made of humble ingredients like egg, sugar, and flour, was poured into a honeycomb shaped cast iron mold, then baked on a tiny stove top burner. The taste was a heavenly mix of fresh baked Madeleine, custard, and really great waffles. Even in the deep freeze of winter, A and I would endure long lines, shivering while we deeply inhaled the sweet scent wafting from her shack. We don't know exactly when she stopped showing up, but the Hong Kong Cakes we grew up craving have not been made in that shack for years. Imitators mushroomed all over Chinatown, but no one makes them as good as Mrs. Tam.

Fast forward to 2009, we land in Hong Kong. Our first order of business? To find Hong Kong Cakes. Except, we weren't actually sure that Hong Kong even had Hong Kong Cakes. And if it did, surely they were not called Hong Kong Cakes? Perhaps just, Cakes? Some expert googling in our hotel lobby taught us that in Hong Kong, these snacks really do exist! Locals call them Gai Dan Zai, or little eggs. Google also said that the most popular HK Cakes are made by North Point Gai Dan Zai. After trekking back and forth across town, and with help from newly made friends, we finally hunted down the infamous NP Gai Dan Zai in their only location with late night hours. Boy, they were worth the trouble. Crispy outside, lightly sweet and tender inside, NP Gai Dan Zai were shaped and flavored a bit differently from New York HKCs, but scrumptious nonetheless.

The rest of our Hong Kong food binge :

From street food, to afternoon tea at the Peninsula.

Dim Sum, of course.

Bar hopping in Knutsford Terrace.

Late night snack of Hong Kong style spaghetti, fish cake and rice noodle soup.

Neon and Black

2009-04-20T21:57:00.002-04:00

F21 Grey & Lime Pocket Tanks, Alice in the Eve High Waisted Skirt, J Crew Tights.

This tank is actually a neon lime green color, but somehow looks yellow in these pics :( It reminded me of Gatorade. This weekend was finally warm enough for tank tops, then the party ended when Monday came, I walked to work in forty degree weather, covered in wool...

Don't think I can ever get sick of black dress and pearls. This version was made Safe For Work by a crew neck cardigan. The dress is actually big on me, but I think it cost fifteen bucks so alterations are probably not worth it.

F21 Shift Dress, Nine West Leopard Print Pumps, Ivory, Pink, and Peach Pearls - Can't remember where I got them.

Rediscovering

2009-04-15T23:31:00.007-04:00

Trying to bring some pieces in my closet out of retirement. I actually don't have much old clothing. Since I loathe clutter, clothes are rigorously donated each year. Here are some remnants of wardrobes gone by.

Warehouse of London Faux Fur Jacket ( circa 2001 ), Miss Sixty Boots ( circa 2005 )

F21 Slub Tunic, French Connection Wool Blend Tights.

Hong Kong, why don't we have this?

2009-04-11T13:26:00.000-04:00

View from Victoria peek through dense fog.

Hong Kong had that urban, electric buzz I love. We were surrounded by delectable food, beautiful views, vibrant night life... But I really fell head over heels, for In Town Check-in.

We saw some airline counters in a metro subway station and discovered to our amazement that we can check-in our bags in town, then be luggage free all the way back to New York! A and I simultaneously said, "Why don't we have this?" After a city check-in, we traveled to the airport without burdens. Amazing.

Cafes and shops on Victoria Peak.

Bus ride to the tram for Victoria Peak.

Sobaya

2009-04-08T19:03:00.007-04:00

Hot soba noodles with grilled duck slices ( Kamonan ).

Chef Morimoto once said that if he could pick his last meal on earth, it would be soba. I don't think buckwheat noodles would be my choice for a last meal, but when it snows in April, like today, I want something hot, comforting and delicious. Sobaya never disappoints.

Our favorite Soba restaurant in New York used to be Honmura An on mercer. We alternated between the two establishments for over five years. Honmura An was pricier but served more al dente noodles; Sobaya offers impeccable broth and better desert. When Honmura An closed their doors two years ago, we were really glad to still have Sobaya to fall back on.

Soba noodles hand made daily on-site.

Trio of simmered vegetables : squash, lotus root, Japanese yam.

Soba with fried tofu, spinach, and fish cake.

Milk tofu ( or what I call Japanese Panna Cotta ), black sesame Ice cream.

Sobaya is located on 9th between 2nd & 3rd.

Comfort Food, Comfort Outfit

2009-04-05T18:26:00.001-04:00

What I wore for eating soup and dancing, because I like to be dressed comfortably for both activities. Tulip shaped skirt, pleated waist, tieback ribbon; but basically a comfortable t-shirt with pockets. Gotta love that.

Silence & Noise Boatneck Tunic
Chinese Laundry Suede Boots
F21 Leggings
F21 Necklace

Just Woke Up From Nap Hair

Tulips of a different sort. Got these pale pink beauties from A, just to say that he loves me. I'm happy.

Hong Kong, a city lover's city

2009-04-03T07:23:00.003-04:00

View of HK Island from Kowloon

We had a hotel room with pretty views in Hong Kong, but spent less than three hours in it. There was so much to explore, to taste, in a very short period of time. Sleeping was out of the question.

Hong Kong, is all about the view. It seems that every restaurant, every bar, even every washroom tries to outdo one another with breathtaking views, despite heavy fog and clouds.

Random Office Building

Ferry Ride to HK Island

Me likes pockets

2009-04-01T06:29:00.013-04:00

Still battling temperatures in the forties and low fifties, in April. I'm sick of wearing a coat. And sick of complaining about wearing a coat.

AE oversized cardigan

French Connection Dress

Barneys Co-op Pumps

Wore this dress with a button down shirt for work, then ditched the shirt for a cardigan to go out to dinner. Pockets are awesome, lately everything I'm buying has a pair.

Spring, have you met New York?

2009-03-26T23:50:00.013-04:00

Taking a short break from travelogues to say: despite proclamations of spring, it's still COLD in New York. I just can't take it anymore. I like distinct seasons, but must winter be six months long?

Still dressing for chilly weather :

American Apparel black long sleeve tee

Insight high waisted flannel skirt

Sisley wool leg warmers

Cairns, the Bat Show

2009-03-25T06:32:00.016-04:00

Look closely at those black dots in the sunset, they are not birds. Every evening in Cairns, thousands of enormous bats fly to the mountains. In day time, they hang upside down from trees in the middle of town, loudly screeching and shaking. Quite a scary sight.

Outdoor drinking on Ba8's patio, with Marina views :

The Lagoon at night :

Cairns, Crocodiles and Kangaroos, Oh My...

2009-03-22T20:01:00.022-04:00

A and I have an "All Time Favorite Restaurants" list spanning multiple continents. In Cairns, Ochre cruised right into this category with inventive usage of indigenous Australian ingredients. We had a quiet, memorable celebration here. I could not have wished for a better evening : Ochre's lovely space painted in colors reminiscent of the Outback, tropical evening breeze, beautiful food, intoxicating drinks, and most importantly, the love of my life.

Wattle Seed Damper Loaf, Peanut Oil and Native Dukka :

Wattle Seed has a nutty, almost coffee like flavor. The loaf was delivered to our table warm, to be dipped in oil and Dukka, a cripy spice blend. Simple and delicious.

Salt and Native Pepper Leaf Crocodile and Prawns, Lemon Aspen Sambal :

Crocodile was very mild, I think even more so than chicken. It is a white meat that basically tasted like the sauce it was cooked in. This version was tangy and slightly spicy.

Char Grilled Kangaroo Sirloin – Quandong Chilli Glaze – Sweet Potato Fritter and Bok Choy :

Kangaroo meat can be tough, but Ochre's version was perfectly seared and tender. It tasted like dry aged steak. This whole dish was wonderful.

Fresh Barramundi Fillet Lemongrass Beurre Blanc, Cassava Chips and Wasabi roe :

Barramundi is a very mild and meaty Australian fish. Ochre's version had a light sauce which did not overpower the fish, but enhanced its fresh sweetness.

Roast Duck Breast, Confit Leg – Asian Green Salad - Davidson Plum and Sambal Sauce :

Desert Plum Sorbet, Lime Sorbet, Seasonal Tropical Fruits :

My favorite sorbet! Intense plum flavor, not too sweet, perfect.

Cairns, All in a View

2009-03-16T05:16:00.024-04:00

In Cairns, I seriously questioned my quality of living back in New York City. I'm not referring to income, real-estate, or ownership of any other material goods. In travel, you observe how lives are lived elsewhere in the world. Sometimes, it makes you appreciate your place of dwelling, but always, you find a way in which your own well-being can be improved.

In New York, you work, a lot. Not because you want to, but because you feel you need to. Perhaps, you don't? While hard at work, you may miss what matters in this very short life : family, love, relationships, positively impacting other lives, and sunshine... You do not need a six, seven figure salary for any of these. Cairns was not the first time I came to such a realization, but I definitely, needed a reminder.

The Lagoon - a public infinity pool filled with families, located in Cairns' Central Business District, right on a city block. People on their way to and from can just jump in to cool-off. There are no gates, memberships, or fees...

View of Cairns from a distance :

Sometimes procrastination can get you amazing deals :

Plush lodging for little money due to recent stormy weather :

View from our balcony :

Cairns, Great Barrier Reefs

2009-03-14T17:19:00.017-04:00

Words, and even pictures cannot justly depict its magic. Swimming in 80 degree waters at the Great Barrier Reef, we were surrounded by beautiful sea turtles, yellow and grey rays, giant sea clams ( bigger than us ), and schools of neon colored fish, gracefully going about their day.

Aerial view of shimmering reefs:

Walking amidst the ocean, on a pristine sand cay, hundreds of miles from shore:

Large fishes swimming near our boat:

Vibrant marine life under the surface ( from a disposable camera )

Cairns, Love at First Sight

2009-03-11T22:01:00.007-04:00

Cairns, for us, was the main event. Most visitors to the Great Barrier Reef use Cairns as their starting point, hence it is expectedly touristy, but I fell in love nonetheless. Positioned on the coast of North Queensland, this beautiful city feels more like a small beach town dressed in lush tropical flora.

While still enduring torrential rain in Sydney, we had heard about cyclones and floods around Cairns. Even as we boarded our north bound flight, forecasts were still calling for thunderstorms there. However, all of our apprehension dissipated by the time we arrived at our hotel. Cairns was hot, not raining, and breathtaking.

I love beaches and oceans, but a mix of mountain and ocean is my absolute favorite landscape. After checking in and ditching our long sleeves, we were breathing in Cairns' humid tropical air from our balcony, while being completely absorbed by this brilliant sunset. I thought, this is perfection, even if it rains.

Sydney, Life's a Beach

2009-03-08T23:10:00.000-04:00

One could spend days just beach hopping in Sydney. Bondi and Manly are Sydney's more well known beaches, but there are many more, some linked by scenic coastal walks. When the sun finally surfaced, we were beach bound.

Surf's up at Bondi :

Rock cliffs and turquoise water :

Aussie brew and fresh seafood at Jordon's back in Darling Harbour :

Soft Shell Crab, Fish & Chips :

Spiced Calamari :

Sydney, Surry Hills

2009-03-05T21:00:00.003-05:00

In Surry Hills, a hip inner city neighborhood reminiscent of New York City's Chelsea, we found our favorite Sydney restaurant. Longrain, served some of the best Thai food we've had outside of Thailand. Lengthy, wooden communal tables and sparse embellishments, this converted warehouse space feels open and modern.

Although better described as modern Thai cuisine with Chinese influence, Longrain stays closely rooted in concepts of Thai cooking. Complex mix of flavors and exploding with fresh herbs, every dish we tasted was memorable.

Crispy Duck with Banana Blossom Pomelo & Sweet Fish Sauce :

Dry Red Curry of Ocean Trout, Snake Beans, Wild Ginger & Holy Basil :

Betel Leaf Topped with Prawn :

Freshly Shucked Sydney Rock Oysters with Fried Eschalots & Red Chili Lime :

Sour Orange Curry of Mud Crab & Prawn :

Cripsy Fried Barossa Chicken with Blood Plum Sauce & Szechuan Pepper :

Palm Sugar Ice Cream with Caramelized Figs :

Fresh Lemon Grass Tea :

Sydney, Harbour Bridge

2009-03-04T06:32:00.002-05:00

Dark and seemingly omnipresent in pictures, Sydney Harbour bridge links Central Business District to North Sydney. A walk across it offers beautiful views of both sides, and a chance to explore less touristy neighborhoods on the north shore.

Rooftop beer garden at Glenmore Hotel, with Sydney Harbour Bridge as its backdrop :

Bridge view from south shore :

Entrance near the Rocks :

View of iconic Sydney Opera House from the bridge :

Looking back :

View of North Sydney :

Discovering cafes and restaurants in a laid back residential neighborhood in North Sydney.

Australians love their coffee. Espresso bars are everywhere, and not a single bad Latte was had on this trip.

Taking shelter from rain while sitting down to a Latte at Freckle Face Cafe :

Sydney, the Rocks

2009-02-28T10:50:00.003-05:00

A lovely, historic neighborhood in Sydney by the foot of Harbour Bridge, the Rocks is perfect for walking and exploring. There are lots of cafes, beer gardens, and shops tucked away in narrow lanes and converted old buildings.

Rain became heavy, so we ducked inside Gumnut Tea Garden for breakfast and steaming cups. An 1800's cottage with a pretty yard, this was a cozy little place. Just for a while, we stopped wishing for sun, and enjoyed our freshly made breakfast while rain came down peacefully in the garden.

The Argyle Complex:

The Rocks, with modern, tall buildings in its background :

Fresh berries and figs from the Rocks farmer's market.

Sydney, You Had Me at G'day...

2009-02-26T18:58:00.039-05:00

Pack minutes before leaving? Naturally. Research once on plane? Sure. But even procrastinating travelers like us usually have at least lodging figured out prior to departure. For our trip Down Under though, more details were left unattended to than our norm : accommodations, itinerary, and most importantly, a last minute weather check... Wishful thinking led us to believe sunshine and heat was all that was in store for us in Australia, but a parting heat wave left Sydney with bouts of chilly, wet weather. Pouring rain lasted well over a week.

Late booking put us in a hotel overlooking Darling Harbour, a neighborhood similar to New York City's Seaport, but bigger and cleaner. Sydney is like a Hybrid of New York, Rio and Hong Kong ( although just for a few days, it also reminded us of London ). It's urban, diverse, coastal, and suited with pretty beaches within reach, what's not to like?

Lots of restaurants can be found in Darling Harbour, but for our first meal in Australia, we headed straight for Sydney Fish Market. Despite being a huge tourist attraction, great seafood deals can be found here.

Lobsters were decent, but relatively expensive and not as sweet as their distant Maine cousins. Best bargains here were Salmon and Tuna Sashimi, Oysters, Prawns, and local fish, all very fresh and cheaper than NY. Walk through the market's many shops and stalls, order your fresh catch and pick a cooking method, then enjoy it in a cafeteria style setting with wine purchased from a shop inside.

Freshly shucked Sydney Rock Oysters, tasted like crisp, open ocean.

Local Mud Crabs for sale.

Shiny, pretty fish.

If we only had some sun...

Work Wardrobe Chronicles - Business Casual Friday

2009-02-07T02:18:00.036-05:00

UO Grey Tuxedo Cardigan

Theory Pencil Skirt

White Pumps with Black Lace Trim

Club Monaco Tweed Vest

Raven Tailored Wool Trousers

Erin Fetherston for Target Blouse

I only get to dress business casual on Fridays, the only day of the work week to look less like a corporate robot. I am always worried though, that dressing too stylishly at work may result in not being taken seriously. Business formal is simple, my definition involves one or more of the following : suit, blazer, collared shirt, and certain type of dresses. Business casual, however, is more open for interpretation.

For the environment I work in, I consider any skirt shorter than knee length to be inappropriate. Cardigans are safe options, as are vest and blouse pairings. Not exactly fashion forward but respectable enough. These shoes deserve a special mention, they were purchased for five dollars, from a random boutique I found while traveling in Asia. So pretty.

Work Wardrobe Chronicles - All Hail the Pencil Skirt

2009-02-04T21:17:00.012-05:00

I own over a dozen Pencil Skirts, yet every time I discover a new one with great detailing and fit, I must buy it. Their classic shape is effortlessly professional but also feminine. Instead of a boring suit, my favorite everyday office look is a Pencil Skirt with silk blouse and cardigan, or a fitted blazer.

Pictured :

Club Monaco Pencil Skirt

UO Embroidered Silk Blouse

Club Monaco Blazer

In With the New...

2009-01-26T01:57:00.003-05:00

When I was a child, every year my mom bought me a new outfit to celebrate Chinese New Year in. Donning brand new threads from head to toe symbolized a fresh beginning and a more auspicious year to come. On New Year's Eve, I went to sleep with new clothes that my mom neatly folded next to my pillow, new shoes set out by my bed, all ready to wear when I opened my eyes to a brand new year.

Our family always gathered for the lunar New Year, my grandmother adorned the house with fresh flowers, and all the kids looked forward to money in red envelopes and delicious feasts for days to come. Like all holidays, Chinese New Year was much more wondrous when I was younger. It wasn't until I left home that I realized why new clothes, on New Year’s Day, felt so special. It felt like love.

We do a much more condensed version of Chinese New Year now, as long as we can get together to share a meal, there's not much more fuss made. But no matter where we are or how we celebrate, this holiday carries with it our constant wish that waiting for us is a healthier, happier, more fulfilling new year. Happy Chinese New Year everyone!

2008 in Our Rearview Mirror

2009-01-12T21:08:00.004-05:00

Happy 2009!

We are a bit slow to start off our new year, having been sick with an epic flu, we spent the first week of 2009 with thermometers and steaming bowls of chicken soup. Despite this, we are looking forward to a splendid year.

Now in the rearview, 2008 was filled travels, celebrations, and changes. There were some unexpected heart wrenching moments, too, but we managed to not let them keep us from getting out and seeing the world. In the last twelve months, our number one passion has brought us to Shanghai, Moscow, Munich, Budapest, Prague, London, Miami, Vieques, and more. Here are some of our stops in pixels :