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  • Beautiful Sunday At Tynemouth Beach

    Beautiful Sunday At Tynemouth Beach

    Beautiful Sunday At Tynemouth Beach – Throwing back some old stuff that happened a month ago where there was still plenty of beautiful sunny day, one of which, a good day out to the beach! Well, previously I talked about wandering around the weekend market at Tynemouth Station, this actually continues from there.
    Located on the far east end of Newcastle is the Tynemouth Longsands beach and shore. It was still early Autumn where the weather was still not at a freezing temperature, though it’s still chilly and cold at times, a day out to the beach was ideal. Tynemouth is a small little town by the sea, the main attraction of course is not the town, but the beach and the Tynemouth Priory and Castle. We didn’t go to the castle because we need to pay for it, so we spent most of the time by the shore, enjoying the chilly breeze, as well as fish & chips!
    You know, I just love sitting by the seaside, listening to the sound of wave hitting the shore. The beautiful sound just calms the mind a lot. Moreover it was a good blue sky day. At Tynemouth Longsands, I was surprised that there’s people playing in the water, and surfing too! I wonder what’s the coldness of the water and I took of my shoes, then went to put my feet into the North Sea. It’s cold! I just wonder how could they stand the cold in the water. Perhaps I’ve been living in the tropical country where the sea water is always warm.
    It was a good day. I want to come back here for a sunrise, but it’s super cold in the morning and I am not sure whether I can wake up or not. Ha.
  • Morning Walk By Quayside & Sunday Market

    Morning Walk By Quayside & Sunday Market

    Magnificent panoramic view of Gateshead & Newcastle.
    Morning Walk By Quayside & Sunday Market – It’d been a while since I am writing about my life in the UK. Well, so far, so busy! Although it’s so far, so good, but it’d been very busy for me. Life of an interior design student – work! College back in Taylor’s was like more work, less fun, and now I am trying to balance up work and play and I am struggling on it, but am working towards it. 😉
    Baltic Contemporary Art Gallery on the left.
    Life in Newcastle is brilliant. Waking up early on a Sunday is good because you can always visit the Sunday Market by the Quayside, which starts early till sunset. But then waking up early is not an easy thing especially when you have a Saturday night out. Haha. Well, I managed to wake up early on a Sunday morning a few weeks back and it was on a lovely sunny Sunday!
    “What are you looking at dude?! Asian…” LOL
    A lovely couple. 😉
    Gateshead Millennium Bridge. It tilts for boat to pass through. A fun thing to see when you are at the Quayside.
    Chillax.
    The Sage, awesome music venue designed by Foster + Partners.
    The Tyne Bridge, part of the Great North Run’s route.
    Mr LC with a thumb up. =)
    A group photo of Asian. Nicholas, Charles, Zenny, En Yi, Ling Er, Wayne, Val, Jon, and LC.
    Quayside is a lovely place by the Tyne River, windy, yet beautiful with the magnificent Millennium Bridge and the Tyne Bridge. I have always wanted to go for a jog by the riverside, but still haven’t get the chance – lazy, and cold. Too much of lazy reason on that. LOL. Actually I like Newcastle because it’s close by to the sea and also there’s the river; being raised up in Penang Island, I am somehow connected to water nature. For the past 3 years in Kuala Lumpur, it was not perfect living because the sea is faraway, so do the river Klang is not well-maintained. That’s why I like Quayside.
    Alvin Yang.
    It’s quite fun strolling along the stalls selling street food, vintage CDs, second hand books and small little gift stuffs. Food is the main attraction because it reminds me of home where street food is a culture in Asia. Best food at the Quayside Sunday Market? I would say the German Wurst (German Sausage), although this is England, yet having a taste of German is good. I cannot be sure how good the wurst in Germany, but this is good enough! Plenty of sauce for you to top your sausage with and eating a fresh and hot wurst in by the chilly riverside is just bravo.
    Deutschland in England.
    Hell lots of sauce. I like!
    An Chyi art saucing with her wurst.
    Eat, or cheese?
    Add this into your Newcastle trip if you in case to drop by the small city at the North East!
    Random pose with random graffiti art. Cheers!
  • The Streets Of Washington, D.C., With Jenna Huhn

    The Streets Of Washington, D.C., With Jenna Huhn

    As a recent arrival in the D.C. area, Jenna Huhn has had the opportunity to explore the rich architectural history of the nation’s capital. The city was established by a land grant from the states of Maryland and Virginia and incorporated the port cities of Alexandria and Georgetown. The original design of the streets was created by French-born civil engineer Pierre L’Enfant and was characterized by a north-south and east-west grid that was intersected regularly by grand avenues running diagonally through the new city. Washington, D.C., was burned by British troops during the War of 1812 but was rebuilt along its historic lines during the period following the war.

  • Six Tips For A Spotless Windshield

    Six Tips For A Spotless Windshield

    Every time you drive your car, your windshield is exposed to some pretty harsh elements. From bird droppings and dirt to bugs and road debris, just one trip can leave your windshield in desperate need of a bath. Auto-glass experts like Rex Altree, owner of NewImage Auto Glass, provide their customers with simple tips to keep windshields looking brand new.
    Time It Right
    If you plan on detailing your entire car, be sure to save your windows for last. This way, you won’t have to worry about your newly washed windows getting sprinkled with cleaner or water. Many car owners find that early in the morning or late in the evening are the most pleasant times to wash a car.
    Buy a Good Cleaner
    All windshield cleaners are not created equally. Auto-glass experts like Rex Altree of NewImage Auto Glass often see customers who have ruined their tinted windows by using the wrong auto-glass cleaner. Some cleaners, like those containing alcohol or ammonia, can emit harmful fumes. Likewise, ammonia-based cleaners are not compatible with window tents. Materials like vinyl, plastic, rubber and leather may become dry or damaged from ammonia as well.
    Use a Good Towel
    When it comes to keeping a sparking windshield, the towel you use may be just as important as the cleaner. For best results, look for towels that are specifically designed to be used on glass. Microfiber towels are particularly useful for washing windshields because they can hold nearly 10 times their weight. Using the wrong type of towel to dry your windshield may leave you with streaks, missed spots and even scratches.
    Bring an Extra Towel
    For a spotless finish, you may need more than one towel. Many expert car washers prefer to have one towel for freeing the window from dirt and debris while using another towel to buff it clean. With thicker towels, you may be able to use one side for cleaning and the other side for buffing.
    Avoid the Sun
    As a long-time resident of Arizona, Rex Altree knows a thing or two about extreme temperatures. Although the sun is great for many things, it’s not helpful when you’re trying to wash windows. When possible, try to avoid direct sunlight when washing your car or windshield. The heat from the sun can activate or enhance dangerous fumes from the chemicals in your car cleaner. Also, the beaming sun may leave water spots on your window.
    Don’t Forget the Wipers
    Your windshield wipers have regular contact with your window, so it is important to make sure that they are clean. Wipe your windshield wipers each time you wash your car. If you are unable to remove the debris, try using white vinegar to clean them.
    Follow these tips and you will have spotless windows in no time.
  • Beachfront Style With Melissa Ruzylo Of Huntington Beach

    Beachfront Style With Melissa Ruzylo Of Huntington Beach

    Creating an elegant and relaxed setting for entertaining or enjoying the balmy climate of southern California is second nature for Melissa Ruzylo of Huntington Beach. A few basic elements can make any house a restful and delightful retreat after the stresses and responsibilities of the working day. Here are some hints for bringing the beach to your home design plans.

    Less Is More

    Creating an uncluttered look and choosing accessories carefully can establish the basis for a beautiful beachfront look inside your home. A few well-chosen accent pieces can provide focal points for each room and can establish a theme. Seashells, fishing nets and other reminders of the sea and the beach are a solid foundation for your beachfront decorating scheme. Floor treatments should be simple and functional. Consider tatami mats or hardwood flooring to complete your home’s cool and comfortable look.

    Colors

    Simple earth tones with hints of brilliant color can evoke the feeling of the beach and can provide a restful retreat for your whole family. Deep blues and serene greens against a cool sand-colored background are ideal choices for bedrooms and bathrooms. Golden accents can provide a splash of sunny visual appeal in kitchens and other living areas of the home.

    One of the most important elements in beachfront living is the open-plan styling that so many beach homes enjoy. Putting patios and decks to good use as outdoor entertainment areas can open up new vistas for guests and can provide a real indoor-outdoor living experience for homeowners, even if they are nowhere near the open sea.

  • Discovering A Small Part Of France In Big KL

    Discovering A Small Part Of France In Big KL

    This is a guest post by Edith @ www.applesonsticks.com
    As a foreigner, living in KL is not as challenging as eating in KL. My first week after arriving here I was so excited about diving into the culinary world that I forgot how all this new exciting food was really new to my body, and therefore ended up with food poisoning and indigestion on a regular basis. All that was cured with the help of a lifesaver, and even though I love Asian food, I soon found myself missing Western food, or at least the part that I’ve gotten used to in France.
    That’s where my French friends came in handy, because they have been living here longer than I have, and knew the best, yet hidden places in KL. So one fine day we went to a place called Levain Boulangerie Patisserie, which is a place located far from the hustle & rustle of the chaotic city. Quietly placed in a renovated bungalow, Levain Boulangerie Patisserie welcomes guests for breakfast, brunch, dessert, tea time, coffee, and any event that requires cake! The first meal I served there was brunch, and it was perfect for that! No need to wake up early on a Saturday, taking all the time you need to get up and to your destination, after which you get most comfortable with your croissant, fresh orange juice, and cappuccino. Although it’s difficult to stop at only 1 serving – once you enter and the fresh bakery smell hits you, with the trey in one hand and the clips in the other, you find yourself overwhelmed with choices of pastries, breads, cookies and cakes. I ended up ordering more than I could take, but luckily you can always get take away!
    If you are hungry for a larger meal, you can choose from a variety of hot meals prepared in Levain’s kitchen – pasta, sandwiches, salads, and morning meals such as pancake platters and French toast with fruits. If you are less hungry, and just in for a hearty treat, there is an unlimited assortment of pastries that will make your mouth water. It’s almost impossible to choose from all the goodies laid out before you. Melon buns, cheese tarts, chocolate chip cookies, donuts, brownies, croissants, mini croissants, danishes of all sorts looking delicious for an offer you can’t refuse.
    But maybe you’re looking for something special. In that case you must try their offerings of cakes, pralines and macarons! All the cakes look amazing, and you get to choose between Chocolate Truffle, New York Cheesecake, even Chocolate Tiramisu, and many more. Macarons come in all colors and flavorings, and the pralines are really just an endless sea of the most gourmet recipes I’ve seen.
    All topped off with a fresh juice of mango, orange or pineapple and a lovely tea or coffee to pair it with. I had one of my best brunches in this place, no doubt, and I think everyone would find their menu just overwhelming. There’s really a treat for every individual in this place, and the location it’s served in is no more below than is the food. Especially if you’re looking for a small part of France to experience the French breads again, you ought to try this place out.
  • Active Graduates Continue To Contribute To Trinity College In Melbourne

    Active Graduates Continue To Contribute To Trinity College In Melbourne

    The ties that bind Trinity College of Melbourne, Australia, with its graduates are strong and lasting. The list is long of graduates who maintain an active role with the college after they have gone on to achieve greatness in their chosen careers. Some former students, like Dr. Susan Lim of Singapore who completed her residency at Trinity College, establish scholarships in their name to aid graduate students to pursue their education.
    Established in 1872 by the Anglican Bishop of Melbourne on land donated to the Church of England, Trinity College joined the University of Melbourne four years later. Today, Trinity is the oldest college affiliated with the university.
    Trinity College was the first Australian college to admit female students, first as non-residents in 1883, and eventually as residents three years later. Another first for the college was the establishment of the Trinity College Foundation Studies in 1989 toassist international students in their preparations for entry to the university. The Foundation Studies program opened a collegiate hostel in 2011 specifically for housing its students.
    The 1,500 students of Trinity College benefit from a diverse student body drawn from all over Australia and from around the world. The college encourages each of its students to develop their education both in the classroom and beyond. Extracurricular activities in sports, music, theological or entrepreneurial endeavors are available and supported by the college and university. Undergraduate and post-graduate students can look forward to joining a network of 15,000 alumni including Dr. Susan Lim, 37 Rhodes Scholars and leaders of business, government, religion, academia and the professions in 60 countries.
    The population of Trinity College is similar to that of the university with roughly equal percentages from the local metropolitan area, interstate, international and regional Victoria. Students residing at the college benefit from small tutorial groups and a strong academic environment that includes access to 60 tutors recruited from graduate students, top-ranking senior undergraduates and University of Melbourne staff.
    Campus life includes easy access to university facilities including a library and state of the art computer labs and information technology services that are within walking distance of Trinity College. The college facilities and resident housing are located in ivy-covered brick and stone buildings to the north of the main campus of the University of Melbourne.
    Trinity College students learn early in their life on campus that the opportunities to connect with influential alumni are a key part of the academic experience. The college Advancement Office explores ways to maintain communication and connections between alumni and the college community. The activities offered by the Advancement Office to the alumni network are designed to provide current and former students the chance to share experiences and benefit from what is the Trinity collegiate experience.
    One method of maintaining the connection between the college and its alumni is by giving recognition to graduates who have gone on to distinguish themselves in their careers and in their communities. One of the highest honors that Trinity College offers is the bestowing of thirty fellowships. One of those so honored with the designation of Fellow of Trinity College was surgeon and stem cell researcher, Dr. Susan Lim, who completed her residency at Trinity College. Honoring those who came before offers current students a sense of pride their college and motivation to achieve success.
  • BUPA Great North Run Is A Fun Marathon!

    BUPA Great North Run Is A Fun Marathon!

    BUPA Great North Run Is A Fun Marathon! – Happened on the first weekend I arrived in Newcastle, I’ve got a chance to witness the Great North Run just right at the middle of Northumbria University campus. I actually knew about this quite some times already and initially thought of taking part too! But later then I thought of saving up the money and no one wanted to come with me, so ended being a spectator instead of the fun runners
    It was a chilly and wet Sunday morning and there’s a huge swamp of colourful runners running along the freeway at about 12 degree celcius temperature. The atmosphere was so happenings and you can hear cheers and laughters floating the air. The dull and cloudy Sunday morning became cheerful again. I was at the 1 miles point where the runner passed by the bridge at Northumbria University.
    The running trail was very long as tenth of thousands of runner passing by. I didn’t get a glimpse of the frontline, nor the end of the line because it’s just too long. Imaging 40k people passing through.
    The fun thing was the whole freeway was flooded with colourful and funny attire! Runners were having fun; Mickey Mouse, man in suit, Minions, Superman, Spiderman, cow, monkey suits were all around, making it a happy run!
    I was thinking, if there’s a group of people initiated this fun thing in the Penang Bridge International Marathon, I am pretty sure it’s gonna be happy and fun one and later turned into a human parade. LOL.
    I didn’t get to the finish line which is about 13 miles (20.9km) away at South Shields, but it was a good one being at one part of the marathon route, cheering for the runners!
  • Newcastle’s Chinatown Without The Feel Of Chinatown

    Newcastle’s Chinatown Without The Feel Of Chinatown

    Newcastle’s Chinatown Without The Feel Of Chinatown – There’s like approximately 300,000 population in Newcastle Upon Tyne and there’s 7.6% of Asian living in the city according to Wikipedia, I don’t know does it includes International student like me or not. Interestingly, there’s a Chinatown in the city. I was pretty excited cause I thought it would be like New York or San Francisco’s Chinatown where it really has a blend of East & West with Cantonese language flooding the air of Chinatown.
    This way to Chinatown!
    Here’s me and Alvin!
    Found a cemetery nearby, found it interesting and I took a photo of it. LOL.
    St James Park Stadium at background, home of Newcastle FC.
    Surprisingly, met a Chung Ling High School friend here – Matthias.
    He’s Wayne.
    Just love the post box.
    LOL. Bangkok’s Ladyboys comes to Newcastle!
    Well, it’s not what you think it is. Chinatown in Newcastle is small with mainly Chinese restaurants, 2 Asian grocery supermarkets and that’s all. The only Chinese-looking thing is the Chinese-style arch entrance near St James Stadium. Bahhh. You don’t really see many people here, people come here just for food, or just to buy Asian food.
    Siu Mei! 烧腊！
    Do you feel Chinatown? NO.
    A plate of saltish Chinese dish.
    Asian of the day, I would say, Malaysian. Kay, Eunice, Ling Er, Wayne, LC, me and Alvin.
    I went to tried out a Chinese buffet (Lau’s Buffet) here, which costs £6.75 per person and I thought it gonna be filled with good food. Oh no, it’s a place that I’m not coming back again, they are salty. Somehow, I saw a lot of local British came for their food, bring their kids and family here, maybe they like it the way it is and 70% of the dishes are chicken, fried chicken, Si Chuan chicken, sweet and sour chicken, kong pow chicken and more chicken. In short, Chinese buffet is just like mixed rice in Malaysia but it’s eat-all-you-can. Ang mo likes it, but not me.
    A1 Bak Kut Teh herbal pack. =)
    Oh MILO and it costs a bomb. Guess Cadbury Chocolate is a better choice here.
    Wing Hong Supermarket.
    After checking out the Chinese supermarket here (Wing Hong & Hiyou), I can tell you that you can find almost anything here. It’s like Cold Storage or B.I.G. (Big Independent Grocers) where you can find many imported food, just that they are imported from Asia. Spices, Asian’s vegetable, sauces, instant noodles and more are all available. It’s just that they are in £. If you happens to come to UK for study, don’t bother to bring food stuff if you have a limited luggage., you can find them all here.
  • Exciting First Day In Newcastle & Northumbria University

    Exciting First Day In Newcastle & Northumbria University

    Exciting First Day In Newcastle & Northumbria University – Being in a first world country is so much different, it’s cleaner, air is fresher and it just feels good, maybe it’s my first time heading to a better place. It doesn’t mean that my home is not good, just that it’s a different kind of experience and I like it. No more jet lag after a long sleep from the day before, and I believed that my body suits the British time zone very well.
    Crossing the bridge to City Campus East. What a lovely morning.
    My current university – Northumbria University. I’m liking it.
    It’s not as cold as I thought, weather was pretty fine, clear blue sky to welcome my first day in university and a new city. Although it’s not a metropolitan city, yet this little city of Newcastle Upon Tyne does give me a friendly feeling.
    International Students!
    Two ladies bring us around for campus tour.
    My companion and it’s my first time navigating on foot with GPS!
    First day in Newcastle was to attend a series of talks, campus tour, free bus tours and meeting new friends from all over the world as it was an induction day for International student.
    Monument Square.
    This makes me feel home! Penang has this.
    The dinner of the night, £1 burger from Poundland. LOL
    Did a lot of shopping and Tesco, Wilkinsons, Poundland and TJ Hughes were the favourite ones. Still didn’t have time to explore the city as there’s many to buy for my hostel. Mind became so active suddenly that the mind keep multiplying all the price tag by 5. Haha. Poundland is interesting as everything is in £1 and I’ll just call it Daiso of UK. Unfortunately, Daiso has better choices in my opinion.
    Alvin, Han, Beizy, Eunice, Esther, Sharon & Me!
    Say hi to all Penang-lang, and a Johor-lang and an Indonesian!
    First night was pretty interesting as well as it was not just spending time in the room sleeping again. A night out to the pub was fun as it was like 50% off all wine & champagne during the happy hour at Tiger Tiger. Well, Newcastle is famous for its nightlife, so pubs and clubs are something that must not be missed in this city. It was a good night as I met a bunch of friends from Penang surprisingly, it just made me not to miss home. HAHA. After all, yeah, first day was good and fun.
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