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Wednesday, October 12, 2011

It's "D'Light"-ful!



 Upon walking into the D’Light complex, the first thing you’ll see is the Mobile Plaza. A grass wall mixes the natural and digital together while the Capture Wall helps you interact with all of your personal images on 82 different LFD monitors! The floor also contains a “Mood Tube,” where you can dance to music-influenced color projections. From those first few steps, it’s obvious that the Samsung D’Light complex is all about how technology is changing and improving our lives! Through these exhibits, visitors can witness the marvels of modern digital development.

After reviewing the main floor, head downstairs to the basement level’s “Digital Lounge,” which features home and office interiors designed to represent the new digital lifestyle. Participants can learn about the convenience and fun of using the Internet, Samsung’s many digital photo and video devices and even an entertainment space where visitors can enjoy music, video games and films.

To wrap up our tour of the D’Light, we’ll head upstairs to the 2nd floor, which is primarily focused on profiling Samsung as a company. Two long walls – a “Water Wall” and a “Media Wall” span the entire level. While the Water Wall explains the Samsung’s corporate history, the Media Wall expresses their values. A third wall is dedicated to promoting semiconductor technology. The Samsung D’Light complex gives us a glimpse of how today’s cutting-edge technology is going to influence our future lives!


reference  http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004004002004&p=04&art_id=41620&lang=en

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Witnessing a Royal Ceremony




Of Seoul’s five royal palaces from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Gyeongbokgung (Palace) is the largest. To help recreate what life was like during Korea’s royal era, visitors can experience a change of the royal guards at the entrance of Gwanghwamun (Gate) throughout the year.

Once the bell is rung, the ceremony begins! The bright colors, beautiful outfits, and the bold banners and flags combine to make the elaborate ceremony a favorite event among visitors to Seoul. When the reenactments started in 1996, the original records were reviewed to ensure that today’s ceremony honors the traditional one. In fact, there are actually two different ceremonies – one marks the opening and closing ceremony of the royal gate, while the other signifies the changing of the guards.

Note: The ceremony does not take place on Tuesdays, when Gyeongbokgung (Palace) is closed. Generally, the Opening/Closing ceremony occurs between 10:00~15:00 from March to June and September to November. The Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs January to February, July, August and December between 10:00~16:00. More information: http://www.chf.or.kr/chf/eng/


reference  http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004004002004&p=04&art_id=41620&lang=en

Monday, October 10, 2011

Korea's Traditional Paper



Historically, Korean paper was celebrated throughout Asia as some of the best available anywhere. Said to have been invented in China, paper making made its way to Korea before the art was transferred to Japan. The paper created from the Korean mulberry tree is known as hanji, and it was said that it could last 1,000 years! You’ll see why when you experience the strength and beauty of hanji!


One of the best places to learn about Korean traditional paper and to make various objects with it is Hanji & People, a workshop located in the popular Insa-dong neighborhood. With craft classes conducted in Chinese, English and Japanese, participants can choose from more than one dozen different easy-to-make projects that take anywhere between one to three hours to complete. For example, you can make a beautiful hand mirror or a picture frame. The more ambitious art student can even endeavor to create a traditional doll!

Note: To ensure your class is available, it is advisable to call or email ahead of time. Tel: 02-725-9979; Email: boomi9804@hanmail.net

reference  http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004004002004&p=04&art_id=41620&lang=en

Sunday, October 9, 2011

The Beautiful Tea Museum



Tucked a couple of blocks down one of Insa-dong’s alleys is a traditional hanok style house that was renovated and converted into a museum. The Beautiful Tea Museum sells some 130 different types of teas of every color – green, black, brown and blue – not to mention several herbal and flower varieties.

Although the museum’s tea collection is its primary draw, there’s also an impressive number of earthenware teacups, saucers and teapots on display that were manufactured by young ceramists. Since the inner courtyard was covered in glass, the central area has been turned into an attractive patio that’s perfect for enjoying tea. The natural sunlight that fills the area makes for a peaceful and joyful setting.

The Beautiful Tea Museum’s staff is highly trained in the art of preparing, serving and enjoying tea. Think of them as… tea sommeliers! When you place your order, don’t be shy about asking them questions to better understand the proper way to enjoy Korean tea. This is one of the most important parts of experiential touring… learning new information that you can share with your family and friends back home!

reference  http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004004002004&p=04&art_id=41620&lang=en

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Making Korea's Staple Food



Without a doubt, Korea’s number one signature food must be kimchi! Kimchi is made from fermented vegetables with varied seasonings. Although the most common type of kimchi is made with Napa cabbage, there are hundreds of different varieties made from several other kinds of vegetables, such as radish and cucumber (to name only two!).

Inside Myeong-dong’s Experience Kimchi, which is located on the 5th floor of the M Plaza Building, you can experience Korean culture and history through this vital Korean food. Put on that apron and get ready to make your own kimchi with the guidance and supervision of a professional instructor. Not only will you get to make your own special serving of pickled cabbage, but you can also taste it and pack it up for easy transport overseas! The Experience Kimchi's kimchi making program takes about 30 minutes. When you’re done (and if there’s still time) feel free to try on a traditional Korean hanbok outfit. If you like the way you look, why not take a free Polaroid photo of you and your companion wearing them?
The Experience Kimchi offers several workshops daily, so be sure to plan your trip with the appropriate language offering.


reference  http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004004002004&p=04&art_id=41620&lang=en

Friday, October 7, 2011

Around Aotearoa



A chance to mix with the locals. Everyone drinks 10 different beers and cocktails from around NZ at the completion of each round (10 beers and two cocktails) every participant who has completed will receive a T.Shirt with the wording "I've just completed Around Aotearoa, Ngongotaha Rugby, New Zealand 2011". Your fee includes beer, cocktails and nibbles.

Come and enjoy the evening while watching the Quarter Finals Winner from Pool D v Runner Up from Pool C and Winner from Pool A vs Runner Up from Pool B on the large screen.

reference  http://www.rotoruanz.com/events/2011/oct/9/around-aotearoa

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Rugby World Cup Official Rotorua Fan Zone



The perfect family outing. Come along and enjoy a two hour showcase of great local entertainment, activities, displays and food before watching the Quarter Finals on our awesome big screen.

The theme is to be advised. There will be prizes drawn on the night including the best dressed team or family of four. We will also have a "Kiddie Zone" to keep the active ones entertained.

reference  http://www.rotoruanz.com/events/2011/oct/8/rugby-world-cup-official-rotorua-fan-zone

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Rotorua Ekiden

คีย์เวิร์ด


The HI-TEC Rotorua Ekiden Relay will be run around the roads encircling beautiful Lake Rotorua. An internationally recognised event, the Ekiden relay is run over the marathon distance of 42.2km and consists of teams of six competitors who wear a traditional Japanese tasuki sash instead of carrying a baton. Clubs, companies/businesses, social groups or schools can enter teams for the 9th HI-TEC Rotorua Ekiden Relay. The shortest leg of the relay is 5km and the longest 10km. Join the other 2000+ participants in New Zealand's favorite relay. All participants receive a HI-TEC Ekiden T-Shirt valued at $45.00 + a bag of sponsors products a the chance to win fantastic spot prizes.

reference http://www.rotoruanz.com/events/2011/oct/8/rotorua-ekiden

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Whakarewarewa Friday Night Markets

Whakarewarewa Friday Night Markets


The Maori cultural themed "Whakarewarewa Friday Night Markets" will bring our community together for an event that can be enjoyed by all, at the world famous, Whakarewarewa, Living Thermal Village.

Sit back, relax and indulge in the unique taste of the Whakarewarewa hangi pie or be enticed by the various other foods while being entertained by our very own Te Pakira Kapa Haka Group. Be inspired by our select weavers, carvers and craft artists. Admire the beautiful arts andamp; crafts and maybe you'll find that special something you've been looking for. Nau Mai Haere Mai - Welcome one andamp; all to, "The Whakarewarewa Friday Night Markets".

6pm is the performance from Te Pakira cultural group.

reference   http://www.rotoruanz.com/events/2011/oct/7/whakarewarewa-friday-night-markets
 

Monday, October 3, 2011

The Vital Health Tour

The Vital Health Tour


"The Vital Health Tour - What you don't know CAN hurt you and your family"
Dr Sarah Farrant, DC and Cyndi O'Meara, Nutritionist, have a critical and important message of health to the people of New Zealand. Both are mum’s of three and have spoken internationally and are combining their talents to present a different approach to health - come and learn from these two fantastic speakers who are getting GREAT results!
No gimmicks no signing up. Only information that could change your life!
During this presentation you’ll:
  • Discover the one area of health that the majority of society neglects – having this secret can double your energy.
  • Learn the Number 1 killer, more than heart disease and cancer that no one is talking about.
  • Explore three different health approaches (most people only know one!).
  • Discover why people are getting sicker at a younger age (even though they are living longer).
  • Learn how you can be prepared for the huge global health shift that’s already happening.
Don't Be Disappointed.
Reserve your Spot Today For This FREE Presentation.
Call (07) 348 0959 or email to reserve your seat today!!

Reference   http://www.rotoruanz.com/events/2011/oct/6/the-vital-health-tour

Monday, January 10, 2011

Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park




Yangmingshan National Park was officially the third national park established in 1985. Situated on Mt. Yangming, one of the most well known mountains in Taiwan, Yangmingshan National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Taiwan. It features volcanic formations and fragrant blooming flowers during all four seasons. Because of the variety of beautiful plants and colorful flowers that flourish in the park, some people regard Yangmingshan National Park as the “backyard of Taipei”. Due to its tropical climate, Yangmingshan is an ideal location for plants and animals to grow.






Being the only national park in Taipei City, Yangmingshan National Park has become increasingly popular amongst Taipei citizen as well as foreigners. It is one of the best choices for families, couples, friends, and hikers to visit. The park also features popular scenic sites such as Qingtiangang and the Zhuzihu Scenic Spot. In addition to the scenery, visitors may also enjoy delicious wildlife cuisine at the national park. 



Overall, Yangmingshan National Park is one of the perfect places to get close to the nature in Taipei City!








 




















reference  http://www.binscorner.com/pages/a/amazing.html 

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Found! The Stunning Mountain that inspired Avatar's 'Floating Peaks'



Its soaring steeple of rock topped by a small oasis of trees looks straight out of the 3D blockbuster Avatar.

But this is no special effects illusion, it's a real-life tower of quartz-sandstone deep in the rugged mountain terrain of southern Hunan in China.

The 3,544ft Southern Sky Column is one of 3,000 in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and became the inspiration for the magical 'floating peaks' in James Cameron's film after a Hollywood photographer spent time shooting there in 2008. Now where have I seen this before: The mountain previously known as the 'Southern Sky Column' in China, which has now been named the 'Avatar Hallelujah Mountain'


And from the film: The Hollywood rendering of the mountains in James Cameron's blockbuster film 'Avatar'

Otherworldly: More of the strange peaks in the Zhangjiajie national park


Remote: The South Hunan region is home to the 'Avatar' mountains 







 





















อ้างอิง  http://www.binscorner.com/pages/a/amazing.html
            http://travelerfolio.com/zhangjiajie-mountain/

Friday, January 7, 2011

24 hour BBQ...the perfect meal to end the week


 24 hour BBQ...the perfect meal to end the week

Wow, what a week. Barbeque to start my week on Monday, and barbeque to end my week on Friday--now that's what I call a good week! ;-)

After work last night we went out for BBQ with a couple friends from work. We went to this place located near Omokgyo Station. This restaurant was the biggest bbq place I've seen--plus it's open 24 hours! The best part about bbq in Korea is the unlimited side dishes--just ask and they will keep coming. We opted for three plates of marinated pork for four people. It was enough to fill us up and make me very happy.

Here's the outside of the restaurant...I was jumping for joy once I saw the place:  

This place was enormous inside. Most Korean bbq restaurants have vents that suck away the smoke: 


Here's our sweet marinated pork on the copper wire grill...notice the cloves of garlic in sesame oil:

This is what happens once the oil gets hot enough...the garlic starts deep frying and gets golden brown!



Approximately one hour or so later, here is the scene of the crime, *burp*--excuse me!


Feeling hungry in the middle of the night? This 24 hour BBQ restaurant is located near Omokgyo Station, exit 8. If you're coming out of exit 8, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. You can't miss it.






















reference  http://thedailykimchi.blogspot.com/2006/11/24-hour-bbqthe-perfect-meal-to-end.html

Kimchi Hour

 Kimchi Hour

South Koreans often say “Kimchi” when taking photos, just like we say “cheese” to get this face -> :)

The most popular type of kimchi is the chinese cabbage type, fermented with seasonings. The taste is spicy and sour. Many non-Koreans (like me!) like kimchi, but some just don’t like it.   

 

 

In the past, women of high social backgrounds and Kisaeng female entertainers (like Japan Geisha) wore gache – a big wig. A gache with its decorations can weigh about 4 kg! No wonder this babe here looks a little sulky.




Making a new gache wig for a new daughter-in-law may take up several years for some families. According to a record, there is a sad incident where a young 13 year old bride wearing a heavy gache wig broke her neck as she was getting up to greet her father-in-law.
The hanbok girls were faking a tea session.





Some interesting facts about Traditional Korean clothing, or hanbok: it is often presented in vibrant colours and simple lines without pockets. Hanbok are classified into everyday dress, ceremonial dress and special dress. On formal occasions, you may see that ceremonial dresses are worn on child’s first birthday, a wedding or even a funeral.



 





















reference  http://travelerfolio.com/kimchi-gache-wig-hanbok/

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Hokkaido

Hokkaido is promoting exchanges with northern regions overseas with which it shares similar climatic conditions and membership in the Northern Regions Forum, including the province of Alberta in Canada (sister affiliation since 1980), Heilongjiang Province in China (friendship affiliation since 1986), the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the U.S.A. (sister affiliation since 1990), and Sakhalin in Russia (friendship and economic cooperation affiliation since 1998).

In addition, Hokkaido is promoting exchanges with regions centered on East Asia, such as South Korea (especially Pusan and Kyongsang-namdo), China, and the Russian Far East.

























Reference  http://www.mofa.go.jp/policy/economy/summit/2008/venue/hokkaido_06.html

Tokyo-Aomori bullet train line fully opens

Tokyo-Aomori bullet train line fully opens

AOMORI (Kyodo) -- The Tohoku Shinkansen bullet train line between Tokyo and Aomori fully opened Saturday with services starting on the extended section between Hachinohe and Shin-Aomori stations, both in Aomori Prefecture. The extension enables people to travel about 675 kilometers between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori stations in about three hours and 20 minutes, about 40 minutes shorter than ever before.

The full service on the Tohoku Shinkansen Line came 38 years after the government decided on basic plans to extend the bullet train line beyond Morioka, Iwate Prefecture.

The first Tokyo-bound train left Shin-Aomori Station at 6:31 a.m. following a ceremony attended by Aomori Gov. Shingo Mimura. "The full opening was our earnest desire for 38 years," Mimura said. "I want to share the joy of the start of a new journey."

One of the first train's passengers was Akio Nishino, a 61-year-old carpenter from Shichinohe, Aomori Prefecture, who used to travel to Tokyo in a sleeper train around 40 years ago.

"I couldn't imagine such a (fast-traveling) time would come," he said before boarding the train with around 30 friends.

The first train, however, had trouble connecting with an Akita Shinkansen train at Morioka station, which caused a 13-minute delay in its schedule.

At Tokyo station, meanwhile, some 500 people saw off the first Shin-Aomori-bound train early Saturday morning, with East Japan Railway Co. Chairman Mutsutake Otsuka telling them, "The Tohoku Shinkansen line has been extended northward step by step for the past 30 years or so. I expect many people to use it and visit Aomori."

A 45-year-old man from Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, said, "I hope the Shinkansen line will reach my home province Hokkaido."

Shin-Aomori Station, which opened Saturday, houses 19 shops and restaurants inside the 1,085-square-meter station building.

As the Kyushu Shinkansen Line is scheduled to be fully opened to connect Hakata with Kagoshima next March, bullet train services will link Aomori, at the northern tip of the Honshu main island, and Kagoshima, at the southern tip on the Kyushu main island. 
























Reference  http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20101204p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Blue Lake Multisport Festival 2011

 Blue Lake Multisport Festival 2011 



Tikitapu (Blue Lake), near the geothermal city of Rotorua, is a beautiful place to test your limits. From 29-30 January, join Tour de France legend Lance Armstrong for a multisport event that will take your breath away in more ways than one. Whether you’re an international superstar, a novice multisport athlete or simply an avid supporter, Eves Blue Lake Multisport Festival delivers an action-packed weekend in a town that loves to party.
An annual event for 25 years
2011 will mark the 25th anniversary of the Blue Lake Multisport Festival. It’s timed to coincide with the Auckland Anniversary holiday weekend on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 January. Organised by the Rotorua Association of Triathletes (RATS), this exceptional event has grown from humble beginnings to achieve international recognition.


Clear blue waters and a forest reserve
The clear blue waters of Tikitapu (Blue Lake) are popular with water skiers, swimmers and boaties. The lake has beautiful beaches linked by an easy walking track that passes through native forest and exotic conifers. Along the way there are spectacular views over Blue Lake and the nearby Rotokakahi (Green Lake).
Lance Armstrong will be there
This year the event’s big star is legendary cyclist Lance Armstrong, who overcame cancer to win the Tour de France seven times. He’ll compete on both days, reliving his early days as a young triathlete. Bevan Docherty, New Zealand’s double Olympic triathlon medallist, describes Tikitapu (Blue Lake) as one of the most beautiful locations ever for a sprint triathlon race. Along with Kris Gemmell and Cameron Brown, Docherty competed in the event when he was younger.
Something for everyone
The multisport events range from a forest fun run/walk to the highly-competitive sprint triathlon. Entry numbers will be limited for each event, so don’t delay if you want to line-up
against Lance Armstrong. Here’s a quick snapshot of the programme:

* Aquathon - 5.5km forest run around the lake followed by an 800m swim, Saturday 29 January, morning
* Swims - 750m and 2km events, Saturday 29 January, late afternoon
* Sprint triathlon - entries for this event have reached their limit and are now closed. Come and cheer on the stars in a 750m swim, 16km road cycle then 5.5km run around the lake. Sunday 30 January, morning
* Fun run/walk - non-competitive 5.5km forest run/walk with spot prizes on offer, Sunday 30 January, morning

How to enter
For details of Eves Blue Lake Multisport Festival 2011 visit the RATS website.

Entries from New Zealand and overseas can be made online, or by downloading an entry form.
Explore geothermal Rotorua
Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) is just 9km from one of New Zealand’s premier attractions - Rotorua. Here steam hisses from the ground and roadside drains, pools of mud boil before your eyes and the mighty Pohutu geyser shoots water up to 30m into the air. At Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley you can walk through active geothermal areas, watch Maori master carvers at work and witness award-winning cultural performances. As you’d expect in a region that’s so in touch with the earth’s core, there are hot pool complexes and natural spa treatments everywhere you go.
Adventures of every kind
Rotorua is a mecca for thrill-seekers and adrenalin junkies. You can race your own luge cart down a mountain, roll down a paddock inside a Zorb, bungy jump, go white-water rafting, blast around a pond in a jet sprint race boat with the g-forces of a formula one race car, and so much more. The conservation parks and lakes that surround Rotorua are full of trails for walking and hiking. Ranging from 15 minutes to several hours, they’ll carry you away to lush native forests, magical waterfalls and lakeside beaches - with the occasional geothermal feature thrown in for free. If you prefer to pedal, you can hire a mountain bike and blast along purpose-built trails in the redwood forest.
Similar events this summer
Summer in New Zealand is all about enjoying a fresh-air lifestyle. The country is peppered with exciting outdoor events celebrating music, food and wine, arts and culture, and (of course) sport. Major sporting events in January and February include:

* Challenge Wanaka - Lake Wanaka, 15 January 2011. A remarkably scenic half iron triathlon around Lake Wanaka with Mount Aspiring National Park as a backdrop.
* Waka Ama Sprint Nationals 2011 - Lake Karapiro, 17 - 22 January 2011. Up to 3000 paddlers of all ages compete in the world’s largest Waka Ama (outrigger canoe) competition.
* 2011 New Zealand Masters Games - Wanganui, 4 - 14 February, 2011. Full-on fun and sport with more than 550 events across 64 sports, plus a ‘beach party’ theme and non-stop entertainment.
* Speights Coast to Coast - Southern Alps, 11 - 12 February, 2011. An international benchmark in multisport events that involves cycling 140km, running 36km and kayaking 67km across the South Island. Not for the faint-hearted.

Swim, cycle and hike around New Zealand
In New Zealand, you’re never far from a beach. Swimming, surfing, fishing and boating are a big part of the Kiwi way of life. The inland mountains and rivers are ideal for kayaking and white water rafting. Whanganui River offers a stunning multi-day wilderness journey for paddlers of all abilities. If you like cycling, you’ll love the Otago Central Rail Trail - four days or more on a disused railway line exploring spectacular alpine plateau landscapes, with historic towns for comfortable nights along the way. For hikers, there are endless opportunities throughout New Zealand. Check out the nine Great Walks - legendary on-foot adventures that lead you through our best scenery.























Reference  http://www.newzealand.com/travel/about-nz/features/blue-lake-multisport-festival-2011/blue-lake-multisport-festival-2011_home.cfm

 
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