Mary Around the World

With friends like these... | Nelson's Bay, Australia

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000+08:00

A play-by-play of what you get when seven friends spend a weekend in a house in Nelson's Bay. Mini golf.. and reverse mini golf... Lots of happy faces... Tons of pretty smiles... And a few air kisses... Boozy lunches at Wooganella Estate... Scallops to go with the white wine... ..and complimentary cheese platters! Visiting the vineyards... slurping the produce...

With Love, New York City

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000+08:00

Jetlag be damned... Simon and I spent two weeks with my family up in New York City over the holidays; his first ever visit and my familiar return. Here's what our jetsetting jaunt looked like! The view from the Top of the Rock Observatory - say cheese! Birds of a feather... An educational day at the Museum of Natural History with kids, where Simon discovered he had an allergy to

Review 2: Food Society, Sydney

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000+08:00

After my last trip to Food Society without a camera, I knew a return was in order. So here we are - review #2 with better pictures! We have already established that the food is pretty much amazing so enjoy this little show and tell! Beetroot and vodka cured ocean trout blini with dill cream Pacific oysters with lemon ice and trout roe My favourite - pierogi with asparagus, onion and

Style Files: Happy Days

2012-01-25T15:05:00.004+08:00

Gosh it's been dreary outside hasn't it? Sydney-siders, I'm sure you can relate! It has been pouring down in the middle of what should have been summer, and I'm beginning to feel a little cheated. I didn't sign up for this! Since starting a new job at local fashion PR agency Park Avenue PR & Marketing, I haven't found a lot of time to do anything other than stare at a dazzling array of

Review: Embers Mezze Bar, Sydney

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000+08:00

On the recommendation of a friend, we popped into Embers for dinner one fine evening, a restaurant that is quickly gaining fans all over the city. The meal was, needless to say, sublime, and the waitstaff were both knowledgeable and friendly. We even treated ourselves to some juicy Lebanese wines - slightly peppery yet fresh and easy to drink. A wonderful compliment to a meal filled with exotic

Hyams Beach, Australia

2012-01-24T17:59:00.001+08:00

A trip to what is undoubtedly one of New South Wales' most beautiful beaches - pristine, untouched sands that stretch for miles, squeaking and singing beneath your toes; crystalline turquoise waters with gently rolling waves... it was the perfect setting for our quiet picnic and worth the three hour (scenic) drive! (Photos courtesy of Simon Whyte)

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Hobart, Tasmania

2011-12-12T13:19:00.000+08:00

I go completely ga-ga for animals. I mean in the really embarrassing, only-able-to-speak-gibberish kind of way. I coo and grab at dogs and cats on the street the same way clucky women's ovaries scream when there are babies around. Thankfully S humours me - I suspect he actually find it quite entertaining. Given my soft spot for all things cute and cuddly, we obviously had to make a pitstop

Review: Harbour Lights Cafe, Hobart

2011-12-10T06:22:00.000+08:00

On a slightly drizzly day, S and I ventured out to find yet more food (are you sick of all this food porn yet?!) and found ourselves on the second floor of the cosy Harbour Lights Cafe. It has a bizarre, old-world nautical feel that borders on tacky, but the breakfast more than makes up for its appearance! We settled on eggs florentine and eggs and bacon - yes, I confess a slight love affair

Review: Smolt, Hobart, Tasmania

2011-12-06T06:13:00.001+08:00

Smolt is one of Hobart's top-rated restaurants, and with good reason. We stopped in on our first night in the city, were served and seated promptly and cheerfully, and lingered over a wonderful dinner for the next few hours. Tucked away along the famous Salamanca Square, along with dozens of other eateries, Smolt has made a name for itself with its fresh, seasonal menu and unpretentious fit

Review: Jackman & McRoss, Hobart, Tasmania

2011-12-06T06:09:00.001+08:00

S and I took a little trip down to Hobart, Tasmania over the weekend and had a lovely time exploring the beautiful city. Yes, it's not a massive city, but there are an astounding amount of interesting things to do! Since eating (and being a glutton in general) ranks quite highly on my list of things to do, we made our first breakfast stop Jackman & McRoss, a cafe close to the Salamanca Markets

A Saturday with Picasso and brownie cheesecake

2011-11-15T17:36:00.000+08:00

In case you have been hiding under a rock or just don't care much about art (in which case this post may be slightly irrelevant to you), the Art Gallery NSW has outdone themselves by accessing the near-complete works of Picasso. Thank you, Musee National Picasso (Paris), for undergoing renovations and delivering this sheer genius to Australian shores! A short video snippet in the waiting area

Review: Food Society, Sydney

2011-11-14T16:28:00.001+08:00

I had the most phenomenal dining experience at Food Society over the weekend. After months of hearing rave reviews about this cosy little joint in Darlinghurst from a zillion other food bloggers, I finally managed to rally a group of friends to join me on my little culinary excursion - my first in a long time, I might add! To begin, the service was spot on. Waiters dressed in plaid shirts

Picture of the Day: Driving home

2011-11-10T03:00:00.000+08:00

Crossing the bridge, Sydney

Picture of the Day: Darling Point

2011-11-08T03:00:00.000+08:00

Sunsets over Darling Point, Sydney

Why I ran 10km

2011-11-07T03:00:00.003+08:00

I finally worked up the courage to do what I've always wanted to do - I ran! All right, it wasn't a marathon; not even a half-marathon. It was just 10km. I probably walk that much shopping on a weekend. But the point is that I ran the distance as part of the annual Rebel Sport Run4Fun, and it was probably the first real thing I feel I've accomplished all year.I didn't even really train for it,

Speeding through the Royal National Park

2011-11-06T14:35:00.009+08:00

A couple of days ago, S got himself a very fancy new car, a BMW M6 convertible to be precise. The only reason why I know what it's called is because he drilled it into my head. I would have just called it a 'very cool black car' in any other situation. Before he settled on this sleek little piece of machinery, he asked for my opinion between the Nissan GTR and Ferrari 911. I suppose he was just

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T19:16:00.004+08:00

Halloween in Australia is nothing like what I'm used to - no trick or treating, no pumpkin carving, no other hallowed traditions so respected in America. But who cares really? Why bother with all that when you can go off and have a ball anyway?Ingredients for a decent Halloween party:1 serving of festive decorations (garnish liberally with candy and rubber spiders)30 servings of vodka jello shots

Stream of consciousness

2011-10-26T16:06:00.003+08:00

It has been a very uplifting 8 months since I touched down in Sydney; it's hard to believe that we are creeping to the edge of the year. Does anyone else feel that the older you get, the faster time seems to zip by? I'm pretty sure the first 16 years of my life felt like sheer eternity and now... Now there doesn't seem to be enough seconds to hang onto at all.2011 has been a mixed bag so far. My

I hereby ban boring Sundays!

2011-10-25T10:50:00.005+08:00

Instead of snoozing in front of the telly, why not charter a catamaran and drag 25 of your mates out to sail around the Sydney harbour with you? Here are a few quick tips to organise on of your own!T-Pain getting the party started for us!1) Charter a boat for about $60-$70 per person, and keep your fingers crossed for gorgeous, sea-ready weather. I highly recommend Seabird Seven (ask for Brett!),

How to host an epic wedding party

2011-10-21T13:00:00.010+08:00

My cousin recently got married in Bali, and I got the grand opportunity to witness the festivities. In my simple and naive mind, a wedding dinner constituted of a handful of speeches, some food and a helping of vino. Ah, how wrong I was... I clearly have much to learn.Here is a helpful guide on how to throw a memorable wedding party -- eager Four Weddings hopefuls, listen up! 1) Pick a gorgeous

Cloudy Skies

2011-10-05T14:09:00.003+08:00

A pit stop at Forster, NSW

The Good Life

2011-09-18T21:14:00.005+08:00

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see." - John BurroughsThings you should consider doing this week:Host an impromptu dance party. Invite friends over, drink a bottle of vodka, devour chips and dip while watching The Mighty Boosh. Cook pancakes for no reason. Play old

In brief...

2011-08-28T17:27:00.008+08:00

Wow, I can't believe how quickly we've blitzed through 2011. Is it really September already? Where did the time go? A quick browse through my photographs and *ahem* credit card statement proves that some rather fun times have been had... for instance, I have -- boozed in style (sorry mum);cooed at penguins and other crusty crustaceans and sea creatures at the fascinating Sydney Aquarium;...

CNBC's Million Dollar Portfolio Challenge (19 Sep - 25 Nov)

2011-08-22T08:00:00.002+08:00

If you're like me and don't really enjoy hanging around Struggle Street clutching a long black, here's your chance to make US$1 million or a brand new Maserati! CNBC is calling all traders - from wannabes to professionals and everything in between - to participate in a virtual trading competition. Registration opens today, 22 August and sign up is free on http://milliondollar.cnbc.com. The game

A Roundup of Favourite Restaurants in Sydney

2011-08-08T14:04:00.010+08:00

There are too many darned places to eat in Sydney. There, I said it. It's exhausting, trying to work out where to go and what to try every other day. My friends are rotated, like designer handbags, to ensure that I always have someone to bring along to these expeditions. I tell them it's for 'research'. Most of the time they scoff. I either need new friends or a new hobby but now is not the time

A night at Sake Restaurant & Bar, Sydney

2011-08-04T16:53:00.008+08:00

When Sake Restaurant & Bar invited me back to sample their new Umami Cocktail and Canapes menu, I hesitated for all of 0.5 seconds before replying holycowyesofcouseI'llbethere. Last week, we made a beeline for the exclusive preview - a gutsy pairing by Head Sushi Chef Shimpei Hatanake and Bar Manager Wayne Shennen. What followed was a fun and inventive take on new-age Japanese food, designed to

Belated Updates

2011-07-26T11:40:00.002+08:00

Dear readers,Apologies for the hiatus! It has been a hectic July for me, racing between Singaopore and Sydney for family matters, beginning a fresh semester at school and making it to work on time - phew! To make (blogging) matters worse, the Internet connection at my new apartment isn't up and running yet... well, when it rains, it pours right? and goodness knows it's been raining with no let up

Guest Post: 10 Amazing Things to Do in India (Part II)

2011-06-22T14:00:00.004+08:00

Click to read Part I of this series and discover 5 more amazing things to do in India.***6. Watch a cricket matchCricket is to India as much a religion as it is a sport. There is no Indian household that does not come alive when their nation is being represented on the international stage. The Indian Premier League, which sees the Indian states compete against one another, runs from the middle of

Reasons why I am a crap blogger

2011-06-19T18:30:00.000+08:00

Do you know what the worst part about being a blogger is? Being bad at it. I have no idea how other people do it.I know readers love photographs, so I'm always trying to sneak in a picture or two. This means I always look like a bloody Asian tourist and get bonked on the head with rocks. I was recently shooed away by an unhappy store owner at the tres chic Bondi markets. She probably thought I

Guest Post: 10 Amazing Things to Do in India (Part I)

2011-06-16T21:39:00.010+08:00

This two-part post was contributed by my long-time chum, talented writer and aspiring doctor, Sum.***While I am of Indian ancestry, I have spent my twenty-three years outside of the colossal subcontinent and I shamefully confess that I have only managed to return to the “motherland” to attend the weddings of family members whose roots are more firmly anchored there. So while my fascination has

Review: Max Brenner Chocolate Bar, Sydney

2011-06-15T18:34:00.009+08:00

How has everyone been dealing with the wretched weather that Sydney has been fielding recently? Breaking out those wellies? Getting umbrellas ripped out of your grip? Sporting the wet dog look? Yup, friggin' thought so.An old friend and dedicated chocoholic visited me recently, concerned about my sudden development of home-sickness. We spent a glorious, guilt-free week gorging, sipping, imbibing

Review: Old-school at Stitch, Sydney

2011-06-14T16:00:00.000+08:00

Getting to Stitch is a bit like running through a brick wall with a trolley. Blink and you'll miss it, so keep your eyes peeled as you trot down York St and you'll just catch the dim glow of lights that illuminate the stairwell. You will then swear that was not there 2 seconds ago, but no one will believe you, and you are better off just going down the stairs and acting cool. It only gets better.

Picture of the Day: Darling Harbour Jazz Festival

2011-06-14T14:10:00.003+08:00

An evening of soulful, toe-tapping blues & jazz courtesy of James Morisson and gang, as we sat perched along Darling Harbour, coats tucked tightly around our frames to keep the chill out. When icy blasts began to get the better off us, we ducked into Toros Tapas & Bar for a bottle of Spanish red and watched as fireworks exploded across the indigo night sky. What a way to kick off the weekend...

Review: Staying cosy at The Rocks Cafe, Sydney

2011-06-09T17:15:00.005+08:00

It's getting cold outside; there's no way to deny it any longer. A jaunt around The Rocks proved that our lightweight knit cardigans just wouldn't cut the mustard so we ducked into The Rocks Cafe instead, reeled in by the warm timber and glass panel of cakes adorning the window display.This charming little cafe revives memories of yore, with rustic wood panels, pleather seats and cool marble

Review: Yum Cha at The Eight, Sydney

2011-06-07T12:11:00.004+08:00

Sunday yum cha sessions are becoming something of an institution for me. While Marigold and Din Tai Fung are household names, my favourite dumpling-demolishing joint has to be The Eight in Market City.Call to book ahead or try your luck with the screeching hostess out front - you'll be competing against squealing babies, large family reunions and the hungover in search for a good hearty meal. The

Picture of the Day: Can't get enough of...

2011-06-05T10:05:00.002+08:00

the yummy cocktails, cool vibe and chatty bartenders at Stitch Bar! Shown here: Tom Collins martini, High & Dry and Bittersweet Tears. Click for a review of Stitch Bar.

Picture of the Day: Vivid Sydney 2011

2011-06-05T09:22:00.002+08:00

Fun sound and light animations at Circular Quay for Vivid Sydney 2011!

Picture of the Day: Dinner at Roxanne, Sydney

2011-06-04T09:52:00.003+08:00

Soft shell crab fettucine at a cute little restaurant in Glebe. Worth checking out!Roxanne Restaurant & Bar39 Glebe Point Road, Sydney(02) 9552 6087

Review: Practical tips for Wagaya, Sydney

2011-05-31T19:00:00.001+08:00

If you live in, have been to, or plan on visiting Sydney, chances are you've heard of Wagaya. To say that this Japanese institution has been written up, blogged on and talked about is something of an understatement. So why bother writing about it again? It's still worth sharing the epic joy I derive from sharing a meal here with friends, but instead of just nattering on about the food (because it

Review: Saké Restaurant & Bar, Sydney

2011-05-30T22:25:00.004+08:00

After having swayed-and-stumbled through The Rocks after one-too-many at The Argyle, it seemed only fitting that I finally make my way into Saké Restaurant & Bar to sample some of Shaun Presland's much-feted Japanese fare.A gently-illuminated banner sways in the breeze as I tromp over the worn flagstones and up to Saké's humble entrance. Design company Luchetti Krelle has brought a modern, almost

Vivid Sydney Cocktails at The Rocks

2011-05-30T09:24:00.019+08:00

Vivid Sydney, the annual festival of music, lights and creative ideas has kicked off yet again in its usual spectacular fashion. Sadly, all this wet weather, exam stress and looming deadlines mean I have yet to indulge in the nifty audio-visual bonanza!Instead, I was invited to sample two new Vivid-inspired cocktails from Sake Restaurant and The Cut Bar & Grill. Really, who am I to turn down a

Review: Weekend brunch at Bills, Sydney

2011-05-21T18:21:00.008+08:00

After a mishap involving the reliably-irresponsible Tiger Airways and a weekend getaway to Melbourne that was cancelled, I decide to to lick my wounds by treating myself to a hearty brunch at Bills in Surry Hills. The powers that be clearly knew how distraught I was about my ruined travel plans, so they decided to bless the Sydney sky with glorious beams of sunshine. We trott down Crown St

Review: Graze, Sydney

2011-05-17T10:33:00.032+08:00

I eat out a lot. I eat out more than I should, and certainly more than what the doctor would normally recommend for someone who spends a lot of time sitting on her butt in front of a computer, burning calories by typing. But I can't help it - food is the great communal, connecting experience.Here's what I think makes for a fine dining experience - great company, exceptional service,

Sunshine Beach, Queensland

2011-05-02T20:36:00.002+08:00

Crisp ocean breeze, soft ivory sand and sunny skies courtesy of Sunshine Beach, Qld.

A day at Byron Bay

2011-04-14T10:53:00.020+08:00

After tumbling (ungracefully) through waterfalls and chilling in Ballina, my host-with-the-most surprised me with a trip down to beautiful Byron Bay. Mother Nature was on our side - there was nary a cloud in sight and opaque blue skies; the scorching Aussie sun was proudly showing off and the cool sea breeze kept everything at an operable temperature. In other words, you'd be hard-pressed to get

Of great leaps and dives at Minyon Falls

2011-04-13T06:00:00.002+08:00

There are two extreme types of travelers - the ones that aspire to drink champagne in private jets, get hot stone massages and buy bling at Rodeo Drive. The other kind likes some rough 'n' tumble, drinks XXXX beer and makes Redbull look soft. I thought I was somewhere in the middle, but Australia has kicked up my lust for adventure. Previously, I had only ever done a mild trek around the Blue

Going Bogan in Ballina, NSW

2011-04-11T09:10:00.023+08:00

Ballina joySo much for being a big-time city slicker - my 4 day jaunt up to the New South Wales coastline and Queensland greens have all but convinced me that I simply cannot do without a consistent dose of country to keep me sane!I flew into Gold Coast, QLD and wandered around Coolangatta Beach briefly before making the short drive down to Ballina. I couldn't stop drawing comparisons to Texas,

Minyon Falls, Australia

2011-04-10T21:33:00.001+08:00

At the Nightcap National Park in New South Wales, Australia

On Being Grateful

2011-03-30T06:00:00.003+08:00

On days like today - when I wake up on the wrong side of bed and my hair sticks out at odd angles; when there's a crick in my neck and a pile of laundry waiting; when the milk has gone bad and there are a million things to do and the world just hates me - I try to take a mental step back and breathe, and remember that there are so many things in life to be grateful for. In light of recent

The Five People You Meet...While Traveling

2011-03-29T15:00:00.002+08:00

Sydney has felt like a strangely serendipitous adventure in travel karma ever since I arrived - old backpacking mates have shown up, lost connections have been rekindled through sheer streetside coincidence, and even college friends from Texas have moved halfway across the world to be here.These connections have been strong, short-lived or just downright surprising, but one should never

The Art of Letting Go

2011-03-28T20:39:00.004+08:00

“Only by going alone in silence, without baggage, can one truly get into the heart of the wilderness. All other travel is mere dust and hotels and baggage and chatter.” – John MuirShed all that 'stuff'.Like most other people, I filled my life with things that I thought would exemplify who I was. That changed once relocation became a constant in my life - the process of (un)packing became so

Wouldn't you love it if...

2011-03-28T13:47:00.000+08:00

...this happened to you? :)

The 3 'A's of Awesome

2011-03-28T08:00:00.000+08:00

"Authenticity is just about being you and being cool with that, and I think when you're authentic you end up following your heart and you put yourself in places and situations and conversations that you love; that you enjoy -- you meet people you like talking to; you go places you've dreamt about and you end up following you heart and feeling very fulfilled."That is the life

Picture of the Day: A Day at Coogee Beach

2011-03-27T20:06:00.002+08:00

Absolut Art Collection, Ray Hughes Gallery

2011-03-25T12:08:00.010+08:00

There is nothing better than an early start to the weekend after a hideous week, so we treat ourselves to a night of cocktails, fancy artwork and the best DJ set I've heard in a while. I mean, would I say no to a vodka-themed event with a good splash of cool? ABSOLUT-ly not.We rock up to the Ray Hughes Gallery (Surry Hills) - with a blinding pink ABSOLUT sign out front - and into the SoHo-styled

Ireland's Hidden Gem

2011-03-22T08:00:00.002+08:00

In something entirely unrelated to travel, I would like you to meet The Chapters, a talented band from Ireland. Go on, have a listen, and tell me if you don't already love them too.Check out their Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/thechaptersofficial for more great tunes.

Wash it all away --

2011-03-21T06:00:00.000+08:00

From the city to Coogee beach in a rain-splattered bus

Saturday Night (Rant and) Rave

2011-03-20T08:19:00.009+08:00

So, does anyone except me remember this dramatic time in 2009 when my drink got spiked at Clock Hotel and my phone was stolen? Well, I haven't been back to the Clock since then, but given it was the birthday of one of my closest friends, there was no better time to put a positive spin on some negative memories.All I can say is: I should have known better! Last night turned into an exercise of "

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-18T11:05:00.005+08:00

Ah, St. Patrick's Day - a time for (aspiring) Irish to let it all hang out, or the perfect excuse for closet alcoholics to be out hammering back pints of Guinness in the morning.Even the weather lived up to Irish expectations - after a few days of decent sunshine, Thursday turned into a cold, drizzly day. We trudged across the city toward The Rocks, toward The Mercantile Hotel. Our game plan was

Lessons a 24 year-old should know

2011-03-14T10:47:00.011+08:00

I turned 24 on Saturday, and given that I am slightly under the hill (and fully intend to stretch this out for as long as possible), I assumed a big Sydney-stylin' blowout would still be appropriate. Actions have consequences however, and a sober, post-party reflection had me summoning some up of these life lessons: Don't drink a bottle of Smirnoff at a Daft Punk party the night before your

Taste of Sydney 2011

2011-03-14T08:50:00.005+08:00

On a murky Friday evening, we made our way down to Centennial Park for Taste of Sydney, the annual mega-nom fest and yet another reason to eat, drink and be merry (as if I needed one, really).Our first stop? The hulking Kronenberg 1664 tent maintaining pride of place up front and centre. We pulled off a few pints of Stella and Leffe for a mere $2 each and set off on our culinary explorations.If

The Matrix in Sydney

2011-03-11T06:55:00.003+08:00

I never knew that The Matrix was filmed in Sydney until last night. Not gonna lie - I squealed "Martin Place!" when I saw that lady-in-red scene above, and spent the rest of the time shouting out random locations that looked familiar. There's even a spot where a Commonwealth Bank sign is clearly visible ("That's my bank! *insert high-pitched noise here*). It's somehow so much more interesting now

Mardi Gras Parade 2011 in Pictures

2011-03-06T20:34:00.010+08:00

How to fall in love with Sydney in 24hours

2011-03-01T09:50:00.022+08:00

You've heard it before but you'll hear it again - there is an endless array of things to do in Sydney. Here's a sampling of what you can get up to in 24hours - and stand a chance to win tickets for two to come see for yourself! (Competition details below) ***MORNING:Recovering from last night's bender. Check back later. NOON:It's been almost a month since I wandered my way back onto this land of

Tropfest 2011: of Blobs, Booze and Burns

2011-02-20T21:58:00.009+08:00

Welcome to a day at Movie Extra Tropfest, the largest short film festival in the world, hosted at Sydney's Domain in the Royal Botanic Gardens. This is my survival guide. Stuff your face with yum cha at Marigold. Walk to Woolworth's and purchase one disposable Styrofoam cooler, 4 bags of chips, 2 pots of dip and 5 bottles of soda and water. Stop in the bottle shop and buy beer, wine and vodka.

What Am I?

2011-02-17T09:31:00.002+08:00

A brand new, pop-up eco-concept-driven bar on The Rocks: Greenhouse by Joost is now open. Look out for interviews to come soon!

Vlog #1: Project Aussie Slang

2011-02-15T22:15:00.002+08:00

My first attempt at a vlog (if it can even be called that). Please excuse the pathetic attempt at video editing - and enjoy!p.s. if you can understand what the hell they're saying and would actually like to translate it for me, I would be very grateful. Leave a comment!There is actually a little story behind this; I spent a sleepless night wondering to myself how I could get more involved with

Unilodge= $309 + sex + harmonicas

2011-02-14T05:00:00.002+08:00

On scale of 1 to homeless, I like living in Unilodge. I'm pretty sure the gentleman who has been sitting outside Myer's on George St for the last decade with the same cardboard sign would feel the same way. Thus, I am grateful for what I have and will not complain (too much).My disdain, confusion, and total frustration with Sydney's real estate market is about as (in)famous as my penchant for

Behind the Scenes at Villians + Lovers Collection Three

2011-02-14T00:27:00.002+08:00

Remember this sneak preview? Now launched; check out Villians + Lovers for the full collection!

Of Comedy Nights, Bondi Tapas and Latin American Festivals

2011-02-12T07:52:00.014+08:00

Dear Sydney,Thank you for treating me so well. Despite your bizarre weather conditions of late, you have proved to be loyally enthusiastic, energetic and great fun. I could not have asked for a better city...please stay interesting! Love, Mary***Weekend shenanigans...here are the highlights because I am narcissistic enough to think that everyone cares.Tickle-me-Thursday: After Tuesday night's

Bubbly | Singapore

2011-02-11T09:36:00.002+08:00

Featuring Jo of One Day I'll be in Paris

Bondi Benders!

2011-02-10T21:11:00.005+08:00

I love my friends in Sydney - I just need to stop getting drunk with them. It's difficult when they keep introducing me to new places and new faces, which start to become a total mashup by the end of the night. Apparently Wednesday nights in Bondi Beach are insane. (Well, possibly every night in Bondi is insane but for the sake of this post let's just pretend it was special when I was there...)

Tuesday Night Laughs

2011-02-09T08:00:00.001+08:00

So, it was a Tuesday night and I was bored. It was time to do something different other than drink every night... After some discussion (Tron 3D? Black Swan? No and no?), I found out that there was an open-mic night called 'Comedy on the Edge' over at The Shannon Hotel (Abercrombie St) every Tuesday evening. There is nothing like a little weekday laughter right? :)We rocked up and settled in the

Sydney: Work in Progress!

2011-02-08T08:15:00.000+08:00

Blogger fail - I haven't posted in a while. Sorry about that! I finally made my move back to Sydney; got (more or less) set up in my apartment and set up my Internet - hooray! It has been a blistering hot weekend; I'm glad I only caught the tail-end of it and didn't have to ride out the entire thing. 30degrees in Singapore is bad enough, I can't imagine having to deal with 40degrees! I did,

A 42deg weekend

2011-02-07T08:22:00.001+08:00

A look down King St, Newtown at dusk.

Why you should never take advice on how to pack from me...

2011-02-03T06:00:00.000+08:00

How to relocate with two carry-on sized suitcases...and the ensuing chaos. Help!

Australia: The Land of...

2011-02-02T12:47:00.001+08:00

Can't wait to be back in Oz! 3 more days...

Villains + Lovers Photoshoot - A preview

2011-02-02T06:00:00.000+08:00

Behind the scenes video and full collection details to come soon. See the blog store for more.

What do to in Madrid; An Essential List

2011-02-01T06:00:00.000+08:00

I felt overwhelmed when I first arrived in Madrid. All those parks! Museums! Huge, old-looking buildings! I had no clue where to begin, so I ended up squandering a lot of my time walking to the wrong plaza (there are like, a bazillion) and going to museums that were undergoing renovation. Yeah, I get it really wrong sometimes - I'm only human!So here is a definitive guide of what you should do if

Five Songs that Inspire Travel

2011-01-31T10:00:00.000+08:00

I'm willing to bet that if you're reading this blog, you own an iPod; maybe two. You travel with it and zone out while you're on the train/plane/bus. An auditory experience can be a magical one -- songs generate very strong memories of a time and place - hence our infinite playlists, our love affair with soundtracks and an obsession for the latest tune.Every once in a while, I hear a song that

How to survive a rained-out music festival

2011-01-30T08:00:00.001+08:00

Singapore is home to various forms of entertainment - an unending array of food, an active nightlife, and mega-malls that take the Gruen Transfer to the next level. What it isn't is a hub for music festivals. Or at least, not yet. There have been several attempts in recent years to raise the profile of this little city as Asia's musical center but they have achieved varying levels of success.So

Laneway Festival | Singapore

2011-01-30T07:00:00.002+08:00

A review on Laneway Festival Singapore -- coming soon!

Reader Question: Melbourne and Perth

2011-01-29T06:00:00.003+08:00

One of our reader's, Winnie, will be spending a semester in Australia from February to July and would like some tips for those on a limited budget in Melbourne, and recommendations for what to do in Perth. Here are my bite-sized responses!Melbourne:Get an eagle eyed view of Melbourne from the Eureka Sky Deck, before taking in the gilt and glamour at Crown Casino nearby. Explore Brunswick Street

Singapore's Best Italian Restaurants

2011-01-28T18:00:00.001+08:00

I have previously waxed lyrical about my love affair with Italian food, so it should come as no surprise that even in Singapore, my friends and I spend a substantial amount of time sussing out the best Italian joints in town. Of course, everyone seems to have differing opinion on how al dente pasta should be and who does the best tiramisu, but suffice to say that there aren't a lack of options

Hanging out | Nice, France

2011-01-28T00:00:00.001+08:00

Courtesy of Henrik Blomqvist

The Write Way to Travel

2011-01-27T06:00:00.007+08:00

I recently read 'Travel Writing' by L. Peat O'Neil - hooray for obvious titles - and had a bit of an epiphany when I reached the section on how to travel as a writer. I don't know why the thought had never really occurred to me before. I have always traveled for the sake of travelling; it is my first and most vital love. I started this blog because I wanted to keep friends and family updated

5 Useful Travel Applications for your mobile

2011-01-27T02:00:00.002+08:00

This last little jaunt was as confusing as it was hectic - packing in three countries on three continents in three weeks is no joke. But hey, thank God for modern technology! Here are five mobile applications that made my trip (almost) a breeze.NB: I use a Blackberry but I believe most of these apps are iPhone/Android compatible as well.The "Oh crap, what now?" look1) Get started with TripIt (

Surviving Morocco: What the guide books may not tell you

2011-01-26T06:00:00.004+08:00

There are some things you just have to learn the hard way. While my experience in Morocco was positive overall, there were several incidents that marred my trip. Here are a few things I wish I had known about before I arrived...who knows? Maybe it'll be helpful to you too!I guess I was used to being trigger happy in any country I went to but in Morocco I learnt to 1) be wary about using my

On being a glutton in Fes, Morocco

2011-01-25T06:00:00.002+08:00

I was always impressed by the quality of the food in Morocco - no matter where you went,it seemed like there was an abundance of delicious fare to be had. To say that we took advantage of this is an understatement - we were eating like the world was coming to an end. Here are five of my favourite spots/dishes in Fes:1) Lunch on the run: merguez sandwich (bocadillo)I looooove Moroccan street food

Five Things to do in Fes, Morocco

2011-01-24T06:00:00.002+08:00

Goodness; where to start with the beautiful city of Fes? There seemed to be no end to the bizarre sights and meandering alleyways. Let's start with just five for now...1) Visit Fes El-BaliThis goes without saying - if you are in Fes, the medieval city is where you'll want to be. We managed to have a quick look around in two days, but you could easily spend a week trawling through the maze of this

Five Things I will miss about Singapore

2011-01-23T06:00:00.001+08:00

There is always a downside to traveling; namely, leaving behind all the things you have come to love about a place. In many ways, Singapore will always be home(base) for me and saying adios even for the second time will be difficult.Looking back on 2010, here are a glimpse of five things that will turn me into a quavering mess of forlorn, homesick nerves while I am in Sydney.1) Filling up for

Hotel Review: Riad La Cle de Fes, Fes, Morocco

2011-01-22T08:00:00.000+08:00

If you've read my earlier review on Riad Al Jazira and Marrakech, you would know that I think riads are the only way to go when you're in Morocco. (Disclaimer: I say this after spending a horrendous night at Hotel Voulibis in Fes - if that was a 4-star hotel, then I should start charging people to live in my house. Trust me, riads for the win!)We lucked out once again with Riad La Cle de Fes, a 2

Picture of the Day: Travel makes me fat!

2011-01-21T08:00:00.001+08:00

Pastries in Casablanca, Morocco - as far as I can tell, they consist mainly of pastry, honey, assortment of nuts and dried fruit. Did I mention honey? Right.

Five More Tips for Marrakech, Morocco

2011-01-19T06:00:00.002+08:00

I said you should drink orange juice in Marrakech (and I still think you should!) but there is more to the Moroccan jewel than just citrus fruit. Here are five more useful tips on what to do, see and say as you plod along.1) Talk to localsNo, not everyone is out to scam you. There are some wonderfully warm-hearted Moroccans who love interacting with foreigners and aren't out to steal your money.

5 Ways to Bargain your way through Morocco

2011-01-18T10:00:00.002+08:00

Much like Thailand but thankfully without the Ping Pong shows, one way to survive the marketplaces (souks) with your dignity and wallet intact is to drive a hard bargain. Before I arrived, fellow travelers had filled my head with tales of hassled tourists, obvious scams, being chased down by persistent kids to the point of exhaustion - give them anything, just make them go away! So how do you

Picture of the Day: A glimpse of ArtStage 2011, Singapore

2011-01-18T08:00:00.003+08:00

Weird, wacky, and wonderful - they were all on display (and for sale!) at Art Stage last week. I'm so glad I didn't miss it! Here are some of my favourite pieces:Millions of these......to make an incredible soda mosaic!

Picture of the Day: Vivid textiles in Fes, Morocco

2011-01-18T08:00:00.000+08:00

Rugs, carpets, scarves weaved from cotton, silk and even camel fiber. The brilliance of Fes blue is striking.

Five Fascinating Experiences from Marrakech Medina, Morocco

2011-01-17T15:38:00.019+08:00

You can’t think of Morocco without immediately thinking of Marrakesh – images of dusty red and ochre walls have been seared into our minds by countless travel publications and travel shows. Then there are the camels chilling under palm trees, snake charmers working their magic, and a bitter tale about being scammed everywhere you go.Before I continue, let it be said that Marrakesh is made up of

Picture of the Day: Bab Boujeloud Gate, Fes, Morocco

2011-01-17T08:00:00.000+08:00

The imposing gates of Bab Boujeloud - the grand entrance to the labyrinth of streets that make up the medina of Fes El-Bali.

Picture of the Day: An Oasis outside Marrakech, Morocco

2011-01-16T08:00:00.000+08:00

Stunning colours; serene landscape. Morocco is full of these.