Chinese bamboo, it's very strong.

Welcome to Xintiandi

Because of good memories the last time I visited Xintiandi, located on the east side of the French Concession, I was keen to go again. This time I realised it was a bit too artificial with lots of pompous foreigners walking around. And no, I don't count myself as a pompous foreigner. Coincidentally, I ended up back there there many times, because friends thought I would like it. Good shopping can be had there though. As for the bars and clubs, they're okay but you can find better elsewhere.

The ugly and scary Oriental Pearl TV Tower

It is the icon of Shanghai though, so I suppose I have to love it. And the views are spectacular.

Prevention is better than cure

This is me in Sydney airport drinking Berocca. I opted to go without travel insurance because it's just too expensive. Instead I bought a digital camera with the money saved.

Blogspot banned in China

So the whole reason of this blog was to document my holidays including a fast approaching trip to China. But (and there's always one them) I just found out that all blogspot sites are banned in China for reasons beyond me, which is a damn shame. I did, however, do some research and there are ways to get around it. Will try and figure out how to, so my chums back home can see what I've been up to. Wish me luck!

Bought my ticket just last week and only received my Chinese visa two days ago. All I need to do is pack my suitcase and the journey begins on the 22nd of December...

Melbourne Town

I love Melbourne. Fortunately this time I got to hang around Shad's apartment for more than one night so I could do more exploring! Late night dinner in Southbank, a brief visit to the National Gallery of Victoria and lunch at St Kilda to name a few. The bohemian charm of St Kilda had a lasting impression on me. Is it love? Probably. And then there was the Fleetwood Mac concert. It was spectacular. In short, I had a ball and can't wait to go back.