1. Ronan Dunne – CEO of  Telefonica O2 UK:  Turning customers into fans – how to stand out in a commoditised market

May 7, 2009 (Thursday)  at 18.30, in G6, MBS West.

Before going to U.K., all I knew about O2 was its manufacturing PDA phone. In U.K., however, it was one of the key mobile service provider. Although it was a very young company (started from 2001) as compare with other established competitors, it gained solid brand and customer base within few years. How they stand out in a commoditised market? The answer was to turn customers into fans.

The speaker, Mr Ronan Dunne joined O2 prior to demerger from BT in 2001, and following a number of senior finance roles, most recently as CFO, Ronan became CEO of Telefónica O2 UK in January 2008.

It was a wonderful lecture by Ronan. I guess the concept can apply to nearly all industries nowadays.

2. Ambassador Susan Schwab, former US Trade Representative: Reflections on trade policy
May 20, 2009 (Wednesday)

I seldom paid much attention at politics. But today, I decide to join the majority of the audience whom mainly from the School of Politics study to attend the lecture by Ambassador Susan Schwab.

Ambassador Susan Schwab served as US Trade Representative (USTR) from 2006-2009. As a member of the President’s cabinet, public policy scholar and global strategic corporate executive, Ambassador Schwab is considered a foremost expert on global trade relations.

Although I am an armature in politics, I am fascinated by the speech about the free trade around the globe, the increased global trade protection which is reflected on global supply chain, especially for countries that heavily depend on export (e.g. Japan, China, Germany)!

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Reference:

• http://www.mbs.ac.uk/vitaltopics/index.aspx

In the month of May, I decided to take the official courses of Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) in London! I took 2 courses:

• One day Foundation Courses (Level I) on 5.5.09 (9:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.) [official price £140]
• 3 full-day Intermediate Courses (Level II) on 3 consecutive Fridays (9p.m.-4:30p.m.) [official price £335]

WSET Level 1 Foundation

The Level 1 Programme provides a basic introduction to the main styles of wines, including the technique of tasting wine and the characteristics of the common grape varieties used to produce wines.

With my passion in wine, I have taken lots of wine tasting courses in the past – both in U.K. or H.K. But I find the WSET courses in London are very systematic, with more than 20 different types of wine to taste in 1 course. In particular I like the food and wine matching workshop section very much.  I am amazed to see the change of taste of the wine after eating different types of food!

The 1 day course ended by a multiple choice exam papaer of 30 questions.

Course Programme

• 9:15-9:30    Enrolment
• 9:30-9:35    Introduction to Course
• 9:35.-10:45 Introduction to Wine: Types and Styles
• 10:45-11:15 Wine Tasting -1
• 11:30-12:45 Customer Service & Professional Responsibility
• 13:30-14:15 Wine Tasting -2
• 14:15-15:15 Food and Wine Workshop
• 15:15-15:45 Food and WIne Activity
• 16:00-17:00 Examination

WSET Level II Intermediate Course

Digging into more details of wine & spirit, the intermediate course focuses on certain types of wine – Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Grenache and Riesling, Fortified Wines, Spirits and Liqueurs. With tones of wine to taste in 1 session,  I can build up a portfolio of tasting notes!

Course Programme

08/05/2009

• 8:30-9:00 Enrolment
• 9:00-11:00 Introduction to course, Tasting Technique, Storage and Service, Responsible Drinking & Food and Wine Matching
• 11:30-13:30 Factors Influencing the Style of Wine
• 14:30-16:30 Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

15/05/2009

• 9:00-11:00 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc
• 11:30-13:30 Syrah/Shiraz, Grenache and Riesling
• 14:40-16:30 Other European Grape Varieties (Italy, Spain and Portugal)

22/05/2009

• 9:00-11:00 Sweet and Sparkling Wines
• 11:30-13:30 Fortified Wines, Spirits and Liqueurs
• 15:15 -16:30 Examination

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Reference:

• Library / Resources – International Wine & Spirit Center
• The London Wine & Spirit School is located near London Bridge: wset@wsetglobal.com
• Student Services Contact for Level 1 Foundation
  • Karen Newton – Bookings Administrator / knewton@wset.co.uk / 02070893829
• Short Courses: Level 1-3 (www.wsetglobal.com)
  • Level 1 Foundation Certificate in Wines – Confidence for Frontline Stafff
  • Level 2 Intermediate Certificate in Wines & Spirit – Looking Behind the Label
  • Level 2 Professional Certificate in Spirits – Distillign Knowledge
  • Level 3 Advanced Certificate in WInes & Spritis – Explorign the World of Wines & Spirits

Eveytime I travelled, I pay attention on the food! Turkish cuisine is largely the heritage of Ottoman cuisine, which can be described as a fusion and refinement of Central Asian, Middle Eastern and Balkan cuisines. In Turkey, I have tried some really nice food & drinks:

Enjoying my last glass of tea @ Canakkale!

• Turkish coffee; kahve: I tried my first cup (and the only one) in a outdoor cafe outside Sultanahmet Camil.  Turkish coffee comes thick and dark in a small cup. I have to say.. I am not a big fan of it .
• Dondurma (Ice-cream that never fall down): It is made of goat milk. It is very sweet to me. Two features distinguish Turkish ice cream: texture and resistance to melting. It is much tougher and chewier than that of the ice cream used in sundaes, gelato or commercially produced ice cream; the unusual texture is produced by the use of salep and mastic resin as thickening agents, together with other flavorings. I found that it is sometimes sold from carts as street food, where the mixture is churned regularly with long-handled paddles to keep it workable!
• Turkish tea (Turkish: çay): Local drinks lots of tea everyday! Turkish tea tends to be more popular than Turkish coffee among the younger generation
• Semiz ot (Yogurt): my favourite starter – a mix of vegetables. Healthy and delicious!
• Midye Dolması – Stuffed Mussels: my favourite dish in Turkey – mussels stuffed with fried rice. It is a cold starter. It can be found anywhere in Turkey – from street cart to large restaurant. Yummy!
• Kalamar Tava: Seafood or meat specialty restaurants are full of (hot starter) meze dishes. One of my favourite is Kalamar Tava – crispy fried squid in garlic vinegar sauce … Lovely!

Turkish food culture is unique in many ways, for example, this is the only place I can see a woman in Tableside preparation for pastry/noodles, a shop packed with bricks of chocolate!

More photos @ Photo Gallery http://travel.webshots.com/album/574565651GmNhPO

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Reference:

• Turkish Coffee: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkish_coffee
• Turkish Ice-cream: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dondurma
• How to make Midye Dolmasi: http://turkishcook.com/TurkishFoodForum/blogs/dolmas/archive/2006/09/07/Stuffed-Mussels-_2D00_-Midye-Dolmasi-.aspx

在康士坦丁堡遊遊蕩蕩兩日後，睡眼還未張開時就趕往Troy（特洛伊城），途中在一沿海小鎮宿一宵。

這個小鎮有令人心曠神怡的海景和好吃到死的海鮮。在英國待久了吃得死蝦死魚太多，一碰到新鮮海產便忍不住吃翻肚皮。

從飛機在土耳其上空盤旋的那一刻開始我就見識到土耳其的富庶。然後一路從Istanbul到 Troy 沿路上的風景告訴你他們是真的 Fertile and Rich。

Joining the tour package to Gallipoli-Troy!

Day 1: Gallipoli

After 2 nice days spending in Istanbul, we joined the local tour package to Gallipoli + Canakkale+ Troy. Since the Gallipoli was about the World War I Battle fields of ANZAC – Australia + New Zealand Troops, most of the people joining the tour were from these 2 places. Some even had ancestors joining the war! To my surprise, there were also 2 local Turkish from other cities joining the tour who happened to come to Canakkale for a conference!

We travelled all the way from Istanbul to Gallipoli-Troy!

We departed early morning from Istanbul.  It took us nearly 6 hours to reach Eceabat. After having a lunch at the eceabat maydos restaurant overlooking the Marmara Sea, we spent the afternoon touring Gallipoli. The Wolrd War I battle fields of Gallipoli are now a serene site. It was a pity the rain followed me all the way from Manchester to Gallipoli. We visited

• Kabatepe Museum
• Brighton Beach
• Beach Cemetery
• ANZAC Cove
• Ariburnu Cemetery
• ANZAC Commemoration Site
• Lone Pine Australian Memorial
• Johnston’s Jolly
• 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial
• The Nek
• Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial

It was actually the first time I came across the term ANZAC. I felt like I had a full history lecture of the Australian-New Zealand-Turkish history after the tour!

A night at Canakkale

In the evening, we crossed the dardanelles by ferry and spent the night at Canakkale. It was a small town. I felt like I was in one of the Greek Islands which I visited last October!.

The first thing that came into my eyes was a big “Wooden horse”. It was actually shot in the movie – “Troy” starred by Brad Pitt! We stayed in Maydos hotel overing looking the beautiful port (a big, but noisy room with a superb balcony). We spent the rest of the evening eating seafood – squid, seabrass … with the Turkish beer – EFES… gee.. why I still missed the seafood in Hong Kong?

Day 2: a vist to Troy

Next morning at 9:30, we headed to Troy. It was only a 45 mins drive from Canakkale. We visited the ancient City of Troy – famous for the legendary Trojan horse from the times of Beautiful Helen, Queen nt Sparta, and Paris, the Trojan Prince. We visited this famous archaeological and mythological site, home of the “Trojan Horse” and “Helen of Troy” I was glad that we had the excellent guide who was also the author of the Troy guide books, explaining the mythology surrounding Troy -

• The Trojan Horse
• Helen of Troy
• The Trojan Wars
• Sacrifical Altars
• The 3700 year old city walls
• Houses of Troy 1 – 3000 B.C. -2500 B.C.
• The battle between Achilles and Paris
• Current excavations in progress
• Remains of the various cities from Troy I through to Troy IX

I was suprised to learn that the word “Odeon”  meant a  kind of theater in ancient Greece, smaller than the dramatic theater and roofed over, in which poets and musicians submitted their works to the approval of the public, and contended for prizes… today.. I just knew Odeon Cinema.. :p

After a glass of Turkish tea, we took the boat + ferry at 12:45p.m. back to Istanbul. The long 6 hours bus ride was better than I expected. I found that the Turkish really emphasized on cleaniness. The driver cleaned the cars thoroughly even during the service stop over in between!

More photos @ Photo Gallery http://travel.webshots.com/album/574565651GmNhPO

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Schedule:

Day 1 Istanbul – Canakkale

07:00 Pick up from accommodation in Sultanahmet area

07:30  Depart for Canakkale

12:00 Arrive in Eceabat / Fully Guided Gallipoli Tour

18:30  Check-in to Hotel in Canakkale

Day 2 Canakkale – Istanbul

08:45 Fully Guided Troy Tour

12:00 Return to Canakkale, Depart to Istanbul

19:00 Arrive in Istanbul

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Reference:

• Maydos hotel – www.maydos.com.tr
• Hassle Free Travel Agency – www.anzachouse.com

Turkish Bath – 土耳其浴

闻名遐迩的土耳其浴是利用浴室内的高温，使人大汗淋漓，再用温水或冷水淋浴全身，达到清除污垢，舒活筋骨，消除疲劳的目的。在正宗的土耳其浴室内，专门有一批称之为“坦拉克”的按摩师。当沐浴者舒展四肢躺卧在“肚皮石”上，双手涂满橄榄油的按摩师便在他身上推、拿、揉、按，使全身皮肤微红，血脉流畅，顿觉浑身轻松，舒适无比。土耳其浴室也接待女士 女士洗浴，有她们独特的方式。她们坐在石凳上，先用盛满肥皂水的铜盆，从头到脚冲淋一通，然后让女侍者用清水沐淋7次，据说这也是按照伊斯兰教的规矩。

There were 2 key Turkish Bath in Istanbul – Galatasaray Hamami and Cemberlitas Hamami. On the 3rd night in Istanbul, we managed to experience the Turkish bath in Cemberlitas Hamami.

Photo taken in front of Topkapi Sarayi 皇宮

It was always great to have a massage after the long day walk in any journey. While I already missed the Asian massage after the 2 years stay in U.K., I was very excited to try the Turkish bath for the very first time!

Apart from the traditional turisk bath, we ordered the facial and foot massage. I had to say it was quite an experience, yet the quality of the massage really cannot compare with the one in Bangkok / Indonesia. One thing I do appreciate alot was the cleaniness of the place. However the facial was the worst one I had ever had in my life!

To my surprise, on the last day of our trip, we managed to enjoy the Turkish bath for the very last time at the new business airport hotel – Titanic Hotel. There was a free Fitness Center with Turish Bath, steam/sauna and Jacuzzi facilities! This ended the trip perfectly!

More photos @ Photo Gallery http://travel.webshots.com/album/574565651GmNhPO

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Reference:

• Titanic Business Hotel - http://titanic.com.tr/titanicbusiness.asp

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Do you know?

Galata Tower is one of the oldest and most beautiful towers in Istanbul, was built in 528 during the sovereignty of the Byantine Emperor Justinianus. Having been used by the Genoese in the 13th century, the tower was captured by the Turks in 1453 when the Byzantium was conquered by them. It is measured 61 meters high from the ground and 140 meters from the sea level, and having a diameter of 8,95 meters and wall thickness of 3,75 meters.

April 29 – May 3, 2009 (Wednesday – Saturday)

終於去了土耳其，亨受了一次土耳其浴和土耳其男人的熱情。

在康士坦丁堡遊遊蕩蕩兩日後，睡眼還未張開時就趕往Troy（特洛伊城），途中在一沿海小鎮 çennakele宿一宵。

這個小鎮有令人心曠神怡的海景和好吃到死的海鮮。在英國待久了吃得死蝦死魚太多，一碰到新鮮海產便忍不住吃翻肚皮。

We took an early flight from London Gatwick -> Istanbul, Turkey at 6:40a.m. To my surprise, unlike other airports in U.K., Gatwick airport was a highly efficient one! We checked-into the flight smoothly. We reached Turkey at 12:30p.m. local time!

We were held in Sabiha Gökçen Airport for 1 hour due to BNO issue. Fortunately all the agent were so nice (and handsome)!!

Our flight landed in Sabiha Gökçen Airport, a new airport built recently. It is on the Asian side of the bi-continental city. The first challenge we encountered was the passport issue. With my friend holding a BNO passport (British National Overseas), which the immigration cannot identify in their database. As a result, we were hold up at the custom for an hour! Fortunately, everyone was just nice to us (and many of them were very handsome! 因為突厥人(Turks)本為遊牧民族，所以土耳其人經過多之混血的洗禮，得出來的是分明的輪廓和美麗的面孔。血統中除了波斯，還有希臘，那你可想像突厥男有多漂亮了吧？), with one of the agent able to speak English. We were fully informed the situation. An hour later, we finally can head to the citycenter.

From what we have been told by the custom agent, we took the E-10 bus to KARAKOY and then took the ferry to Laleli area, where our hotel located. It took us nearly 2 hours to get there! Istanbual really is the largest city in Turkey and fifth largest city proper in the with a population of 12.6 million! It was huge. I gussed I stayed in small, centralized U.K. for too long, I found it difficult to commute in such a large place. There were subway system in the city center, yet it was not fully developed. Some lines were not available after a certain time slot. And you can tell locals were still not fully utilize the system, many stations were desserted! Istanbul is also a megacity, as well as the cultural and financial centre of Turkey.  I saw HSBC branch everywhere in city center!

Istanbual basically was divided into 2 areas: Europe (歐界) and Asya (亞界). Within Europe, it is divded into 舊城 (Old City) and 新城New City

站在歐亞兩陸的土地上，你可見到歐界和亞界明顯的分別，而最明顯的分別卻不在這兩界上，而是在歐界上舊城 (Old City)和歐陸 (Europa)的分別。

在舊城你不會看見McDonald, Burger King, Starbucks 和一切在其他大城市有的商店百貨。

在舊城你會滿足於土耳其尚且保留一片處女地，不容許金圓帝國的文化入侵。作為遊客，你是會相當高興的。

然後，當你踏足歐陸區就真的一切變得很歐美。你說得出的Designer Brands, 快餐店等等都可以在這裡找到。

可是土耳其不再是耶教之地，穆斯林的清真寺到處可見，而耶教教堂雖然依然華麗，但往往不容易在街上看到。

你以為突厥男真是虔誠的教徒嗎？土耳其是我見最不穆斯林的穆斯林國家。
女人不一定個個帶頭紗，當地人也不一定禁酒。相反，突厥吧 (Turkish Pub) 到處都是。禱告時間到時，你會聽到廣播；但對不起，生意照做，街上一樣行人如鯽，不見得人人即跑到清真寺禱告。
我和朋友和一個連鬍子都還沒長齊的突厥男喝了一杯突厥啤，聊到他們的宗教觀：在清真寺向阿拉禱告便後到酒吧喝上一杯然後希望找一個女生過夜﹣哈哈，夠俏了吧！

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Route:

Day 1:

Laleli (Hotel Location Crown Plaza) -> Beyazit Camil -> Kapoli Carsi 大市集 (really hugh local indoor market, lost  1/2 hour inside) ->Yeni Camli 耶尼清真寺-> Dinner @ Eminonu (Seabrass! + “fish burger”)

Day 2:

Morning:

Sultanahmet Camil, Sultanahmet (enjoyed my 1st Turish coffee here!) -> Topkapi Sarayi 皇宮(Pumped into Rotary Tour group) ->Lunch at a Traditional Turish Restaurant -> settled down our tour package for Troy! -> Yerebatan Sarayi 地下宫殿

Afternoon

After lunch crossing Galata Koprusu 加拉達橋 (wondered why there are so many people fishing there!) -> New City -> my first ice-cream in Turkey ! ( too sweet ) -> Galata Kulesi 加拉達塔- overlooking the whole Europope area! -> Stopped by for a fresh orange juice! -> walk to Taksim Meydani – the crowed, longest, busy road -> walk back to the Old City, trying to take the subway… unfortunately it was closed after 8:00p.m.! –> back to old city for the Turisk bath, foot massage and facial @ Cemberlitas Hamami!

Day 3

Wake up at 6:00a.m. to join the package tour to Gallipoli + çennakele

Day 4

• Morning tour @ Troy
• Return to çennakele at noon
• After lunch take off to Istanbual at 12:35 -> People from Muslim country really focus on cleaniness, Buses were thoroughly cleaned during the stop in the middle of the journey -> Arrived in Istanbual city center at 7:00p.m! -> Fortunately meeting a guy knowing the new hotel “Titanic” (not even the driver knows!) who is able to speak little English, we get into the mini-van to continue the journey, meeting a couple who can speak English and helped us persuade the driver to drive to the hotel! What a day!
• Finally arrived in the brand new business hotel at 8:00p.m., with free internet access and free Turish Bath facilities. After the late dinner at the hotel restaurant, we spent the rest of the evening, enjoying our final Turkish Bath, steam/sauna and Jacuzzi!

This end the journey perfectly, with the last day, spending whole day on the road Istanbul -> London Luton -> Train to Manchester

More photos @ Photo Gallery http://travel.webshots.com/album/574565651GmNhPO

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Reference:

• Sabiha Gökçen airport – http://www.sgairport.com/havaalani/eng/start.asp
• Package Tour Ertan Kaya – www.senkrontours.com (travel@senkrontours.com)

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Do you know?

History

In its long history, Istanbul has served as the capital city of the Roman Empire (330–395), the East Roman (Byzantine) Empire (395–1204 and 1261–1453), the Latin Empire (1204–1261), and the Ottoman Empire (1453–1922). The city was chosen as joint European Capital of Culture for 2010. The historic areas of Istanbul were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985!

My next journey was to heading to Istanbul, Turkey. Since the flight took off in the early morning in London Gatwick Airport, we spent a night @ London the day before.

China Town @ London

We took the chance to enjoy a nice hotpot in China Town in London. The key difference between the hotpot in Manchester vs. London was that price (in terms of portion of the dish) was much expensive in London, yet the food variety (although it was a little bit wierd to see the Chinese hotpot was mixed with Japanese sasami/sushi) and quality, utentials used are much better. I was amazed to see there were lots of locals also enjoying the hotpot as well!

In late evening, we took the train from London Victoria -> Gatwick. As we only spent 5 hours in the hotel, we decided to check-into Ibis Gatwick Airport Hotel.

Even though it was an airport hotel, it was quite far from London Gatwick. Only hotel shuttle bus and taxi was available to commute to the hotel. We first waited for 45 mins for the hotel shuttle bus (£2.5 charged). Yet till 12:00a.m., we still cannot see the shuttle bus coming! As the end, we took the taxi (£11) instead.

Once again, I missed the efficient Hong Kong transportation system!

My Travel Log

Day 1 – Tour around rue Sainte Catherine & 1st night wine tasting in front of the Grand Theatre

After the 2 hours flight from London Luton, I arrived at Bordeaux in late afternoon (16:20p.m.). The Bordeaux airport was a very small local airport, yet shttle buses (Jet’Bus) were available from the airport to Gare St-Jean train station. It only took me 45 mins to arrive in the Touisme center at the city center, getting my accommodation confirmation and settling down in the hotel on the right bank of La Garonne.

fantastic white wine + cheese set at "Bar à Vin", overlooking the Grand Théâtre

In the evening, I got myself familar with the city and toured around one of the largest main shopping, pedestrian street (1.2km) in Bordeaux – rue Sainte-Catherine. Here I can find most of the popular shops in Europe. At night, I treated myself with a fantastic white wine + cheese set at “Bar à Vin“, overlooking the Grand Théâtre! With the superb weather, I enjoyed the sunset at around 9p.m. with the glass of wine in my hand.

Day 2 – A Day exploring the Grands Vins: Wine Museum tour in the morning, Saint-Emilion vineyard tour and wine tasting in the afternoon

There are lots of museums in Bordeaux. Coming to the largest and oldest fine wine producing region in the world,  I decided to take the tram to visit Musee Du Vin Et Du Negoce before the vineyard tour in the afternoon.

Situated in the district of Chartrons, traditionally dedicated to the busienss of the wine from the middle Ages, the museum occupies the first floor and the cellars of 41 Borie Street. This dwelling was built in the 1720 for an Irish trader. He settles his trade house and also his residence, as all the traders who came here at the same time to make fortune in Bordeaux. It is interesting to notice that the Chartrons district was still outside the city despite its importance in the economy of Bordeaux. It was separated from the city by the Chateau Trompette, amiliary fortress built by the French kings after the 100 years wars.

James de Coquet, a chronicler from Bordeaux, describes his impressions of the Chartrons district at the end of the XIX centtury, “A universe apart from the city of Bordeaux, the equivalent of the Forbidden city in Beijing”

The museum space is displayed in two of the vaulted cellars. It is divided into 4 key sections:

1. Wine Trade System (with modern scenography presents the historical documents) set by the British when Bordeaux was under the English control for 3 centuries from 1154. And how to wine exported to India back in 12th century.
2. The cellar
3. The marketing of wine – labels, bottle design, corking equipment etc. How Port of moon as the key area of trade
4. Tasting of a red & white at the souvenirs shop

I was particular impressed with the souvenirs shopkeeper who explained to me diligently different wine regions in Bordeaux when I was having the wine tasting.

In the afternoon, I joined the half-day long excursion to one of the world’s most famous vineyard regions – Saint-Emilion. I cannot help myself to compare the tour with the one I joined in Tuscany. Although Saint-Emilion is not as beautiful as the one in Italy, I was impressed by how French people organized the tour – really well-organized tour includes a visit to a family-owned wine chateau Larmande in the Saint Emilion appellation, followed by a tasting, a glimpse of the vineyards, and a tour in the nearby town enjoying the amazing underground monuments and the medieval town’s beautiful architecture.

Wine tasting @ Chateau Larmande in the Saint Emilion

I particularly amazed by the high-tech equipment used in today’s chateau. Wine are mostly blended. Red wine is more dominated than white. With the 5 key areas in the region, 3 out of 5 are red wine region.

I liked the medieval town very much. It reminded me San Gimignano in Italy!

My second day in Bordeaux ended at Miroir d’eau, where I sat there relaxly enjoying a wonderful sunset in front of the Port of Moon!

Day 3 – 2 hours City Tour

Before heading back to London, I joined the 2 hours city tour on my last day! Although by the 3rd day I have been to most of the places included in the tour, I knew the history better with the guided tour. I was particularly impressed by the government effort to perserve the building. Not to mention the money spent on restoration, but also all the new buildings were added on accordingly to its  original décor. I was surprised to hear Peruians and Mexicans were actually the first group of rich people came to Bordeaxu and built different infrastructures in churches

The Heritage Walks includes Place de la Bourse, Grand-Theatre, Place Gambetta, Cathedrale Saint-Andre et tour Pey-Berland … … The tour ends with the “showcase of Bordeaux’s heritage” inside the Tourisme office.

My trip @ Bordeaux ended with a fantastic lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the La Garonne. During the lunch I met a Professor from Cambridge who happened to come to Bordeaux for a tennis tournament. First time to know the handicap system in Tennis as well! With a nice oyster set as the starter, a beef pasta and a glass of wine, I already missed Bordeaux alot before I took off.

I hope I can come to Bordeaux again! And I will definitely join the blending / wine appreciation workshop next time!

Bordeaux – the place I like, the place full of things for me to explore!

More Photos @ Photo Gallery http://travel.webshots.com/album/573379799CmHpcr

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Reference:

• Wine Tour /Tasting package: www.bordeaux-tourisme.com
• 2 nights package offered by Bordeaux Tourisme: http://www.bordeaux-tourisme.com/uk/preparer_son_sejour/forfaits/forfaits_bordeaux_decouverte.html
• Transportation in Bordeaux: http://insurance.essentialtravel.co.uk/tg-europe/france/bordeaux-getting-around.asp
• Musee Du Vin Et Du Negoc: http://www.mvnb.fr/
• Airport-City Center bus: Jet’ Bus: www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr (from Gare St-Jean <-> Office de Tourisme <-> Place Gambetta <-> Barriere Judaique <-> Aeroport)

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“Bordeaux est une ville curieuse, originale, peut-etre unique. Prenez Versailles et melez-y Anvers, vous avez Bordeaux.” by Victor Hugo (1843)

I always wanna visit southern part of France, especially attracted by its winery trails. With the last minute flight booking and a 3 days 2 nights package offered by Office de Tourisme de Bordeaux, I was off to this wonderful place in late April.

My first impression on Bordeaux

I LOVE THIS CITY! Partly because of its mix of 18th/19th century style infrastructure (but still cannot compare to the historical cities in Italy) and at the same time the city was full of high-tech facilities in a clean, fresh environment. During Montesquieu’s lifetime, in the 18th centruy, Bordeaux experienced tremendous growth in trade and population, which led to sweeping changes in the urbanlandscape. Colonial trade made Bordeaux the busiest port in France. As a result, today Bordeaux has more than 350 classified buildings and buildings listed as Historic Monuments, including 3 religious World Heritage buildings since 1998 as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France.

Miroir d'eau in front of Place de la Bourse

Why the cities was full of high-tech facilities. It was mainly because of the urban project launched in 1996 by the local government – which includes the cleaning of façades, the development of the quays along the Garonne river, the commissioning of the tram in 1999 that runs on a ground-level power supply and the requalification of urban areas strengthened this desire to protect and showcase Bordeaux’s heritage. The city totally support eco-tourism. No car is allowed in some areas. Underground parking were built instead. And I saw lots of cyclist in the whole city. I was particular impressed their effort to perserve the buildings and keep the 2 city gates. All the new infrastructures were built based on the original design in 19th century!

I also impressed by the effort of the Bordeaux Tourisme. Everything was organized in a structural and convenient way for tourists. First, they focused on rebuilting the whole city as a terrific tourist spots – the superb tram system, the Miroir d’eau – a key feature of the Garonne waterfront redevelopment project which became a popular tourist spot and wonderful kid’s playground were some of the examples. Second, a fantastic 2 nights package was offered which includes accommodation, city and wine tasting tour. Third, Bordeaux, Port of Moon was incribed on the World Heritage List in 2007. and a marketing slogan “World Heritage, Fine Wines & Gastronomy” (“Patrimoine Mondial, Grands Vins & Gastronomie”) was created!

More photos in Photo Gallery http://travel.webshots.com/album/573379799CmHpcr

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Do you Know? – History of Bordeaux

This small city in the southwest of France has long been at the hub of the most important wine growing region in the world. Since the 13th century, Bordeaux has been exporting its many wine varietals to the rest of Europe, and although the last couple of centuries saw this city of 650,000 fall into general disrepair, there is at long last a massive urban renewal project underway.

The Celts and Romans
Bordeaux has been occupied for thousands of years. First by the Celts, who established a small village they named Burdigala around 300 BC, then by the Romans, who displaced the Celts in 60 BC. With the fall of the Roman Empire came hundreds of years of strife and chaos. Until the 12th century, Bordeaux was successively plundered by the Vikings, Vandals, Visigoths, Francs and Normans.

English rule
Peace finally returned to the city in 1154, when the Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine married the French Count Henri Plantagenet, who became King Henry II of England within months of the wedding. Bordeaux fell under English control for the next three centuries, during which time it began to grow and prosper. By exporting wine to England, it earned its reputation in the wine trade.

Other information

• Bordeaux has 113,000 hectares of vineyards and 57 appellations producing some 800 million bottles of wines a year. All the vineyards are away (at least 1-2 hours drive) from the city of Bordeaux.

April 15, 2009 (Wednesday)

First IMAX movie @ Manchester – Watchman

Taking the advantage of the Orange promotion on Wednesday, I watched my first IMAX movie @ Manchester at Odeon.

The film takes place in 1985 in an alternate universe where Richard Nixon is in his fifth term as president, the U.S. and Soviet Union are one push of the button away from a nuclear holocaust, and costumed superheroes have been outlawed. That is, except for the sadistic mercenary known as The Comedian (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and the god-like Dr. Manhattan (Billy Crudup), both of whom now work for the government. When The Comedian is murdered, however, masked vigilante Rorschach (Jackie Earle Haley) begins investigating, fearing that this is only the first in a series of killings targeted towards ex-superheroes. But after teaming up with former partner, Nite Owl (Patrick Wilson), and second-generation crime fighter Silk Spectre (Malin Akerman), to further explore his theory, Rorschach discovers that it’s something much bigger.

As anyone who has read the graphic novel can tell you, there’s a lot more to the story than that, and Snyder does his best to cram as much into the film’s massive 163-minute runtime as he possibly can. In fact, with the exception of the brilliant opening detailing The Comedian’s murder, the first hour is dedicated almost exclusively to backstory, with more flashbacks than an episode of “Lost.”

The IMAX experience was awesome, but with the scenes of shocking violence, fragmented story, I will not recommend the movie to most of my friends.

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April 18, 2009 (Saturday)
The Haunting in Connecticut

In the movie, Virginia Madsen and Martin Donovan play struggling parents whose son (Kyle Gallner) is undergoing cancer treatment in 1987. They rent a place near the hospital which is on the market for peanuts. “Well, it does have a bit of a history,” mumbles the owner. It’s a former funeral home which really pushes the history boat out. Every five minutes we’re treated to a charred phantom in a dumb waiter or tinful of human eyelids.

As a “scary” movie.. it is not that scary, yet there’s a strong emotional core here, and a pretty good script!

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April 19, 2009 (Sunday)

Birthday celebration @ La Tasca, Deansgate

After watching a movie Race to Witch Mountain, we headed to La Tasca (the Spanish Restaurant) @ Deansgate to celebrate one of my classmates’ birthday. I had been to La Tasca in Bristol and Brighton, yet this was the first time I went to the one in Manchester.  The atmosphere was awesome, with a good selection of food to choose from. Good tapas and regional Asturias dishes. Quality of food was average in U.K. standard. We had a great night out there!

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April 25, 2009 (Saturday)

BBQ @ Chorlton

On Saturday, we had a garden BBQ at one of my classmates’ house, near Alexander Park. It was not that far from city center. From our school, it only took 15 mins by bus to reach there.

This was the first time I toured around this area. Houses are mostly semi-detached, with a small garden at the back. I realized there are really lots of choices in housing in Manchester. We had a lovely evening, with a mild sunshine (well in Manchester standard, it was awesome already!). We had a crazy drinking party till 1a.m., farewelling a gang of friends who were heading to London in the coming week.

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May 9, 2009 (Saturday)

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

The film begins in 1840s Canada, when a young James Logan (aka Wolverine) and his half-brother Victor Creed (aka Sabretooth) discover that their future paths are inextricably connected. Cue the film’s best sequence: a gallop through key military conflicts — the American Civil War, Dunkirk , the Vietnam War – until the pair of them are shown trussed before a firing squad and awaiting execution.

As such, I feel that the 100 minute movie is strongest during its first half. The start of the tale is more or less open territory for accomplished director Gavin Hood (Tsotsi, Rendition) to do what he does best – focus on characterisation, crafting an almost mythological take on the Wolverine/Sabretooth relationship, linking their childhood together and bonding them through shared tragedy. The casting of their fathers is exceptional – worth pointing out on its own.

I like X-men Origins better than the rest of the X-mens, even though the story is generally weaker than the other, yet this esposide is more down-to-earth. And of course, Huge Jackman is awesome!

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May 10, 2009 (Sunday)

Dinner @ Numero + Movie: Star Trek

The next day, we had another dinner + movie night, farewelling another classmate. We first stopped by an Italian Restaurant near the AMC in Manchester - Numero. This was the first time I went to this restaurant. Surprisingly it was awesome! Situated in the huge Manchester235 complex (eating, drinking, gaming), the restaurant was filled with classy decor. It was a pity that there were not many people inside, probably due to its remoted location. I particular like its fantastic set menus - 3 courses with drink for £12.50 or £15 only!

After dinner, we headed to  AMC nearby to watch Star Trek. Although I was not a fan of Star Trek, I had to say the movie bursted back to life with a resplendence, charm and gusto that are thrilling to see! Compare with X-men Origin, the story was much stronger. One of the more surprising fonts of pleasure is the screenplay, by Transformers scribes Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman – there’s a lot of good, bickering camaraderie and just enough coarse one-liners (“Are you out of your Vulcan mind?”) to keep things buoyant!

Reference:

http://www.restaurantsofmanchester.com/italian/numero.htm