Talkingthailand

How to Navigate A City Like A Boss

One thing you learn when you live in a city is how to get around it. I lived in Bangkok – one of the busiest and seemingly chaotic cities in the world and, when I first moved there, I thought it would be impossible to find my way around. But, with a little determination and persistence, I ended up knowing it like the back of my hand. Here are my tips for being able to navigate a city like a boss!

Research things to do

If you plan to get to know a city, the first thing you may want to do is to find out what there is to see and do there. For me, I have a nice collection of “Rough Guides” and I will add to this if I know I am going to a particular destination. There are plenty of resources online too – you can buy a tourist map or look at things to do. You might also find newsagents or souvenir shops that sell maps once you have arrived. Once you know what you want to see and do, you can then plan your day (s).

Things to do in Bangkok — Source: eeas.europa.eu

Choose one area

Most cities are huge and it would be impossible to see everything in one day, so don’t even try! Bangkok has over 50 districts, London has 32 boroughs, New York has 62 counties – you get my point! Choose one area depending on time allowing, what you want to do, and how you will get there and back. Then, really get to know that area before moving on to the next one.

Use public transport

It might be easier to take a taxi, I did this myself before I moved to Bangkok, but it’s not the best way to navigate a city. The best way to ‘get your bearings’ is to make use of other modes of transport – I’m talking buses or metros or subways! I was introduced to Bangkok’s BTS (Skytrain) – the city’s elevated train system – and the MRT – Bangkok’s underground trains. Both perfect and easy ways to traverse the city. If you’ve done your research and know where things are, trains have maps in the carriages, so all you have to do is get off at the correct station.

Walk

The alternative to public transport is to take to your own feet and walk. For me, this has to be the ultimate way to navigate a city. Over the years, I walked all over Bangkok and that’s why I got to know where everything was, knew exactly how to get there, and what there was to do once I got there. I make a point of walking wherever I go, it’s a great way to find your bearings. Plus, if you have no sense of direction, walking will definitely change that.

Get lost on purpose

If you are not restricted to time, another good way to navigate a city is to get lost – on purpose! Take a taxi and get dropped off anywhere and then make your way back. Hop on the bus, metro or subway and get off at a random station. Walk (without following a map) taking random left or right turns and see where you end up!

How to navigate any city — Get lost – on purpose

Use Google maps

As one who prefers paper maps, for a long time I refused to use Google maps when I was out and about. But, even I have to admit, it’s a handy resource to use when you are navigating your way around. Most attractions are listed as well as bars and restaurants (for that all important break from navigating) and you will know how long it takes to get to your destination. I defy you to try and beat Google’s time! Me and Chris can do it 2 minutes quicker! (just for fun!)

Hoe to get around a city — Finding your way with Google

Know the basic language

If you think you know where you are going or not, it’s always useful to know a little of the language. You never know when you might need the help of a local resident. Many times in the past, I have had to ask someone the way and it’s so much easier if you can do this in a language they understand. I say understand, my Thai was never that good, but I always got my question answered – amid lots of laughs and banter! If nothing else, you’ll have a smile on your face as you carry on!

How to navigate a city — Speak the language. Image by Mary Pahlke from Pixabay

What tips do you have for navigating a city like a boss?

Enjoy exploring wherever you may end up! Peace and love to all 🙂

What Does Art Mean To You?

I love art in all its forms. It means many things to many people – you may love it too or you may hate it – but, if you don’t mind, let’s delve into my mind and see what art is to me.

An appreciation of talent

Whether it’s a painting or a drawing, photography or sculpture or a multi-sensory experience like Van Gogh Alive, I have an appreciation of the artist’s talent. I can look and imagine how their ideas have morphed onto the canvas. There are so many artists and a few of my favourites are Vincent Van Gogh, Salvador Dali and Oleg Shuplyak – each one different, but their creations are all equally fabulous. I can really appreciate their creative foresight, being able to see in their mind’s eye what the finished article will look like.

Things to do in your free time — Van Gogh Alive – London

Learning

Art is learning. I choose what to go and see, not always because I know who the artist is, sometimes I don’t, but it’s the subject matter I am mostly interested in – city views, art movements like Baroque, Impressionism or Surrealism, illusion art and many more. I can learn more about these topics as I read the exhibit titles. I am then drawn to the artists themselves and can learn about their lives in books or the internet.

There is a story to tell

There is usually a story to tell in art. Some art is more than a little distressing (Beyond the Air We Breathe). Some are obvious in their message, some are not, and it takes a while before you realise what the artists are trying to convey. Art is a powerful way to get the message across!

Excitement

Art creates excitement. Not knowing what I’ll find until I see it with my own eyes. Then, looking at the photos or paintings, taking in all the details – the brush strokes, the colours, the textures, the painting as a whole – I feel joy and realise I am smiling!

Inspiration

There are many things that inspire people and art is one of those things. It might inspire you to use the same colours in a different way or think of a new way to use the same subject. Art simply inspires me to be more creative in my life. Inspiration feels like a burst of energy and I feel motivated to put my ideas into action.

Relaxation

When I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders, I pick up my paint brush and paint! Concentrating on what I am doing and getting into the flow state makes me forget why I am stressed and helps me keep my mental wellbeing in check.

What does art mean to you?

7 Ways to Stay Fit and Healthy on Your Travels

COVID has had a toll on everyone’s lives! I, for one, have piled on the pounds during lockdowns, drank too much and lost all motivation for everything including exercise and the list goes on. Now, even though the virus is still with us, the world is slowly opening up again which means we might be able to have that long awaited holiday abroad. But, if you’ve already started your journey back to fitness, how can you keep the momentum going if you do manage to get away? Let’s look at 7 ways to stay fit and healthy on your travels.

1. Walk everywhere

Wherever you end up, instead of taking the local public transportation, take to your own feet and walk. Not only is this a great form of exercise, but you’ll discover places and see things that you wouldn’t normally see if you’re stuck in the back seat of a taxi. Walking is also a great way to ‘get your bearings’ when you are visiting somewhere new.

Things to do when visiting somewhere new — Walking in Bangkok

2. Go jogging

Go for a jog around a park or on the beach. It’s free, it’s a good way to clear your mind and you’ll keep those extra pounds at bay. If the idea of jogging makes you feel like throwing up, start slowly walking, then get faster until you break into a jog. You’ll be amazed at how energised you’ll feel and your body will benefit from the fresh air.

Things to do in free time — Jogging in King Rama IX Park, Bangkok

3. Enjoy a swim

A fabulous form of exercise that will work your whole body, swimming is easy to fit into any holiday or longer trip. Everyone takes time to relax and, more often than not, that time is spent on a beach or by a swimming pool. Get in and do a few lengths of the pool or wade out into the blue ocean.

4. Do body weight exercises

Body weight exercises need no equipment whatsoever. All you need is a bit of space and the motivation to stay active. Try push ups, burpees or air cycles. There are so many exercises you can do and all are designed to get your heart pumping and keep your body strong.

5. Watch what you eat

When you go travelling, it’s so tempting to overeat. I do it all the time – all those delicious new foods! I feel like I’ve put on ten stone by the time I’m heading home! Try to abstain from foods that you wouldn’t normally eat at home – MacDonalds, KFC etc. If you are self-catering, head to the local market where you’ll find a huge array of delicious fruits and vegetables or try to stick to healthy choices when eating out in restaurants.

6. Don’t drink alcohol every day

As with overeating, drinking alcohol every day is easily done. We have all been guilty of this one, waking up with a horrendous hangover and vowing never to drink again. Don’t cut out completely, especially if you enjoy a tipple with your evening meal, but don’t overdo it. Your head and your liver will thank you in the morning. Trust me, I have been there!

7. Keep hydrated

If you are travelling through a hot country, it’s imperative to keep yourself hydrated. Most of us don’t drink nearly as much water as we should, and this is particularly important when the sun is constantly blazing down on you. Being hydrated will stop headaches and keep your energy levels up.

Things to do to stay healthy — Stay hydrated – Image by Olya Adamovich from Pixabay

What ways do you keep fit and healthy while travelling?

A Few Things That Amaze Me!

I sat down and thought of some of the things I find truly fascinating in life. So, in no particular order, here are a few things that amaze me.

Nature

Nature is nothing short of wonderful. All the different animal and bird species, every one designed and adapted to their environment. The Earth and all its beauty – the weather, the sea, the sky, the land. The vibrant colours of nature – all different shades and hues, from the azure blue of the sea and the verdant green of the rolling hills to the red sand of deserts and the brown falling leaves. What about the sounds of nature? Sit still long enough and you will hear the chorus of the insects at dusk, the chirping of birds in forests, the crash of the waves onto a beach or the rustle of leaves in autumn. It’s nice sometimes to take a break from our busy lives and just be in the moment to appreciate what is around us.

Cosmos

The history of the Earth and how we got here is mind-blowingly fascinating. The fact we are on a spinning ball in the middle of the black universe is hard to get your head around. It’s hard to fathom that we are but a speck on Earth’s timeline – if you can imagine the history of the universe as a 12 month calendar, humans appear just a few minutes before midnight on 31 December.

Things to learn about — Source: CC BY-SA 3.0. Owner: Efbrazil

Architecture

I was never interested in architecture before, but now I find it so interesting to look at all the different types of buildings and structures that have been created. The castles with their turrets and the palaces with their fountains. The ornate details and the arched windows, the porticos and the columns. Sometimes, I sit outside these buildings or look up as I walk passed, so I can marvel at the thought and creativity that has gone into constructing some of the beauties in the places I visit.

Places to go in Bangkok — My favourite piece of architecture in Bangkok – Mahanakhon

History

It’s funny how what bores you in the past becomes a subject that you are enthralled by – that’s history for me. I studied Mythology in the Greek and Roman World as part of my degree and I couldn’t get enough of it – stories and legends about Poseidon, Jupiter, Venus and Aphrodite to name but a few. The Egyptians and the history of Thailand and other countries, the wars, people and places – it’s all totally captivating.

Things to see in Rome — Egyptian Mythology – The Nile

Art

I love creating my own art as much as I love the creations of other artists. When I lived in Bangkok, one of my favourite pastimes was to go to an art gallery to see an exhibition. I like to appreciate the creativity and forethought of the artist and look at how the paint strokes have metamorphosed into a beautiful painting. Three of my favourites include Salvador Dali, Vincent Van Gogh and Oleg Shuplyak. Sometimes, I paint or draw and create something of my own. I don’t know why, but I find if I haven’t drawn or painted for a while, I end up doing a good job! I find it relaxing and it’s one of those things that I should do more often.

Air traffic control

I would love to spend a day in an air traffic control tower. I find it amazing that these people are responsible for controlling the air traffic and they do it very well. I know they have exceptional technology to do this, but people can makes mistakes and have you seen the amount of planes in the sky at any one time? Take a look at one of the plane trackers like Flight Radar 24 or Flightaware – it’s crazy. Did you know that the people who do this job are on shifts of just 30 minutes at a time?

Flying

Which brings me onto flying! It still amazes me how that big hunk of metal with wings can get into the air and take you to your destination in a relatively short amount of time! In the air, you are flying at over 500 miles per hour, but it appears you are hardly moving! The wheels disappear into the undercarriage and the flaps on the wings change position to slow you down upon descent. The pilots take the plane up and bring it down – in the meantime, the aircraft is honing in on a beacon at its final destination. And, don’t get me started on the people that work at the airport, getting the luggage on board, serving food and drinks and filling the plane with petrol – I find it all very interesting. I may be in the wrong job!

What amazes you? 🙂

The Changing Seasons – August and September 2021

For this edition of the Changing Seasons, I haven’t really been doing much, so I thought I would share some of my ‘photos of the day’ instead.

When in Brussels, head to the Grand Place where you’ll find fabulous buildings like the Town Hall – spectacularly lit up for New Year celebrations.

Also in Brussels is the Bourse – Belgium’s Stock Exchange building – a grand Neoclassical structure. It was a real treat to see it aglow with different colours as I meandered through the Christmas market.

A last look along the railway line at London St. Pancras before heading home.

A few frosty leaves on the damp grass at my old place of work. It really was a beautiful setting to work in.

Views across the fields with lovely blue skies and resident horses.

Wintery mornings – love them or hate them, but no denying it’s a fresh start to your day.

Fallen acorns – I can’t resist photographing all kinds of nature.

A very happy horsey – rolling around and saying hello.

I love the cloud formation as I admire the view across the farmland.

Enjoy your October. May it bring peace, love and harmony to you all 🙂

About The Changing Seasons

The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.

If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:

The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)

Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them

The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):

Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them

The Changing Seasons – July 2021

The best things in life are free, so they say, and July proved that because my BFF, Chris, came to stay. We had been talking about getting together as soon as we could, but COVID stopped us. Then, things started to open up and Chris wanted to visit his family in Looe, Cornwall, but he still had to self-isolate for 10 days. We came up with the idea that he could self-isolate with me and then travel down to see his family. So, that’s what we did.

The best things in life are free? Yes, we literally did nothing because we couldn’t! The only thing we did was to take a walk to the post box to deliver his COVID test (that’s within the rules of self-isolation!)

It was so good to see him after almost a year and although we couldn’t go out for dinner or drinks, it was just lovely to spend some time with him.

I also started my new fitness journey. I have mostly been walking, swimming and going to the gym. Lockdown has not been kind to my waistline nor have the bottles of wine I have consumed during furlough last year! I actually love exercising, but once you get out of the habit, it’s so hard to get back into it. But, now I have and it feels good!

Enjoy the sunshine! Peace and love 🙂

About The Changing Seasons

The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.

If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:

The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)

Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them

The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):

Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them

The Changing Seasons – April and May 2021

My monthly round-up in The Changing Seasons post, hosted by Su at Zimmerbitch.

In April, I added 2 new books to my collection. Dishoom is a beautiful Indian cookbook with lots of delicious recipes, stories of how the restaurants came to be and a map of traditional cafes and restaurants in Bombay or Mumbai as it’s known now.

The second book is called 500 Walks with Writers, Artists and Musicians. You can embark on walks around the world and follow in the footsteps of famous writers, artists and musicians. For example, in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland where “C.S Lewis found his Narnia.”

I did some more cooking..

And went for a couple of long walks around the Washlands..

And along the River Nene. Click on the images to see them in full..

I also took a trip to the stunning Everdon Stubbs to see the forest carpeted with bluebells! Click on the images to see them in full..

Time flies and as we sped through May, I treated myself to a lovely lavender plant which attracts bees to my balcony with its luscious smell..

Couldn’t resist this photo over the rooftops of the interesting cloud formation..

I’ll leave you with some motivational words from Bruce Lee..

About The Changing Seasons

The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.

If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:

The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)

Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them

The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):

Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them

A Very Brussels New Year

At the end of 2019, I took a trip to celebrate the new year in the lovely city of Brussels.

On New Year’s Eve, I took the Eurostar and arrived at Brussels Gare-du-Midi station mid-afternoon. I caught the metro to Madou and walked the short distance to my hotel on Rue du Nord.

Places to go in Brussels — My first glimpse of Brussels

Hotel Sabina wasn’t the most attractive place I have ever stayed, but the owners were friendly, my attic-room was comfortable and there was a free breakfast every day. In any case, I wasn’t there to stay in my room the whole time.

Places to stay in Brussels — Hotel Sabina

I checked in, dumped my bags and went off to explore the city.

The city centre is a 15-minute walk from the hotel and there is lots to see on the way. As this was December, there were lots of Christmas trees to see – although artificial, I thought this one looked pretty in the tree-lined square..

Things to see in Brussels — Christmas in Brussels

Walking along Rue du Congres, you will see the Congress Column..

..with its statue of Belgium’s first monarch, King Leopold I at the top..

Next, a quick hoof around St Michael & St Gudula Cathedral..

I love the traditional Belgian buildings..

There are so many pretty little squares in Brussels – like Agoraplein..

The streets are busy which makes for a lively atmosphere..

Finally, at one of Brussels top sights – the Grand Place with its spectacular buildings..

The courtyard of the Gothic town hall is also beautiful..

There is a lot of street art in the city like this staircase on Rue de I’Etuve..

One of Brussels top attractions is the Mannekin Pis – a 17th century bronze statue of a little boy peeing!

Onwards through the streets getting busier by the minute – don’t forget it’s New Year’s Eve..

Lovely buildings around every corner..

I came across this long line of people eager to try some delicious, traditional Belgian fries at Fritland..

In December, Brussels hosts its very own Christmas market with stalls full of traditional food and drinks, crafts and souvenirs..

The Bourse – the Brussels Stock Exchange – housed in this grand building located in the second-most important square after the Grand Place..

Exploring some more, I found Halles Saint-Gery a cute building which used to be the old market hall, but now used as a bar/restaurant and events venue..

There is an animal counterpart of the Mannekin Pis – the Het Zinneke or The Mutt..

There is also a female version – Jeanneke Pis..

I decide to walk away from the city centre to see the only canal that runs through Brussels – the Brussels Canal which separates the city from the district of Molenbeek. The streets grew relatively quieter the further I walked..

Back in the city, I head to Place Saint-Catherine which was buzzing with people enjoying the market stalls and getting ready for the evening’s celebrations..

After exploring for a few hours, I went in search of food before settling in a bar with a bottle of red..

I was more than happy sitting outside on the street people watching, but it was bloody freezing. I went inside to warm up and got chatting to the owner. After a while, everyone had left and I was the only customer. The guy had already told me that it wasn’t that safe at night and that I had to be careful on the way back! That was just before he pulled the shutters down and I was alone with this guy and his brother. I started to feel really uncomfortable. He then started ranting about politics – that’s all you need on New Year’s Eve – so I made my excuses and walked quickly back to my hotel.

I don’t think I stayed up to see the New Year in, but I was happy that I was safe and warm again!

That little incident didn’t mar my trip to Brussels, it really is a lovely city and the best thing about it, I was spending the next day with my friend Chris!

The Changing Seasons – March 2021

My monthly round-up in The Changing Seasons post, hosted by Su at Zimmerbitch.

Welcome to Spring! I can’t believe we are in April already, but we are hopefully on the way to freedom once more!

I started my new job as an employment caseworker with Mencap in March and I am thrilled to report that I love it (already!) I am so happy that I am in a job I love once more, it really makes a difference to my frame of mind. I am once more alive and have a spring in my step! I think it will be challenging, but so rewarding. I help young adults who have lost their way a little, for one reason or another, and guide and mentor them from education into employment. No day is the same and our learners get the 1-1 support they need and deserve – these things make me smile!

I have always loved cooking, but over the last few months (and since we are in lockdown) I have been doing more of it – some new recipes, some old favourites.

Cajun dirty rice –

Chorizo and prawn jambalaya –

Mediterranean chicken with orzo one-pot –

Cheesecake-stuffed strawberries –

D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S!

I finished yet another painting – a colourful African Savannah –

Enjoy April! And a very Happy Easter to you all. Love and peace!

About The Changing Seasons

The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.

If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:

The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)

Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them

The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):

Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them

A Photo Walk around Florence

I’ve been revisiting my trip to Italy which I took with my parents in 2018. We took a day trip to Florence – a photographer’s dream – so many cute little streets to explore and the architecture is amazing.

I hope you enjoy this photo walk around this beautiful city in Italy!