Istanbul, where to begin, what to say? A fascinating city, yet I am quite lost for words when it comes to expressing my appreciation and impressions. Guidebooks and bloggers alike tend to describe Istanbul as an eclectic mix of east meets west (whatever that's supposed to mean).
I’m not sure if I suffered a slight culture shock. Istanbul is really unlike every other city I’ve ever been to. But weirdly enough at times every corner, every turn seemed to hold some kind of similarity to another place. Sometimes it’s narrow streets reminded me of Paris, the architecture of Budapest, some areas had a slight flair of KL, the Grand Bazaar took me back to Jerusalem’s old town, the bridge spanning the Bosporus vaguely reminded me of Basel’s Mittlere Brücke.
Everything I read beforehand did not do the city justice, in fact it just served to confuse me on arrival. Nonetheless, the city is definitely worth a trip, especially in the summer months!
October 24, 2005
October 23, 2005
October 09, 2005
a new home
That brother of mine can’t go on holiday without catching some disease! He suffered a severe attack of bronchitis, besides being extremely dehydrated. Just back from Cyprus, this coming Tuesday he has to undergo the ordeal of having a wisdom tooth extracted. Talk about having a rough time!
Anyway, my news:
As of last Sunday I am now officially a Zürritussi (chick living in Zürich). My nice little flat is 5 minutes walk from the lake, has a yellow kitchen (I always wanted a room with a little colour to it) and is littered with bags and bags of clothes. It never occurred to me that a girl could have too many clothes until I moved!
On Saturday I dragged myself to IKEA, which turned out to be a horrific experience: screaming children running all over the place, harassed parents trying to keep an eye on their brat and simultaneously finding the furniture of their dreams, girlfriends dreamily contemplating which bathmat would bring out the colour of their lover’s eyes (I ask you – what rubbish!), grandmothers blocking the queue with their dithering.. battling through that crowd to find a cheap cupboard and sofa left me completely shattered. But at least I was successful, even if it did take me two (!) trips.
Last Wednesday I had a girl’s night in with two colleagues: we dyed our hair, gorged ourselves on sushi (healthy), drank plum wine (appropriate) and feasted our eyes on soap operas. Truly girly, what bliss.
Friday was my boyfriend’s birthday so I decided to treat him to a special night out. As I hardly know Zürich I asked around at work for some tips. Our education manager came up trumps: a friend of hers booked me a table at a private club. The place was at the top of a high riser, with glass windows all around providing a spectacular view of the city and the lake. We dined in leather couch seats and the food was imaginative and delicious. Needless to say, my boyfriend was impressed. Mission accomplished!
Today a friend held her goodbye party as she is leaving for India next Thursday. It’s kind of strange to think that she will be gone for two whole years. She’s off to teach the Indians how to do business with the Germans. All those intercultural competence classes are paying off after all!
Anyway, my news:
As of last Sunday I am now officially a Zürritussi (chick living in Zürich). My nice little flat is 5 minutes walk from the lake, has a yellow kitchen (I always wanted a room with a little colour to it) and is littered with bags and bags of clothes. It never occurred to me that a girl could have too many clothes until I moved!
On Saturday I dragged myself to IKEA, which turned out to be a horrific experience: screaming children running all over the place, harassed parents trying to keep an eye on their brat and simultaneously finding the furniture of their dreams, girlfriends dreamily contemplating which bathmat would bring out the colour of their lover’s eyes (I ask you – what rubbish!), grandmothers blocking the queue with their dithering.. battling through that crowd to find a cheap cupboard and sofa left me completely shattered. But at least I was successful, even if it did take me two (!) trips.
Last Wednesday I had a girl’s night in with two colleagues: we dyed our hair, gorged ourselves on sushi (healthy), drank plum wine (appropriate) and feasted our eyes on soap operas. Truly girly, what bliss.
Friday was my boyfriend’s birthday so I decided to treat him to a special night out. As I hardly know Zürich I asked around at work for some tips. Our education manager came up trumps: a friend of hers booked me a table at a private club. The place was at the top of a high riser, with glass windows all around providing a spectacular view of the city and the lake. We dined in leather couch seats and the food was imaginative and delicious. Needless to say, my boyfriend was impressed. Mission accomplished!
Today a friend held her goodbye party as she is leaving for India next Thursday. It’s kind of strange to think that she will be gone for two whole years. She’s off to teach the Indians how to do business with the Germans. All those intercultural competence classes are paying off after all!
September 30, 2005
twist of fate
I feel awful. My brother's gracing the local health institution in Cyprus.. apparently neither he nor I can travel without catching some horrible disease.
September 27, 2005
rote lippen sind zum küssen
Ladies and gentlemen
Please welcome the star act of tonight….
(appropriate drum roll)
Gloss posing as…
a BOMBAY HOOKER!
(appropriate applause)
Enter stage left, smile, smile, turn, smile, seductive glance, exit stage right.
My new job has all sorts of interesting twists and turns to it. Yesterday I was told that a model of our team’s colour tour fell ill and they needed a replacement. Always a willing subject for any sort of relooking, I willingly spent this afternoon at the hairdresser’s salon. I was poked and prodded, tugged this way and that and had to endure three rounds of colour and bleach (2 colour, 1 bleach). But the final result is a beautiful warm brown with cherry red streaks. Apart from the fact that it took the stylist five hours (no exaggeration!) I would say it’s a look well worth recommending!
When all four models were coloured accordingly, we rushed over to the venue. There I met with something I had not bargained for: red makeup! Red eye shadow, red rouge and red lipstick: I looked and felt like a true hooker. And guess who I had to thank for this getup: yours truly, myself! I had come up with the great idea that the models’ make up should reflect their hair colour and as I was sporting cherry red.. well, you can do the math!
Generally speaking I tend to go for the natural look (i.e. no or minimal makeup) – pure laziness on my part – therefore my reflection took some getting used to. But after an hour or so I began to fully appreciate the handiwork and judging from my boyfriend’s reaction I really need to get someone to teach me how to paint my face. Hmm, wonder if a trace of this motivation will still be around tomorrow.
Throughout the show I sat and smiled, being as friendly as possible with one’s fringe obscuring one’s view. It was quite funny; apparently the cherry red tone came out too “warm” on my hair. As it is supposed to have a “cold” effect the stylist explaining my look to the audience came up with a brilliant save: because my skin tone is quite “cold” she used this colour but because my eyes are surprisingly “warm” she did this and that to support the warmth of my eyes. (I was like: eh?! )
Please welcome the star act of tonight….
(appropriate drum roll)
Gloss posing as…
a BOMBAY HOOKER!
(appropriate applause)
Enter stage left, smile, smile, turn, smile, seductive glance, exit stage right.
My new job has all sorts of interesting twists and turns to it. Yesterday I was told that a model of our team’s colour tour fell ill and they needed a replacement. Always a willing subject for any sort of relooking, I willingly spent this afternoon at the hairdresser’s salon. I was poked and prodded, tugged this way and that and had to endure three rounds of colour and bleach (2 colour, 1 bleach). But the final result is a beautiful warm brown with cherry red streaks. Apart from the fact that it took the stylist five hours (no exaggeration!) I would say it’s a look well worth recommending!
When all four models were coloured accordingly, we rushed over to the venue. There I met with something I had not bargained for: red makeup! Red eye shadow, red rouge and red lipstick: I looked and felt like a true hooker. And guess who I had to thank for this getup: yours truly, myself! I had come up with the great idea that the models’ make up should reflect their hair colour and as I was sporting cherry red.. well, you can do the math!
Generally speaking I tend to go for the natural look (i.e. no or minimal makeup) – pure laziness on my part – therefore my reflection took some getting used to. But after an hour or so I began to fully appreciate the handiwork and judging from my boyfriend’s reaction I really need to get someone to teach me how to paint my face. Hmm, wonder if a trace of this motivation will still be around tomorrow.
Throughout the show I sat and smiled, being as friendly as possible with one’s fringe obscuring one’s view. It was quite funny; apparently the cherry red tone came out too “warm” on my hair. As it is supposed to have a “cold” effect the stylist explaining my look to the audience came up with a brilliant save: because my skin tone is quite “cold” she used this colour but because my eyes are surprisingly “warm” she did this and that to support the warmth of my eyes. (I was like: eh?! )
September 06, 2005
Hair Sun
Spent the whole day at the hairdressers on Friday „getting to know Redken’s customer“. I must say I am really glad I did not become a hairdresser, the people those poor girls have to deal with!
But the perks of my new job (so far) have been amazing: around midday I was approached by two trainees who announced that they would practise their pampering skills on me. Always one to help where I can I bowed to the call of duty! They gave me a thorough head & shoulder massage as well as the full works: scalp treatment, deep moisturising treatment & a special treatment against split ends! Highly recommendable!
But the perks of my new job (so far) have been amazing: around midday I was approached by two trainees who announced that they would practise their pampering skills on me. Always one to help where I can I bowed to the call of duty! They gave me a thorough head & shoulder massage as well as the full works: scalp treatment, deep moisturising treatment & a special treatment against split ends! Highly recommendable!
Change
Today I finished my studies!!!! V.v.v. happy!
Totally shattered as well, spent the entire afternoon running around Zürich looking at flats.
A new life begins!
I cut my finger on a razor blade as well.
A bad omen?
Totally shattered as well, spent the entire afternoon running around Zürich looking at flats.
A new life begins!
I cut my finger on a razor blade as well.
A bad omen?
September 03, 2005
Starbucks
"Seven Ways to Order Coffee"by John Lee
I
At dawn, the dark roast scents greet
each visitor as well as the soft
elevator music, bohemian style.
Grande latte for the earlyriser next in line.
The mid-lifer seeking
every excuse to wake from endless slumber.
II
For during the nine to fivers rush,
Skim latte, with a touch of cinnamon
and a scone for the businesswoman
sure of herself and her drink preference.
III
At ten and leisurely on his way to work,
with the chatter of technology
from cellphone rested to ear,
the young executive-to-be orders
the chocolate mocha, rich and creamy,
he's just not into coffee yet, but
seeks the comforts of conformity.
IV
From the mid-morning respite,
office workers make a trek,
two by two or four by four, they
make their way for morning seconds.
Ill to work, they seek the pleasure of a
gingerbread latte break, a special just in season.
V
Into lunch, the coffee grinds whir,
never ceasing until every last drop is poured.
An assistant pushed to the brink arrives,
sunglasses neatly on top, seeking sugar to burn.
Iced mochachino and an expensive sandwich for her.
She's got another five before it's off to do more.
VI
Black coffee for the afternoon gent.
He's realistic and experienced in the world.
Never embellishing and always forthright,
you can tell he's too honest for his own good.
VII
I stand behind them in line. Waiting
for a chance to order what I covet
--white chocolate mocha -- three pumps of chocolate please,
not four. Wondering what they will think of me
Thank you M for supporting my addiction! ;-)
I
At dawn, the dark roast scents greet
each visitor as well as the soft
elevator music, bohemian style.
Grande latte for the earlyriser next in line.
The mid-lifer seeking
every excuse to wake from endless slumber.
II
For during the nine to fivers rush,
Skim latte, with a touch of cinnamon
and a scone for the businesswoman
sure of herself and her drink preference.
III
At ten and leisurely on his way to work,
with the chatter of technology
from cellphone rested to ear,
the young executive-to-be orders
the chocolate mocha, rich and creamy,
he's just not into coffee yet, but
seeks the comforts of conformity.
IV
From the mid-morning respite,
office workers make a trek,
two by two or four by four, they
make their way for morning seconds.
Ill to work, they seek the pleasure of a
gingerbread latte break, a special just in season.
V
Into lunch, the coffee grinds whir,
never ceasing until every last drop is poured.
An assistant pushed to the brink arrives,
sunglasses neatly on top, seeking sugar to burn.
Iced mochachino and an expensive sandwich for her.
She's got another five before it's off to do more.
VI
Black coffee for the afternoon gent.
He's realistic and experienced in the world.
Never embellishing and always forthright,
you can tell he's too honest for his own good.
VII
I stand behind them in line. Waiting
for a chance to order what I covet
--white chocolate mocha -- three pumps of chocolate please,
not four. Wondering what they will think of me
Thank you M for supporting my addiction! ;-)
September 02, 2005
Time
Two weeks have flown by and tomorrow I face the challenge of preparing for my final oral exam on Tuesday. As of Tuesday, 10 am, I will (hopefully – cross my fingers) be finished with my studies! Time surely has flown!
The highlight of my week so far has been a boat trip on the lake of Zürich last Tuesday. I accompanied my two bosses to a client’s salon, who as soon as we arrived informed us that there had been a change of plan and that she would like to invite us out on her new motorboat. We had so much fun and completely forgot the time that I ended up staying at a colleague’s place. I really need to find a flat or room in Zürich!
The highlight of my week so far has been a boat trip on the lake of Zürich last Tuesday. I accompanied my two bosses to a client’s salon, who as soon as we arrived informed us that there had been a change of plan and that she would like to invite us out on her new motorboat. We had so much fun and completely forgot the time that I ended up staying at a colleague’s place. I really need to find a flat or room in Zürich!
August 23, 2005
First day
My first day at Redken was quite eventful. I got to meet the entire team including sales force in a day long team meeting. As it was the last official meeting of my predecessor, to celebrate his departure and my welcome we all went to a nearby go-kart racing track and took turns displaying our speeding skills!
August 21, 2005
Binii & Sri Lanka
Two days in the Valais began with me missing my bus stop and taking a scenic tour of the surrounding villages before arriving at my destination one hour later than planned. But besides that slight glitch in the proceedings these past two days have been very relaxing; three girls intent on getting “back to nature” aided by Snacketti crisps, chocolate and cigarettes. Beautiful.
On my way back to civilisation, I was invited to an authentic Tamil lunch which was absolutely delicious. But the funny thing was, the hosts ate with knife and fork whilst the guests (including me) tried our hands at eating with our right hand only.
On my way back to civilisation, I was invited to an authentic Tamil lunch which was absolutely delicious. But the funny thing was, the hosts ate with knife and fork whilst the guests (including me) tried our hands at eating with our right hand only.
August 16, 2005
Changes
A, sweet A, has broken up with her boyfriend of eight years. Love at first sight can come true after all, even after an eight year relationship.
I was sure that she and her ex would eventually marry, have kids and live happily ever after. But lo and behold, a knight in shining armour (or on a shining bicycle) cycled into her life two months ago and struck a chord. She put it quite beautifully: “I knew that if I were to stay with my ex I would need to forget this new guy. It was then I realised, that I did not want to forget him.”
I was sure that she and her ex would eventually marry, have kids and live happily ever after. But lo and behold, a knight in shining armour (or on a shining bicycle) cycled into her life two months ago and struck a chord. She put it quite beautifully: “I knew that if I were to stay with my ex I would need to forget this new guy. It was then I realised, that I did not want to forget him.”
Luxury of doing nothing
I am supposed to be finalising (or finally beginning would be more accurate) a ppt presentation of my diploma report, but today I gave in to the luxury of procrastination. My excuse was that my computer was in need of intense defragmentation, therefore I spent the afternoon pretending to read trashy girly novels whilst keeping half an eye on my lovable “hunk of junk”.
Vienna was beautiful, the coffee fantastic and the Sachertorte absolute luxury. Mum and I are equally immune to the “Japanese-tourist-syndrome” which means that we gave the typical Wiener schnitzel and other delicacies a miss (well, ok, besides the Sachertorte obviously) and instead gorged ourselves on sushi and imaginative breakfasts at weird hours (the bar at the MuMAK is highly recommendable).
Vienna was beautiful, the coffee fantastic and the Sachertorte absolute luxury. Mum and I are equally immune to the “Japanese-tourist-syndrome” which means that we gave the typical Wiener schnitzel and other delicacies a miss (well, ok, besides the Sachertorte obviously) and instead gorged ourselves on sushi and imaginative breakfasts at weird hours (the bar at the MuMAK is highly recommendable).
August 13, 2005
Darkness
To celebrate our 6th year anniversary I decided to test my boyfriend’s trust and lead him into darkness... which meant that I invited him to the Blinde Kuh. This restaurant (“blind cow”) is held in complete darkness (we’re talking pitch black) and staffed by blind waiters. To answer the inevitable question: no, the cooks are not blind and the food is pretty good.
On arrival we were asked to lock away all cell phones, watches, bracelets, jewelry, etc. anything that could or would give off light. The menu of the week was displayed on the wall in the foyer and we were told that we should choose beforehand to be able to place our order inside. After having mentally selected from the menu, we gave the sign that we were ready to enter the restaurant. Our waiter of the evening appeared and along with three other guests we formed a conga line. First he led us to a section which was slightly darker to let our eyes adjust, then, exited and not a little apprehensive, we were led into the pitch black. It was a weird feeling being unable to recognize anything at all, not even a shadow. We were led to our seats and when the waiter brought our order he told us exactly where he had put the drink / dish. I liked the way the waiter took his time to make sure that every guest was comfortable and reassured. At first I was quite alarmed, my heartbeat quickened and my breathing grew shallow. I do sometimes suffer from a slight claustrophobia. But having settled down and gotten used to the darkness, a strange sense of timelessness crept over me. I became very relaxed and still. It was as if a soft blanket was enveloping me, evoking a sense of safety and security. Not even the shrill voices of housewives discussing the sex life of a friend could disturb this lovely feeling. (I must admit, their conversation was at times quite amusing.) It is funny how darkness can make one lose one’s inhibitions. Dinner itself was quite good, but my table manners were completely lacking. I tried to eat with the cutlery, but gave up after deciding that finger food is by far my preferred mode of eating. All senses were sharpened and just touching the warm items was quite thrilling. Every sip I took and every bite I ate tickled my taste buds, making this an unforgettable culinary experience. When it came to dessert, I was just raring for a food fight. But reason triumphed over childishness and I ate my cinnamon ice-cream dutifully, savoring every little bit.
Relying on my hearing in the darkness, I could fully appreciate the beauty of Manuel’s voice. I have always been extremely sensitive about the sound of people’s voices and cannot stand shrillness. But I was glad to get out of the darkness after the meal. That was what made this experience so enjoyable, the knowledge that one’s time in darkness was limited and could be controlled at will. On the whole a highly recommendable experience for all looking for an extraordinary meal!
On arrival we were asked to lock away all cell phones, watches, bracelets, jewelry, etc. anything that could or would give off light. The menu of the week was displayed on the wall in the foyer and we were told that we should choose beforehand to be able to place our order inside. After having mentally selected from the menu, we gave the sign that we were ready to enter the restaurant. Our waiter of the evening appeared and along with three other guests we formed a conga line. First he led us to a section which was slightly darker to let our eyes adjust, then, exited and not a little apprehensive, we were led into the pitch black. It was a weird feeling being unable to recognize anything at all, not even a shadow. We were led to our seats and when the waiter brought our order he told us exactly where he had put the drink / dish. I liked the way the waiter took his time to make sure that every guest was comfortable and reassured. At first I was quite alarmed, my heartbeat quickened and my breathing grew shallow. I do sometimes suffer from a slight claustrophobia. But having settled down and gotten used to the darkness, a strange sense of timelessness crept over me. I became very relaxed and still. It was as if a soft blanket was enveloping me, evoking a sense of safety and security. Not even the shrill voices of housewives discussing the sex life of a friend could disturb this lovely feeling. (I must admit, their conversation was at times quite amusing.) It is funny how darkness can make one lose one’s inhibitions. Dinner itself was quite good, but my table manners were completely lacking. I tried to eat with the cutlery, but gave up after deciding that finger food is by far my preferred mode of eating. All senses were sharpened and just touching the warm items was quite thrilling. Every sip I took and every bite I ate tickled my taste buds, making this an unforgettable culinary experience. When it came to dessert, I was just raring for a food fight. But reason triumphed over childishness and I ate my cinnamon ice-cream dutifully, savoring every little bit.
Relying on my hearing in the darkness, I could fully appreciate the beauty of Manuel’s voice. I have always been extremely sensitive about the sound of people’s voices and cannot stand shrillness. But I was glad to get out of the darkness after the meal. That was what made this experience so enjoyable, the knowledge that one’s time in darkness was limited and could be controlled at will. On the whole a highly recommendable experience for all looking for an extraordinary meal!
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