A Mississippi News anchor recently claimed that the GLBTI ABC community have been "in the news too much lately" (Quoting from the Advocate's original article)
Now, admittedly, his statement was badly worded and the suggestion we should all just go on 'gaycation' comes across as highly offensive. And the community rightly pointed out that at the moment we're still not equal despite rapid changes so far.
Despite this, this hasn't brought out the best of our community. While most of the comments have pointed out the double standards in his commentary and have remained respectful both to him and to his right to freedom of speech, other comments on the Advocate's Facebook feed on this story have included such witty remarks as "idiot", "penis head", "go fuck himself", just to grab a few.
And very few, if any of these comments, have actually addressed the issue itself. Now, I admit, I come from a slightly outside point of view - I live in New Zealand and have, for all intents and purposes, full marriage equality under the Law. As mentioned in previous posts however, this doesn't necessarily mean that homophobia has been wiped out, the opposite is true. But the question remains - could too much coverage be a bad thing?
Honestly, I don't know. There is an argument that disproportiante coverage of the issue might do more damage than good to the case - perhaps this is what Mr. Elliot was alluding to (admittedly in a rather clumsy and badly worded way) - that it might turn those who might actually support our cause either off, or it will create a fatigue of the story which may do more harm than good.
But this question is not being asked, it's not being discussed - what's the best strategy for gaining equality for our brothers in the US of A? Can an argument be made that perhaps toning it down for a while to come back stronger and achieve better results be made?
Be keen to hear your thoughts...
Friday, March 28, 2014
Friday, February 14, 2014
The 'Homosexual Lifestyle'
Last night, I went for dinner at my partner's parents place. We had a lovely summery meal - lots of salads, corn on the cob, and a whole roast lamb cooked on the barbecue. The ever-gracious hostess had guests from the United States (Montana and Arizona, I believe), plus from the Wairarapa. We discussed travel, hunting, family, all the sort of things you'd discuss at a normal dinner party.
Then we caught the bus back into town. Now, I don't normally have a problem with public transport. But there's something... unnerving about an evening bus service on a Friday night. I feel uncomfortable - like if these young, slightly intoxicated passengers found out I was gay, i would be subject to taunting and even perhaps violence. Regardless of the truth of the nature - I'm sure most of the young people are friendly, accepting, modern young people - a gay man has to act as 'straight' as possible to avoid unknown threats. Now, anyone who knows me knows I'm not really that big a fan of public displays of affection, but still, it's uncomfortable thinking, 'what if they know? Am I giving off a gay vibe?'.
So it's within this context that I get genuinely disheartened when I read blog posts like Michelle Kaufman's "Big Gay Out: Politicians, children and human dignity?". For one, it feeds into this idea that being gay, being different is abnormal, that it's OK to discriminate against someone because they're different than you are. And it's this sort of discrimination and bigotry that makes people like me feel nervous when we're in unusual societal situations. And for those who may not yet fully understand their sexuality or have recently come out, reading comments like these from people who are supposed to love, support or represent them must be down right scary.
On top of this, the thing that Michelle doesn't seem to understand is that, just like there is no such thing as a specific Christian lifestyle, is that THERE IS NO SUCH THING IS A HOMOSEXUAL LIFESTYLE. While an event like Big Gay Out, Auckland Pride or pride events in general are great at increasing visibility for GLBTI issues in our society in general, no one event, no one organisation can claim to speak for all queer folk everywhere. Just like the Catholic Church, or Family Life International cannot claim to speak for all Christians everywhere.
There are so many different kinds of queer folk. Undoubtedly, there are GLBTI families who have decided not to go to these events because they're not ready yet to expose their children to sex education, just as much as there are families who do go. There are GLBTI individuals who choose not to go to these events because they don't, for whatever reason, feel events like these represent them.
When you have individuals railing against these sort of events, asking how politicians can 'endorse these behaviours', they are isolating the Christian communities from families who very well might share their beliefs - monogomy, marriage, raising children in a loving two-parent family, even faith and a belief in God. You are pushing them away from the flock.
We are a nation of individuals. GLBTI individuals and families are not only nothing to fear, but many simply wish to live in a very similar way to you - as a well-balanced, happy family, the basis of which is the same as many 'Christian value' families - love. When discriminatory, hateful rants like this are posted, you do more damage to your cause than good.
Then we caught the bus back into town. Now, I don't normally have a problem with public transport. But there's something... unnerving about an evening bus service on a Friday night. I feel uncomfortable - like if these young, slightly intoxicated passengers found out I was gay, i would be subject to taunting and even perhaps violence. Regardless of the truth of the nature - I'm sure most of the young people are friendly, accepting, modern young people - a gay man has to act as 'straight' as possible to avoid unknown threats. Now, anyone who knows me knows I'm not really that big a fan of public displays of affection, but still, it's uncomfortable thinking, 'what if they know? Am I giving off a gay vibe?'.
So it's within this context that I get genuinely disheartened when I read blog posts like Michelle Kaufman's "Big Gay Out: Politicians, children and human dignity?". For one, it feeds into this idea that being gay, being different is abnormal, that it's OK to discriminate against someone because they're different than you are. And it's this sort of discrimination and bigotry that makes people like me feel nervous when we're in unusual societal situations. And for those who may not yet fully understand their sexuality or have recently come out, reading comments like these from people who are supposed to love, support or represent them must be down right scary.
On top of this, the thing that Michelle doesn't seem to understand is that, just like there is no such thing as a specific Christian lifestyle, is that THERE IS NO SUCH THING IS A HOMOSEXUAL LIFESTYLE. While an event like Big Gay Out, Auckland Pride or pride events in general are great at increasing visibility for GLBTI issues in our society in general, no one event, no one organisation can claim to speak for all queer folk everywhere. Just like the Catholic Church, or Family Life International cannot claim to speak for all Christians everywhere.
There are so many different kinds of queer folk. Undoubtedly, there are GLBTI families who have decided not to go to these events because they're not ready yet to expose their children to sex education, just as much as there are families who do go. There are GLBTI individuals who choose not to go to these events because they don't, for whatever reason, feel events like these represent them.
When you have individuals railing against these sort of events, asking how politicians can 'endorse these behaviours', they are isolating the Christian communities from families who very well might share their beliefs - monogomy, marriage, raising children in a loving two-parent family, even faith and a belief in God. You are pushing them away from the flock.
We are a nation of individuals. GLBTI individuals and families are not only nothing to fear, but many simply wish to live in a very similar way to you - as a well-balanced, happy family, the basis of which is the same as many 'Christian value' families - love. When discriminatory, hateful rants like this are posted, you do more damage to your cause than good.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
On Gordon Copeland's Dominion Post op-ed
While sitting down and reading the Dominion Post this morning, I came across an opinion piece by Gordon Copeland - this can be read here.
Now, to start with, my opinions on the matter are pretty clear - I've already expressed them in a few previous blog posts (here's the most recent), but for some reason this particular piece really got to me.
First, the most obvious points that stand out.
For a start, as the article points out, there's something very hypocritical about Mr. Copeland making the argument that civil unions have the same rights as married couples when he voted against the Civil Union and Relationship Act he quotes in the article. Secondly, as he well mentions, the legislations aren't the same. The most obvious difference is the adoption rights. This gets to me - if there are children who don't have any parents, surely two people who love each other, regardless of gender, are better than having nobody?
Finally, and this to me seems the most obvious point - gay people cannot get married. Mr. Copeland makes the argument that they don't need to - that they have the same rights as heterosexual couples under the legislation. But to an extent, this still creates the idea of a second-class citizenry.
He makes several arguements on this - such as women's rights to vote, arguing that we didn't do this "by redefining men to include women", but this wasn't what the legislation was about - we instead opened the definition of 'voting citizen' to include women, not having separate titles, 'voting men' and 'voting women' and having different legislation for each of them.
And then he makes the argument that " that a marriage between a man and a woman is biologically different from a union between two women or two men". This argument falls short for a number of reasons - what about those unions that either choose to not or cannot have children? What about those civil unions that have children already, through children from prior marriages or invitro fertilisation and surrogacy (both of which are legal?).
On top of this, I believe that granting true equality in the law will help our society be more tolerant towards other people. While reporting can be difficult, especially when it comes to suicide in New Zealand, GLBTI students have more problems with bullying, are more likely to attempt suicide, and are more likely to take risks when it comes to sex (1). We need to be making societal change to make young GLBTI students feel safer, and starting at the top by doing as much as possible to legitimise these relationships, while not a solution, would be a step in the right direction.
At least in one point, Mr. Copeland and I agree. We both believe that marriage is an important cornerstone of our society, and that it is the best way to raise children. The difference is, while he sees no reason that same sex couples should be granted this right, I see no reason that it shouldn't.
(1) http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/2987987/Suicide-risk-for-gay-bisexual-youth
Now, to start with, my opinions on the matter are pretty clear - I've already expressed them in a few previous blog posts (here's the most recent), but for some reason this particular piece really got to me.
First, the most obvious points that stand out.
For a start, as the article points out, there's something very hypocritical about Mr. Copeland making the argument that civil unions have the same rights as married couples when he voted against the Civil Union and Relationship Act he quotes in the article. Secondly, as he well mentions, the legislations aren't the same. The most obvious difference is the adoption rights. This gets to me - if there are children who don't have any parents, surely two people who love each other, regardless of gender, are better than having nobody?
Finally, and this to me seems the most obvious point - gay people cannot get married. Mr. Copeland makes the argument that they don't need to - that they have the same rights as heterosexual couples under the legislation. But to an extent, this still creates the idea of a second-class citizenry.
He makes several arguements on this - such as women's rights to vote, arguing that we didn't do this "by redefining men to include women", but this wasn't what the legislation was about - we instead opened the definition of 'voting citizen' to include women, not having separate titles, 'voting men' and 'voting women' and having different legislation for each of them.
And then he makes the argument that " that a marriage between a man and a woman is biologically different from a union between two women or two men". This argument falls short for a number of reasons - what about those unions that either choose to not or cannot have children? What about those civil unions that have children already, through children from prior marriages or invitro fertilisation and surrogacy (both of which are legal?).
On top of this, I believe that granting true equality in the law will help our society be more tolerant towards other people. While reporting can be difficult, especially when it comes to suicide in New Zealand, GLBTI students have more problems with bullying, are more likely to attempt suicide, and are more likely to take risks when it comes to sex (1). We need to be making societal change to make young GLBTI students feel safer, and starting at the top by doing as much as possible to legitimise these relationships, while not a solution, would be a step in the right direction.
At least in one point, Mr. Copeland and I agree. We both believe that marriage is an important cornerstone of our society, and that it is the best way to raise children. The difference is, while he sees no reason that same sex couples should be granted this right, I see no reason that it shouldn't.
(1) http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/2987987/Suicide-risk-for-gay-bisexual-youth
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Jeanne Manford
A very quick post.
I consider myself extremely lucky. I live in a time and place where GLBTI people have a lot of rights and general protection under the law. I know that it's not perfect, that GLBTI citizens in Western civilisations still have a long way to go, but it's a lot better than it was 30 years ago.
GLBTI younger than 40 have a lot to thank for those who fought homophobia in law and society in the 70's and 80's. Jeanne Manford, the US founder of PFLAG is one of those who we owe a lot to.
The below video comes from MSNBC's Rachel Maddow Show. Worth a quick look at.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Home again, Home again
So, after over three months on the road, we've been back home in New Zealand for about two weeks.
We flew Singapore Airlines from Heathrow to Auckland with a two hour stop-over in Singapore. I must admit, I highly recommend flying Singapore. Great service, very friendly staff, and more gin and tonics and Singapore slings than perhaps were needed. We left Wednesday evening and arrived home Friday evening, so about 30 hours in transit.
It must be said, it's nice to come back to a New Zealand summer after a London winter - from single figure temperatures to high teens, sun shine and beaches. Still, there's something to be said for the crispness of a London winter's night, especially with the Christmas decorations up - walking through Hyde Park in the evenings heading to the Winter Wonderland, Regent and Oxford Street lights, the beauty of the watery light coming in through the empty branches of deciduous trees. Plus mulled wine and hearty English meals! Unfortunately we missed snow, but I'm sure there will be another chance.
I think there will be lots of things I'll miss about the other side of the world. The sheer magnificence of the world's great cities, the ease of getting about - staying in one city and then going for dinner in another - experiencing new cultures, new ways of doing things, and of course the cuisine!
Still, it will be nice to be home for Christmas. I've been swimming, caught up with family and friends, eaten BBQ...
Okay, in a lot of ways, New Zealand is not as first world as it likes to think it is. It's public transport is expensive and slow - no underground or light rail to speak of - it's infrastructure needs a lot of work, for a society that considers itself bicultural there are an awful lot of people who only speak one language and its media needs a good seeing-to.
Still, I went for a walk along Raumati Beach on Saturday night. The sky was hundreds of different shades of blue, the water clear, the sand clean and I didn't have to fight any crowds as there was hardly anyone there. And it's moments like that, of tranquility and peace, that make you realise that, for all its faults, for all its backwardness, New Zealanders are lucky to live in a particularly beautiful part of the world.
We'll go back... but we'll need to save a bit of $$ first.
Right... time to find a job and somewhere to live! Will keep y'all posted!
We flew Singapore Airlines from Heathrow to Auckland with a two hour stop-over in Singapore. I must admit, I highly recommend flying Singapore. Great service, very friendly staff, and more gin and tonics and Singapore slings than perhaps were needed. We left Wednesday evening and arrived home Friday evening, so about 30 hours in transit.
It must be said, it's nice to come back to a New Zealand summer after a London winter - from single figure temperatures to high teens, sun shine and beaches. Still, there's something to be said for the crispness of a London winter's night, especially with the Christmas decorations up - walking through Hyde Park in the evenings heading to the Winter Wonderland, Regent and Oxford Street lights, the beauty of the watery light coming in through the empty branches of deciduous trees. Plus mulled wine and hearty English meals! Unfortunately we missed snow, but I'm sure there will be another chance.
I think there will be lots of things I'll miss about the other side of the world. The sheer magnificence of the world's great cities, the ease of getting about - staying in one city and then going for dinner in another - experiencing new cultures, new ways of doing things, and of course the cuisine!
Still, it will be nice to be home for Christmas. I've been swimming, caught up with family and friends, eaten BBQ...
Okay, in a lot of ways, New Zealand is not as first world as it likes to think it is. It's public transport is expensive and slow - no underground or light rail to speak of - it's infrastructure needs a lot of work, for a society that considers itself bicultural there are an awful lot of people who only speak one language and its media needs a good seeing-to.
Still, I went for a walk along Raumati Beach on Saturday night. The sky was hundreds of different shades of blue, the water clear, the sand clean and I didn't have to fight any crowds as there was hardly anyone there. And it's moments like that, of tranquility and peace, that make you realise that, for all its faults, for all its backwardness, New Zealanders are lucky to live in a particularly beautiful part of the world.
We'll go back... but we'll need to save a bit of $$ first.
Right... time to find a job and somewhere to live! Will keep y'all posted!
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Bath - it's old school!
It aint warm over on this side of the channel.
It's kind of weird to have gone from, two or so weeks ago, temperatures in their high twenties, to now overnight lows of below zero. It's not necessarily a bad thing - there's something beautiful about a crisp autumn day; Big piles of leaves to kick, clear watery light coming in through the empty branches of the trees, and mulled wine.
Oh, and flooding.
We headed up to Bath to catch up with a friend and to have a look at the city. Even coming in by train, the water was everywhere, like riding a train over a huge lake, rather than a river.
Nonetheless, Bath is a truly beautiful city. We arrived in the middle of their Christmas Market, so we drank mulled wine and ate British pies (What, I hear you ask are British pies? Simple, they're pies made in Britain. Duh.) and did some shopping.
As you can see from the picture, it was an absolutely beautiful crisp autumn day.
Our lovely host made us a roast pork dinner that evening, which was lovely!
Day two we made a late start to the day and headed to the Roman Baths. Bath is a city that was built around service to these baths, so is a very old place. Unlike other Ancient Roman cities we've visited however, the whole city was essentially built over the top of the older city, so it's a mix of ancient and other times.
Still, the Baths are amazing. Naturally hot, steaming water in these Roman Ruins, plus the story of where all the water comes and goes. The ruins are quite well preserved and well researched, so you get a real idea of what the place used to be like.
After that, we had a walk through the Victorian Part of the city - Victoria Park and the Royal Crescent. Quite beautiful.
The last day we decided to head out of the city and, rather than be overly touristy and go see Stonehenge, we went and saw a henge that was made of stones. BAM!
Avebury is quite interesting - you get there by driving through this old English country side - thatched houses, cute brickwork stores, bricked in paddocks. Then you arrive at the stones themselves - huge circles of stone in large circles. Very interesting, and not as touristy and Stonehenge (apparently). Well worth the morning out of the city.
So yes, if you need a break from the Big City, I'd highly recommend a weekend away to Bath. Take a car, because touring around the countryside is also very interesting and cute as well.
It's kind of weird to have gone from, two or so weeks ago, temperatures in their high twenties, to now overnight lows of below zero. It's not necessarily a bad thing - there's something beautiful about a crisp autumn day; Big piles of leaves to kick, clear watery light coming in through the empty branches of the trees, and mulled wine.
Oh, and flooding.
We headed up to Bath to catch up with a friend and to have a look at the city. Even coming in by train, the water was everywhere, like riding a train over a huge lake, rather than a river.
 |
| The Abbey sits over the Christmas Market |
As you can see from the picture, it was an absolutely beautiful crisp autumn day.
Our lovely host made us a roast pork dinner that evening, which was lovely!
Day two we made a late start to the day and headed to the Roman Baths. Bath is a city that was built around service to these baths, so is a very old place. Unlike other Ancient Roman cities we've visited however, the whole city was essentially built over the top of the older city, so it's a mix of ancient and other times.
 |
| How the Romans did it! |
After that, we had a walk through the Victorian Part of the city - Victoria Park and the Royal Crescent. Quite beautiful.
The last day we decided to head out of the city and, rather than be overly touristy and go see Stonehenge, we went and saw a henge that was made of stones. BAM!
Avebury is quite interesting - you get there by driving through this old English country side - thatched houses, cute brickwork stores, bricked in paddocks. Then you arrive at the stones themselves - huge circles of stone in large circles. Very interesting, and not as touristy and Stonehenge (apparently). Well worth the morning out of the city.
 |
| Nick and Corry get Stoned! Hah! |
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Oh, I do like to be beside the Seaside...
After five days in London, we decided a seaside holiday might be nice!
In November.
In temperatures ranging between 5-10 degrees.
Ah, a beach holiday!
Anyway, we took the train from London to Brighton (helpful tip for new players, make sure you book online in advance, you can end up spending three times as much booking on the day as booking online) and were met at the other end by our lovely host Shannon who met us at the station with - get this - cocktails in takeaway coffee cups. Start as you intend to continue!
Then, after dropping our stuff off at the house and a quick dinner, we headed out to an quintessential British Experience - The Pub Quiz. We came fifth, but who cares, we had so much fun! And we met a few other locals who gave us their take on the city. Plus cider. There was cider.
So a quick tour of a couple of other local pubs (there may have been more to drink), we made our way back to the house.
First evening, a success!
The next day we made our way downtown to the Lanes. After a lovely brunch of Smoked Salmon Benedict and a soya mocha (yes, a real soya mocha! Sorry, it's been a while), we window shopped in all the cute little stores in the middle of town. Yes, I tried on a purple top hat. Sorry folks, had to be done.
Then we made our way down to Brighton Pier - it's kinda gray, depressing and plastic. But, as we are wont to do, we made the most of it. I tried to win a stuffed Dalek and failed. Brighton Beach is similar to Nice in that there's no sand, it's just pebbles. So it's not that great for just walking or sitting on. Plus it was raining and gray, so all in all...
After that, we made our way to the Royal Pavillion. We didn't go in, but had a good look around the outside as well as a look around the museum. It's an amazing building from the outside, with Indian style domes - very flamboyant.
After more coffee and chocolate, we had a quiet night in.
Day two started off with home made eggs benedict. While we were going to head outside of the city and see the Seven Sisters, it was too late by the time we got out of the city. So instead we just hung out at local places:
- We drunk mulled cider and ate chocolate guiness cake
- We had lunch in the gay district
- Then headed into the lanes and had delicious chocolate brownies
- And then Shannon cooked us home made Paella
- Before we went out for drinks in the Gay District again.
So yes, essentially a day of eating and drinking.
So Brighton was absolutely lovely. It's a funky city full of fun, hip people, amazing shops, great eatings and drinkings. I think it would be lovely to go back for a long weekend in a slightly warmer period.
Next stop - Bath.
In November.
In temperatures ranging between 5-10 degrees.
Ah, a beach holiday!
Anyway, we took the train from London to Brighton (helpful tip for new players, make sure you book online in advance, you can end up spending three times as much booking on the day as booking online) and were met at the other end by our lovely host Shannon who met us at the station with - get this - cocktails in takeaway coffee cups. Start as you intend to continue!
Then, after dropping our stuff off at the house and a quick dinner, we headed out to an quintessential British Experience - The Pub Quiz. We came fifth, but who cares, we had so much fun! And we met a few other locals who gave us their take on the city. Plus cider. There was cider.
So a quick tour of a couple of other local pubs (there may have been more to drink), we made our way back to the house.
First evening, a success!
The next day we made our way downtown to the Lanes. After a lovely brunch of Smoked Salmon Benedict and a soya mocha (yes, a real soya mocha! Sorry, it's been a while), we window shopped in all the cute little stores in the middle of town. Yes, I tried on a purple top hat. Sorry folks, had to be done.
Then we made our way down to Brighton Pier - it's kinda gray, depressing and plastic. But, as we are wont to do, we made the most of it. I tried to win a stuffed Dalek and failed. Brighton Beach is similar to Nice in that there's no sand, it's just pebbles. So it's not that great for just walking or sitting on. Plus it was raining and gray, so all in all...
After that, we made our way to the Royal Pavillion. We didn't go in, but had a good look around the outside as well as a look around the museum. It's an amazing building from the outside, with Indian style domes - very flamboyant.
After more coffee and chocolate, we had a quiet night in.
Day two started off with home made eggs benedict. While we were going to head outside of the city and see the Seven Sisters, it was too late by the time we got out of the city. So instead we just hung out at local places:
- We drunk mulled cider and ate chocolate guiness cake
- We had lunch in the gay district
- Then headed into the lanes and had delicious chocolate brownies
- And then Shannon cooked us home made Paella
- Before we went out for drinks in the Gay District again.
So yes, essentially a day of eating and drinking.
So Brighton was absolutely lovely. It's a funky city full of fun, hip people, amazing shops, great eatings and drinkings. I think it would be lovely to go back for a long weekend in a slightly warmer period.
Next stop - Bath.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Last Day in London
Our last day in London was one of those, "What haven't we seen, what's still be done?" days.
So we started off with a visit to Tate London (Or Tate 1.0 as I like to call it). Really not overly fascinating - it's free so that's all good, but if you only have time for one of the Tates, make it the modern. Perhaps by this time we were slightly over museums - it's a possibility.
More walking ensued - lunch followed by a visit to Hyde Park and a walk along the Serpentine. Then quickly swung by Royal Albert Hall and more wandering through Knightsbridge. Then off to the Saachi gallery to look around. This was much more interesting than the Tate. These I imagine are exhibitions which change on a regular basis. Slightly disturbing, but well worth it.
As always, the best part of any city is meeting up with locals and trying their recommendations - especially when it comes to food. So we had dinner with a couple of expat kiwis and had dinner at a really cool hamburger restaurant - if you go to London, I'd highly recommend Meat Liquour. Delicious things made of meat.
So, for all intents and purposes, that's London done and dusted for the time-being. We'll come back for a day or two soon, but for now we're complete.
London is an amazing city. I was expecting something dark and enclosed and bland. Instead, this is a city which mixes the old and the new - its history meets its modern role as a capital of Europe. I found the city to be colourful and vibrant - its bars and restaurants were great, its travel networks are efficient and easy to use. Like any big city, it can take a bit to get used to and figure out where you are, but that is something that comes with experience.
We'll definitely be back!
So we started off with a visit to Tate London (Or Tate 1.0 as I like to call it). Really not overly fascinating - it's free so that's all good, but if you only have time for one of the Tates, make it the modern. Perhaps by this time we were slightly over museums - it's a possibility.
More walking ensued - lunch followed by a visit to Hyde Park and a walk along the Serpentine. Then quickly swung by Royal Albert Hall and more wandering through Knightsbridge. Then off to the Saachi gallery to look around. This was much more interesting than the Tate. These I imagine are exhibitions which change on a regular basis. Slightly disturbing, but well worth it.
As always, the best part of any city is meeting up with locals and trying their recommendations - especially when it comes to food. So we had dinner with a couple of expat kiwis and had dinner at a really cool hamburger restaurant - if you go to London, I'd highly recommend Meat Liquour. Delicious things made of meat.
So, for all intents and purposes, that's London done and dusted for the time-being. We'll come back for a day or two soon, but for now we're complete.
London is an amazing city. I was expecting something dark and enclosed and bland. Instead, this is a city which mixes the old and the new - its history meets its modern role as a capital of Europe. I found the city to be colourful and vibrant - its bars and restaurants were great, its travel networks are efficient and easy to use. Like any big city, it can take a bit to get used to and figure out where you are, but that is something that comes with experience.
We'll definitely be back!
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| Buh-Bye! |
Sunday, November 18, 2012
A weekend in London
 |
| Dragon-ey Goodness at the Tower |
So glad we did! We spent about three hours looking around the
whole facility. An absolutely
fascinating piece of British history. If
you do decide to go, I’d highly recommend taking one of the Yeomen tours – for a
start, you’re able to get into the Chapel which you wouldn’t otherwise be able
to, also they provide some great stories and entertainment to go along with the
visit, and there’s no additional cost.
Then, after catching
up with a friend for a (very) late lunch, we took a stroll through Piccadilly
Circus, Trafalgar Square, Leister square etc.
I’d also highly recommend a quick tour around the National Portrait
Gallery – some very interesting takes on ‘portraits’, as well as some great
photography and painting.
Gay’d it up with
dinner and drinks in Soho to finish off the day – thoroughly enjoyable, very
vibrant and fun community.
Then ‘twas a weekend
of markets.
We started off on
Saturday morning by heading to the Barnes Market, this amazing little Farmers
Market that had a lot of delicious gourmet food. And a duck pond.
After that, we caught
a bus into town and headed to Notting Hill markets. This is a... well, to be honest, a market for
all sorts. We ordered ham and cheese
crepes, wandered down the packed streets peering into antique stores, food
markets, clothing booths... You name it, you could get it! Plus the Notting Hill Buzz is something else
altogether.
Then we took our first
double decker bus ride!!! We went from Notting
Hill to Knightsbridge and hit up Harrods.
This is an AMAZING store - we only hit the food halls and the gift shop, but even this is enough to make you drool.
After Harrods, we made our way up to the Victoria and Albert Museum and viewed the costume exhibit - this was sooo much fun! The Tim Burton Catwoman costume, the Batman outfit, the Ruby Slippers (Take two), just a really interesting insight into Hollywood. Very cool.
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| Brick Lane Markets |
Sunday started off with a visit to Brick Lane Market. Once you get past all the curry houses closest to the Subway, this is a fantastic way to kill some time on a Sunday afternoon. Very kitcsh, very cool, very alternative. We also found this old factory style building that had different food stalls with food from all around the world, so we enjoyed the most delicious Chinese dumplings on noodles. Absolutely fantastic.
Making our way back into town, we stopped for a quick coffee in SoHo and then made our way to the Natural History Museum (for those of you who are interested, you might want to have a quick look at maps to see how far this means we walked...). Nothing like dinosaurs to finish a day off.
Two more days left in London - my, we have packed in an awful lot of goodness over the last few days!
Friday, November 16, 2012
London, Part II
So, after a day of settling in and getting used to English again after three months on the Continent, we decided to start off with the tourist hot spots, so off to Westminster.
So when one arrives in the city and comes out of Waterloo Station and heads towards the river, the first impressive sight you really notice is the London Eye. Towering over it's surroundings, it looks exceptionally touristy and out of place... but we'll come back to that.
Next, we've crossed the Westminster Bridge and came up to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. All that's going through my head is the first two bars of "Rule Brittania!" Once again, one of those buildings that you've seen so many times in movies and TV, but there it is - in front of you for the first time.
Following that, we quickly headed up to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guards. While a little late, we were a little surprised to see them playing "Live and Let Die" and the Austin Powers Theme! Good to see them having a sense of humour - I half expected the Queen to come onto the Balcony and say, "We are not amused!"
The Palace itself is not super interesting - a large grey building, really, but the Changing of the Guard was a lot of fun. The bright costumes, the fun music, the pomp and ceremony of it all, the police on horse back, would love to go see it again at some point. By the time we got there we didn't have a great viewpoint, so will definitely get there early next time (trip for other travellers!)
Then a wander down Pall Mall, past Trafalgar Square and down to the London Eye again. This time we took it for a spin (hah! Dad Joke!).
Yes, it's expensive and touristy, but it's also a great way to get some perspective on the city which can prove difficult initially. And the views are great, with the touch screen providing interesting history behind the different buildings.
From the Eye we made our way along South Bank where they were setting up for the Christmas Market. We passed the Globe Theatre and walked up the Thames up to the Tower Bridge. Stunning. Then, after a quick visit to the Tower (we didn't go in this time), we walked back along the river to the Tate Modern.
Tate Modern is an interesting buiding. A converted power plant made into a modern art gallery, it has some stunning spaces. We managed to catch a very interesting temporary exhibition on William Klein. Absolutely fascinating.
So another busy day, and then back to the suburbs for the night.
Plenty more London to come!
So when one arrives in the city and comes out of Waterloo Station and heads towards the river, the first impressive sight you really notice is the London Eye. Towering over it's surroundings, it looks exceptionally touristy and out of place... but we'll come back to that.
Next, we've crossed the Westminster Bridge and came up to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. All that's going through my head is the first two bars of "Rule Brittania!" Once again, one of those buildings that you've seen so many times in movies and TV, but there it is - in front of you for the first time.
Following that, we quickly headed up to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guards. While a little late, we were a little surprised to see them playing "Live and Let Die" and the Austin Powers Theme! Good to see them having a sense of humour - I half expected the Queen to come onto the Balcony and say, "We are not amused!"
The Palace itself is not super interesting - a large grey building, really, but the Changing of the Guard was a lot of fun. The bright costumes, the fun music, the pomp and ceremony of it all, the police on horse back, would love to go see it again at some point. By the time we got there we didn't have a great viewpoint, so will definitely get there early next time (trip for other travellers!)
Then a wander down Pall Mall, past Trafalgar Square and down to the London Eye again. This time we took it for a spin (hah! Dad Joke!).
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| From atop the Eye |
From the Eye we made our way along South Bank where they were setting up for the Christmas Market. We passed the Globe Theatre and walked up the Thames up to the Tower Bridge. Stunning. Then, after a quick visit to the Tower (we didn't go in this time), we walked back along the river to the Tate Modern.
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| Tower Bridge! |
So another busy day, and then back to the suburbs for the night.
Plenty more London to come!
Thursday, November 15, 2012
London, Baby!
Gotta love those trains.
11:00am, standing in Paris' Gare du Nord.
12:30pm, standing in London's St Pancras.
No two hour check in, no long drive to the airport. Boarding half an hour before leaving, and straight off. Not even a passport check on the other side.
Trains are the way to go, folks!
On top of that, after leaving a rather gray and grizzly Paris, we arrived on a rather beautiful London day. Not warm per se, but beautifully crisp and clear. So we spent the first afternoon looking around Euston.
After quickly getting our bearings we started off by visiting the London Library, where they have the Magna Carta on display, as well as several other important treasures of the UK. Very cool to see Beethoven's tuning fork and one of Shakespeare's folios.
Then, after that, a trip to the British Museum. Following the Shakespeare theme through a little further, they had an exhibition about the Bard and London around his time. Very fascinating to put his works into context.
Oh - also the Rosetta Stone and some ancient Egyptian-ey and Greek-ey goodness. But we've seen all that before! :)
Then a quick dinner in town, and off to our friend's place to get a good night's sleep.
Further days to come soon, but am very much liking these towns so far.
11:00am, standing in Paris' Gare du Nord.
12:30pm, standing in London's St Pancras.
No two hour check in, no long drive to the airport. Boarding half an hour before leaving, and straight off. Not even a passport check on the other side.
Trains are the way to go, folks!
On top of that, after leaving a rather gray and grizzly Paris, we arrived on a rather beautiful London day. Not warm per se, but beautifully crisp and clear. So we spent the first afternoon looking around Euston.
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| At the British Museum! |
Then, after that, a trip to the British Museum. Following the Shakespeare theme through a little further, they had an exhibition about the Bard and London around his time. Very fascinating to put his works into context.
Oh - also the Rosetta Stone and some ancient Egyptian-ey and Greek-ey goodness. But we've seen all that before! :)
Then a quick dinner in town, and off to our friend's place to get a good night's sleep.
Further days to come soon, but am very much liking these towns so far.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
DISNEYLAND!!!! (Oh, and Versailles)
When one is going to the Happiest Place on... well, in Europe, one might get a little excited. Even if one is in one's thirties.
So we got up and had breakfast. After having a bit of a kerfuffle with how to get there and how to buy tickets, we finally arrived at Disneyland Paris at about 11:30.
DISNEYLAND!!! (Paris).
Okay, I'm in my 30's. I'm a mature, responsible adult. But I really didn't care! I was grinning from ear to ear, squee-ing with the best of them in sheer childhood joy. We did all the standard stuff - Space Mountain, Indiana Jones, Thunder Mountain, Pirates of the Carribean, plus a whole lot of little, fun stuff - Buzz Light Year, It's a small World...
And then at the end of the day, they lit up Sleeping Beauty's Castle with an amazing light show - fire works, flame balls, water projection. Absolutely a stunning way to finish a great day.
Such fun!
So, after a great day at Disneyland, the following day we spent at Versailles. It's an absolutely amazing palace set in what has to be one of the largest gardens that I have ever seen in my life. From the Hall of Mirrors to the King's bed chambers, the absolute majesty and sheer luxury of the facilities is overwhelming. And this is after a lot of the furnishings were destroyed or given to the people after the Revolution.
You can understand why the populace was getting disillusioned with the Monarchy when they were living in such unadulterated wealth and they were living in such squalor.
Still, an amazing experience and I'd highly recommend anyone having a look around should they head to Paris - well worth a day trip out of the city.
So... for now we say goodbye to Continental Europe - next step, ol' London Town.
So we got up and had breakfast. After having a bit of a kerfuffle with how to get there and how to buy tickets, we finally arrived at Disneyland Paris at about 11:30.
DISNEYLAND!!! (Paris).
Okay, I'm in my 30's. I'm a mature, responsible adult. But I really didn't care! I was grinning from ear to ear, squee-ing with the best of them in sheer childhood joy. We did all the standard stuff - Space Mountain, Indiana Jones, Thunder Mountain, Pirates of the Carribean, plus a whole lot of little, fun stuff - Buzz Light Year, It's a small World...
And then at the end of the day, they lit up Sleeping Beauty's Castle with an amazing light show - fire works, flame balls, water projection. Absolutely a stunning way to finish a great day.
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| Me about to go SQUEEE!! |
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| Star Wars! |
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| Who's cuter? |
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| Pretty pink castle! |
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| O-arrgh! Pirates! |
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| Had to be done... |
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| Bye-Bye Disneyland, you were AWESOME!!! |
So, after a great day at Disneyland, the following day we spent at Versailles. It's an absolutely amazing palace set in what has to be one of the largest gardens that I have ever seen in my life. From the Hall of Mirrors to the King's bed chambers, the absolute majesty and sheer luxury of the facilities is overwhelming. And this is after a lot of the furnishings were destroyed or given to the people after the Revolution.
You can understand why the populace was getting disillusioned with the Monarchy when they were living in such unadulterated wealth and they were living in such squalor.
Still, an amazing experience and I'd highly recommend anyone having a look around should they head to Paris - well worth a day trip out of the city.
So... for now we say goodbye to Continental Europe - next step, ol' London Town.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Paris, Part Deux
It was Nick's birthday wish to be in Paris for his birthday. And of course, who am I to possibly object?
So we arrived in Paris on Saturday evening and, after settling ourselves settled in and having a good night's sleep, we decided on Sunday to tourist the crap of out this city.
We started off with a walk from the Louvre, down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. On the way, we stopped off on the way to visit the Musee d'Orangerie (which had a rather lovely impressionist exhibition), the Grand Palais (currently exhibiting two very intriguing exhibitions - Boheme about the development of the French Bohemiem culture out of its gypsy roots, and also an extensive exhibition of Hopper's work, including the famous Nighthawks), and saw the end of the Armistice Day Parade (Sunday being 11/11).
At the end we arrived at the Arc du Triomphe. I think it's still going to be a while before one gets over the fact that one is in the prescence of these objects of cultural, political and popular history. Still, rather magnifcent and great just to be there.
So, afterwards we headed away down towards the Eiffel Tower (It's still there, you'll all be pleased to know). There was an exhibition of the Berlin Bears (2.5m tall painted bears - there was one to represent all the nations of the world), which was lovely. And of course, it being Nick's birthday, we celebrated by having a picnic in the surrounding gardens. Nick ate cake under the tower itself.
So, after our picnic lunch, we headed up to Montmartre to explore the area. This is (apart from the EXTREME red light district) a very interesting part of the city (Yes, we saw the Moulin Rouge) - in between the flat and the Cathedral there are some lovely squares and interesting little side streets with great little boutique stores, cafes, bars.
So a busy day!
Day two and three - well, this has been a pretty long post in itself, I'll post the other two shortly.
So we arrived in Paris on Saturday evening and, after settling ourselves settled in and having a good night's sleep, we decided on Sunday to tourist the crap of out this city.
We started off with a walk from the Louvre, down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. On the way, we stopped off on the way to visit the Musee d'Orangerie (which had a rather lovely impressionist exhibition), the Grand Palais (currently exhibiting two very intriguing exhibitions - Boheme about the development of the French Bohemiem culture out of its gypsy roots, and also an extensive exhibition of Hopper's work, including the famous Nighthawks), and saw the end of the Armistice Day Parade (Sunday being 11/11).
At the end we arrived at the Arc du Triomphe. I think it's still going to be a while before one gets over the fact that one is in the prescence of these objects of cultural, political and popular history. Still, rather magnifcent and great just to be there.
So, afterwards we headed away down towards the Eiffel Tower (It's still there, you'll all be pleased to know). There was an exhibition of the Berlin Bears (2.5m tall painted bears - there was one to represent all the nations of the world), which was lovely. And of course, it being Nick's birthday, we celebrated by having a picnic in the surrounding gardens. Nick ate cake under the tower itself.
So, after our picnic lunch, we headed up to Montmartre to explore the area. This is (apart from the EXTREME red light district) a very interesting part of the city (Yes, we saw the Moulin Rouge) - in between the flat and the Cathedral there are some lovely squares and interesting little side streets with great little boutique stores, cafes, bars.
So a busy day!
Day two and three - well, this has been a pretty long post in itself, I'll post the other two shortly.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
A rather lovely side step
After Luxembourg, we had to decide where to for a few days? We thought maybe Rheims, but without a car we'd probably just be bussing around all day, plus we can always buy Champagne anywhere. Tours was an option, but it turned out to be very expensive.
So, quickly crowd sourcing the options, we decided on a few days in Lille.
We were a little concerned in the approach - it appeared to be more of a transport hub than a destination, and it has more of an industrial history. However we were pleasantly surprised. From the moment you leave the station, you see amazing sculptural art work on the streets, which are clean and fresh, especially in the autumn crispness.
We were lucky enough to arrive in the middle of their arts fest - Fantastic - so there were a lot of great things to see. We managed to go and see quite a few art galleries - Tripostal, the Palais des Beaux Arts, the Maison Folies, the Musee de Hospice Comtesse, all with some absolutely fantastic works. If you can get to this city before February, I'd higly recommend popping by. Plus they have some impressive art work on display just around the streets.
On top of this, we had some really delicious food, and the old town was truly spectacular - an interesting mix of modern and ancient. I'd also highly recommend this small city for shopping - it has some great little boutique stores. It's an easy place to get to - an hour outside of Paris by train on the TGV.
So yes, highly recommend a stop in Lovely Lille.
So, quickly crowd sourcing the options, we decided on a few days in Lille.
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| The beautiful city of Lille |
We were lucky enough to arrive in the middle of their arts fest - Fantastic - so there were a lot of great things to see. We managed to go and see quite a few art galleries - Tripostal, the Palais des Beaux Arts, the Maison Folies, the Musee de Hospice Comtesse, all with some absolutely fantastic works. If you can get to this city before February, I'd higly recommend popping by. Plus they have some impressive art work on display just around the streets.
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| Yes, that is an upside down house. |
So yes, highly recommend a stop in Lovely Lille.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Luxembourg
We decided to add another country under our belt, so have left France for a couple of days and crossed the border into Luxembourg. We didn't spend particularly long in this country - we based ourselves in Luxembourg.
Quite a small country - about 1% the size of New Zealand land wise, and about 10% of the population. Yet it is incredibly wealthy - it is one of the banking capitals of the world, and thousands of Europeans come in every day to work in the city from France, Germany and Belgium. And being wealthy it is very expensive - it was cheaper for us to drive to Germany and have dinner there one night (in a lovely little town called Trier where we went to a Schnizel restaurant: Nick had Schnizel, I had goose for the first time! Delish, served with roasted chestnuts, potato dumplings and red cabbage!)
Anyway, back to Luxembourg. It's a city that is built around a set of canyons which provide natural defences for the city, which its human inhabitants have then made excellent use of, digging into the stone work. Unfortunately with the weather now getting colder, these were closed to the public, but still the cliffs provide amazing views, and it's great to walk through the canyons with the bridges above you and the canyon walls running up.
Probably worth a couple of days exploring - at this time of year, like lots of places we've visited, it's stunning with the Autumn leaf colouring, but you do have to be careful, it can be rather cold and gray. Although we were lucky.
Back into France again next!
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| Pretty canyons |
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| Nick's dinner - old school schnizel |
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| And mine - roast goose! |
Probably worth a couple of days exploring - at this time of year, like lots of places we've visited, it's stunning with the Autumn leaf colouring, but you do have to be careful, it can be rather cold and gray. Although we were lucky.
Back into France again next!
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Strasbourg
The hotel room has a slight wet dog smell.
We got caught in the rain as we went out for dinner this evening. And wearing a woolen coat and hat, it has a slight... whiff now that it's sitting and drying. But all considered, if that's the worst thing that happens to us in Strasbourg, we'll still have had a wonderful time.
This is an amazing place. On the border between Germany and France, this place has changed hands several times, so is a very interesting mix of German and French influence. Honestly, the best way I can think of describing it is like something out of an old-school Disney film!
Oh, and the food, the food! We have eaten so many delicious things over the last three days! Spetzel, tarte flambee, cockerel, duck, savoury crepes, vin chaud (mulled wine) ... absolutely stunning!
We've walked along rivers, visited the cathedral (which is pretty cool), gone up to the EU buildings, admired Petite France and the falling autumn leaves, eaten gingerbread, walked across historic bridges, saw... something related to a beaver or otter in the river, all in all just had a wonderful time.
We got caught in the rain as we went out for dinner this evening. And wearing a woolen coat and hat, it has a slight... whiff now that it's sitting and drying. But all considered, if that's the worst thing that happens to us in Strasbourg, we'll still have had a wonderful time.
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| So very pretty! |
Oh, and the food, the food! We have eaten so many delicious things over the last three days! Spetzel, tarte flambee, cockerel, duck, savoury crepes, vin chaud (mulled wine) ... absolutely stunning!
We've walked along rivers, visited the cathedral (which is pretty cool), gone up to the EU buildings, admired Petite France and the falling autumn leaves, eaten gingerbread, walked across historic bridges, saw... something related to a beaver or otter in the river, all in all just had a wonderful time.
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| Such pretty houses! |
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Lyon
I've got to admit, in some respects, I prefer France's Second City to Paris. Lyon is fresher, cleaner, less claustrophobic than its bigger sister to the North. Still, I have a lot of both cities to explore, but so far Lyon has come off on top.
We started on the first day doing some shopping, Nick and I both need new winter coats, and the temperature is beginning to dip a li'l, and so we now both look a little sharper!
After that, we did some exploring of the old town (Vieux Lyon), and had some lunch in a lovely little bakery. Vieux Lyon is lovely, with old buildings, cobbled streets and hidden passageways that make their way between buildings.
After lunch, we headed up to the Basilica with views out over the city. The area has lovely views out over the whole city, and next door stands a miniature Eiffel Tower! Hilarious. After that, we made our way back down hill via the Roman Ruins. Lyon is built around the old Gaul-Roman city of Lugdunum, and the ruins are pretty wonderful, and surprisingly well preserved in comparison to those in Rome.
Then a wander around the old Silk Making district, and back to the Old Town for dinner.
Day Two started with brunch in old town - delicious quiches finished off with a local speciality, praline tarts. After lunch, we took a leisurely walk up to the Parc Tete D'Or, a beautiful park in the northern end of the city, made even more beautiful by the falling leaves and the autumn colours. A visit through the zoo, then back into town.
So in conclusion, if you make your way to France, I would highly recommend a few days spent in Lyon. It's a lovely change of pace from other areas we've visited - no vast wealth like the Riviera, and not as busy as Paris, but still with its own personality and beauty.
We started on the first day doing some shopping, Nick and I both need new winter coats, and the temperature is beginning to dip a li'l, and so we now both look a little sharper!
After that, we did some exploring of the old town (Vieux Lyon), and had some lunch in a lovely little bakery. Vieux Lyon is lovely, with old buildings, cobbled streets and hidden passageways that make their way between buildings.
After lunch, we headed up to the Basilica with views out over the city. The area has lovely views out over the whole city, and next door stands a miniature Eiffel Tower! Hilarious. After that, we made our way back down hill via the Roman Ruins. Lyon is built around the old Gaul-Roman city of Lugdunum, and the ruins are pretty wonderful, and surprisingly well preserved in comparison to those in Rome.
Then a wander around the old Silk Making district, and back to the Old Town for dinner.
Day Two started with brunch in old town - delicious quiches finished off with a local speciality, praline tarts. After lunch, we took a leisurely walk up to the Parc Tete D'Or, a beautiful park in the northern end of the city, made even more beautiful by the falling leaves and the autumn colours. A visit through the zoo, then back into town.
So in conclusion, if you make your way to France, I would highly recommend a few days spent in Lyon. It's a lovely change of pace from other areas we've visited - no vast wealth like the Riviera, and not as busy as Paris, but still with its own personality and beauty.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Nice and Monaco
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| Last days of warm weather... |
Nice is nice. I know it's cliche, but there's really no other word to describe it. The sun was shining, the beaches were beautiful, the people were super friendly and the streets were clean and fresh.
The old town district of the City is buzzing and alive with locals and tourists mixing together amongst beautiful architecture, and the newer areas of town are open and clear. Set in between the beach and the mountains, it was a great way to just relax - there's very little to do apart from just chill out and enjoy the weather. It's October, and we're still getting days with highs in their 20's - this kind of good luck can't carry on forever, so we'll enjoy it while it lasts!
However while there we decided to head off to Monaco one day just to have a look around. This little principality is absolutely amazing!
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| Super yacht much? |
Then we decided to indulge our rich Nick and Corry fantasies, and headed into Monte Carlo. The Casino is fantastic - such incredible wealth! Just seeing all the Maseratis, Lamborghinis and Porches! Fantastic. And the casino itself, wow! So much money has been invested in this area, it's overwhelming.
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| Me with the Monte Carlo casino in the background |
Next stop - Lyon.
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