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more whiskey...
hand knotted bow tie
books, pipe, whiskey
King of Pop
sports
American style breakfast
moolah, dinero, geld aka money honey!
crunchy, buttery salted popcorn
Wabash
beach
more sports....
good health & strong muscles
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Monday, December 24, 2012
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Tanz Der Vampire is playing in Berlin at Stage Theater Des Westens in Charlottenburg. I'm not big on musicals but three things finally peaked my curiosity for wanting to see this show:
Tanz Der Vampire is playing in Berlin at Stage Theater Des Westens in Charlottenburg. I'm not big on musicals but three things finally peaked my curiosity for wanting to see this show:
- A buddy performs in it
- It's a musical remake of Roman Polanski's film, Dance of the Vampires
- It's the most successful German-language music -- ever
The set design changing from the foot of the moutain to the Vampire's mansion high atop it and several rooms within and back outside in the barren snow field is exciting to watch. The only downside to this production was the immensely loud orchestra which much of the time drowned out the actors.
As for the theatre, Des Westens is a veritable institution with remarkable eclectic architecture that's housed such legendary performers as Josephine Baker, Marlene Dietrich, and, since the '60s, musicals among other cast performances. The inside looks every bit old world charm with red plush carpeting and drapery, chandeliers suspended from high ceilings, polished brass railings, and masks and motifs carved around the high looking-glasses and pillars.
by the second half (and after an espresso!) the story took off and the campiness grew on me
And, for once, the German audience actually reacted enthusiastically after each number even - amazingly! - giving a standing ovation at the end! I could barely believe my eyes and ears, y'all.
As for the theatre, Des Westens is a veritable institution with remarkable eclectic architecture that's housed such legendary performers as Josephine Baker, Marlene Dietrich, and, since the '60s, musicals among other cast performances. The inside looks every bit old world charm with red plush carpeting and drapery, chandeliers suspended from high ceilings, polished brass railings, and masks and motifs carved around the high looking-glasses and pillars. 
Friday, December 21, 2012
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Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour by Cirque du Soleil came to Berlin on December 19 & 20th. I went to see it last night and, man, the O2 World Stadium's seating capacity of 12,000 was packed! Stands to reason: the travelling show typically runs only two nights per city -- and I got my ticket two months ago!
I was on the supposedly more exclusive ground level but, truth be told, it was hard to see (over people's heads) the whole stage so, ex priori, bleacher seats would've been better. But the show was nothing short of a spectacular.
The Berlin audience - as is typical - seemed to sit on their hands for most of the production; allowing themselves to give polite applause after each number rather the raucous cheering you'd hear at a soccer match -- and which these talented performers greatly warranted. But that all changed when, near the show's finale, the percussion dominated "They Don't Really Care About Us" was marshaled out to a military arrangement with ominous futuristic foot soldiers in gleaming black armor. At that the Germans didn't need any prompting to stand and clap along -- and they kept beat, too! I kid you not.
I love Michael Jackson music; and I am so thankful to have managed a ticket to see this jaw-dropping tribute to this century's greatest entertainer.
post scriptum: I respected the show's policy; the first pic was snapped before the production began.
I was on the supposedly more exclusive ground level but, truth be told, it was hard to see (over people's heads) the whole stage so, ex priori, bleacher seats would've been better. But the show was nothing short of a spectacular.
acrobats and contortionists, and dance numbers rivaled the lighting and video effectsAmazing transitions from one pop hit to the next with tunes ranging from The Jackson 5 to "Blood On the Dance Floor" and, of course, it wouldn't be a Cirque du Soleil production sans fantastic impossible costumes, soaring, flipping, twisting acrobats and contortionists, and dance numbers that rivaled the lighting and video effects.
The Berlin audience - as is typical - seemed to sit on their hands for most of the production; allowing themselves to give polite applause after each number rather the raucous cheering you'd hear at a soccer match -- and which these talented performers greatly warranted. But that all changed when, near the show's finale, the percussion dominated "They Don't Really Care About Us" was marshaled out to a military arrangement with ominous futuristic foot soldiers in gleaming black armor. At that the Germans didn't need any prompting to stand and clap along -- and they kept beat, too! I kid you not.
I love Michael Jackson music; and I am so thankful to have managed a ticket to see this jaw-dropping tribute to this century's greatest entertainer.
post scriptum: I respected the show's policy; the first pic was snapped before the production began.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
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As the year ends I'd like to share about a very historical event celebrated in 2012: the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
Since I was already in the UK this spring I wanted very much to be in London for the official Diamond Jubilee celebrations. I took the bus down from Edinburgh that weekend. The first day was awash with miserable rainy weather but that did not stop crowds from packing along the River Thames to watch the parades of sea vessels, hoping to see the Royal Family. Twice I almost caved in - I loath crowds...and standing in the cold rain - but, in the end, stuck it out and eventually got a glimpse of the Queen! No, not Elton John. The real deal. Didn't know it, though, until I got back to the hotel room and watched the rest via television coverage. I was just stoked to have made out some tiny figure on the distant royal barge; but the pink silhouette turned out to have been her. So I didn't get soaking wet for nothing. And the old girl stood the whole time!
It was wonderful seeing all the streets and show windows bedecked for the occasion. Visitors came from all over the world and the British people were nice and understanding of the extra tourism. (Had to get used to it, really, as the Summer Olympics were just weeks away.) Pomp and pageantry tends to bring out people's best behaviours....
While in London I took a spin on the Eye and a train ride up to visit Oxford - for the second time - and toured the Duke of Marlborough castle. Talk about living large! The "house" seemed as vast as the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry and then there were the grounds and gardens which rolled out neat and green as far as I could see. Whew! Must be nice.
As the year ends I'd like to share about a very historical event celebrated in 2012: the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
Since I was already in the UK this spring I wanted very much to be in London for the official Diamond Jubilee celebrations. I took the bus down from Edinburgh that weekend. The first day was awash with miserable rainy weather but that did not stop crowds from packing along the River Thames to watch the parades of sea vessels, hoping to see the Royal Family. Twice I almost caved in - I loath crowds...and standing in the cold rain - but, in the end, stuck it out and eventually got a glimpse of the Queen! No, not Elton John. The real deal. Didn't know it, though, until I got back to the hotel room and watched the rest via television coverage. I was just stoked to have made out some tiny figure on the distant royal barge; but the pink silhouette turned out to have been her. So I didn't get soaking wet for nothing. And the old girl stood the whole time!Visitors came from all over the world and the British people were nice and understanding of the extra tourism
It was wonderful seeing all the streets and show windows bedecked for the occasion. Visitors came from all over the world and the British people were nice and understanding of the extra tourism. (Had to get used to it, really, as the Summer Olympics were just weeks away.) Pomp and pageantry tends to bring out people's best behaviours....
While in London I took a spin on the Eye and a train ride up to visit Oxford - for the second time - and toured the Duke of Marlborough castle. Talk about living large! The "house" seemed as vast as the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry and then there were the grounds and gardens which rolled out neat and green as far as I could see. Whew! Must be nice.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
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A hippyish hostel reminiscent of burgeoning internationalism in the immediate wake of the Berlin Wall osmosis. But, then again, "dated" has its appeal. Sunflower Hostel lies on a long stretch of residential street that is otherwise empty. It is pretty much a stone's throw from the Warshauer train station (near the O2 Stadium) and you know you've arrived when you spot the giant metal sunflower blooming from the front of the building. Inside, an eclectic - or typically Berlin - decor of psychedelic murals and plush toys epoxied to all sides of walls; purple cows hang from the ceiling! Staff are tight-knit and, oh what's the word, organic. You know, caravan clothes probably fashioned from hemp, Rastafarian dreadlocks, tattoos, females with unshaven armpits and, very probably protest nuclear energy on their off days. But nice. Male employees were nicer than their female counterparts.
The hostel offers wi-fi, bed linen, a huge luggage storage - all FREE! - a licensed bar and coin laundry. The all-you-can-eat breakfast for 3 euros is worth taking advantage of; a buffet of fresh seasonal fruits (apples, plums, pears, etc) salami, cheese, rolls, cereal and milk, tea and coffee.
I'm definitely not of the hippy mold but Sunflower Hostel is still groovy by me.
A hippyish hostel reminiscent of burgeoning internationalism in the immediate wake of the Berlin Wall osmosis. But, then again, "dated" has its appeal. Sunflower Hostel lies on a long stretch of residential street that is otherwise empty. It is pretty much a stone's throw from the Warshauer train station (near the O2 Stadium) and you know you've arrived when you spot the giant metal sunflower blooming from the front of the building. Inside, an eclectic - or typically Berlin - decor of psychedelic murals and plush toys epoxied to all sides of walls; purple cows hang from the ceiling! Staff are tight-knit and, oh what's the word, organic. You know, caravan clothes probably fashioned from hemp, Rastafarian dreadlocks, tattoos, females with unshaven armpits and, very probably protest nuclear energy on their off days. But nice. Male employees were nicer than their female counterparts.
arrogant French couple inconsiderately commenced copulatingI frequently stay here owing to their low - and upfront - rates, comfortable surroundings and, at the risk of sounding corny, memorable short-term friendships. One winter I lodged as a long-term guest in a shared room of 8 beds. Luckily the roommates were sociable and pleasant which made the stay not an insufferable or trying experience -- except for the time this arrogant French couple inconsiderately commenced copulating and had the gall to hate us for being disturbed by it. Frogs! Otherwise it was all civilized and sunflowery.
I'm definitely not of the hippy mold but Sunflower Hostel is still groovy by me.
Sunflower Hostel Berlin
Helsingforser Str. 17
10243 Berlin
Helsingforser Str. 17
10243 Berlin
E-Mail: hostel(at)sunflower-hostel.de
Tel: +49 – (0)30 – 440 44 250 Sunday, December 16, 2012
Friday, December 14, 2012
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I chose Blue Sky on three consecutive weekends due to the weekend price hikes in Edinburgh. Plus I wanted to check out Glasgow. The dorm rates were a simple 10 euros (by the third visit the price had went up to 11 euros). I had no problem making a reservation over the telephone and its location is not so difficult to find from the Buchannon bus station although it would be a bit more helpful to list their proximity to the Mitchell Library. All in all it comprised about a good twenty minute walk.
The facilities are not bad. There is a community kitchen on the ground floor and free wi-fi downstairs -- if your laptop corresponds to a certain bandwidth or something. Mine didn't. The owner knew of this problem from previous American guests but nonetheless was inconsistent in fixing the set-up. That was just one thing that irked me about Blue Sky Hostel.
On one of the wall murals was the word "Nigga" distinctly written in marker...and, no, it was not in homage to my book. The owner's reaction was indifferent. "Oh," he shrugged, "these #%@! people write so much #%@! on my #%@! walls, man." Really? I didn't see Canada Sucks scribbled anywhere.
65 Berkeley Street
www.blueskyhostel.com
(Same owners of West End Backpackers Hostel on 3 Bank Street)
I chose Blue Sky on three consecutive weekends due to the weekend price hikes in Edinburgh. Plus I wanted to check out Glasgow. The dorm rates were a simple 10 euros (by the third visit the price had went up to 11 euros). I had no problem making a reservation over the telephone and its location is not so difficult to find from the Buchannon bus station although it would be a bit more helpful to list their proximity to the Mitchell Library. All in all it comprised about a good twenty minute walk.
The facilities are not bad. There is a community kitchen on the ground floor and free wi-fi downstairs -- if your laptop corresponds to a certain bandwidth or something. Mine didn't. The owner knew of this problem from previous American guests but nonetheless was inconsistent in fixing the set-up. That was just one thing that irked me about Blue Sky Hostel.
the owner is a skinny caricature of an '80s punk rocker with foul-mouth and smokes like a chimney!I found this place to be terribly familiar; as in informal and crass. Owned and operated by a Canadian (and his dear old mother) - it took me a while to understand why I found their accents so unnerving - the hostel is run more like his personal frat house or school project. A skinny caricature of an '80s punk rocker, the man is loud, foul-mouthed and rarely shuts the hell up; and smokes like a chimney!
On one of the wall murals was the word "Nigga" distinctly written in marker...and, no, it was not in homage to my book. The owner's reaction was indifferent. "Oh," he shrugged, "these #%@! people write so much #%@! on my #%@! walls, man." Really? I didn't see Canada Sucks scribbled anywhere.
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| Oh? I should look behind me, eh! |
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| What's that you say, eh? |
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| Dontcha know, eh! |
65 Berkeley Street
www.blueskyhostel.com
(Same owners of West End Backpackers Hostel on 3 Bank Street)
Monday, December 10, 2012
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Romeo und Julia (German) is being performed at the Deutsche Oper by the Staatsballet Berlin. I saw it over the weekend and wore my new bow tie and velvet jacket. The play, as we know, is by Wm Shakespeare but this ballet adaptation (in three acts) is by the late John Cranko. And as a ballet there is only dancing and leaping and twirling on tippy-toes -- not a stitch of dialogue!
Easy enough feat, you may think, but in watching it I was amazed at just how precise the choreography must be in order to 'speak' volumes between the characters; and then when I re-considered this is a Shakespearean work known by everyone under the Sun I had to admit: maybe Cranko's ballet wasn't such an easy feat. The performance was absolutely stirring and moving and utterly beautiful! It's probably owing to Mr Cranko that Eugen Onegin is one of my favorite ballets.
Romeo und Julia (German) is being performed at the Deutsche Oper by the Staatsballet Berlin. I saw it over the weekend and wore my new bow tie and velvet jacket. The play, as we know, is by Wm Shakespeare but this ballet adaptation (in three acts) is by the late John Cranko. And as a ballet there is only dancing and leaping and twirling on tippy-toes -- not a stitch of dialogue!
Easy enough feat, you may think, but in watching it I was amazed at just how precise the choreography must be in order to 'speak' volumes between the characters; and then when I re-considered this is a Shakespearean work known by everyone under the Sun I had to admit: maybe Cranko's ballet wasn't such an easy feat. The performance was absolutely stirring and moving and utterly beautiful! It's probably owing to Mr Cranko that Eugen Onegin is one of my favorite ballets.
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| At the ballet..dapper as ever |
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| Deutsche Oper Berlin (Intermission) |
Thursday, December 6, 2012
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Located on the Grassmarket (West Port Street, to be exact) beneath the grand, imposing Edinburgh Castle, Art Roch Hostel is a converted old Salvation Army barracks with three floors, a cool upper Rec room, an outdoor smoking patio - because everybody in Europe smokes! - and long-term guests who couldn't be farther from salvation if they died and went straight to Hell. I have never met so many socially inept people under one roof -- and I've been inside a penitentiary and mental hospital!
In particular there was one Portuguese jerk who put the looey in LOSER. Everybody hated this fat, friendless turd. But this much can be said of the hostel: it offers great rates, colorful characters, and not a dull moment. Plus there is an old school video game in the lobby (see pic). I got addicted to playing Burger Time.
PS: It is also supposedly owned by the fifth wealthiest Scotsman, Malcolm Scott, a useless point of trivia the long-term guests never failed to impart like Scott was their drinking buddy.
PPS: Considering Powers was threatened and given 24hrs to vacate the premises by the head janitor - in other words, thrown out...by the ugly janitor - I regard the following news updates with a pinch of schadenfreude. Oh yes, y'all, my German is improving....
Located on the Grassmarket (West Port Street, to be exact) beneath the grand, imposing Edinburgh Castle, Art Roch Hostel is a converted old Salvation Army barracks with three floors, a cool upper Rec room, an outdoor smoking patio - because everybody in Europe smokes! - and long-term guests who couldn't be farther from salvation if they died and went straight to Hell. I have never met so many socially inept people under one roof -- and I've been inside a penitentiary and mental hospital!
a jerk who put the looey in LOSER
PS: It is also supposedly owned by the fifth wealthiest Scotsman, Malcolm Scott, a useless point of trivia the long-term guests never failed to impart like Scott was their drinking buddy.
PPS: Considering Powers was threatened and given 24hrs to vacate the premises by the head janitor - in other words, thrown out...by the ugly janitor - I regard the following news updates with a pinch of schadenfreude. Oh yes, y'all, my German is improving....
- http://www.deadlinenews.co.uk/2012/07/24/backpackers-are-being-ordered-to-leave-hostel/
- http://www.ehap.org.uk/about-ehap/news/hostel-sit-in.aspx
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| some of my old buddies...and the fat turd |
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
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So I bought a funky velvet jacket to replace my stolen tuxedo suit. I found it at a second-hand shop and it fits perfectly - but hangs a tad long - but otherwise was too good to pass on.
"Oh about 40 euros," he hazarded.
"Oh. Ja das ist ein Problem," I agreed and he laughed.
I most certainly was not about to drop that kind of money on a second-hand jacket; not because it wasn't worth it but because I'd already bought it so dirt cheap! So...I got hold of some needles and black thread and sat at the kitchen table mending it by hand. After an hour and half I had the entire bottom hemmed to my satisfaction - and pride - and all it cost me were a few expletives whilst trying to thread the damn needle! You see, stitching the suit was the easy part; it was first getting the thread through the eye of the needle that tried my patience. A stitch in time saves money mine. Hello!
So I bought a funky velvet jacket to replace my stolen tuxedo suit. I found it at a second-hand shop and it fits perfectly - but hangs a tad long - but otherwise was too good to pass on.
had the entire bottom hemmed to my satisfaction and all it cost me were a few expletivesI stopped by a tailor's in Kreuzberg to see about getting it altered shorter. Tsk, tsk, tsk, the old Italian tailor shook his head. "The pockets are too large," he explained in German, "and this material is velvet...this is a problem. It'll be a difficult job." By this he meant it would cost a pretty penny. How much?
"Oh about 40 euros," he hazarded.
"Oh. Ja das ist ein Problem," I agreed and he laughed.
I most certainly was not about to drop that kind of money on a second-hand jacket; not because it wasn't worth it but because I'd already bought it so dirt cheap! So...I got hold of some needles and black thread and sat at the kitchen table mending it by hand. After an hour and half I had the entire bottom hemmed to my satisfaction - and pride - and all it cost me were a few expletives whilst trying to thread the damn needle! You see, stitching the suit was the easy part; it was first getting the thread through the eye of the needle that tried my patience. A stitch in time saves money mine. Hello!
Saturday, November 17, 2012
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Travelled down on the autobahn to Frankfurt Am Main - not to be confused with Frankfurt Oder - this morning. All was going fine and according to schedule until we hit gridlock -- caused by a six auto fender bender! As you can imagine, some of the vehicles were nicely smashed up and one of them even had its back wheel clean ripped off.
This set us our trip back by one hour, which, I guess, wasn't really so bad. Nor was there any chaos or irrational jerks honking their horns and swearing to the skies. Honestly, what can you do about it? I've never seen a people compose themselves so calmly and matter-of-fact. Conveniently enough the accident happened at a rest stop (so maybe that helped too); If you have to be stuck on the road what better spot is there than a rest stop, right?
And, owing to the absence of an ambulance on the scene, no, there were no serious injuries or fatalities.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
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On my way to the gym Monday morning I stopped by Bücherhalle, an antique bookstore, intending to purchase the book on Charles Atlas I'd seen in the window display over the weekend - I hoped it was still there - plus two American paperbacks (Our Town and The Jungle). The beaming yellow cover of The Life and Times of Charles Atlas was still there. Whew! All in all, I was looking at 10 euros.
But since I was there, I figured, I might as well do a little quick browsing...for future reference. No harm in just looking....
By the time I left Bucherhalle I had a 'complimentary' totebag full of books and a pocket 40 euros lighter!
www.Buecherhalle-berlin.de
On my way to the gym Monday morning I stopped by Bücherhalle, an antique bookstore, intending to purchase the book on Charles Atlas I'd seen in the window display over the weekend - I hoped it was still there - plus two American paperbacks (Our Town and The Jungle). The beaming yellow cover of The Life and Times of Charles Atlas was still there. Whew! All in all, I was looking at 10 euros.
But since I was there, I figured, I might as well do a little quick browsing...for future reference. No harm in just looking....
By the time I left Bucherhalle I had a 'complimentary' totebag full of books and a pocket 40 euros lighter!
www.Buecherhalle-berlin.de
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
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Why are white people always 'surprised' by accounts of racism? To read the news articles, you'd think these reporters lived under a rock. Or just try telling folks first-hand experiences: White peoples' eyes start out of their hands like it's the most incredible, fantastic Marco Polo story they ever heard in their lilly white lives. (Click pic to read more)
Why are white people always 'surprised' by accounts of racism? To read the news articles, you'd think these reporters lived under a rock. Or just try telling folks first-hand experiences: White peoples' eyes start out of their hands like it's the most incredible, fantastic Marco Polo story they ever heard in their lilly white lives. (Click pic to read more)
Thursday, November 8, 2012
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Finally had enough of these dirty, lazy ass flatmates and moved out. I'm not someone who needs his own place. Just a bit of clean space and consideration. I can share living space -- so long as I'm not the only one doing the sharing.
Some able-bodied men are just downright lazy and filthy. These are the people who can stand living in filth -- and largely live by hand-outs anyway.
When I abruptly decided to get the hell out of there last Thursday I was more than open to paying twice as much rent for new digs; But, as it so happens, I just might move in with a friend -- and for less.
Free at last!
Free at last!
Thank God I know
Freedom is mobilitay!
Finally had enough of these dirty, lazy ass flatmates and moved out. I'm not someone who needs his own place. Just a bit of clean space and consideration. I can share living space -- so long as I'm not the only one doing the sharing.
stress-free living is worth more than cheap rentFor two months I made the most of an irritating - albeit extremely cheap and convenient - living situation by spending lots of time in the gym; buying air freshener and dish washing soap; fresh flowers for the apartment (and bedroom); washing dishes; separating refuse and taking out the recyclables; emptying the overfilled ashtrays; buying a bedside lamp so I could read in bed; an infrared lamp (to relax and recuperate from the work-outs); a radio/alarm clock; It even got to the point where I bought my own cookware and cutlery because all the dishes in the house were dirty -- despite having an operable dish washing machine!
Some able-bodied men are just downright lazy and filthy. These are the people who largely live by hand-outsBut, frugal or not, one has his breaking point. Peace of mind and stress-free living is worth more than cheap rent. I was fed up with it all: the piles of dirty dishes that filled the kitchen sink for weeks on end...the perpetually wet throw-rug in the bathroom...the stench of cigarette smoke...stolen foods from the refrigerator...piles of overflowing garbage in the kitchen which, consequently, attracted swarms of fruit flies. One side of the wall was covered with them and they were, naturally, beginning to invade other areas of the apartment. With winter fast approaching I foresaw rodents and possibly roaches joining the lot. Plus, my tuxedo jacket was stolen!
Some able-bodied men are just downright lazy and filthy. These are the people who can stand living in filth -- and largely live by hand-outs anyway.
When I abruptly decided to get the hell out of there last Thursday I was more than open to paying twice as much rent for new digs; But, as it so happens, I just might move in with a friend -- and for less.
Free at last!
Free at last!
Thank God I know
Freedom is mobilitay!
Friday, November 2, 2012
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I was riding the subway to the gym when I noticed two Purdue co-eds. What caught my eye was the Benny Baby one was showing her friend. It had the university's emblem on it. Odd, I thought, until I looked over and realized the girl, herself, was wearing a big ass Purdue University sweater under her jacket. I have a red bottle-opener key-chain with Wabash printed on it so I thought it would be a pleasant shock to walk over and interrupt, "Entshuldigen Sie," I began in German, "but do you go to Purdue?" Yes, they nodded. Then holding up my key-chain, "Do you know this place?"
They smiled with surprise and giggled.
Small world....
I was riding the subway to the gym when I noticed two Purdue co-eds. What caught my eye was the Benny Baby one was showing her friend. It had the university's emblem on it. Odd, I thought, until I looked over and realized the girl, herself, was wearing a big ass Purdue University sweater under her jacket. I have a red bottle-opener key-chain with Wabash printed on it so I thought it would be a pleasant shock to walk over and interrupt, "Entshuldigen Sie," I began in German, "but do you go to Purdue?" Yes, they nodded. Then holding up my key-chain, "Do you know this place?"
They smiled with surprise and giggled.
Small world....
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
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I've written on here many times about the racism in Mexico. I've always said Mexicans are overly color-conscious and proudly ignorant. This cause célèbre of the "stolen" blond beggar girl is another case in point.
After another batch of decapitated heads make the headlines next week this racist problem will be put back to sleep.
And blondie along with other little children will be back begging on the streets.
I've written on here many times about the racism in Mexico. I've always said Mexicans are overly color-conscious and proudly ignorant. This cause célèbre of the "stolen" blond beggar girl is another case in point.
After another batch of decapitated heads make the headlines next week this racist problem will be put back to sleep.
And blondie along with other little children will be back begging on the streets.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Aptly named for its single floor of guest rooms -- on the first floor, in case you hadn't guessed (or what we non-Europeans regard as the second floor) First Floor Hostel is a quaint, professionally run operation with plenty of comfort and no edgy or hippy pretense. It's noticeable from Ostbanhof train station and requires no more than ten minutes to reach by foot even with heavy luggage in tow. Rates are clearly posted on a sidewalk sign and, at 15 euros (shared room), quite a bargain -- especially since I had the room to myself for the first two nights!
FREE wi-fi access reaches the rooms or you can spread out at a table in the Reception/Commons Area (or the outdoor patio). As for the rooms, beds are sooo cozy and snuggly - I slept sooo good each time I slipped under the cover - and come with a reading lamp and personal wooden locker (key and lock included).
This place is friendly down-to-earthReception closes at 10pm and reopens at breakfast. The all-you-can-eat breakfast (rolls, cheese, cereal, salami, coffee, tea, milk, juices) costs a very tiny fee. Wit so many places nowadays boasting 24Hr Service it was a little strange being in one which shut down for the night. But I dug it! Not to mention it made me extra mindful to feel for my key whenever I stood up. For a small hostel it's very big on customer service and booking (or cancelling) beds was not a bureaucratic pain in the ass. This place is friendly down-to-earth. Per my experience First Floor Hostel is first rate.
www.1stfloorhostelberlin.de
Sunday, October 14, 2012
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Another day, another workout. Three weeks into my new gym and here's a snapshot with my new digital camera (which I got at the Sunday flea market in Mauer Park for only 4 euros!)
I trained delts today. Can you tell?
Another day, another workout. Three weeks into my new gym and here's a snapshot with my new digital camera (which I got at the Sunday flea market in Mauer Park for only 4 euros!)
I trained delts today. Can you tell?
Friday, October 12, 2012
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I'm studying German via the Rosetta Stone program on my laptop.
In completing the placement exams I never came below 86% correct...so I know more German than I give myself credit for. Like learning any new thing, it is confidence in one's competence which further sharpens skills.
Btw, I actually saw the real Rosetta Stone on display in the British Museum. It's really amazing when you try to appreciate what that piece of stone means for mankind.
I'm studying German via the Rosetta Stone program on my laptop.
In completing the placement exams I never came below 86% correct...so I know more German than I give myself credit for. Like learning any new thing, it is confidence in one's competence which further sharpens skills.
Btw, I actually saw the real Rosetta Stone on display in the British Museum. It's really amazing when you try to appreciate what that piece of stone means for mankind.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
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The current spectacular showing at the Friedrichstadt Palast is boldly named, well, Show Me. And that's just what they do for two solid hours of awesomely choreographed entertainment: show us -- what it is like dancing in water, sand, and strapped to bungee cords; on roller skates, in the air and even inside of a human-sized soap bubble!
A part of the show I found surprising and unique was the soap magician who made bubbles spin, stop in mid-air and follow him down a flight of stair where he invited it to rest whole on a table. It's probably the stuff of children's party entertainment but sometimes it is the "little" thrills in life that make us smile big and wide. The work that goes into Show Me dance numbers, revolving set designs and costume changes is maddening to the imagination! Friedrichstadt Palast bills itself as Europe's best show palace and, man, it doesn't fall short of that boast.
The current spectacular showing at the Friedrichstadt Palast is boldly named, well, Show Me. And that's just what they do for two solid hours of awesomely choreographed entertainment: show us -- what it is like dancing in water, sand, and strapped to bungee cords; on roller skates, in the air and even inside of a human-sized soap bubble!
I couldn't applaud them enough -- which is more than can be said for German audience membersI was amazed by Qi three years ago and, in a similar vein, Show Me is filled with pop covers of American and German songs sung by accomplished - and attractive - singers accompanied by live orchestra (I knew each of the American grooves but recognized only one of the others). The acrobatic segments of the show make your eyes pop and your heart jump. I couldn't applaud them enough -- which is more than can be said for German audience members. If crickets existed in Berlin one would overhear a buzz of chirping compared to the stingy human cheering; Germany is known for her philosophers so, who knows, maybe they were all too busy pondering the sound one hand clapping makes.... Goose-stepping is outlawed and apparently applause is still foreign.
A part of the show I found surprising and unique was the soap magician who made bubbles spin, stop in mid-air and follow him down a flight of stair where he invited it to rest whole on a table. It's probably the stuff of children's party entertainment but sometimes it is the "little" thrills in life that make us smile big and wide. The work that goes into Show Me dance numbers, revolving set designs and costume changes is maddening to the imagination! Friedrichstadt Palast bills itself as Europe's best show palace and, man, it doesn't fall short of that boast.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
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Never trust anyone who insists on assisting you for no apparent reason. Help requires distress; so if you're not in distress, then why would anyone be motivatedto come to your, uh, well, distress? Not even the Boy Scouts go out of their way to help other people. Besides, if shop keepers and Customer Service can ignore me, then surely this perfect stranger on the street is scheming to gain something other than a warm fuzzy good Samaritan feeling.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
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Hear the one about the New Jersey teenager who stuck his head out of a speeding bus? (click for the punchline)I often travel on the bus and sometimes it can get pretty tiresome. Not the long distances - I plan for that with comfortable clothing, snacks, reading material and maybe even a movie download - so much as the oblivious obnoxious passenger(s). But no matter how irksome it can get - like the time this old bag behind me kept passing wind - or, Heaven forbid, downright grisly horrific I am not stupid enough to poke my head out of a high speed moving bus. Though I wish some of the other passengers would. Sure, it would delay my journey a tad...but I mustn't be selfish. Think of the immediate long-term benefit to humanity! A bad case of Stupid is best cured by death |
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
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I love to wrestle. Every time I'm in Berlin I head to the wrestling club in Kreuzberg. It's an informal, non-competitive group of German guys who are very new to actual sport technique. I've never been able to locate any other groups (for example, Turkish wrestlers) although I know they're a few around town. But on Sunday I found - finally! - the Bundesliga Ringen via photos posted on the Wrestling World web log (see side panel)
SV Luftfahrt is the club which represents Berlin in competitions. They are competitive, skilled on the mat, and its athletes have been at the sport for years. That's where I need to start going!
It just so happened a competition was taking place on Sunday when I found them online; so I hopped on the metro and went straight away!
It was great to see and hear those familiar wrestling tournament sounds. I caught the tail end of it (apparently it started earlier than the poster announces) but didn't pay full price to get it so I was cool about it. And, anyway, I got a schedule of future tourneys and contact info for SV Luftfahrt so, as we say in urbania, it's all good in the hood.
Wow, a job and apartment plus a new gym membership, and now I find a real competitive wrestling club (to hopefully train with). This has been a great last couple of weeks!
I love to wrestle. Every time I'm in Berlin I head to the wrestling club in Kreuzberg. It's an informal, non-competitive group of German guys who are very new to actual sport technique. I've never been able to locate any other groups (for example, Turkish wrestlers) although I know they're a few around town. But on Sunday I found - finally! - the Bundesliga Ringen via photos posted on the Wrestling World web log (see side panel)
SV Luftfahrt is the club which represents Berlin in competitions. They are competitive, skilled on the mat, and its athletes have been at the sport for years. That's where I need to start going! It just so happened a competition was taking place on Sunday when I found them online; so I hopped on the metro and went straight away!
It was great to see and hear those familiar wrestling tournament sounds. I caught the tail end of it (apparently it started earlier than the poster announces) but didn't pay full price to get it so I was cool about it. And, anyway, I got a schedule of future tourneys and contact info for SV Luftfahrt so, as we say in urbania, it's all good in the hood.
Wow, a job and apartment plus a new gym membership, and now I find a real competitive wrestling club (to hopefully train with). This has been a great last couple of weeks!
Friday, September 21, 2012
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After months and months I'm back in the gym! Partly due to (lack of)money and partly due to my rare immobility I was not in a position to pony up for any gym fees.
No More. Now I have a short-term membership in this rather posh gym in Schoeneberg heroically named Apollo Sports Club. I found it via the International Gym locator (see side panel). It's not at all the sort of place I would seek out. I prefer bare bones, sweaty hardcore weightrooms that are cheap, full of free weights and men who wear uncoordinated sweats versus matching designer stuff -- and cologne. Ugh! Well...the sports club is on the fancy side and very, very un-hardcore BUT, surprisingly, it is also one of the few gyms in my price range and walking distance from my apartment. Plus I dig saunas (there is not one, but four!), low decimal music and free dance classes so joining Apollo Sports Club was a no-brainer.
And something I've never seen in any gym are walls decorated with paintings! Physique paintings and photography adorn the three-story facility from top to bottom. Now that's class. Between the free-weights, sauna(s) and Zumba class I've a new home away from home.
Time to pump!!
website
After months and months I'm back in the gym! Partly due to (lack of)money and partly due to my rare immobility I was not in a position to pony up for any gym fees.
No More. Now I have a short-term membership in this rather posh gym in Schoeneberg heroically named Apollo Sports Club. I found it via the International Gym locator (see side panel). It's not at all the sort of place I would seek out. I prefer bare bones, sweaty hardcore weightrooms that are cheap, full of free weights and men who wear uncoordinated sweats versus matching designer stuff -- and cologne. Ugh! Well...the sports club is on the fancy side and very, very un-hardcore BUT, surprisingly, it is also one of the few gyms in my price range and walking distance from my apartment. Plus I dig saunas (there is not one, but four!), low decimal music and free dance classes so joining Apollo Sports Club was a no-brainer.
| Unisex sauna will take getting used to. Some things are just too German for my tastes. (If only everyone who disrobed were as young and beautiful...) |
And something I've never seen in any gym are walls decorated with paintings! Physique paintings and photography adorn the three-story facility from top to bottom. Now that's class. Between the free-weights, sauna(s) and Zumba class I've a new home away from home.
Time to pump!!
website
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