Chinese officials are not amused about the new album released November 24, 2008 by American rock band Guns N’ Roses. The album, which began recording in 1994, is called “Chinese Democracy” and is described by one Chinese listener as attempting to “grasp and control the world using democracy as a pawn.”
Boracay Philippines
A compiling of information about Boracay Island in the Philippines. Generally regarded as one of the top ten beaches in the world. When I ask a Filippina about where to go in the Philippines for a vacation – they almost always say “BOROCAY!”. Their eyes light up and they are very excited, and that gives me a hint that Boracay is fantastic vacation destination. Read on for more detailed info.
China Decouples Stabilization Efforts on US Economy?
An interesting story today from the Motley Fool talks about China’s announcement of a 4-trillion-yuan ($586 Billion US) stimulus package. It says China has supported a $20 billion dollar monthly trade deficit with the US for many years and has artificially depreciated the value of the Yuan to keep it’s export relationships strong.
Continue reading “China Decouples Stabilization Efforts on US Economy?”
Charlie Rose Interviews Sheldon Adelson
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBkpeDjKZGY
Middle section includes interview with Sheldon Adelson – posted on YouTube August 27, 2007. Mr. Adelson talks about Macau and the new Cotai Strip developments.
11,000 To Lose Casino Jobs in Macau
Thoughts from Macau (SAR) China:
“11,000 To Lose Casino Jobs in Macau” – front page featured news at CNN.com today. They are referring specifically to the Sands Venetian.
Well now, not the best news for us working at the Venetian in Macau – but insiders have known it was coming. The dream to make Macau the Vegas of Asia does not come without an element of risk. Granted, Macau IS currently the largest gambling destination in the world, having already surpassed Las Vegas. But a 12 billion or so development project (just to START) by the Sands is monstrous.
Expats Losing Native Language Skills
Just an observation I think is interesting. As you live in a foreign country your native language skills begin to degrade a bit. What’s interesting to me is I’m not even speaking a second language, but it’s the habit of speaking in broken English to locals that begins to take it’s toll.
First Trip to Zhuhai China
My first trip into Zhuhai China included great shopping, great food, beggars and pickpockets. Zhuhai China is just over the border from Macau – in the Southeast part of China near Hong Kong. The strict visa restrictions have been lifted now that the Olympics are over so it’s a little easier for us Expats (Westerners living in China) to go back and forth over the border now. Photo above is the waterfront in Zhuhai, and you can see the buildings in Macau from this vantage point.
Riding Elephants in Phuket Thailand
*Someone just wrote me and said “this could’ve been a C-flat”. Ouch, that’s bad!*
I finally got to ride the elephants! That was one of the things I wanted to do while visiting Thailand. This was my first full vacation since relocating to China with Cirque Du Soleil. We spent three days in Bangkok and four days in Phuket, Thailand.
In the picture above I am getting a massage from a baby elephant. Believe it or not – he actually cracked my back for me and it felt great. A true Thai massage!
Nachos and Diet Coke in China
So, the big question is… can you get nachos and Diet Coke in China?
Very good question. The answer is Yes! And also Doritos, Chips Ahoy, Ritz crackers, Toblerone, Nutella and Maple Syrup. All the essential food groups are well represented here.
Cheung Chau Island – Hong Kong
Photos from my mini vacation to Cheung Chau, a little island outside Hong Kong. It’s a cute island, fairly friendly and inexpensive. I would go there again. Great getaway to relax and good place for couples.