It is official.
My hair has been received by Locks of Love and I'm excited to repeat this process and grow it out again!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Locks of Love
It is official.
My hair has been received by Locks of Love and I'm excited to repeat this process and grow it out again!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
SPAM JAM 2010!
This was an event I've been looking forward to for a long time!
Click here for my Spam Jam post in 2008.
I was looking for the post on last years event and though I didn't post, my parents and I attended last year's event. The food, ambiance was great!
Here's a pic from last year... (miss my hair...)
Well my day started off great, woke up at 5am. Arrived in time for training at 0600 at Nuuanu, across from 7/11 by the basketball courts. I missed the previous training from this location because I was in Nicaragua... so I was in disbelief when I was told we would be running to the Pali lookout (Yes, the Pali lookout) and back.
Two hours, 4 shot blocks, 2 water bottles and 12 miles later, I was surprised I was able to run with my calf injury and even came in 2nd. (woot!) Honolulu Triathlon and Alaska Marathon - Here I come!
After a two hour nap, a protein shake, a banana, lots of water, and a plate full of pasta, it was time to check out the 2010 SPAM JAM!
The weather was perfect, the crowds started to line up for food, the music playing in the background, while some tourist really questioned the festival surrounding SPAM! (I gave one a dirty look and informed him that all proceeds from this event benefit the Hawaii Food Bank)...
After buying my commemorative t-shirt for $20, it was time to hunt down the SPAM - for PHOTO OP!!
T-shirt - check
SPAM photo - check.
It was time to analyze the different interpreted SPAM offerings by local restaurants. A couple of restaurants that were not present this year are: Mac 24-7 and P.F Chang's. The later created a lettuce spam wrap last year - YUM!!
The food this year was abysmal. There was no flair and somehow the mediocre food from last year made its way back this year. The best thing offered this year was by Coconut Willy's which didn't even have SPAM, it had shrimp! The worst food award goes to Gordon Biersch, I was so upset I vow never to go to this restaurant. SPAM sliders - my ass! It was a sliver of SPAM dipped with bbq sauce in a dry bun. Tasteless. Repeat offender - Pancit SPAM! I do not understand how ANYONE can make PANCIT + SPAM = BLAND. Needless to say, I was pretty upset, so I had to get some dessert...
We decided to head to Cheeseburger in Paradise. For a mudslide pie... That is one pie that ALWAYS delivers...
Tortilla SPAM.
A simple recipe with potatoes, onions, eggs, parsley, and of course SPAM...
Two mods: I used Turkey SPAM and I didn't add more salt (like the recipe required...)
Here is a pic of the final product.
It was hearty and oh so yummy.
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
I was looking for the post on last years event and though I didn't post, my parents and I attended last year's event. The food, ambiance was great!
Here's a pic from last year... (miss my hair...)
Well my day started off great, woke up at 5am. Arrived in time for training at 0600 at Nuuanu, across from 7/11 by the basketball courts. I missed the previous training from this location because I was in Nicaragua... so I was in disbelief when I was told we would be running to the Pali lookout (Yes, the Pali lookout) and back.
After a two hour nap, a protein shake, a banana, lots of water, and a plate full of pasta, it was time to check out the 2010 SPAM JAM!
The weather was perfect, the crowds started to line up for food, the music playing in the background, while some tourist really questioned the festival surrounding SPAM! (I gave one a dirty look and informed him that all proceeds from this event benefit the Hawaii Food Bank)...
After buying my commemorative t-shirt for $20, it was time to hunt down the SPAM - for PHOTO OP!!
T-shirt - check
SPAM photo - check.
It was time to analyze the different interpreted SPAM offerings by local restaurants. A couple of restaurants that were not present this year are: Mac 24-7 and P.F Chang's. The later created a lettuce spam wrap last year - YUM!!
We decided to head to Cheeseburger in Paradise. For a mudslide pie... That is one pie that ALWAYS delivers...
BEFORE...
AFTER...
After waking up to birds chirping...Today, I decided to take SPAM into my own hands... With the help of my SPAM cookbook (thanks Lovella!)
Tortilla SPAM.
A simple recipe with potatoes, onions, eggs, parsley, and of course SPAM...
Two mods: I used Turkey SPAM and I didn't add more salt (like the recipe required...)
Here is a pic of the final product.
It was hearty and oh so yummy.
It's a beautiful day outside!! Go enjoy!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
We Will Remember Them...
To my grandmother, one of few who loved me unconditionally...
The ones that we've lost
Still go with us in spirit-
We will remember them
In the faces of family
Their presence still lingers-
We will remember them
In the dreams they once nurtured
They still shape our future
We will remember them
In the hearts that embrace them
They live on forever
We will remember them
R.I.P Lorenza Ladignon.
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Health - What does it mean to me? A Photo-Montage
Health is a lifestyle, it truly is.
Health is a compromise and the act of integrating healthier options into one's life.
After a pit stop at the loo, next stop time for a run.
I normally run 3-5 miles, at least 5 times a week, with my longer runs on Saturday morning with Team in Training.
Sorry for the bad photo... My roommate isn't awake yet, well most people aren't...
I'm weird, I know...
Whatever you choose to do, get out there and BE ACTIVE...
Breakfast seriously is the most important meal of the day.
I did mention, I am a regimented, right? Every day, I will have oatmeal (not from a box...) with organic white honey, a banana and a glass of soy milk.
This takes less then 6 minutes to make!
I normally have a yogurt when I am at work (we have a fridge!), or while I am in school, I will have another banana or a granola bar.
I eat lunch everyday around noon. Today I ate a sandwich and I was so hungry, I forgot to take a picture of it... o_O.
Today, I was running late and decided to order some take out from Buca di Beppo... This picture was taken later after I ate, went to class, got home to re-plate this and take a picture.
Note: If you eat pasta - stick to any red sauce. Way better for you than ANY white sauce made of cream!
One thing I've learn is never deny yourself. Once you start denying yourself the stuff it craves, you'll binge...
Just eat in moderation... I eat 2 Ghirardelli every night around 8PM. Kills the sweet tooth...
I think the most important thing is regulated sleep. I sleep every night around 2200-2230 and wake up at 0600. Sleep is VITAL to functioning.
Alright, that's a quick insight to my daily routine.
But before I go, I want to talk about another piece of the health puzzle that I believe in.
Helping others...
The first non-profit organization is the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This year I will be running the Alaska Marathon to raise funds with those afflicted with Leukemia and Lymphoma. This is a non-profit near and dear to my heart, as I have lost friends with this disease.
http://thepowerofadollar.info
The other non-profit organization I am active with is called Kiva. Kiva assist members in third world countries with "micro-lending" so they can run their own business and help themselves.
I decided 2 years ago when interest rates on savings account started to hover around 0.000%. Instead of the banks having my funds, I can lend monies to businesses and I know that I am helping others help themselves through kiva.
Kiva.org for more information.
Well, its almost 2100, so its decompression time, so I can do it again tomorrow.
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Monday, April 19, 2010
12th Avenue Grill - Kaimuki
We went to 12th Avenue Grill to celebrate my 3 years anniversary.
It has been a long time since I have been to 12th Avenue Grill and everything is just as I remembered it. The great good, the warm ambiance, everything was on point, except the service wasn't as exceptional as it normally is.
12th Avenue Grill is a great restaurant, though there is a set menu, everyday 4-6 specials that are made from the fresh produce found at the market... So don't be afraid to try new things!
12th Avenue Grill is a great restaurant, though there is a set menu, everyday 4-6 specials that are made from the fresh produce found at the market... So don't be afraid to try new things!
Food - 4.25 stars out of 5.
Service - 2.75 stars out of 5.
Entree - $18-$26
My favorite... Mac & Cheese - Don't forget to add the Black Forest Ham... :]]
Crispy exterior, creamy rich interior. Classy yummy goodness that will leave you yearning for more!
Potato Croquette with some phenomenal cheese that I can't remember!
Asian Pear Salad - Phenomenal. Light dressing, with bacon wrapped grilled pears... YUM
Beef Wellington - Oh so delicious, the puff pastry was flaky and the beef was oh so tender!
So, what you eat after, you say? Dessert of course. This was one of the highlights of dinner. With 4 eager forks, needless to say, you snooze, you lose.
This is a fruit crisp with fresh creme, the fruit will vary, and today it was apple. Completely appropriate as the last apple crisp we had (at The Counter) was a complete disappointment! The inside was cold and the server made it seem like it was our fault... Anywho... This is surprisingly light, airy and delish. You think you want to share... but don't... :]
All pictures (except Mac & Cheese, shot by Aubrey Pucan Hester - Check out her site!)
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Apple iPad... One week later...
I have decided that I will be returning my Apple iPad.
Gasp! I know, right? I will be returning it not because I am unhappy with the device, I am returning it for the same device with added functionality... 3G.
As most of you know, I am one of the few individuals out there who has owned all 3 models of the iPhone and now no longer own the device that has changed the mobile scene.
Since I do have a 3G enabled device, there are certain instances where I do not have access to WiFi and 3G would be handy, so basically that is only reason I am returning my iPad. That and I am debating on the 32GB version and the 64GB version.
I currently have a 64GB and though I have an iMac with a 1.5TB HD and I've used over 500GB of data, I feel that I don't really need to carry 64GB of music/videos and such.
To illustrate, here is a snapshot of what is in my iPad.
I have almost 1700 songs with 9 movies and a lot of music videos and video podcasts along with my whole photo collection and almost 80 application.
Yet, I will have 14.9GB to spare.
I think I will be buying the 32GB iPad + 3G. I will be cutting down on the amount of photos I carry as well as coming up with a better system to filter my photos.
Ok, enough about mechanics... Let's talk about the device itself. I still likes it a lot, I use it on a daily basis, yet I do not carry it around with me everywhere. I do not use it at work, since I'm on the computer all day, nor do I use it all day in class, I use it maybe once every 2 hours to quickly check email.
As for the applications, I have downloaded many applications specific to the iPad and I have to say...
5 STAR APPS: Netflix, ABC Player and Dragon Dictation.
These apps are the cream of the crop. They not only work as intended but also surpass your expectation of the application and the interaction you come to expect. Dragon Dictation is an application where you speak into the microphone and it takes your vocal speech and turns it into text, which you can then email, save, etc. Surprisingly accurate. With ABC player, though limited in the amount of episodes available, I have been able to catch up Desperate Housewives for free! Netflix, not only does it have the full functionality of the website, you can stream movies and looks as good as the HDTV!
1 STAR APP: iStudiez Pro
I was looking forward to this application as it was one of Wired 15 iPad Apps You Should Download!
Needless to say, it has great promise for students and keeping them organized, but consistent crashing while trying to add your information left me furious. It is the first application that I contact Apple for a refund, told Wired they suck for recommending this app and I even emailed the developer asking for a refund. Surprisingly, the iStudiez guys apparently know there is a problem, so hopefully an update can work out all of kinks.
Hi Max,
Thanks for your letter, we are sorry for the inconvenience.
Right now we are working hard to submit the critical update asap.
Thank you for your patience.
Kind regards,
[name deleted for privacy]
iStudiez Pro Lead Architect
The app with the biggest potential is: iBooks.
I love this application. I have purchased a book, and I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was. I was pretty shocked it downloaded as fast as a song on iTunes. There is 1 major drawback though, content. I searched for 3 books I wanted to buy and they were not available. Hopefully when this matures like iTunes did, the amount of content will flourish.
Off to bed! I have to wake up at 6 to run in the AM!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Gasp! I know, right? I will be returning it not because I am unhappy with the device, I am returning it for the same device with added functionality... 3G.
As most of you know, I am one of the few individuals out there who has owned all 3 models of the iPhone and now no longer own the device that has changed the mobile scene.
Since I do have a 3G enabled device, there are certain instances where I do not have access to WiFi and 3G would be handy, so basically that is only reason I am returning my iPad. That and I am debating on the 32GB version and the 64GB version.
I currently have a 64GB and though I have an iMac with a 1.5TB HD and I've used over 500GB of data, I feel that I don't really need to carry 64GB of music/videos and such.
To illustrate, here is a snapshot of what is in my iPad.
I have almost 1700 songs with 9 movies and a lot of music videos and video podcasts along with my whole photo collection and almost 80 application.
Yet, I will have 14.9GB to spare.
I think I will be buying the 32GB iPad + 3G. I will be cutting down on the amount of photos I carry as well as coming up with a better system to filter my photos.
Ok, enough about mechanics... Let's talk about the device itself. I still likes it a lot, I use it on a daily basis, yet I do not carry it around with me everywhere. I do not use it at work, since I'm on the computer all day, nor do I use it all day in class, I use it maybe once every 2 hours to quickly check email.
As for the applications, I have downloaded many applications specific to the iPad and I have to say...
5 STAR APPS: Netflix, ABC Player and Dragon Dictation.
These apps are the cream of the crop. They not only work as intended but also surpass your expectation of the application and the interaction you come to expect. Dragon Dictation is an application where you speak into the microphone and it takes your vocal speech and turns it into text, which you can then email, save, etc. Surprisingly accurate. With ABC player, though limited in the amount of episodes available, I have been able to catch up Desperate Housewives for free! Netflix, not only does it have the full functionality of the website, you can stream movies and looks as good as the HDTV!
1 STAR APP: iStudiez Pro
I was looking forward to this application as it was one of Wired 15 iPad Apps You Should Download!
Needless to say, it has great promise for students and keeping them organized, but consistent crashing while trying to add your information left me furious. It is the first application that I contact Apple for a refund, told Wired they suck for recommending this app and I even emailed the developer asking for a refund. Surprisingly, the iStudiez guys apparently know there is a problem, so hopefully an update can work out all of kinks.
Hi Max,
Thanks for your letter, we are sorry for the inconvenience.
Right now we are working hard to submit the critical update asap.
Thank you for your patience.
Kind regards,
[name deleted for privacy]
iStudiez Pro Lead Architect
The app with the biggest potential is: iBooks.
I love this application. I have purchased a book, and I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was. I was pretty shocked it downloaded as fast as a song on iTunes. There is 1 major drawback though, content. I searched for 3 books I wanted to buy and they were not available. Hopefully when this matures like iTunes did, the amount of content will flourish.
Off to bed! I have to wake up at 6 to run in the AM!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Thursday, April 08, 2010
Time for a makeover!
Alright...
We all know I left for spring break, looking kinda scary..
So to mark my return, it was time for a makeover!
Just a bunch a pictures marking my transformation!
Step 1: Trim that beard!
Step 2: Take off those braces!
Step 3: Get a haircut!
Step 3: Smiles!
My hair will be donated to Locks of Love.
Just another plug! I am fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I am a mentor for this years Alaska Mayor's Marathon which happens to be on my 30th birthday, please visit http://maxisturning30.info or http://thepowerofadolalr.info for more information.
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
We all know I left for spring break, looking kinda scary..
So to mark my return, it was time for a makeover!
Just a bunch a pictures marking my transformation!
Step 1: Trim that beard!
Step 2: Take off those braces!
Step 3: Get a haircut!
Step 3: Smiles!
My hair will be donated to Locks of Love.
Just another plug! I am fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I am a mentor for this years Alaska Mayor's Marathon which happens to be on my 30th birthday, please visit http://maxisturning30.info or http://thepowerofadolalr.info for more information.
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Spring Break 2010 - Granada, Nicaragua Part I
Granada, Nicaragua Part I...
Three flights later, with a layover in Los Angeles and Atlanta, we arrived in Nicaragua at night. Shortly thereafter, receiving my first passport stamp in Central America (number 38, but whose counting?! woot!). After collecting our luggage and meeting with out shuttle guide person, we exited the airport to a crowd of people with signs - very reminiscent of Manila Airport - along with the signs, we were greeted with warm air.
Yup, the forecast before our departure was 82 degrees at night, and hot as hell during the daytime, peaking at lava flow. Excitement filled the air, well our driver wasn't very friendly and actually didn't say a word to us, so we entered the shuttle and just took in the scene to get to Granada - our destination.
We arrived in the city late at night, excited to reach our hostel while our tummy grumbled, the city reminded me of a cross between, Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Spain. At our hostel, we busted our best Spanish telling the lady "tenemos una reservation". Honestly, you can make any word sound Spanish, just say it with a Spanish accept. Repeat after me, "reservation! Reh-serrrrr-vah-shawn". Our hostel was pretty ghetto, and at age 29, we decided to share a private room instead of bunking with a bunch of kids who roam the streets and return drunk and loud, which will create friction when I tell them to STFU upon their return. Oh yeah, ghetto... so our room wasn't bad considering it was $28 for both of us, it included a bed, a fan (with a timer), a small bathroom (which smelled), and WiFi! The AC costs an additional $5, but that was not a big deal given that it was 80 degrees.
Upon seeing our room, we decided to gallivant and check out Granada, it was pretty late, and since it was low season there wasn't many people around - the way I likes it. We found the restaurant that Lola (my partner in crime wanted to visit), El Jardín de Orión, the food, good, the price, good, the ambiance, stupendamous. After stuffing our faces with various breads and our main entree, which composed of fish, we decided to explore the town further. Armed with a free map from the airport, we found the main street. Apparently, it was party time and our invite was lost in the mail as we had already eaten. Loud, dark and hospitable, the music played on the background while we walked on the cobblestone road, with restaurants, and tables on the street, filled with people, food and laughter.
One thing we decided was it was time to check out of the hostel and move to a different hotel. Nicaragua is a great country for Americans to visit as you can have a completely low end vacation ($4/night at a hostel) to higher end ($62/night at a hotel). We decided on Hotel Spa Granada. Words cannot express how much I love this hotel. The end.
Just kidding! The hotel was more than we could ever ask for. The rate was reasonable, there's even a cheaper option of $52 night. (More pics to come in Part II) The amenities were pretty much super awesome. Nice room, hot water (not included in hostel), WiFi, a pool (people from surrounding hotels come for $5 a visit) and it includes a 30 minute massage (DAILY!!) Granted it isn't as cheap as Philippines and south east asia, but if you throw in the airplane ticket price (hint hint, much closer, its definitely worth it). The number one reason why we loved this hotel is the staff. The people are super friendly, bi-tri-quad linguists knowledgeable about their city.
Ok, so this is actually our first day in Granada, we already switched hotels and we leave the next day for Monteverde, Costa Rica. The cheapest method to get from point A to point B in Nicaragua is chicken buses. You could probably get from one side of the country to the other side for $3. BUT with our schedule we had to take the most expensive and reliable mode of transportation, King Quality. After buying our tickets, I somewhat grumbled, well I did grumble that we had to be at the bus stop at 0445AM (yawn! I know right!). Since it was basically hot as hell outside, we returned back to the hotel, and yup pool time for me. Then massage time. What a hard life...
Dinner time! After walking around Lola sawer (British accent) it, El Zaguán. Needless to say, after eating at this place, we were in tears. The food was so good, so good that my stomach rumbles in rabid desire for El Zaguán. Ummm... I don't even know how to phrase it... Let's just say you'll be hearing more about El Zaguán.
Alright, so basically after eating enough for 2 people, well 2 American people and probably 3-4 Nicaraguan peoples, we walked back to the hotel and I was basically so full I didn't really do much, watched the health care issues on TV. I woke up at 4am after a power nap and lugged our luggage downstairs. Well, more like a duffel bag and backpack for me, and a large backpack for Lola and a tote bag. So after flagging down a cab, which BTW was my preferred mode of transportation as Lola wanted to walk everywhere. Tip 411, cabs are really cheap, its 20 cordobas anywhere in town which the exchange rate was $21.80 when we were there. We arrived at King Quality bus stop at 0445.
0445. No Bus.
0500. No Bus.
0515. No Bus.
0530. No Bus.
0545. No Bus.
0600. No Bus.
0615. No Bus.
0630. No Bus.
Obviously the bus was NOT coming, so we talked to the guy well Lola did because I'm quite cranky when I am deprived of sleep and I can't vocalize my frustrations in Spanish (not yet anyways)... Supposedly, the AM bus was not coming so the next bus was coming at 1430.
We returned to our safe haven that is Hotel Spa Granada and they were more than happy to give us our room, since no one cleans rooms anywhere in the world around butt crack of dawn. Breakfast time was in order. We went to breakfast at the Garden Cafe, which was free - Holla! This threw a wrench in our plans because we had a 2:30pm bus to catch in Liberia, Costa Rica to get to Monteverde (3.5 hours by car... ????? by bus). At this point it was talking time, should we stay? should we go? We would lose the deposit at the hotel, or pay $140 for a private driver to take us from Liberia to Monteverde. After a phone call from the telephone business center to Jose in Monteverde and a drink from the center which I don't really recall what it was, and a breakdown of all the costs we would accrue with going and not going.
We decided, wheez funna go.
Alright... this time around we got to the bus stop at 1430 (2:30pm for you non 24 hour clock peoples)...
1430. No Bus.
1445. No Bus.
1500. No Bus.
1530. No Bus.
At this rate Lola is talking to a photo journalist who have traveled pretty much around the world, Martin is his name and he's from New Zealand. I felt like a puppy at a pet store looking at all the passersby asking to be picked up. I honestly needed a chiropractor after 2 hours of my neck zigzagging.
Oh yeah here's a pic of me at the stop. Not really friendly... LOL
1600. Could it be? The magical bus that will take us to foreign lands? STFU?!
It is! After the gentlemen tagged our luggage (seriously) and gave us a claim check, we entered the air conditioned bus with seats across from each other. Ok, King Quality is the equivalent of first class of buses. There was air conditioning. The young lady provided us with a box which included a sandwich and also gave us a beverage (we even got to keep the whole can. What?!) After pretending that I was reading my notes for my midterm upon my return, I decided to just look outside. Yup, it was a volcano and one of the places we wanted to visit. Omotepe. We decided earlier that this trip would be an amuse-bouche basically tantalizing our taste buds with a smidgen of Granada here and Monteverde there. One surprise to me was the presence of large wind turbines. As I would say, "Ho, there's choke turbines!", but given that we were on a bus and a lot of people were sleeping, I just kept it to myself and grinned at another moment captured in my mind that I cannot express into words. Before our arrival to the border, the gentlemen offered us treats and yeah it was hella good. It was a ribbon-esque pastry dessert that wasn't too sweet. Yet it had a gentle crunch when you bit into it which suddenly melted coating your tongue with its delicious goodness.
In case we needed further confirmation that King Quality was the bomb, they took all of the passengers passports and they stood in line for us. We were very happy yet anxious as we thought we would be in Liberia at 5pm, where our ride was now waiting to take us to Monteverde.
Stamp #39, you're departing Nicaragua. Here's where it's crazy retarded and I probably will not be visiting Costa Rica anytime soon because it does not make any sense whatsoever. Needless to say we waited in line to enter Costa Rica for 3 hours. There was 1 line for everyone. In my travels, I am always pleasantly surprised to meet very nice people who want to talk and in this case, Lola's bus neighbor became chat buddies (Cadelia) and she would help us out in more than 1 occasion.
If you're going to Costa Rica from Nicaragua, be prepared. You'll need to hold on to your yellow slip and you'll need a ticket saying your monkey ass is leaving Costa Rica because they don't want you to stay in Costa Rica for more than 90 days.
2000. We're entering Costa Rica, feeling bad that the person waiting for us is just waiting and we have no way of calling.
That my friends is the first 48 hours of my holiday.
Next... Monteverde, Costa Rica!!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Three flights later, with a layover in Los Angeles and Atlanta, we arrived in Nicaragua at night. Shortly thereafter, receiving my first passport stamp in Central America (number 38, but whose counting?! woot!). After collecting our luggage and meeting with out shuttle guide person, we exited the airport to a crowd of people with signs - very reminiscent of Manila Airport - along with the signs, we were greeted with warm air.
Yup, the forecast before our departure was 82 degrees at night, and hot as hell during the daytime, peaking at lava flow. Excitement filled the air, well our driver wasn't very friendly and actually didn't say a word to us, so we entered the shuttle and just took in the scene to get to Granada - our destination.
We arrived in the city late at night, excited to reach our hostel while our tummy grumbled, the city reminded me of a cross between, Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Spain. At our hostel, we busted our best Spanish telling the lady "tenemos una reservation". Honestly, you can make any word sound Spanish, just say it with a Spanish accept. Repeat after me, "reservation! Reh-serrrrr-vah-shawn". Our hostel was pretty ghetto, and at age 29, we decided to share a private room instead of bunking with a bunch of kids who roam the streets and return drunk and loud, which will create friction when I tell them to STFU upon their return. Oh yeah, ghetto... so our room wasn't bad considering it was $28 for both of us, it included a bed, a fan (with a timer), a small bathroom (which smelled), and WiFi! The AC costs an additional $5, but that was not a big deal given that it was 80 degrees.
One thing we decided was it was time to check out of the hostel and move to a different hotel. Nicaragua is a great country for Americans to visit as you can have a completely low end vacation ($4/night at a hostel) to higher end ($62/night at a hotel). We decided on Hotel Spa Granada. Words cannot express how much I love this hotel. The end.
Just kidding! The hotel was more than we could ever ask for. The rate was reasonable, there's even a cheaper option of $52 night. (More pics to come in Part II) The amenities were pretty much super awesome. Nice room, hot water (not included in hostel), WiFi, a pool (people from surrounding hotels come for $5 a visit) and it includes a 30 minute massage (DAILY!!) Granted it isn't as cheap as Philippines and south east asia, but if you throw in the airplane ticket price (hint hint, much closer, its definitely worth it). The number one reason why we loved this hotel is the staff. The people are super friendly, bi-tri-quad linguists knowledgeable about their city.
 |
| Old Hospital... It was near King Quality. |
Dinner time! After walking around Lola sawer (British accent) it, El Zaguán. Needless to say, after eating at this place, we were in tears. The food was so good, so good that my stomach rumbles in rabid desire for El Zaguán. Ummm... I don't even know how to phrase it... Let's just say you'll be hearing more about El Zaguán.
Alright, so basically after eating enough for 2 people, well 2 American people and probably 3-4 Nicaraguan peoples, we walked back to the hotel and I was basically so full I didn't really do much, watched the health care issues on TV. I woke up at 4am after a power nap and lugged our luggage downstairs. Well, more like a duffel bag and backpack for me, and a large backpack for Lola and a tote bag. So after flagging down a cab, which BTW was my preferred mode of transportation as Lola wanted to walk everywhere. Tip 411, cabs are really cheap, its 20 cordobas anywhere in town which the exchange rate was $21.80 when we were there. We arrived at King Quality bus stop at 0445.
0445. No Bus.
0500. No Bus.
0515. No Bus.
0530. No Bus.
0545. No Bus.
0600. No Bus.
0615. No Bus.
0630. No Bus.
Obviously the bus was NOT coming, so we talked to the guy well Lola did because I'm quite cranky when I am deprived of sleep and I can't vocalize my frustrations in Spanish (not yet anyways)... Supposedly, the AM bus was not coming so the next bus was coming at 1430.
We returned to our safe haven that is Hotel Spa Granada and they were more than happy to give us our room, since no one cleans rooms anywhere in the world around butt crack of dawn. Breakfast time was in order. We went to breakfast at the Garden Cafe, which was free - Holla! This threw a wrench in our plans because we had a 2:30pm bus to catch in Liberia, Costa Rica to get to Monteverde (3.5 hours by car... ????? by bus). At this point it was talking time, should we stay? should we go? We would lose the deposit at the hotel, or pay $140 for a private driver to take us from Liberia to Monteverde. After a phone call from the telephone business center to Jose in Monteverde and a drink from the center which I don't really recall what it was, and a breakdown of all the costs we would accrue with going and not going.
We decided, wheez funna go.
Alright... this time around we got to the bus stop at 1430 (2:30pm for you non 24 hour clock peoples)...
1430. No Bus.
1445. No Bus.
1500. No Bus.
1530. No Bus.
 |
| Krabby Patty |
At this rate Lola is talking to a photo journalist who have traveled pretty much around the world, Martin is his name and he's from New Zealand. I felt like a puppy at a pet store looking at all the passersby asking to be picked up. I honestly needed a chiropractor after 2 hours of my neck zigzagging.
Oh yeah here's a pic of me at the stop. Not really friendly... LOL
1600. Could it be? The magical bus that will take us to foreign lands? STFU?!
It is! After the gentlemen tagged our luggage (seriously) and gave us a claim check, we entered the air conditioned bus with seats across from each other. Ok, King Quality is the equivalent of first class of buses. There was air conditioning. The young lady provided us with a box which included a sandwich and also gave us a beverage (we even got to keep the whole can. What?!) After pretending that I was reading my notes for my midterm upon my return, I decided to just look outside. Yup, it was a volcano and one of the places we wanted to visit. Omotepe. We decided earlier that this trip would be an amuse-bouche basically tantalizing our taste buds with a smidgen of Granada here and Monteverde there. One surprise to me was the presence of large wind turbines. As I would say, "Ho, there's choke turbines!", but given that we were on a bus and a lot of people were sleeping, I just kept it to myself and grinned at another moment captured in my mind that I cannot express into words. Before our arrival to the border, the gentlemen offered us treats and yeah it was hella good. It was a ribbon-esque pastry dessert that wasn't too sweet. Yet it had a gentle crunch when you bit into it which suddenly melted coating your tongue with its delicious goodness.
In case we needed further confirmation that King Quality was the bomb, they took all of the passengers passports and they stood in line for us. We were very happy yet anxious as we thought we would be in Liberia at 5pm, where our ride was now waiting to take us to Monteverde.
Stamp #39, you're departing Nicaragua. Here's where it's crazy retarded and I probably will not be visiting Costa Rica anytime soon because it does not make any sense whatsoever. Needless to say we waited in line to enter Costa Rica for 3 hours. There was 1 line for everyone. In my travels, I am always pleasantly surprised to meet very nice people who want to talk and in this case, Lola's bus neighbor became chat buddies (Cadelia) and she would help us out in more than 1 occasion.
 |
| Departing Nicaragua... |
If you're going to Costa Rica from Nicaragua, be prepared. You'll need to hold on to your yellow slip and you'll need a ticket saying your monkey ass is leaving Costa Rica because they don't want you to stay in Costa Rica for more than 90 days.
2000. We're entering Costa Rica, feeling bad that the person waiting for us is just waiting and we have no way of calling.
That my friends is the first 48 hours of my holiday.
Next... Monteverde, Costa Rica!!
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
Sunday, April 04, 2010
iPad... the first 24 hours... first impressions
Alright, where do I begin?
First, I am glad I preordered the iPad at my local Apple store as the one I purchased online via Apple.com will not be arriving until Monday (Thanks UPS).
The packaging is classic apple, and this time more symmetrical. After opening the box, the iPad stares at you like a 8 month old waving you to pick her up. Upon lifting the iPad from its cradle, standard documents are within an envelope. Interestingly enough, the instructions for the iPad is a small 4 by 6 placard instructing you which buttons are for which. Under the placard is your USB cable and the thingy you plug into the wall.
I was surprised how heavy it feels, at 1.5 pounds it is not very heavy but heavier than what I thought it would be.
First set up can take a while, mines took over an hour. It will be longer or shorter depending on the quantity of your photos. I have over 6000+ photos and it has to optimize them for the iPad. I have over 10 movies, 50 music videos, 6000+ photos and 1000+ songs and I didn't fill up the 64GB iPad. Granted I have over 1TB of data on my iMac, but I don't need to have all of that stuff on my iPad.
Alright, you've heard that the iPad screams... yup... more like a "that's all you've got attitude?". The iPad dares you to touch touch, retouch, swipe and it will follow all your commands with speed and accuracy. I almost hear her whisper, "what bitch? is that all you've got?"
Apps optimized for the iPad is awesome! I have used Netflix, Backrounds HD, ABC, Aurora Feint, iBooks, Photos, Videos (where your music videos and movies will be accessed) and yup, I'm a fannilow. Current iPhone/iPod touch apps do work with zoom, but they aren't as crisp on the iPad.
Email and internet on the iPad is really cool. I was surprised how accurate my typing is on the iPad. You can either grab the iPad and use your thumbs to type, which is somewhat slow and cumbersome if you have small hands, or you can lay or flat, or on your lap with a case and you'll have a full keyboard on landscape mode. I had no problem typing away and replying to emails.
Speaking of accessories, you will need a case to protect your baby. I decided to buy the case that Apple produced for the iPad and it works great. Small kine note, if you plan to dock your iPad, be warned you will have to REMOVE your case to dock your iPad... might be a small thing, but casings normally lose shape and form the more you take them off and put them on...
Oh yeah... the sun... the iPad attracts sunlight, so you probably won't be using this in direct sunlight without glarification in your eyes.
The battery life is crazy. Apple estimated 10.5 hours, I am thinking more like 12 hours, I never like my computer, iPad super bright, so I have my brightness on 50% setting and 12 hours is easy to get on an iPad. I also had the bluetooth setting off.
CONS... (yes there are CONS)
1) If you're use to having access to your data on the go, the moment you don't have WiFi access the iPad might feel a little naked, restricting you to certain functions that do not require WiFi.
2) Application prices. iPhone and iPod touch users are use to $0.99 cent applications, not on your iPad! The top 10 application on the iPad have an average selling price of $6.89 as opposed to $2.09 for the top 10 paid application on the iPhone.
3) There is no "Private Browsing" on Safari, so if you use someone's iPad, don't do something that you'll be ashamed for them to see. o_O
Alright, I think that pretty much covers it as I haven't had breakfast yet and yadiyadi ya...
Mahalo for reading.
Until next time.
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