A First To Beijing

Travelling with friends for the first time, even good friends I might add, is a somewhat delicate expe-rience. Although we may know each other well, being in close proximity and having to navigate the decision-making process for almost a week, is a challenge that will either strengthen our friendships or otherwise. 

Having accepted an invite to visit Beijing with two friends leading up to the Hari Raya holidays, the intent to keep an open mind and to be flexible in terms of sightseeing and food was a wise move, resulting in an immensely enjoyable trip, and friendships that are now on an even more solid footing. 

With this visit to Beijing being a first for me, I appreciated the care and effort taken to introduce me to the city and its many attractions as well as its cuisine. Attention to detail is a boon when travelling with a hotelier amongst us, and the opportunity to experience the hospitality of two of the leading hotels in the city is something to remember. A progressive city that values the past, lovely weather and good company make for an enjoyable trip indeed. 

Johan, Brennen and I at Today Art Museum in Beijing, China.

Catching Up In Taipei

One of the highlights of my year-end trip to Taipei last year was the oppor-tunity to catch up with my friend Felix. The last time we met was at his wedding in Guam in April 2013. Since then, he has become a father, and it was a pleasure to spend some time with his family.

 

I was travelling with a group of friends and decided to stay on in Taipei for the first few days of the trip while the others headed straight to Tainan upon arrival in Taiwan. Other than having the chance to meet with Felix and family, it also provided me with some time to explore the city on my own, having not visited since I was eleven.

 

Felix and I became friends while he was studying and I working, in the ski resort of Leysin in Switzerland many years ago. We used to cook up a storm and enjoyed many meals together that reminded us of home. At times we would invite our Swedish friends Johan and Tom to join us too, and the former is one who I have kept in touch with as well. As always, we had a good time reminiscing about the past and sharing our plans for the future. Most importantly, such meetings cement ties and strengthen friendships that have been nurtured over the years.

 

 

With Felix, Ting and baby Elena, enjoying Ting's birthday lunch in a village in Daxi, Taiwan.